Whenever I talk to anyone about my plans to visit Singapore, I usually get the same response. Why? There is nothing to do? You will be bored?
Well, from many visits, I can say this is not true. To be honest, it all depends on your interests.
Since this is my site, I will cover the things that interest me. As a bit of a history buff, liking Asian art and photography, and walking everywhere, yes, really, even in the Singapore heat. 😊
One thing to note is that I will not cover things like nightlife or food, as both are not really of much interest to me. I will, however, add some links that may help with that.
And yes, I will start with shopping, even though it's not my primary interest when travelling.
Yes, it may not be my primary interest, but one thing I really enjoy is rummaging through a flea market. 🛍️
You will see me talk about my must-visit list, which is me doing some very advanced planning for my next trip to Singapore, which should happen in the next year or so.
There are quite a few places on this page that I found while researching it, and they have earned both their place here and on my list.
Now, please understand that none of the attractions on this page has asked to be added here, and to be honest, I would be surprised if many even knew it existed.
It should not be a surprise to anyone, but Singapore is another shopping mecca, not quite at the level of Hong Kong or Mainland China, but bargains can be had, and just about anything you would think of is available.
Release the inner geek, and go shopping for technology, with things like computers and cameras being the highlights. Just be aware to check the prices, as some are not as cheap as you think.
When most people think of buying technology in Singapore, Sim Lim Square is the first place that comes to mind, but actually, it depends on what you are looking for. Sim Lim Square is good for bits and pieces such as cables, adapters, etc, plus just about anything computer or camera related, whereas the other Mall, Sim Lim Tower, is for electronic parts, tools, books, etc.
I only discovered this place about a decade ago, even though it's been there way longer. In short, if you want anything like electronic components, tools, test equipment, or lighting, then head for Lim Lim Tower. Be aware that there is some overlap between the two, so I recommend visiting both. Plus, there are some stores in Sim Lim Tower that stand out.
When I first visited this Mall back in the early 90s, it was pure technology, not quite Sim Lim Square but close. These days, it's been redeveloped, so it's not pure tech but has one level which has some technology stores, and multiple really good camera stores. If that's not enough, there is a food court covering just about anything you could want.
This is an interesting place; it's basically a shopping centre, but unlike most, there is a collection of second-hand camera shops, which are part of Singapore's very well-developed scene. So for anything camera-related, this is the first place I head to, and usually find something. While this is the starting point, there are multiple other camera stores to visit close by.
While not as many as in Hong Kong, Singapore has many excellent shopping malls. Here are some of the major ones that I have visited over the years.
Is not just a shopping centre, but also home to multiple street markets, and it's even got its own MRT station, which makes it even more convenient. Just be aware that on the weekends it can be crowded, especially in the street markets. A few times I have visited on the weekends, there has been live music, which makes the atmosphere electric and the crowds even worse.
A fairly new mall at Changi Airport. It contains multiple chain stores and food outlets, with prices based on personal experience, better than the usual airport rip-offs. The main attraction in the Jewel, right in the centre of the complex, is a very impressive waterfall in a large tree-lined atrium, with the skytrain service between terminals running through it.
Is a large shopping centre which I refer to as the gateway to Sentosa Island, due to it having an MTR station, the terminus for the Sentosa Monorail, and even easy access to the Sentosa boardwalk For me, I always stock up on snacks and other supplies before heading to Sentosa. It's a good way to save a mountain of money, given how expensive Sentosa is.
The most well-known shopping street in Singapore, and the one that most people think of when thinking about shopping. I have been visiting regularly since the early 90s, and can say it's worth the visit, the shops are all the large chains with some smaller local or regional chains in the mix. It's even got an Apple store, which I actually visited on Christmas Day back in 2023.
Is a massive office development centrally located, with a large shopping centre on the lower levels. The shops are the usual collection of international chains with some smaller local and regional ones in the mix. It's even got a supermarket on one of the lower levels together with a fairly diverse food court, and the stunning Fountain of Wealth right at its centre.
This used to be the largest mall in Singapore when it opened back in 1986, although it's lost that title in the years that followed, it's still one of those that is well worth a visit. And no, while it opened in the 1980s, it's not one of those dated, run-down malls. It's been fully renovated multiple times since then, and now it's as good as it gets, with an excellent variety of shops.
