Kusu Island
Kusu Island is sacred to both the Muslims and Taoists. There is a legend attached to the Malay shrine and Chinese temple that is on the island. It is said that a giant turtle had transformed itself into a large rock, in order to save two shipwrecked sailors - one was Malay and the other Chinese. Taoists make annual pilgrimages to the Tua Pekong Temple during the 9th lunar month, while Muslims visit the Kramat Kusu, which is a Malay shrine. Stunning views of the mainland can be seen from Kusu's beaches and its hilltops. The warm waters of the lagoon are ideal for swimming.
Getting there: Take a ferry from the World Trade Centre.
Pulau Ubin
Shaped like a boomerang, Pulau Ubin is an island off the northeastern coast of Singapore. An island covered with low hills, it is currently being developed into a nature park complete with trails, shelters, camping sites, chalets, and other basic amenities. Works will be fully completed by the year 2000. Much of its natural environment will be preserved and visitors can still experience the rustic village atmosphere encompassing granite quarries, coconut and rubber plantations, mangrove swamps, fish and prawn farms, and traditional fishing kelongs or huts. Pulau Ubin also has a natural haven of plants, birds, and insects found in its mangrove and forest areas. This island is a great place for mountain biking, hiking, and camping.
Getting there: Take SBS Bus 2 from Tanah Merah MRT Station to Changi Point. Then take a bumboat from the Changi Jetty.
Sister Islands
These tiny southern islands offer a quiet respite from the big city with their laid-back ambience, sandy beaches, and inviting waters. They are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving although the currents are quite strong. Recommended only for experienced divers.
Getting there : Hire a water taxi (S$50 per hour) from Jardine Steps or Clifford Pier. Regular ferry services are not available.
St John's Island
A former penal settlement, this large hilly island has been transformed into a tranquil resort. It has shaded walking paths, swimming lagoons, beaches, picnic grounds, trekking routes, camping sites, holiday bungalows, and soccer fields. A perfect place for weekend getaways.
Getting there : Take a ferry from the World Trade Centre.
Sentosa Island
Sentosa is a wonderful "playground" for people of all ages. It offers nature, history, recreation, and fantasy in an entertaining yet educational way. It was the winner of the 9th Tourism Award 1994 - Leisure Attraction of the Year. There are many different activities available for anyone.
Getting there : Take a ferry, bus or cable from the World Trade Centre.
Museums
Asian Civilization Museum
This museum will introduce us to the world of Chinese beliefs, symbolism, and scholar traditions. A combination of the past and the present, it is aimed at highlighting important sociopolitical-economic developments throughout Chinese history. Some interesting works include Buddhist artifacts, imperial porcelain, a collection of 17th Century Ming-style furniture, and fascinating objects from the Neolithic Period (5000-1600 BC). The next wing of the museum will be completed in 2001. It will give an insight into the cultural heritage of India, Southeast Asia, and the Islamic World. All exhibitions and collections are based on Southeastern, Eastern, Southern, and Western regions of Asia. Active programs of talks, workshops, and other activities are held at the museum. A visit to the museum will be both informative and memorable. The Asian Civilization Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays to Sundays. On Wednesday, it is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Getting there : Walk along Stamford Road from City hall MRT Station.
Changi Prison Chapel and Museum
The lives of prisoners are displayed through displays of photographs, paintings, and sketches. A pair of rail spikes from the infamous Burma railroad, which claimed the lives of thousands, is also featured here. Next to the museum is a replica of a chapel that was built by Allied prisoners-of-war during World War II. It is a tribute to those who lived and died in captivity during those dark years. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Mondays to Saturdays. It is closed on Sunday and on public holidays. Chapel services are held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.
Getting there : Take SBS Bus 2 from Tanah Merah MRT Station and alight at the bus stop just after the main gate to the prison.
Republic of Singapore Air Force Museum
The development of the Republic of Singapore Airforce is traced from its early days as the Malayan Volunteer Air Force in 1939 to its present day in this museum. Artifacts include colonial cap badges, Bloodhound missiles, and artifacts such as the Hunter Hawker, the SF260 Marchetti and the A4-C Skyhawk. The Air Force Museum is opened from 10a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Tuesdays to Sundays, except for public holidays.
Getting there : Take SBS Bus 2 or 9 from Tanah Merah MRT Station.
Singapore Art Museum
One of Singapore's finest colonial structures, the Art Museum is devoted to the study and preservation of contemporary art of the Southeast Asian region. It has a collection of art works of historical significance and aesthetic value. They include art works by Singapore and the region's pioneering and established artists, as well as works by younger artists. It offers exhibitions, educational programs, and publications on visual arts from the regional and international scenes that aim to stimulate and enrich their cultural experience.
