When it comes to the mega-metropolitan city life, Singapore is just one of those places that takes the cake. When I first arrived at the airport, I was rather shocked to how different the atmosphere was compared to other regions I had roamed during my travels.
At first, it was a bit disconcerting. After all, after Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Penang, one of the things I was loving the most is the unique culture and atmosphere that each place had to offer. But Singapore itself seemed so … homelike.
However, I learnt quickly that this was not the case.
Despite its city life like experience, there is still plenty to fall in love with. Some of the things that are worthy of mentioning I plan on listing in this article. These are all tried, tested, and loved by me.
The Singapore Botanical Gardens
Okay, so being completely honest – this is one of the main activities to do in Singapore. However, I kept putting it off. After all, everywhere you go there are botanical gardens – there is nothing special about it.
At least…
Until I met some pretty cool friends at the backpackers I was in, who convinced me to tag along with them – and holy moly, I am so glad that I did.
The plants are historically ancient (I’m talking dinosaur age here!). In total, the garden is divided into four different sections, from the Tanglin Core (which is the oldest), to the Tyersall-Gallop core (the rainforest.)
After that, you also have the Bukit Bukit Timah core, which is basically a children’s paradise. With a children’s garden, treehouses and a pretty cool bridge to boot. Finally, there is the main tourist core, located in the centre of the gardens which is home to over 1,000 species of orchards, and 2,000 species of hybrids.
Embrace Nature In The Wetlands Mangrove Sanctuary
If you love hiking, and learning about the places you visit, this is definitely an activity that you do not want to miss out on. Home to indigenous bird specials, and of course some pretty huge mangroves – it’s certainly a hike that I will not be forgetting any time soon.
The tour guides on these hikes tell you a ton of pretty interesting stuff for when you are not gawking at your surroundings. Such as the origins of mangroves, and how they have protected Singapore from disasters over the last millenium…
Bet you’re curious now, right? Guess you are going to have to visit here soon!
Visit The Oldest Temple In Singapore – Thian Hock Keng
I love temples. From the small street corner places of worship in the bustling streets of Malaysia. Right down to the giant golden temple in Chiang Mai. I mean, what is there not to love. Some temples are really stunning, and breathtaking.
Which is why I would strongly suggest visiting the Thian Hock Keng if you get the time.
This temple is also known as the Tianfu temple, and is one of the oldest temples located in Singapore. From the brilliantly sculpted decorations and walls, right down to the inspiring dragon statues.
Did i mention that the entire temple was constructed without making use of a single nail? How crazy is that!
The good news is that admission is free. However, the bad news is pictures are strongly forbidden, and you can be fined if you are caught trying to sneak a quick flash in.
Take A Dive In One Of The Largest Infinity Pools World Wide
Okay, so this is just one of those activities that I never had the time to take part in. However, looking back, if I could do it all again; it would probably be one of the first things that I knock off my list.
The infinity pool is over 300 M high, and one of the largest infinity pools in the world.
Unfortunately, if you want to be able to enjoy swimming in this pool, you will need to be willing to part ways and invest into a night or two in the hotel. Which actually looks like one amazing place to have a getaway with your family.
But outsiders can also part with $20 for access to the observation deck, along with another $6 for a hot dog once you get there. Not quite as fun as enjoying a 300 M high view, but… hey.
Gardens By The Bay
When it comes to beauty in Singapore, to this day – this is the first thing I think of. Gardens On The Bay was one of those life experiences that I do not think I could forget. The size, and breadth of the plants was amazing.
Even better, the layout of the entire facility, and the creativity behind it was truly magnificent. If you have a day to spend out in nature – this should be an activity you place on the priority list. However, I should warn you that when I was there last, the crowds were pretty thick; not to mention slow. So be sure to bring your patient suit with.