Located just over the street from my preferred Hotel The Carlton and has just about everything. For me, it's my jumping off point for most things, and having two MRT stations, direct access to Suntec City, Marina Square and Funan Centre shopping Malls, if that's not enough; there is a Marks and Spencer which does a killer pastry, and a Cold Storage supermarket.
In search of a bargain, head for one of the many markets and/or hawker centres. These places can be a real experience and are well worth visiting, regardless of what you are looking for. And yes, you can also eat at most of these.
One of my favourite places to visit in Chinatown, it's more than just a Hawker Market. There is the usual food court and stalls, but it also has many that sell things like jade carvings, castings, coins, banknotes, and various artefacts. Not that the presence of the religious supplies should be a surprise, as it's located behind the Tooth Relic Temple.
Over the road from the main part of the Bugis shopping centre, and it is more than a little rabbit warren-like. Think the kind of place to explore and bargain hunt. The downside is the crowds; it's very popular with both locals and tourists, and every time I have visited, it's been packed. On the weekends, there can be live music, and at the far end are several temples.
Located close to the Chinatown complex, it is one of those markets that just seem to draw you in. It's got just about everything a tourist could want. And yes, that includes food, clothing, plants and the usual mountain of souvenirs. One thing to note is that the quality varies between the stalls, so examine carefully before buying.
is a good old-fashioned market, of the kind I am drawn to and spend too much time rummaging. Not that I have managed to visit yet, having only found out about it from a local friend on the last day of a recent trip, so no time. That said, from looking at the website, it does look good. Just before you go, check the website to verify the opening times and locations.
I was told it existed by another store in Sim Lim Tower, so I headed there. The Mustafa Centre is a combination of a market and a department store selling just about anything with the pile it high, sell it cheap model. It's one of those places you can find bargains and just about anything you want; just be aware it's always crowded, but still very much worth visiting.
is a large multilevel shopping centre full of mainly small independent shops plus the usual McDonald's, 7-Eleven and Watsons. It's located on the Orchard Road shopping strip and is one of those interesting places I found back in the day while exploring on one of my early visits to Singapore.
is another one recommended by a local friend, and as such is not one I have managed to visit yet. Checking the website, it does look interesting, and something I will make time to visit in a future Singapore trip. One thing to note from the website is that they talk about upscale food, which makes me think about prices. But regardless, I will visit and report what I find.
A part of China right in the middle of Singapore, made up of 5 districts with a very rich history. It's one of those places you need to wander and soak up the atmosphere, as you visit the street market, hawker centre and sample the unending variety of food on offer. I have been planning to visit during the Chinese New Year, which I am told is an experience not to be missed.
Located close to the Chinatown complex, it is one of those markets that just seem to draw you in. It's got just about everything a tourist could want. And yes, that includes food, clothing, plants and the usual mountain of souvenirs. One thing to note is that the quality varies between the stalls, with some being excellent, some being ok, and a few being terrible.
One of my favourite places to visit in Chinatown, it's more than just a Hawker Market. There is the usual food court and stalls, but it also has many that sell things like jade carvings, castings, coins, banknotes, and various artefacts. Not that the presence of the religious supplies should be a surprise, as it's located behind the Tooth Relic Temple.
Not far from the Chinatown MRT station is one of those places I have always seen, just never had a chance to visit. All that changed in 2025, when I had the time, so I headed over, only to find it closed for renovations. Oh well, next time, I will make sure to visit, as with my interest in history, it should be good. In the meantime, check out their website .
This striking building, right in the middle of Chinatown, was one of the first places I visited the very first time I was in Chinatown. At the time, I wanted to see the inside, but it was packed, so that was something for another day. It took me several years and several visits to Chinatown to actually make it inside; it was worth the wait.
One of the most impressive temples I have visited. It's centrally located, open to visitors, a stunning example of classical Chinese architecture, and best of all, they allow photography in all but the prayer hall. I have visited many times, and it still gives me more photo opportunities each time.