One of the main attractions is the E-mage Gallery, which features interactive programs. These programs aim to introduce the art histories and contemporary art practices of the Southeast Asian region. Through the programs, users will have access to digitized images of art works from the collections in the Art Museum, important public institutions, and private collections in Southeast Asia. Other facilities include the Museum Café and Museum Shop, which offers refreshments, souvenirs, and publications on the visual arts. On the other hand, the Museum Library is open to art researchers by appointment.
The Museum's 10,000 sq. meters floor area also houses climatically controlled storage and collection spaces, conservation laboratory, administrative offices, photography studios, and a patron's club. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, and from Thursdays to Sundays. It is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Singapore History Museum
The History Museum's mission is to explore and to enhance the national identity of Singapore by preserving, presenting, and interpreting the nation's history and material culture in the context of its multi-cultural origins. Exhibitions and activities are traced from a Singaporean perspective. They are mainly divided into the social, economic, constitutional history, and community history of Singapore. The Museum also works with its overseas counterparts to stage exhibitions that trace the roots of Singaporeans with their immigrant homelands. For example, the Fujian exhibition was organized jointly with the Xiamen Cultural Bureau. Visitors will also be able to stroll through an early 20th Century Peranakan house that is fully recreated with its imposing ancestral hall. On Tuesdays, and Thursdays to Sundays, the museum is opened from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. On Wednesdays, it is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Getting there : Walk towards Stamford Road from Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station.
Singapore Navy Museum
Military enthusiasts can trace the development of naval forces in Singapore from the 19th Century Straits Settlement Royal Volunteer Reserve to the Republic of Singapore Navy of today. Other interesting items include antique marine equipment, historic photographs, and even details of the sophisticated, high technology missile corvette vessels of the current Navy. On weekends, the museum is opened from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is open from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.
Getting there : Take TIBS Bus 856 from Sembawang MRT Station. Alight opposite Sembawang Camp on Admiralty Road West and obtain a gate pass before entering the camp.
Singapore Philatelic Museum
This museum will definitely attract stamp collectors from all over the world. Housed in an 88-year-old historic colonial building, the Singapore Philatelic Museum is a gold mine filled with local and international stamps, philatelic materials, and postal history artifacts dating as far back as the Straits Settlement. Significant exhibits include the history and culture of Singapore and the rare collections of world-class philatelists. Other exhibits trace the development of a stamp from artwork through printing plates and progressive sheets to the final product. The museum is equipped with an audio-visual theater, a resource center and 11 interactive games, which allow visitors to test their philatelic knowledge, deliver mail through a maze, and even design their own stamps. Both pre-arranged and daily tours are available. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays to Sundays, except for public holidays.
Getting there : Walk towards Coleman Street from City Hall MRT Station.
Parks and Nature
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Apart from Rio de Janeiro, Singapore is the only city in the world to have a significant area of primary rainforest within its boundaries. Only 12km from the city center, this 164-hectare reserve contains more species of trees than the entire North American continent. At the heart of the reserve lies Singapore's highest point, Bukit Timah Hill. It is at 162.5m above sea level with well marked paths meandering through the jungle. An ideal place for hikers, it is a habitat for exotic birds, butterflies, monkeys, squirrels, and flying lemurs, as well as unique plant life, such as the insect-eating pitcher plant. It is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Getting there : Take TIBS Bus 171 or 182 from Newton MRT Station.
Sungei Buluh Nature Park
As Singapore's first wetland nature reserve, this park offers several hiking trails and ten observation hides. There are also large freshwater ponds, prawn farms, mangroves, and swamps. This is a great place for adventurous hikers. The park is open from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and public holidays.
Getting there : Take TIBS Bus 925 from either Woodlands MRT Station or Kranji MRT Station.
Mount Faber
Mount Faber offers an excellent view of the Singapore skyline, the harbor, and offshore islands. Visitors can take leisurely strolls or rest at the teahouse before catching the cable car to Sentosa Island.
Getting there : Take a taxi or cable car from World Trade Centre.
Chinese and Japanese Gardens
Linked by a 65m bridge, the Chinese and Japanese Gardens reflect very contrasting landscapes. The 13-hectare Chinese Garden portrays the Imperial Sung Dynasty style and echoes the magnificence of the Beijing Summer Palace. It has bridges, a tea gallery, a stone boat, twin pagodas with excellent views, and other brilliant Chinese architecture. On the other hand, the Japanese Garden places heavy emphasis on simplicity using stone lanterns, shrubs, Zen rock gardens, traditional summerhouses, and classical Japanese motifs. They blend together to create a soothing atmosphere. Both gardens are open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Mondays to Saturdays, and from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays and public holidays.
