Want to experience a culturally rich trip to Singapore like Rachel Chu from Crazy Rich Asians? We sat down with a Singaporean local, Pahel Shah, to discover the 5 best things to do, see, eat, experience, and nightlife in Singapore.
1. DO
Hendersen Waves is a popular spot for locals to go on a walk or jog while enjoying the panoramic views of the city. Not only does it have the most unique wave-like shape, but it is also the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore! Located in the South of Singapore, the bridge connects Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park. If you’re looking for an active activity after a food coma, this is the place to go to. Remember to bring some water to brave through the notorious humid air!
2. SEE
Gardens by the Bay is one of the most iconic spots in Singapore. This garden isn’t just any patch of grass with some flowers. You will walk through the garden with your head looking up at the super trees up to 160 feet. You can easily spend a few hours in this garden taking in the beauty of the flowers and unique architecture. Pahel says this is a must see in Singapore!
3. EAT
If you’re traveling to Singapore, you better come prepared with some loose pants to inhale the tastiest comfort food of all time. A country with cultural influences from Chinese, Malay and Indian ethnicities is guaranteed to have the msot diverse food options. Be prepared to try a variety of food options to get the most authentic experience in Singapore. To do this, Pahel recommends going to a Hawker center which is essentially a food court. She recommends Newton Food Court which actually has a Michelin star! It may seem odd to go to a food court when there are plenty of restaurants in Singapore. However, this is the perfect way to try different foods like chicken rice, Hokkien prawn mee, carrot cake, nasi lemak, oyster omlet and so much more! You cannot leave Singapore without going to at least one hawker center!
4. EXPERIENCE
Have you heard of a boat on top of a hotel before? Marina Bay Sands is the most recognizable architecture symbol for Singapore. The best way to experience this is by going up to the 57th floor for a rooftop experience at the infamous CÉ LA VI. Pahel recommends checking this spot out to take in the view and enjoy a drink. When in Singapore, you must try the Singapore Sling!
Pro tip: Wednesday is Ladies Night in Singapore which means ladies get free drinks and entry into most bars in the city. At CÉ LA VI’s ladies nights, women are welcomed with a glass of champagne.
5. NIGHTLIFE
Calling all 18+ individuals, Singapore’s nightlife awaits. Pahel enjoys going out to Chupitos. This shot bar is located in Clarke Quay which is the most famous area for bar hopping in Singapore. If you're in Singapore and ready to have a night out, you must visit Clarke Quay first. She recommends trying Chupitos for their unique shot options like loli pop shots, m&m shots, and their risky shots.
These five recommendations are the best way to submerge yourself in Singapore's unique culture. We hope you enjoyed reading about the five must-do’s! Want to learn more about Singapore, watch our talk with Pahel about her experience as a local.
Want to Learn More?
You’ve started your list of what to know & do when visiting Singapore. Now, start your list of recommendations by downloading our app, Locals Insight. It enables users to discover new unique experiences at home and abroad to make lifelong memories. Download it now! (Available on iOS).
If you want to see Pahel’s specific recommendations, find her profile in the Locals Insight app by searching “Clarke Quay”. There’s your first rec right there!
If you want to explore, check out our other resources on Singapore to learn more!