A food-centric hawker centre that offers just about everything you would want to eat. I have visited a few times and was even able to find something I could eat despite my dietary restrictions. From my visits, I can say it's very popular with both locals and tourists, which means it can get very crowded, especially at peak hours. If you are in Chinatown, go visit and eat. 🍲
Quite a surprise when I first visited Chinatown, as I did not expect to see a Hindu temple in this area. Although my first visit was while it was raining, the temple was nothing short of stunning, and that's from me, who has visited many Hindu temples over the years. The architecture is a classic Hindu temple, and an excellent example.
Yet another new discovery, and a place that's going to release the inner engineer. Yes, I have an interest in mechanical engineering, so visiting this museum is going to be a highlight of a future trip. Normally, I am not really a museum person, but this, after checking the website, is going to be an exception and a good photo opportunity, assuming they allow photos.
Another place I came across while wandering around Chinatown. This time, classical Chinese architecture stood out among the shophouses and other modern buildings. Some brief history: it was set up in the early 19th century by Cantonese and Hakka migrants, dedicated to the deity Tua Pek Kong, and was where many migrants gave thanks for the safe journey.
Little India is an enclave of indian culture in Singapore, located not far from Chinatown. From multiple visits, I can say it's a place everyone needs to experience. There are markets, temples, and just about every flavour of Indian food you can think of. If you time it right, visit during one of the major festivals, such as Deepavali, the atmosphere is electric.
The Mustafa Centre is a combination of a market and a department store selling just about anything with the pile it high, sell it cheap model. It's one of those places you can find bargains and just about anything you want; just be aware it's always crowded, but still very much worth the visit.
The last surviving Chinese villa in Little India, and dates from the early 20th century. This was another place that I found by accident when I first visited Little India, and was wandering around taking photos when this very colourful building jumped out at me. As far as I know, you cannot go inside, although I will dig into that further.
One of several Hindu temples in Little India, and one of the older ones in Singapore, dating from the 19th century. It started as shrine dedicated to the Hindu goddesses Kali and Pavati, before the temple was built in the late 19th century. As for me, so far I have not been able to go in, as it's been packed each time, and I do not want to disturb the worshipers.
Another Hindu temple located in Little India. I did some research on its history, and it seems it also dates from the mid-19th century, and is dedicated to the deity Vishnu Unlike the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, I was not aware of its existence until researching this page, so I will add it to the must-visit list for a future trip, expect photos and other updates.
It is also referred to as the Temple of 1,000 Lights and is a Buddhist temple located in Little India. This is another one I only discovered while researching this page, and it is high on the must-visit list for a future trip. As for why, it's simple: it's a photo opportunity, as there is a 15-meter statue of the seated Buddha. Expect updates after my next trip to Singapore.
An example of Islamic architecture, which stands out among the usual shophouses of Little India, and from the images on the website, it's another one that is a good photo opportunity, and as such yet another one for the must-visit list, for a future Singapore visit. And yes, a Mosque right in the middle of Little India is another good example of how well Singapore works.
One of the most ornate Buddhist temples I have seen in Singapore, and although it's another one I have not managed to make time to visit, and yes, it's on the list for a future Singapore visit. Until I visit and update this page, check out the website to see its very ornate interior. I really hope they allow photography; regardless, it's on my must-visit list.
Kampong Gelam is the hub for Malay and Muslim culture in Singapore, with the impressive Sultan Mosque, surrounded by just about every kind of food you can think of, plus the usual souvenir stores.
The first Mosque I visited in Singapore, and yet another found by accident. From the outside, it's a classic example of Mosque architecture, and from the inside, just as impressive. If you visit, spend the time to explore the surrounding area, where you will find just about every type of food you can think of, and especially during some festivals, a very lively street market
Very close to the stunning Sultan Mosque, both are very lively and home to what looks like an unlimited number of places to eat, and more importantly for me and my interest in street art, Haji Lane is very colourful, being covered in street art. In short, visit, eat, take in the atmosphere and enjoy the art.
Marina Bay is the heart of Singapore and home to multiple iconic attractions, such as the Sands Hotel and the Merlion. Each time I visit Singapore, I stay very close to the bay, and I regularly visit the attractions. Just check out my gallery to see why.