Getting there : A short walk from Chinese Garden MRT Station.
East Coast Park
Most Singaporeans regard East Coast Park as a favorite play area as it is full of different possibilities. Activities such as bowling, cycling, windsurfing, canoeing, and roller-blading can be enjoyed at this park. Families can also hold picnics here while enjoying the beauty of the park. Other leisure attractions include the East Coast Tennis Centre and the Laguna Golf Course. Eating outlets are also available around the park's vicinity. There are no operating hours.
Getting there : Take SBS Bus 16, alight at Marine Terrace and use the underpass to cross the expressway.
Jurong Bird Park
One of Asia Pacific's largest and most impressive bird parks, Jurong BirdPark offers visitors an experience that is entertaining, as well as educational. Its beautifully landscaped 20-hectare area is home to over 8,000 birds from 600 species, all displayed in huge enclosures.
The bird shows at the Pools Amphitheatre that feature flamingoes, macaws, hornbills, and cockatoos are both spectacular and funny. They are highly recommended for children. The Penguin Parade enclosure in a re-created Antarctic setting houses more than 200 penguins of 5 species. There are also 50 other sea birds such as the Inca terns and puffins within the Penguin Parade enclosure. Another highlight is the colorful hornbill and toucan exhibit. Jurong BirdPark has one of the largest hornbill collections in the world. The Southeast Asian Birds Aviary houses more than 100 species of birds from the equatorial jungles of Southeast Asia in its 24 individual aviaries and a main walk-in aviary. The birds' natural equatorial habitat is re-created with simulated tropical thunderstorm everyday at noon. Owls and kiwis can be found at the nocturnal house and there is also a colorful Parrot Paradise.
The best way to start a tour of the BirdPark is to board the modern, air-conditioned monorail system (extra charges apply). Its route covers the entire Park, providing excellent elevated views of the various exhibits. A walking tour is then suggested, using the Park's footpaths and map. Jurong BirdPark was the winner of the 10th. Tourism Award 1995-Leisure Attraction of the Year. It opens from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and public holidays. Certain facilities are also available for the physically disabled.
Getting there : Take SBS Bus 194 or 251 from Boon Lay MRT Station.
Pasir Ris Park
This coastal park of about 17 hectares includes a 6-hectare mangrove swamp traversed by boardwalks for visitors to appreciate the rich mangrove flora and fauna. It is also a popular spot for bird watching, cycling, kite flying, and swimming. Many families come here to hold barbecues and picnics by the beach. There are no operating hours.
Getting there : Take SBS Bus 403 or 350 from Pasir Ris MRT Station.
Marina South City Park
With fine views of the sea, this park blends art with nature. Giant sundial and disc sculptures that revolve in the breeze are artistic attractions of the park. They include sculptures of Confucius, seven other Chinese legendary heroes, and a 13-meter high brass and stainless expression of Singapore's aspirations called "Spirit of Youth and Sculpture Fountain". The open spaces and breezy environment make it a popular haunt for kite-flying enthusiasts. There are no operating hours.
Getting there : A short walk from Marina Bay MRT Station.
Fort Canning Park
The British built Fort Canning Park between 1859 and 1861 as an arms store, barracks, and hospital. It is sacred to the Malays, as it is where early Malay rulers were laid to rest. It is also where Sir Stamford Raffles built his own bungalow, which is Singapore's first Government House. However, it is now a park overlooking Orchard Road. It contains memorials of Singapore's early history dating back to the 14th Century and a Spice Garden, a small replica of the original 19-hectare tract Raffles established in 1822 as the first experimental and botanical garden in Singapore. Fort Canning is also a popular venue for the arts, including sculpture exhibitions, plays, and ballet. There are no operating hours.
Getting there : A short walk from Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station.
Mandai Orchid Gardens
As Singapore's largest commercial orchid garden, it is definitely worth a visit. Arrays of colorful displays greet visitors at the gardens. One will also be able to witness the method and manner of cultivation. The 4-hectare garden features a whole hillside covered with flowering orchids in the open sunshine, including Singapore's national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim. There is also a landscaped Water Garden at the valley with many plants of botanical interest. The "Orchid Gift Box Service" will deliver the elegant flowers to any address in the world. The garden is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Getting there : Take SBS Bus 138 from Ang Mo Kio MRT Station.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Close to the city, the Singapore Botanic Gardens combine both primary jungle and manicured gardens in a 52-hectare spread. It holds thousands of floras, including many rare specimens. It is also a popular spot for outdoor concerts. One of its biggest attractions is the National Orchid Garden, which is located within the botanic gardens. The orchid garden opens from 8:30a.m. to 7p.m. It is the world's largest orchid display, featuring over 60,000 plants and orchids. It promises sprawling orchid displays and an exotic bromeliad collection from Central and South America, among other plants. Other attractions include Palm Valley, Eco-Lake, and outdoor concerts on Symphony Lake. The Singapore Botanic Gardens is open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight.
