We flew with Singapore Airlines direct from Heathrow. Their service was excellent, good food and a great range of inflight entertainment on individual seatback screens.
We stayed at the Hotel Jen on Orchard road. There’s a fantastic rooftop infinity edge pool with great views over the city, perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat. We paid extra for access to the club lounge where drinks/snacks are served throughout the day (alcoholic 2 hours per evening) and is well worth the cost.
Orchard road is the place for shopping, lots of shops and food plazas, be warned though that smoking is not allowed in certain areas-even out in the street!
Marina Bay is the new area of Singapore formed over the last few years from reclaimed land. Here you will find the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel. The world-famous pool is only open to residents, non residents have access to a fabulous bar/restaurant on the same level or a viewing platform (payable) one level below. Also, in this area is the Gardens by the Bay. Two huge domes filled with flowers and plants from around the globe- a must do on your sightseeing list. Try and arrive early to beat the crowds and booking your ticket in advance saves the queues. The supertrees come alive at night (2 shows nightly check locally for times) this is a free light/music show, again try to get there early to get a good spot.
Clarkes Quay is a bustling entertainment area next to the river, with a variety of bars and restaurants. We enjoyed an evening river cruise, taking in the lit up city sights.
We had a 48hour hop on/off sightseeing bus, this was a great way to see the main sights in a short amount of time. We got off in Little India and enjoyed a local lunch, at the time that area was dressed for Diwali.
After a Singapore Sling in the long bar ( well you have to don’t you?!) We were very luck to enjoy afternoon tea at Raffles. The stunning hotel has just reopened after a refurbishment. The food, service and setting were just fabulous.
Food centres are great fun and a cheap way to eat out. Various stalls are set out around a courtyard area and you go to the stalls to order your various dishes. We went to the Newton centre, the satay (peanut) noodles and fish are highly recommended!
Food and drink are expensive, look out for happy hour deals and ladies nights to ease the cost.
Tax and service charges add around 20% onto all bills, so no need to pay extra for tips in bars/restaurants.
We felt very safe in Singapore, we didn’t see one policeman or here any sirens whilst we were there! It is spotlessly clean and has a very efficient transport system.
We stayed for 3 nights, you definitely don’t see everything in that time but it makes a great stop off destination.
Things we need to go back for; Botanical gardens, Sentosa Island, Universal Studios, more satay!!!