Observation wheel, offering stunning views of Marina Bay and the Skyline from 165m up, and all from comfortable, fully air-conditioned capsules. So far, I have not managed to ride the wheel, despite trying since the end of COVID; each time I have tried, it's been closed. However, in my 2025 visit, it was open, but those weather gods were against me, with heavy rain.
About as iconic as it gets; you will see it on the vast majority of the tourist advertisements, usually combined with Marina Bay or the Gardens by the Bay. This development has a shopping centre, the hotel, which includes a casino, and finally the rooftop skypark with its stunning views over the city. All I can say about the hotel is that I found it underwhelming.
A footbridge that runs from the Marina Centre towards the Sands, it's styled in the form of the DNA double helix. Indeed, it used to be known as the Double Helix Bridge, whereas these days it's just known as the Helix. Now, normally, I would not class a footbridge as an attraction, but this is a very well-deserved exception.
Up there with the Sands and the Merlion when it comes to iconic attractions. As for what's there, the big attractions are the two domes, one of which has plants from all over the planet, and the other has a rainforest, yes, really. Other than the domes, there are the super trees, which, while good in daylight, are stunning after dark.
Another of the icons located in the Marina Bay area, or should I say it's about as iconic as it gets, being the official mascot for Singapore. It's one of those attractions every visitor to Singapore needs to visit. During the day, it's good, but after dark, especially when combined with the Marina Bay lights, it's nothing short of stunning.
A very impressive looking development right on the Marina Bay shore. It's the hub for the performing arts in Singapore, and although that's not really my sort of thing, from what I understand, the interior is stunning and well worth the visit. It seems they offer guided tours, which, assuming they allow photography, are something I will make time for on the next visit.
The deck across the top of the Sands towers, home to a variety of dining options and a stunning infinity pool. Access is free to Hotel Guests, although when I stayed there, I ran out of time. For non-hotel guests, you can visit for a small fee. Also available is an observation deck on level 56, although they do not allow professional photographic equipment, which is a big red flag.
Another place I have been planning to visit for many years, until 2025, when things aligned. The Barrage is a dam that separates Marina Bay from the ocean, and while there is not much to see at the barrage itself, it does provide good views of the city and gives access to Marina East parkland, which runs along the coast.
A massive development centrally located, with a large shopping centre on the lower levels. The shops are the usual collection of international chains with some smaller local and regional ones in the mix. It's even got a supermarket on one of the lower levels together with a fairly diverse food court, and the stunning Fountain of Wealth right at its centre.
It is located close to the Singapore River and is home to many historical buildings, such as the Asian Civilisations Museum, the National Gallery and the Civilian War Memorial. In addition to this, there is the Parliament building, the Supreme Court, Fort Canning and Raffles City, plus others.
The seat of government, and an impressive-looking building, and that comes from me, who worked just down the road from Westminster in London, and have visited others all over the world. In this case, it's a more modern grey granite structure set in well-laid-out grounds close to the river. I did some digging, and they do offer tours, but do not allow photography.
I have walked past this one many times, just never thought of going in. All that changed when I met a photography club, who told me the gallery was worth visiting with a camera, especially the upper level. Interesting, did some digging, and it seems this building used to be the Supreme Court and City Hall in a previous life, so it should be interesting to visit.
A truly stunning building and one of the most recognisable in Singapore, it dates from the mid-19th century, and was fully renovated back in 2014. As the name suggests, it's home to a large Theatre and Concert hall, although I have not made it inside as of yet. Each time I have walked past, I have taken many photos both during the day and after dark.
Yes, that Raffles Hotel, the home of the Singapore Sling, and one of the few places that everyone knows about. Now, while I have not stayed there, it's far too expensive, but I have visited the Long Bar, which is very plush and one of those places every visitor to Singapore should visit, and no, you do not need to be a hotel guest.
Yes, really culture, and no, not just shopping and the usual iconic attractions; I like to group things like history, places of worship, museums and memorials. And yes, Singapore has many which need to be experienced, some well-known, others less well-known. This section covers those I am aware of, and in many cases have visited personally, and others that I will visit in future visits.
