Singapore is a place of opportunity and excellence. The nation’s cultural influence has been felt all over the world, whether that be in its cuisine, architecture or arts. If you have even a passing interest in any of these things, it would be best to schedule some time on your trip to visit Singapore’s expensive facebook‘s many attractions before they are forever lost in time. In this article, I will cover 10 things you must see before you die:
1) Kreta Ayer Market-
This market was established during the 19th century and is today one of Singapore’s most popular tourist attractions. It opens every day from 5:30am until 11pm.
Singapore’s Kreta Ayer Market
2) Chinatown-
Chinatown is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, and is where most Singaporeans will do their grocery shopping. Its foreigner-friendly environment makes it a great place for first-time visitors to get acquainted with Singapore’s culture. The oldest parts of Chinatown date back to 1822, and the market has since expanded to include areas such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, where it is possible to view relics of Buddha’s tooth.
This monument at Chinatown was built in 1929 in honor of King George V’s visit to the area.
3) Jalan Besar Stadium-
Jalan Besar Stadium was built in 1956 and is home to the sport of Football in Singapore. If you visit between the months of February and April, you will also have the opportunity to catch a cricket match featuring the national team.
A view of the Jalan Besar Stadium during an international football match.
4) Liang Court Complex-
Liang Court Complex has been operating ever since 1930 and includes a department store, shopping district, hotels and many other amenities. There are many events hosted at Liang Court throughout each year, including art shows, fashion shows and even book readings by prominent authors.
Liang Court Complex is a popular place for Singaporeans to visit and do their grocery shopping.
5) Singapore Flyer-
This giant observation wheel has been dubbed the “tallest structure in Singapore” and is claimed by some to be the tallest in all of Southeast Asia. There are many options available for riders, including an open-air deck, an enclosed deck designed to keep out the heat and a VIP suite with seating that swivels. The Flyer is accessible by car or taxi, as well as public transport via bus 401 or MRT loop bus 62. When riding the flier, you can expect views over 5 districts of Singapore and even neighboring Malaysia on a clear day.
Flyer Xtra and the Marina Bay Sands Casino in the background.
6) Marina Bay Sands Hotel and Casino-
My personal favorite place in Singapore, this casino is world-renowned for its luxurious and breathtakingly beautiful surroundings. I personally love gambling, but also appreciate the opportunity to come here for a relaxing meal overlooking Singapore’s stunning skyline. The food at Marina Bay Sands is of high quality and the service is magnificent.
This is what you would see from one of the casino’s many restaurants.
7) Singapore Art Museum-
This museum is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and exhibits a wide variety of art spanning many different cultures. The building was specially designed to showcase this collection with help from the famous American Architect Frank William Wright.
8) Science Center-
This museum is popular with tourists and locals alike due to its extensive collection of hands-on exhibits. If you have kids, I would highly recommend visiting the Science Center, as it will give them an opportunity to learn about many of the different things that make up our world.
The Science Center is also a great place for adults to take a break from city life and learn something new.
9) Singapore Flyer-
This giant observation wheel has been dubbed the “tallest structure in Singapore” and is claimed by some to be the tallest in all of Southeast Asia. There are many options available for riders, including an open-air deck, an enclosed deck designed to keep out the heat and a VIP suite with seating that swivels. The Flyer is accessible by car or taxi, as well as public transport via bus 401 or MRT loop bus 62. When riding the flier, you can expect views over 5 districts of Singapore and even neighboring Malaysia on a clear day.
10) Changi Airport-
This is the busiest airport in all of Asia, and allowed me to fly from Edinburgh to Singapore at the incredible price of only £11. I was welcomed by friendly staff as soon as I stepped off the plane, and was also charged a very reasonable £2 for every piece of luggage that I brought on the flight.
Summary:
I had planned my trip with Singapore Airlines and unfortunately missed out on a free drink, something that could have been an issue with the amount of time I spent at the airport waiting for my connecting flight, but overall I can’t complain at all.
Singapore Airlines A380-800 pictured here departing on their final flight to London Heathrow in 2012.
This article is meant to serve as a guide to those who have only a few days in Singapore and would like to make the best use of their time available. I sincerely hope that all travelers enjoy their stay in Singapore and are able to experience firsthand some of its many wonders.
