How to Explore Singapore Like a Local

Despite its state-of-the-art infrastructure, futuristic landmarks, and “Crazy Rich Asians” tour, the city’s culture-rich core is warm, vibrant, and full of heart. Discovering Singapore through a local’s lens will open your eyes to more offbeat exhilarations, from old-world memory lanes showcasing repurposed shophouse cafes and mansion museums to lush parks with Insta-worthy backdrops, street art safaris through quirky ethnic enclaves, and hidden upmarket neighbourhoods to drool over. 

Customise an Itinerary 

The modern traveller is no longer dictated by traditional guidebooks and prefers veering off the beaten path in search of unique experiences and meaningful ways to bond with the destination. While landmarks like Gardens by the Bay, the ArtScience Museum, the Singapore Flyer, and Universal Studios are iconic for a reason, there’s so much more that this cosmopolitan smorgasbord has for visitors to savour. If you’re looking for a fresh take on this enchantingly eclectic city-state, include slots in your itinerary where you get to venture away from the tourist track! It’s essential to plan well ahead, from taking advantage of early bird discounts and bundle deals to opting for off-peak travel windows so you can get intimately acquainted with Singapore’s diverse offerings without the chaos of crowds. Consider purchasing a Singapore Tourist Pass that will enable you to explore the city more efficiently with a virtually unlimited quota of rides on the MRT and other public transport. 

Cavort in Culture-Rich Districts 

If you want to chase heritage hidden gems and share slice-of-life moments with the locals, whether it’s a delicious kopitiam breakfast, shophouse museum tour, indie boutique hopping, or sampling multiethnic delicacies, head to its cultural neighbourhoods! From the photogenic Kampong Gelam, with its playful artistry and vintage shops, to Balestier’s Chinese Baroque shophouses hosting picturesque cafés, galleries, and stores, soak in eye-popping art, timeless architecture styles, and irresistible flavours. Admire unique Peranakan craftsmanship at the Katong Antique House, explore the pastel-toned kaleidoscope of Koon Seng Road, shop till you drop at Mustafa Center, and end your day at Chinatown’s Michelin-starred hawker stalls. If you’re looking for a contemporary short stay hotel in Singapore close to its atmospheric neighbourhoods, affording a first-hand glimpse of local culture while letting you in on what’s hip and happening, venture no further than Hotel Boss. 

Discover Ecotherapy Escapes 

One of the myths surrounding Singapore is that it’s only a luxury playground for brand-savvy collectors and gourmet epicureans. The truth is, the Garden City is an immersive escape that satisfies every calibre of wanderlust seeker regardless of their budget, preferences, or the duration of their stay! There are numerous free things to enjoy in this glamorous cityscape, from creative workshops and performances hosted at the Esplanade to the Supertree Grove’s spectacular light shows. However, if you crave a nature-kissed oasis, some local favourites include Fort Canning Park, with its historic charm and lush tranquility, East Coast Park for windswept recreation, and MacRitchie Reservoir for uninterrupted panoramas and its thrilling Treetop Walk.

Learn Traditional Techniques 

One of the most engaging ways to bond with locals is to embrace traditional art forms, whether it's learning to cook Singaporean classics like Chilli Crab, Laksa, and Char Kway Teow, creating your own intricate batik design, or painting your own Peranakan-style tiffin carrier. You can also support talented local artisans by visiting eclectic art venues like The Substation, Arts House, and Gillman Barracks, as well as the trailblazing Market of Artists And Designers at the Red Dot Design Museum. 

Savour Gourmet Street Food 

Whether it’s starting your morning with pandan-sweet kaya toast and kopi at Toh Ah Eating House, stopping for crispy popiah rolls at Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat Popiah, or slurping Crab Bee Hoon, the sensational dish at Sin Huat that won the heart of Anthony Bourdain, each of Singapore’s culture districts is rich in authentic eateries. From Chinatown Street Market and Bugis Street Market to Little India Arcade and Lau Pa Sat, take your pick from Singapore’s best night markets for a street food escapade!