Singapore is comprised of three primary ethnic groups: Chinese, Malay, and Indian. So, as a surprise to no one, there is a rich heritage from all of them, some of which I have experienced, and others on my plan to visit on future trips.
I found out about this place while researching this page, and from looking at their website, a visit is planned for my next Singapore trip. Er, well, I really hope so, as it's currently closed for renovations with a reopening sometime in 2026. In the meantime, you can still explore the surrounding area of Kampong Gelam, which, based on personal experience, is a no-brainer.
The last surviving Chinese villa in Little India, and dates from the early 20th century. This was another place that I found by accident when I first visited Little India, and was wandering around taking photos when this very colourful building jumped out at me. As far as I know, you cannot go inside, although I will dig into that further.
Not far from the Chinatown MRT station is one of those places I have always seen, just never had a chance to visit. All that changed in 2025, when I had the time, so I headed over, only to find it closed for renovations. Oh well, next time, I will make sure to visit, as with my interest in history, it should be good. In the meantime, check out their website .
Covers the rich history of Indians in Singapore, and has a permanent exhibition spanning from the first century to the current day. I headed to the heritage centre on the last day of my most recent Singapore visit, only to find it's closed on Mondays. Another one for the next trip.
The official residence and office of the president of Singapore. But while it is open to the public on specific public holidays, so far I have not managed to be in Singapore on one of them. Very annoying, as with my interest in architecture and history, this would be a good photo opportunity. And yes, they do allow photography in all but a few restricted areas.
Located over the road from the National Gallery and one of those places I have walked past many times, just not visited and given that its colonial architecture is one of my interests, it's something that needs to change. Now I just need to make sure my visit does not coincide with National Day or such other holidays, as the sports grounds are closed, or used for seating.
Now, while I have no interest in religion, I do have an interest in architecture, and places of worship have some stunning examples; hence, I do visit them. I have visited temples and churches all over the planet and have written up some notes from visiting and taking photos in these places, which you can read here
A truly stunning building located centrally, and another one I had been meaning to visit for years, but it was closed for renovation, covered in scaffolding, or the weather gods just hated me. Anyhow, in 2025, all that changed; so I finally made it inside, and although, as I said, I may not be religious, the architecture is impressive, and the atmosphere is bright and relaxing.
One of Singapore's oldest temples. After some research, it seems it's the only South Indian temple dedicated to Krishna and his consort Rukmini and together with the close by Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple are known for having a social practice termed "Cross-worshipping" Where the faithful of each can worship at both.
One of the older Buddhist temples, it's dedicated to the worship of the Chinese goddess of mercy, Guan Yin. And as I said above, it is linked to the Sri Krishnan Temple via social practice "Cross-worshipping" Where the faithful of each can worship at both. This level of cooperation is something I have never seen before, and it's a prime example of how Singapore works so well.
One of several Hindu temples in Little India, and one of the older ones in Singapore, dating from the 19th century. It started as shrine dedicated to the Hindu goddesses Kali and Pavati, before the temple was built in the late 19th century. As for me, so far I have not been able to go in, as it's been packed each time, and I do not want to disturb the worshipers.
Another Hindu temple located in Little India. I did some research on its history, and it seems it also dates from the mid-19th century, and is dedicated to the deity Vishnu Unlike the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, I was not aware of its existence until researching this page, so I will add it to the must-visit list for a future trip, expect photos and other updates.
Yet another new place for me to visit, I came across this one while researching this page, so, so far I have not even managed to walk past it, but given the images I have seen, it's going to be a no-brainer for future Singapore visits. I just need to remember to take the 360-degree camera for the interior, assuming they allow it.
One of the smaller temples I have seen, and yet another I have not been able to see the interior, but not through the lack of trying; each time I have walked past, it's been closed. One day, maybe things will align, and I will get to see the inside.
A striking building right in the middle of Chinatown, and was one of the first places I visited the very first time I was in Chinatown. At the time, I wanted to see the inside, but it was packed, so that was something for another day. It took me several years and multiple visits to Chinatown to actually make it to the inside; it was worth the wait.
It is also referred to as the Temple of 1,000 Lights and is a Buddhist temple located in Little India. It is another one I only discovered while researching this page, and it is high on the must-visit list for a future trip. As for why, it's simple: it's a photo opportunity, as there is a 15-meter statue of the seated Buddha. Expect updates after my next Singapore trip.
