How to explore Singapore to live like a local

Singapore is a country where visitors can get lost in engaging in activities that are designed to attract tourists. However, you can explore the country to live like a local and to enjoy Singapore as a local, you need to immerse yourself in the country's culture, traditions and most of all, the glitz. Here is how you can explore Singapore beyond its skyscrapers and tourist attractions like a local.

Eat Like a Singaporean

Food is a significant part of Singapore’s culture. To truly enjoy Singapore like a local, you need to visit Hawker Centers which serves some of the most authentic meals at an affordable price. Hawker Centres have everything From famous chicken rice to Satay and Nasi Lemak. If you see a long line at a stall, the food is worth waiting as Singaporeans queue up for good food. Maxwell Food Centre, Old Airport Road Food Centre, and Lau Pa Sat, are all conveniently located near well-known hotels like Hotel Classic by Venue and are some of the most famous spots where you can enjoy authentic Singaporean cuisine like a local.

Discover neighbourhoods 

To enjoy Singapore like a local, you can venture out of the business district to more residential areas. You will see a significant contrast between what you can see in Orchard Road or Marina Bay Sands in areas such as Toa Payoh or Joo Chiat. Booking a hotel at Joo Chiat Road Singapore is an excellent way for you to enjoy a different side of Singapore. You will also see that accommodation and food are more affordable in these residential areas than in the city. When you explore these neighbourhoods, you will be able to get a glimpse of the daily life of residents, both young and old, engaging in their usual activities. In neighbourhoods like Joo Chiat, you will be able to experience Peranakan heritage with colourful houses and architecture. 

Experience the Nature

While people may assume that Singapore is a concrete jungle, you will be surprised to see the acres of land that are lush green spaces located all around the country. Many locals visit these parks to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and to enjoy some quiet time. While many people visit the Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, to enjoy Singapore like a local, you can also visit lesser-known spots like Southern Ridges and MacRitchie Reservoir. Given the humidity, make sure to pack a sun hat and a water bottle when you visit these trails and parks. 

Register for a cooking class

What better way to live like a Singaporean than cooking some of their unique dishes in a cooking class? After indulging in Chicken Rice, Char Kway Teow and Nasi Lemak, you will be tempted to learn how to make these dishes at home. The best thing to do is to register for a cooking class which will take you through the process of cooking like a true Singaporean. This will enable you to enjoy Singaporean food whenever you feel like it. Not just food, you can also learn how to brew your coffee or Kopi as locals call it and learn about the differences between traditional and modern types of coffee to indulge in coffee like a local. If you do not want to enrol for a class but would like answers to your questions, chances are the owners of a Kopitiam down the road will be more than happy to answer your questions. 

Exploring Singapore like a local gives you the unique opportunity to uncover some of the hidden gems in the country that are truly authentic, diverse and unique.