Looking for an escape for a few days? Then head to this modern, cultural melting pot in Southeast Asia.
I recently headed there from Bahrain for a weekend getaway and fell in love with this fantastic city state.
Day 1
Wake up early, before the temperatures rise, and head to the Singapore National Museum. Here you can stroll through exhibits on Singapore's history and formation, whilst also taking in several other rotating exhibits too.
From here, walk through Clark Quay (if you want a refreshing beer, stop, and enjoy one with the lovely view) then head to Boat Quay for a Singapore Chilli Crab. This iconic national dish is messy - so be ready to wear gloves and get gritty with your crustacean friend. Bread rolls are served for mopping up the sauce, while a cold beer will help with cooling down.
We had ours at: Macpherson Barbecue Seafood
Slowly head to the hotel for a rest by the pool, refreshing swim and clothes change.
Dinner: Head to Neon Pigeon for an elevated, fusion meal like no other. This spot oozes cool, urban chic and you’ll want to lap it all up. From the hipster crowd, great music, and excellent cocktail menu. Spend a few minutes leafing through the anime style cocktail menu and be riveted by the creativity. It’ll be hard to choose which one to start with! The food…an outstanding izakaya/mezze menu, includes star dishes like the Tokyo Hummus (made with edamame), blistered shishito peppers topped with crunch peanuts and soft-shell crab bao.
Post Dinner: feeling lucky? Then head on to Marina Sands Casino. This vast room is host to everything from slot machines to roulette tables. Slightly different to American casinos, drinks aren’t free flowing (there are only a couple of stands that offer drinks for sale), do note that you aren’t allowed to take photos here (to our dismay!).
Day 2
Ready for some more fun on day 2? You'll spend your morning walking around Gardens by the Bay; from the indoor waterfall to the rose gardens and outdoor areas, you’ll rack up some steps and an appetite for your brunch at the next stop.
Head to Dempsey Hill, this former British army reserve is nestled in leafy rolling hills and perfect for watching boojie families enjoy a meal out and a stroll.
Singapore favourite PS Cafe is the place to enjoy brunch here. On weekends they have a no reservation policy, so put your name on the list and order a mimosa to go. Then either do some trendy Singapore people watching in their seated reception or have a stroll around the area until your table is ready.
After you morning stroll and languorous brunch it’s time to step up the relaxation with a massage. Singapore might have stopped foot nibbling during covid, but there is nothing from stopping you from getting a massage or reflexology from one of the many spots in Singapore, Healthstep on Holland Village came highly recommended by those in the know.
Once you’ve been pulled and prodded back into shape, head to the hotel for a change and to get ready for your night-time shenanigans.
PM: It’s your last night, so it’s time for a visit to the famous Raffles Hotel. The colonial style architecture is worth the visit alone; however, you will want to lubricate at their renowned Long Bar, the home of the Singapore Sling (a fabulous gin drink for a gin fan like me!) …go here for their signature drink, then nibble on peanuts as you watch the barmen at work. In keeping with their tradition to be a relaxing, laid-back place – you can just sweep all the peanut shells onto the floor. Feels a nit rebellious doesn’t it!
Dinner? After the pricy Singapore Sling, you’ll be glad to head to Chinatown for a meal of dim sum, wontons, noodles and more. Wander around the stalls, pick up some kitschy souvenirs and visit one of the multitude of spots for a bite to eat.
Day 3
It’s your last day in Singapore!
Before catching that afternoon flight, you’ll want to have a final meal in this fantastic city and your best bet is to try one of the famous Hawker Centres. Here you’ll find stand after stand of food, from noodles to seafood and more. Don’t expect glitz, do expect plenty of glorious food. Wander around, order, try, drink a beer, swat a fly, order more, drink a beer… lap up the experience. It really is unique.
Hawker Centres to try: Newton Circus, Hawker Chan
Head back to the hotel for a quick change and head to the airport!