Quite a surprise when I first visited Chinatown, as I did not expect to see a Hindu temple in this area. Although my first visit was while it was raining, the temple was nothing short of stunning, and that's from me, who has visited many Hindu temples over the years. The architecture is a classic Hindu temple, and an excellent example.
A pleasant surprise when I discovered it while wandering around hunting street art, but found this temple. I just had to get a closer look, first the courtyard, which to me is an island of silence right in the middle of the CBD. Now I did go in, but I first saw the no photo signs, which, while annoying for me, are not a deal-breaker, being far from the first time I have seen this.
The latest in a long line of places I found while researching this page. Anyhow, after checking the website and multiple visitor reviews, it seems this Buddhist temple is basically a hidden gem, with some impressive architecture. And yes, this is on my visit list for a future Singapore trip. Expect updates and most likely a photo gallery, er, well, assuming they allow photography.
One of several Hindu temples in Little India, and one of the older ones in Singapore, dating from the 19th century. It started as shrine dedicated to the Hindu goddesses Kali and Pavati, before the temple was built in the late 19th century. As for me, so far I have not been able to go in, as it's been packed each time, and I do not want to disturb the worshipers.
One of the most unusual mosques I have seen. It's a combination of eastern and western architecture. After some research, I found it's one of the oldest mosques and is known for its unique architecture. Yet again, I have walked past many times, just never made it inside; it was closed every time. Next time I visit, I will make sure I check the opening times and try again to visit.
The first Mosque I visited in Singapore, and yet another found by accident. From the outside, it's a classic example of Mosque architecture, and from the inside, just as impressive. If you visit, spend the time to explore the surrounding area, where you will find just about every type of food you can think of, and especially during some festivals, a very lively street market
Given the Straits Settlements involvement with both World Wars, there are many memorials for you to visit and pay respects. These are some that I was already aware of, and some I discovered while researching this page. There is a lot of history to investigate showing how Singapore came into being, with a good place to start being on wikipedia
Commemorates the unimaginable suffering experienced by the people of Singapore during the Japanese occupation during World War 2. It's a striking place, made up of four columns representing the Chinese, Indian, Malay and European people who make up Singapore. It's centrally located and one of those places I have visited many times.
Very much not a tourist attraction, but it is another that, if you get a chance, you should visit and pay respect to those who lost their lives during both world wars. Just be aware, there is a problem with wild boars, which seem to be attracted to this location on the edge of the city, and cause damage to the headstones and grounds.
A former defence battery which dates from the 19th century. It started with two gun emplacements, then was upgraded as the Second World War approached with multiple 6-inch guns and search lights to track enemy ships. It's located on the southern coast of Singapore, in the Labrador Nature Reserve, also known locally as Labrador Park.
Commemorates the battle of Pasir Panjang, the Malay regiment that fought there, and the history of the Bukit Chandu area. As I had not heard of this place until researching this page, I have not personally visited; however, after looking into what's there, and me being interested in history, it's another one for me to visit the next time I am in Singapore.
An underground World War 2 bunker located under Fort Canning Park. It was once the headquarters for military operations during the fall of Singapore in 1942; these days, it is an interesting historical site and Museum. And yes, it's another of those places I have not visited, as each time I have tried, it's been closed.
Commemorates the military personnel who lost their lives in both World Wars. It was originally built to honour the soldiers from the Singapore Colony who died in World War 1, and was later updated to honour those who did not return from World War 2 on the reverse side. If you visit Esplanade Park, please show your respect here and at the Lim Bo Seng Memorial.
The only structure in Singapore that honours the sacrifice of a single person during world war 2. Lim Bo Seng, a native of Fujian Province in China, was active in the fight against the Japanese from 1937 to 1945. As for me, I have walked past it in Esplanade Park many times, not knowing what it was, assuming it was related to Chinese culture in Singapore.
While I would not normally classify myself as a museum kind of person, yes, I may be ancient, but still not exhibit-worthy. Anyhow, with my interest in history and architecture, some museums just seem to draw me in. These are a few I am aware of, and are on the list to visit in future trips.
