Singapore
Although one of the worlds smallest and cleanest countries, Singapore is known for it’s incredible architecture, world record setting indoor waterfalls and of course, shopping! You don’t even need to step foot outside of the airport to witness these wonders. Inside the Chiangi International Airports stands the tallest indoor water fall in the world surrounded by a massive green space, it’s absolutely stunning! Not only that, but the shopping and food options are endless. Thought you’d never see a Shake Shack outside of the airport?? Well think again!! There’s one right next to the indoor waterfall, but be prepared to wait in line!
Chiangi airport is probably one of the best airports to be stuck in for a long layover. Did you know that if you have a layover longer than 8 hours, you can walk to an information kiosk and ask to for a free tour around the city?? I’m talking they will take you to all the major sites like Gardens By The Bay and the Marina Bay Sands. So if a massive city just isn’t you’re thing but you’re still wanting to check a couple of these stunners off your bucket list, maybe this free tour is a perfect option during your layover!
Where To Stay
Once in the country you’ll have plenty of options for accommodation in this beautiful city, but the prices are definitely higher here. Expect prices in Singapore to be comparable to standard pricing in the US. But that doesn’t mean you can’t travel on a budget! Head to Little India for cheap accommodation. This is basically backpacker central and super budget friendly. Another budget friendly area is China Town! Here you can find tons of street food options, Maxwell Food Center (Hawker Centre) and of course shopping.
M SOCIAL SINGAPORE
I ended staying at a nicer hotel close to Clark Quay which seems to be the heart of everything! I ended up staying at M Social Singapore, which was a stunning hotel! Everything in the hotel was so unique it even had a robot to great you in the lobby. The rooms were clean, modern everything I needed during my stay in Singapore. The location was perfect, close to all the hip local bars and restaurants as well as all the malls. While traveling, shopping is usually the last thing on my mind BUT, Singapore has some incredible malls! Head down to Orchard Street to shop till you drop.
Transportation
On thing I loved about Singapore was that it was super safe and getting around town was super easy! If you’re looking to spend a day checking out the infamous tourist attractions, you’ll have plenty of options to get around. Of course there is the option for a taxi (which will be the most expensive) or GRAB which is the less expensive UBER. But your best bet is to take the underground MRT. It’s super cheap, quicker than taxi’s and just all around more efficient! I suggest getting a stored value card! These prepaid cards allow you to use both the busses and MRT through the day without having to pay individually every time and believe me, you will be using them ALOT.
Each MRT has maps above the doors and usually a screen the tells you what stops wills be coming up next. The MRT is super user-friendly is just like your standard subway or underground. Just waagaaay cleaner. Keep in mind, eating and drink on the MRT is not allowed.
Must See Attractions
Check out the links to each of these places to learn more about each attractions and some honest reviews on them all! I personally enjoyed every single one of these.
Marina Bay Sands has an incredible roof top bar and restaurant called Lavo on the observation deck, there is a dress code and the drink prices are hight but with that view, it’s worth it to me! The Spectra Water Light Show is just on the other side of the street form the Marina Bay Sands. Shows are each about 15 minutes long and happen when the sun goes down (Sun – Thu: 8pm & 9pm, Fri & Sat: 8pm, 9pm & 10pm). Be sure to get there early to beat the crowds!
Gardens By The Bay, Cloud Forest and Super Tree Grove are all within walking distance of each other so plan to do all of these in one day! Don’t miss out on all these incredible instagramable opportunities and stunning views. When you get to Super Tree Grove, be sure to spend the extra money to take an elevator to the tops of the trees. The views of Singapore are absolutely stunning up there!
Food & Nightlife
Hawker Centres are probably the most popular places to eat for both locals and tourist alike! You’ll find plenty of these around the country and some even being home to stalls with Michelin Star chefs! You can find some stalls with dishes as low as $5 to the more expensive stalls priced at $15+ per dish. If you’re ballin on a budget, be sure to browse the scene to see where the cheaper priced stalls are. The service an array of food for traditional singaporean food, chinese and seafood so this is the ultimate playground for foodies! Check out this blog for some of the top Hawker Centers in Singapore!
Nightlife in Singapore has an incredible array of stunning lounges and cocktail bars. If you are looking for a classy, upscale atmosphere for craft cocktails, Atlas is the place for you! Be sure to make a reservation, this place is always packed. Looking to dance the night away while having a view of the entire city? Ce La Vi offers a combination of stunning views and tasty cocktails for you and your friends to enjoy!
Although I love a classy night out, one of my favorite nights out was with some of my friends that live in Singapore. We started out partying on Ann Siang/Club Street (the popular spot to go when everyone gets off work) then took a party bus to a karaoke bar called Party World KTV in Liang Court. This was one of the nicest Karaoke rooms I’ve ever been in with pool tables, bottle service and food service. I won’t post photos of this night but lets just say after a couple bottles of gin, we were having a blast haha.
Looking for a perfect Sunday Funday?! Try Kinki’s all you can eat sushi as well as bottomless saki or mimosas from 12pm-3pm every Saturday and Public holiday! Let me tell you from personal experience, the sushi is amaaaazing here. Its an absolute steal for the quality and price.
There is a little something here for everyone! Stop by Singapore and check it out during a layover, or stay a few days to experience the nightlife and all it this country has to offer. Either way, definitely put this small but exciting country on your list of places to see!
