As someone who grew up in Singapore, Pahel’s heart belongs to the country. We sat down with her to get you a deep insight into the city-state-country, so that you don’t have to go searching for answers on your next visit to the country! (And yes, you read that correctly. It’s a city, state, and country all in one.)
We asked Pahel, “What are the top 3 things to do in Singapore?” as someone who lived there? Here’s what she said.
Try the food, particularly Hawker Centres.
Experience the nightlife, namely Clarke Quay.
Visit Gardens by the Bay, even if it seems touristy.
Pahel’s Top 3 Things To Do In Singapore.
Try the food, particularly Hawker Centres.
If you’re a foodie, you’re going to want to visit Singapore. It’s one of the main delicacies of the country; with a wide variety from local Singaporean-Chinese cuisine to Italian, you will have an amazing experience wherever you go.
The best place for your first food stop is a Hawker Centre. These are food courts that offer very affordable, but truly authentic dishes. Intended to improve upon the sanitary conditions of food carts, they were invented to take street food to the next level. They mainly sell the traditional Singaporean-Chinese cuisine and there are options for both meat-lovers and vegetarians alike.
With some of the most authentic food, you’ll get an insight into the true culture of the city when you try the stalls’ food. For locals, they hold the heart of the city-state; this is the epitome of comfort food & what reminds them of home.
Some have such amazing dishes that they have earned Michelin Stars! The Newton Food Centre has earned such a reputation; its BBQ, desserts, and more have elevated the meaning of a so-called ‘food court’. Needless to say, it is definitely a must try.
Food is the crux of Singaporean culture, and Hawker Centers sit at the heart of it all. When you’re visiting, stop by these stalls for some of the most affordable, authentic, and delicious food in the country.
Experience the nightlife, namely Clarke Quay.
Singapore tells a tale of two stories: one with the beautiful picturesque day views of Marina Bay Sands and the Gardens by the Bay, and the other with a bustling nightlife full of drinks and food. With such an active night scene, it’s a great city to explore bars, clubs, and even late night food spots.
One of the best spots to find places to go out at night is Clarke Quay. Zouk and Yang Club are some of Pahel’s favorite places, and she frequents them when she visits home. For a full list of spots Pahel & other Singaporeans frequent, check out our app, Locals Insight!
She also loves the bar at the top of the Marina Bay Sands. With incredible views of the concrete jungle, it’s worth the trek and price of the drinks. While it is a hotel, the experience of standing atop it in the dark taking in the breadth of the city is immeasurable.
While other cities may present a puzzle on how to best get home after a long night out, Singapore has got you covered. As one of the top 10 safest countries in the world, even Singapore’s public transport is a great way to get home. The MRT (train) and buses are widely available throughout the city. Seeing as crimes have severe consequences in the country, it keeps the citizens in line.
Visit Gardens by the Bay, even if it seems touristy.
As one of the main attractions in the country, you’ve probably heard of Gardens by the Bay before. Though touristy, the locals love this beautiful construction just as much as the tourists. As someone who spent years walking through these beautiful artificial trees, Pahel says that you have to see it at least once to get the essence of what Singapore is all about. Constructed beauty prevails among the city, reaching its peak at Gardens by the Bay.
Nice for any occasion, the area serves families and singles alike. It’s a great place to go on a date or take your kids for a stroll. Out of what seems to be a Sci-Fi fantasy, the Gardens transport you to a whole new world of your own.
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 “Qi - House of Sichuan”. There’s your first rec right there!
If you want to explore, check out our other resources on Singapore to learn more!