A very well-preserved part of Singapore's defences, and home to various attractions. It is rich in history without being too much of a tourist trap. I have visited many times, and found it interesting with a good balance of history without being too tacky. There are underground tunnel systems to wander through and various surface reconstructions that show more history.
Given my history with technology and having visited many others all over the planet, this one is on the list to visit on any future visit. While researching this museum, I discovered the Airshow, which was something I had to visit. Then I continued to read, and it was talking about trade only, damm it, but all was not lost, as even more digging showed there are also public days.
Another new discovery while researching a trip. The bad news is that the website says it's currently closed for renovations, with no advertised reopening date. I have visited many of this type of museum in the UK, the US, plus a few others, and found them interesting, not only for my interest in history but also for some photo ops.
Yet another one of those places found by accident when I first did the river walk. I was drawn in by the large mirror balls on the outside. It was after dark, so it was closed when I headed for the entrance. Oh well, something for another day. Sadly, the other day, it ended in the same problem: closed. Not good, as this museum is my sort of place with my interest in history.
I have walked past this one many times, just never thought of going in. All that changed when I met a photography club, who told me the gallery was worth visiting with a camera, especially the upper level. Interesting, did some digging, and it seems this building used to be the Supreme Court and City Hall in a previous life, so it should be interesting to visit.
Housed in a striking building, which I have walked right past many times, just never made it inside. So while researching this page and going through the museum's website, this is something I will be changing. As for why, of the many exhibits, the history one is a major attraction for me, as that's one of my areas of interest.
Yes, really, and to me another excuse to release the big kid and try some of the exhibits, which, according to the website, is allowed, and with me being totally addicted to Ice Cream, visiting this museum is a no-brainer. Now, while I may be addicted, I will freely admit I do like alternatives such as Frozen Yogurt, although Gelato is not something I am that keen on.
Yet another chance to release the inner big kid, and visit and relive some of my childhood, and yes, I can remember that far back. On a more serious note, from checking the website, some of the toy collections are of special interest to me, as I am fairly sure I had some of them. Plus, it's always good to see the differences between the UK and Asia.
Another one I found totally by accident while looking for street art. It was later in the day, so it was closed, or I would have gone in to have a look around. This museum covers the art and culture of the Peranakan Chinese, an ethnic group descended from the first waves of southern Chinese settlers in Southeast Asia. Until I visit during a future trip, check out the website
One of those interesting places. I watched this be built as part of the Sands development, but I've never made it to visit yet, just never enough time. Anyhow, given my interest in science, it's another no-brainer to visit, and in a future visit, it's going to happen, and I will write a full review of my time there. In the meantime, check the museum website for details of what's there.
As part of my interest in photography, I have been attracted to wildlife and general nature photography, having visited zoos and other wildlife facilities all over the planet and taken way too many shots. Living in Sydney, I have Taronga Zoo and the Botanical Gardens, so no shortage of subjects.
This is what I like to call "A Zoo done right" With the animals treated right. It's quite similar to Taronga Zoo back home, with large, open enclosures that offer a perfect environment for photography. The Zoo is another part of the stunning Mandai Wildlife Reserve, together with the Bird Paradise and Night Safari. For my next visit, I'd like a dry day.
The old Jurong Bird Park moved to a new and much larger location as part of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. I visited the old park a few times, so when it moved, I had to visit. And wow, the new Bird Paradise is stunning, one of those places I could visit many times and still not see everything. It's made up of a number of large walk-through aviaries, plus a show arena.
When I finally visited, I chose a day with thunder rolling in the distance. One thing to note is that when you visit, expect to walk kilometres, as this place is massive, but it is well laid out and has a fair amount of signs, complete with distances. For both the Botanical and the Orchid Gardens, you need to take plenty of water and snacks, as what's available there is expensive.
Located in the Botanical Gardens, they are stunning, very colourful, and another perfect environment for photography; just check out my Gallery. I have visited the gardens multiple times, and from talking to the staff, they can be a little crowded at the weekends, although I did visit on a Sunday afternoon and it was not too bad.
