How to Explore Singapore

Singapore may be a deceptively small holiday destination, but it’s filled to the brim with plenty of exciting things to do. Focusing on tradition and modernity, this city-state offers something for everyone, whether it’s tucking into local delicacies or exploring its neighbourhoods. This article features six must-do activities for any tourist to experience life, just like a local! Keep reading to uncover these uniquely Singaporean experiences. 

Start The Day with a Traditional Breakfast 

Singaporeans are huge foodies, and breakfast is an integral part of the day for anyone living in the city-state. Tourists can begin their day the Singaporean way with a traditional breakfast at a local kopitiam (local coffee shop). A staple breakfast dish is a plate of kaya toast with a side of soft-boiled eggs, with a steaming mug of kopi (coffee) or teh (tea). Kaya is a sweet coconut jam and when paired with buttered toast, is definitely an exciting flavour combination. 

Explore the Ethnic Landmarks 

Singapore is home to many cultures, and the best way to experience this diversity is by visiting its historical and religious landmarks, each one a reflection of the different communities that call the city-state their home. Visitors should start by visiting Little India simply for its numerous shops selling colourful sarees and ethnic Indian wear, mouthwatering food, and other electronics and trinkets. A must-visit is the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore. Next, a stroll through Chinatown will showcase traditional shophouses, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and plenty of street food stalls. This cultural tour can end in Kampong Glam, which is home to the Sultan Mosque streets lined with sophisticated boutiques and Middle Eastern eateries. 

Savour Hawker Delights 

No trip to Singapore would be complete without indulging in its world-famous street food. Tourists must visit Maxwell Food Centre or Newton Food Centre, where they can sample a variety of local dishes. Must-try dishes are Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, prata, and satay. For dessert, foodie tourists can opt for chendol, a refreshing treat made with shaved ice, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup. Hawker centres are where locals go for affordable and delicious meals, so eating here is a must. 

For visitors in search of a comfortable hotel suite, Singapore has plenty of options. They can consider booking a stay at a property like Citadines Connect City Centre Singapore for its proximity to the city’s business district. 

Discover Hidden Quiet Spots 

Despite its urban city plan and modern transportation system, Singapore is home to plenty of green locations where one can escape the noise of the city. While most people prefer to visit tourist hotspots such as Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, locals often visit less crowded spots like MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Here, visitors can take a peaceful walk around the reservoir, or go all the way to the TreeTop Walk, a suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the forest below. 

Experience the Heartlands 

To get a real sense of how Singaporeans live, visitors should venture beyond the tourist hotspots and explore its heartlands. These are residential neighbourhoods where most locals reside, and they offer a more authentic look at daily life in Singapore. They can visit places such as Toa Payoh or Ang Mo Kio, where they can see HDB (Housing Development Board) flats, the iconic public housing that houses the majority of Singaporeans. While they’re there, they can drop by a neighbourhood “wet market,” where locals buy fresh produce, meats, and seafood. 

Wind Down at a Bar 

After a day of exploring, there’s no better way to unwind than at one of Singapore’s many rooftop bars. These sky-high venues offer breathtaking views of the city skyline, especially when the sun sets and the city’s lights are switched on. Tourists can check out these popular spots for a sophisticated experience.