If you are planning a long tour of South East Asia that includes Singapore, you have come to the right place, as we offer a few great ideas on how to spend your time in this unique sovereign island city state. Located almost on the equator in the far south on the Malay peninsula, Singapore consists of one main island, with more than 60 sub-islands and is the second most densely populated places on the planet. There’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise, whether an urban or rural lifestyle and with that in mind, here are a few cool things to do during your stay in sunny Singapore.
- Visit Pulau Ubin – This tiny island offers a unique glimpse into the past, as the local families (around 50) live a life void of anything modern. The name translates to ‘Granite Island’ as this was a granite quarry right up to 1970, when it was closed down. The locals live in wooden huts and the best way to see the island is to rent a bicycle from one of the kiosks at Pulau Ubin jetty, where you arrive on the Changi Point Ferry.
- Haw Par Villa – Here you will find art like nowhere else in the world, this 8-acre outdoor park was founded in the 1930s by the founder of Tiger Balm, Aw Boon Haw, a well-known philanthropist, who commissioned more than 1,000 pieces of traditional Chinese art. More than a little bizarre are features such as The Ten Courts of Hell, which is a collection of chambers that depict the torture and suffering that a spirit might experience in the dark corners of Hell. Not for the squeamish, but a must-see for the adventurer and admirer of easter art.
- Sentosa Island – If you are thinking of renting a boat in Singapore in order to explore the many attractive islands and bays, Sentosa would definitely be one place to visit. Sentosa is an island resort which is home to Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium, which is well worth a visit. Why not play a round at one of the two premier golf courses at Sentosa Golf Club? Or perhaps try ziplining at the Mega Adventure Park (kids love this place). At just over 1,200 acres, this island is small but there’s a lot crammed in to this small area; if you rent a boat, you can travel round the island and moor at a jetty, while getting around on the island can be done with beach tram or bus. If you are a travelling business owner, click here.
- The Southern Ridges – A must-see stretch of forest and jungle, there is a 6-mile trail so do bring your sports shoes and you can enjoy pristine views, as the trail interconnects 5 separate parks. A must for all you nature lovers, this nature trail is probably the best in the world in terms of a manicured, pristine look. The highlight has to be the Henderson Waves, a timber deck that is suspended at a height of 256ft, which offers amazing views that warrant taking some photos.
Of course, a lot depends on how much time you have and renting a boat is without doubt the best way to see the many sights in Singapore.