Up there with the Sands and the Merlion when it comes to iconic attractions. As for what's there, the big attractions are the two domes, one of which has plants from all over the planet, and the other has a rainforest, yes, really. Other than the domes, there are the super trees, which, while good in daylight, are stunning after dark.
The latest of a number of aquariums on Sentosa, and yes, that's from personal experience, with the first I visited back in the 90s, being Underwater World, which from memory was impressive. Ok, I thought it was hard to beat, but the SEA Aquarium is what I call next-level, yes, really, it's that good, and that's coming from me, who has visited aquariums all over the planet.
As the name suggests, it is a visit to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve after dark. And with the Wildlife Reserve being home to the very impressive Zoo. and Bird Paradise, this should be just as impressive. From talking to a friend who has done the safari, it seems I was right, and the night safari is one of those experiences everyone should have.
Used in the Singapore Airlines Safety video; see, I actually paid attention, as everyone should. Anyhow, this place is a footbridge with some interesting architectural features. It looked interesting, so I headed out to have a look. Was it worth the visit? Well, not really, although it may be better after dark.
A park located on the highest hill close to the centre of the city. It's home to several attractions such as the fort gate, the water garden, cannon emplacements, and a stunning carved mural wall. I have visited several times, and still find new things to see. On my list for my next visit is the Battlebox Museum, which offers a rare look into Singapore's World War 2 history.
For those who do not know, Sentosa is a resort/leisure island located just off the main island's south coast. There are many attractions and hotels there, and it's a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. It is highly recommended for a visit, and that's from my experience as I always visit when I am in Singapore; just check out my photo gallery to see why.
Back when I first visited all the way back in the early 90s, the options were limited; you had the cable car, taxi or one of the hotel shuttles. Thankfully, that has changed, and there is now a monorail connection and a boardwalk, both of which run from the Vivo City shopping centre. In my case, I usually walk the boardwalk to get to the island and take the monorail back.
Yes, there are several beaches, each being up there with some back in Sydney. I have visited each of them many times over the years, and can say each is safe, clean, family-friendly, and very photogenic. Just check out my Sentosa Gallery. Even if you are not a beach person, there is a good flat walk along the back of the beaches, which is well worth doing.
It's one way to get to Fort Siloso; it's an elevated walkway that gives a stunning view over the Island, and, thankfully for my bad knees, there is a lift to get to the top; then it's flat all the way to the fort. On my latest visit, I found they had lost their minds and installed a prototype Solar Pavement; yes, I said lost their minds, read this post on eevblog.com for more on that one.
A very well-preserved part of Singapore's defences, and home to various attractions. It is rich in history without being too much of a tourist trap. I have visited many times, and found it interesting with a good balance of history without being too tacky. There are underground tunnel systems to wander through and various surface reconstructions that show more history.
A very popular theme park, and yet another attraction I have not yet managed to visit; as to why it has nothing to do with this park, I just never had the time. Anyhow, remember I said it's very popular, and each time I have been close to the entrance, I can confirm that. However, I did have a look at the website and the attractions it contains do look interesting.
The latest of a number of aquariums on Sentosa, and yes, that's from personal experience, with the first I visited back in the 90s, being Underwater World, which from memory was impressive. Ok, I thought it was hard to beat, but the SEA Aquarium is what I call next-level, yes, really, it's that good, and that's coming from me, who has visited aquariums all over the planet.
Located on Sentosa and another I found by accident, while exploring. I did not know there was one here; the last one I came across was in Hong Kong. And no, I have not been to that one either; the only one I have visited is the London one. Maybe I will visit this one, or as it seems, there is one in Sydney, so maybe I will visit that one and compare them.
A form of indoor skydiving, where you float above a powerful fan. Now, while I have not visited this one, I have experienced this in the US back in the day, and as someone who has done the real thing, it's a good experience, but it's not as good as the real thing. If you want the feeling of flying without the aircraft, give it a go, just be aware that it's not cheap.
Runs from Mount Faber Peak and ends at Sentosa Station with a stop at Harbourfront. It's one of those things that every visitor needs to experience at least once, and yes, that includes me. My first trip on the cable car was back in the 90s. Since then, the cars have been upgraded, and now, at an extra cost, you can book one of the SkyOrb cars, which have a glass floor.