Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore

I often notice that tourists visiting Singapore on a 4-day transit visa only get to experience the most iconic and expensive spots. As a result, they frequently describe the city as soulless, sterile, or artificial. However, if you venture beyond Marina Bay Sands, a completely different side of Singapore emerges: charming residential neighborhoods on quiet streets and the simple, everyday rhythms of people walking their dogs, cycling, or meeting for brunch. These are the places where you can truly unwind and where you’ll mostly encounter locals instead of tourists. These spots are perfect if you enjoy a blend of city and nature, leisurely strolls, and observing the serene flow of life.

For the ultimate Singapore experience with a glamorous twist, use the historic and opulent Raffles Hotel as your base. Retire to the intimacy of The Writers Bar for pre-dinner drinks and put dinner reservations in the hands of your personal butler. With Natureland Reflexology and Massage a 1-minute walk away, spend your mornings shopping and exploring and your afternoons reviving your tired feet in the cool comfort of Natureland. If antique shopping is on your agenda, venturing to one of Singapore’s junk stores can be thrilling. One of the best is Tong Mern Sern on Craig Road; it houses three floors of antiques which will please even the most discerning collector. If you love handmade ceramics, Mud Rock Ceramics is where high end restaurateurs source their plates and where those in the know shop for one-of-a-kind hand moulded pieces with beautiful glazes. Ceramic Loft also has a unique range of handmade and bespoke bowls, plates, vessels, decor and art pieces and Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle is known for their huge range of plates, tableware, baking dishes and outdoor pots in the Peranakan style. If shopping and exploring leaves you in need of a cool down, head to Rempapa chef Damian D'Silvas favourite bar, No.5 Emerald Hill which he says is the only bar that still retains the nostalgia of Eighties Singapore. In his words, "It may not have the most creative cocktails, but the moment you walk in, you feel comforted and relaxed, and the beer is cold." For the ultimate cool down, return to the hotel and take an invigorating dip in the rooftop pool. Lose yourself in a holiday read or indulge in a light meal with a cocktail or an icy beer as you watch the sky momentarily cloud over for the inevitable tropical rain shower. Dining out is a way of life in Singapore and it is truly a foodlover's paradise. You can indulge in a Michelin starred affair at Cloudstreet one day and enjoy the buzzing energy and authentic flavours of chilli crab, chicken rice and satay at the Lau Pa Sat or Maxwell hawker centre the next. Pair the cuisine, the climate and the ease of getting around with the culture and history of this tiny flavour bomb of a destination and you'll enjoy a holiday that satisfies all your senses.

📍This premium travel guide also includes a Google Maps Saved List with every location pinned. See the link below.📍 💸 More recommendations than the Free Travel Guide with Weather & Transporation information included! 🇸🇬 Explore the dynamic city-state of Singapore, a vibrant fusion of cultures, cuisines, and modern attractions. From the iconic Marina Bay Sands and lush Gardens by the Bay to bustling neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little India, Singapore offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. What this guide includes; 📍15 Attractions/Must-Dos ✈️ Best Flight Options 🎫 10 City Tours 🚀 4 Adventure Tours 🛏️ 21 Hotel Recommendations 🍕 15 Restaurant Recommendations ☀️ Year Round Weather Info 🚗 Transportation Info