Getting there : Take SBS Bus 7, 105, 106, 123, or 174 from Orchard MRT Station.
Reservoirs (MacRitchie, Peirce, Lower Seletar, and Seletar)
Broad swamps, jungle, and greenery that run through the central northern part of Singapore surround these reservoirs. They are popular for family outings and picnics, providing a quiet contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. A variety of recreational facilities are provided, such as paddle boating and golf at Seletar, or sport fishing at Lower Seletar. MacRitchie has a 12-hectare park with a jogging track, exercise area, playground, tea kiosks, and a fountain. Orchestras or local school bands play on most Sundays at the MacRitchie Reservoir. There are no operating hours.
Entertainment
Orchard Road
The sustenance of Singapore's shopping scene during the day, Orchard Road pulsates to a different beat at night. It was and still is the main center for nightlife, showcasing bars, discos, and nightclubs to please all who visit this place. Many of the well known places are located in the hotels here, whereas other favorites are found in shopping centers, such as Orchard Plaza, Orchard Towers, and Ngee Ann City.
Boat Quay
Boat Quay has become so popular that the rest of Singapore just seem to pale in comparison. It is arguably Singapore's best place to hang out. It has a good mix of high-end restaurants and alfresco dining, lively bars and pubs. It has so many bars that visitors can wander along until one takes their fancy. Boat Quay attracts everyone from the rich and famous to the younger Singaporeans. The crowds start coming at about 6 p.m. with weekends being very busy until 2 or 3 a.m. Weekdays are usually quieter with most bars closed by 1 a.m.
Clarke Quay
Although it is the quieter cousin of Boat Quay, Clarke Quay does have a good selection of places for a beer. It features five blocks of restored and renovated warehouses, which are now homes to hip entertainment, dining outlets and shops of all kinds, including second-hand and antique shops. During the daytime, Clarke Quay presents the Stay Club, which is popular for its satay (a Malay dish) and barbecued seafood. In the evening, theme pubs and bars come alive with all kinds of music, such as classic rock, hard rock, the blues, and music from the 60s. Moored Chinese junks are also refurbished into floating pubs and restaurants. The bars here are not as crowded as those in Boat Quay.
Bugis Street
Bugis Street was named after the rugged Bugis traders who came to Singapore from Sulawesi (Celebes), Indonesia. It has been said that after disposing their goods, these traders would gather to eat, drink, and be merry until the wee hours of the morning. Although the traders are not around now, there is still plenty of merrymaking in Bugis Street with bars, discos, and a Broadway-style saloon.
Changi Village
Apart from serving as a departure point for Pulau Ubin, Changi is also home to Changi Village, as known by the locals. Changi Village has several cafes and restaurants. Some of these places also feature live bands. It is a laid-back spot by the sea and is an interesting place to be.
Holland Village
Possibly the most exciting suburb, Holland Village has a buzz of its own. It is another place to hang out with its fast food outlets, coffee houses, world-famous ice cream chains, cafes, and the numerous bars and restaurants. In a way, it resembles Boat Quay but in a more homely manner.
Marina South
Apart from fine dining restaurants, Marina South has bowling lanes, pubs, clubs, wine bars, cafes, discos, and snooker parlors to entertain the various age groups in Singapore.
Cinemas
Singapore is definitely not short of cinemas. Apart from the usual Hollywood and Asian films, there are a few cinemas, which do feature art house movies. Such examples include Cathay Cinema's Picture House and Shaw Tower's Jade Classics. Various expatriate clubs do show certain movies. The Alliance Francaise, for example, often has movies open to the public, with some featuring English subtitles. Singapore also stages its annual film festival in April every year, with over 100 documentaries.
Theater
Singapore's theater scene has started to boom, as more Singaporeans become interested in expressing and discovering their identity. There are more local plays although there are plays, Broadway productions and concerts held here by international theater groups. Alternative theater venues are also opened to cultivate an interest in theater. Plays, workshops, poetry readings, and visual art exhibitions are held in these places.
Cultural Shows
Various shows featuring different cultures can be found all over Singapore. In Chinatown, visitors may have the chance to watch Chinese opera. Some hotels also feature dancing and music from all over the region. To find out when and where these shows are held, visitors can check local newspapers, weekly or fortnightly publications for details.
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