Singapore is a breeze to explore and Luxurylaunches together with the concierge of the Mandarin Oriental Singapore will show you just how.
Stunningly located in the heart of Marina Bay and close to the central business district with easy access to Marina Square, the Singapore Flyer and Esplanade, the Mandarin Oriental Singapore is perfectly situated for business and leisure. Whatever your reason may be, this dynamic city of tradition and modernity will set your senses to the delights of Southeast Asia. From shopping for sale bargains in luxury malls to feasting on local delicacies at food festivals, soaring skyscrapers, green corridors, bustling neighborhoods, quirky shops, trendy rooftop bars – Singapore definitely packs a punch.
Let’s take a look at some of the top things to do while visiting the Lion city.
1. Top day trip – Hort Park
Surround yourself in lush verdant greenery and immerse yourself in the hands of Mother Nature as Hort Park is highly popular among families and community groups. Away from the buzz of the city, this well-manicured park allures with its idyllic themed gardens, fun-filled events and educational workshops – perfect for those looking for a day of rest and recreation.
2. Must try dish – Chilli Crab
A perennial favourite among the locals and tourists, you cannot leave without trying the iconic chilli crab. It yields highly palatable tastes, and is best enjoyed with fried mantous to soak up all that thick delicious gravy. As a nation that loves to eat, you can easily find a slew of seafood restaurants that offers this dish at an affordable to extravagant rate based on the size and type of the crustacean.
3. Best activity / Excursion – Pulau Ubin
Just a mere 10-minute boat ride and you can find yourself at Pulau Ubin, located on the northeastern corner of mainland Singapore. Take a leisure stroll or rent a bike, and explore life on a much slower pace where gravel roads, thick forests, quarries, wildlife and other treasures can be found. The Chek Jawa Guided Tour is also worth your time that takes you up close to the marine life in a wetland.
4. Best view – One Altitude
The glorious sunsets and the glittering night lights. After dusk, appreciate the stunning view of Singapore at multi-lifestyle destination, One Altitude. While overlooking the 360-degree view of the city, get your groove on to the beats of a renowned deejay spinning, exciting nightlife vibes or sip on a cocktail or two.
5. Best One Stop shop – Mustafa Centre
Since its inception in 1971, Mustafa Centre has become one of Singapore’s most iconic one-stop shopping centres that is opened 24 hours daily. As a departmental store-cum-supermarket, it offers a gamut of products and services, ranging from basic necessities and clothes to goldsmiths and electronics at bargained prices.
6. Best local secret – The Rumah Bebe
Since its inception in 1995, The Rumah Bebe has been producing intricate and exquisite Peranakan masterpieces such as shoes, purses and clothes that employ the traditional art of beadwork. Owned by nonya Bebe Seet, who has turned this hobby of hers into a career, she is now committed to sharing this trade who is willing to learn. There are classes and in-house tour that include trying on a kebaya and savouring light delicacies.
7. Best place for local shopping – Haji Lane
Shop like a local at Haji Lane as it boasts a string of quirky boutiques, restaurants and trendy watering holes. When night comes, this space buzzes with a flurry of activity till late. Find a myriad of items available such as clothing by home-grown labels, unusual trinkets from independent boutiques and even that Merlion souvenir for your loved ones at home.
8. Best family activity – Singapore Zoo
Gather your family and head to the Singapore Zoo where it is home to close to 3,000 animals living in a carefree setting that mirrors their natural habitats. Enthral your children with an animal show or excite them at a feeding session with one of the animals. Instead of exploring on foot, hop on a comfortable guided tram ride that takes you to the major attractions of the zoo.
9. Best cultural secret – National Gallery – Old Supreme Court and City Hall Building
The former Supreme Court and City Hall building have now been married as one and is now known as the National Gallery of Singapore. Boasting a cavernous space and enlivening the atmosphere with plenty of natural light, the space is also studded with a display of thought-provoking artworks dating as far back to the 19th century.
10. Best restaurant for a celebration – Dolce Vita
Helmed by Chef Marco Manocchio, fine-dining restaurant Dolce Vita, offers Italian cuisine with a contemporary spin, which have delighted many discerning foodies and gourmands alike. With a sophisticated setting, spectacular food on the menu and immaculate service, you got the best ingredients for a memorable celebration.
11. Best cocktail with a view – Bay@5
With its plush sofas, alfresco setting and a picturesque view of the city’s skyline, do be sure to make a beeline at Bay@5 with your friends. Unwind over the signature Mandarin Negroni which is part of the classic cocktail infusion menu. It includes homemade dehydrated mandarin oranges, cinnamon and wolfberry-infused gin that meld together in a contemporary decanter for a well-executed tipple.
12. Must see museum – National Museum of Singapore
Celebrating its 130th anniversary, National Museum of Singapore is adored by artists, collectors and art aficionados. Despite being the nation’s oldest museum, it houses beautiful collections of captivating art installations, modern exhibitions and important artefacts. Guests can also find dining establishments, a retail section and a resource centre available.
Where: Mandarin Oriental, Singapore
5 Raffles Ave, Marina Square, Singapore 039797
Phone: +65 6338 0066
