With both Singapore Airlines and Qantas now flying direct to the chilli crab capital, now is the time for a short Singapore break.
A favourite stopover city for many travellers, including those working at Brisbane Airport, here are some of the Singapore sights and delights we have been missing most.
Best views:
Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are absolute highlights! Ascend to the Skypark Observation Deck at Marina Bay Sands for city views and the iconic infinity pool before taking a stroll through the stunning Gardens by the Bay where the views from the Supertree Observatory are as impressive as the gardens themselves.
Best for a quiet escape:
The rooftop garden on the top of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The garden is filled with tropical plants and the iconic orchids that are known the world over to represent Singapore. Don’t forget to explore the rest of the temple too!
Best for a late night meal:
Do yourself a favour and explore Geylang! Less than 10km from the modern heart of Singapore lies a suburb that was once a thriving red light district. Those in the know will tell you it’s now a foodie haven filled with some of the most delicious food in Singapore.
“Geylang is not for the faint hearted! You’ll either be having really good local food or you’ve ended up on a shady street”.
Best chilli crab:
Undoubtedly there will be some debate on this, but one restaurant was mentioned more times than any other by Brisbane Airport staff members and is therefore our clear winner. Take yourself to Jumbo Seafood for the best Chilli Crab in Singapore. We are literally drooling at the thought of jumping on a plane for this iconic meal.
Best for Kids:
No surprises here – Sentosa Island is the place to be. Universal Studios and S.E.A Aquarium top our list for family-friendly attractions that will thrill your kids to bits. The island is also a great place to soak up some vitamin D while the little 'uns play on the beach.
Best animal encounters:
There’s a reason the Night Safari is on most tourist’s bucket lists - it’s simply amazing! Kids and adults alike will love the tram ride though the wildlife park during the evening. You will see a diverse range of animals, some of which are not able to be seen in Australian zoos.
Best cocktail:
There was a big debate on this one, so we’ve declared a tie! For a cocktail that you must try at least once in your life, there is no going past a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel. If, however, you like your cocktails with an amazing view – head to SKAI Bar at the Swissotel. Or better yet, do both!
Best of Orchard Road:
Apart from the Shopping Malls, our Singaporean insider suggests you check out Emerald Hill, a picturesque neighbourhood known for its colourful shops, bars and interesting mix of historical Chinese and Colonial architecture. She also recommends checking out the Orchard Road Presbyterian Church, the oldest of its kind in Singapore and home to one of the country’s few working pipe organs.
Best of Changi Airport:
For some people, the only place they ever visit in Singapore is the airport. And what an airport it is! Awarded best airport in the world many times over (including seventeen times in 2021 alone!), Changi Airport sets the standard worldwide for additional customer facilities and experiences. Outdoor gardens, movie theatres, swimming pools, playgrounds and the stunning Jewel complex should be part of your Singapore visit, whether you are in transit or stopping for a few days.
“You will find me at the butterfly garden. Every single time! I can't believe this is part of an airport."
Best of the rest:
There were lots more suggestions of things to do, eat and see while in Singapore. From the interesting cafes and bars at Ang Siang Hill and Club Street to the delicious and cheap Hawker Centres, it’s impossible to go hungry in Singapore.
After all your walking, you’ll be ready for a fish pedicure – “A little bit cool, a little bit weird. Worth trying at least once in your life”.
And much much more.
So what are you waiting for?