Visiting Singapore for the first time, I was immediately impressed by the airport, which was an attraction in itself. The cleanliness and amenities were top notch, featuring a butterfly house, a giant waterfall, a movie theater and beautiful koi ponds among other things. After exiting the amazing Changi Airport, I was amazed by the vibrant cityscape that rose up around me. The tall skyscrapers and sleek modern architecture were a far cry from the wide-open spaces of the American West that I was used to. But despite the unfamiliar surroundings, I found myself drawn in by the bustling energy of the city and the friendly locals I met along the way. I sampled delicious local dishes and drinks at the hawker centers, marveled at the iconic landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands, and even found a bit of the Wild West in the form of a cowboy-themed bar. All in all, my experience in Singapore was a fascinating and unforgettable one, and I can't wait to go back and explore more of this incredible city.
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Some attractions and things to do when visiting Singapore:
A stunning botanical garden with giant tree-like structures that light up at night. Take the elevator to the tree tops and walk the bridges from tree to tree with amazing views.
An iconic hotel and entertainment complex, featuring an infinity pool on the rooftop and a shopping mall.
After sunset there is an incredible water and light show that kicks off directly in front of the Marina Bay Sands. There is seating along the waterfront to sit and listen to the music that synchronizes with the theatrical presentation of the water and lights. The show is free and I believe lasts about 15 minutes.
All the various types of food you can imagine all in one place. Look for the gems ahead of time, once in a while you may find Michelin-rated food stall vendors!
A statue of a half-lion, half-fish creature, which is the symbol of Singapore is located directly across the water from the Marina Bay Sands.
A historic neighborhood with colorful streets, temples, and markets.
A museum showcasing the country's history and culture. It is super interesting to learn about the long history of how modern Singapore came to be the 'gateway' between Europe and Asia from a Sumatran outpost inhabited by fishermen and pirates, with various influences throughout the years.
A vibrant neighborhood with colorful architecture, street art, and Indian shops and restaurants. I had some of the best chicken curry I ever had here.
If you aren't lucky enough to be staying at this magnificent historic hotel, stop by and explore the property. Make sure to swing by the attached bar called The Long Bar, which was the birthplace of the Singapore Sling. Warning, there are peanuts everywhere at this bar!
A giant Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the city.
A resort island with beaches, theme parks, and cable car rides.
Some local foods and drinks to experience while in Singapore:
Local Dishes of Singapore:
Hainanese chicken rice
A dish of poached chicken served with rice cooked in chicken broth and garlic, ginger, and pandan leaves. It's often accompanied by chili sauce, soy sauce, and cucumber slices. This may look like a basic dish, but it is delicious and a must-try meal.
Laksa
A spicy noodle soup made with coconut milk, curry spices, and seafood or chicken.
Chili crab
A popular seafood dish featuring crab cooked in a sweet and spicy tomato-based sauce.
Satay
Skewered and grilled meat, usually chicken, beef, or mutton, served with a peanut sauce.
Local Drinks of Singapore:
Singapore Sling
A cocktail made with gin, cherry brandy, pineapple juice, lime juice, and grenadine syrup, among other ingredients. It was created at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore in the early 20th century.
Teh tarik
A popular tea beverage that is "pulled" to froth up the milk and create a creamy texture. It's often sweetened with condensed milk.
Kopi
A type of coffee made with sweetened condensed milk. It can be served hot or iced.
Some local Singapore restaurant recommendations:
My favorite Chili Crab was at this little joint called Holy Crab.
Link to local restaurants of Singapore
Additional summary:
Singapore is a city-state that has a rich history, unique architecture, diverse cuisine, and a vibrant culture. Its history can be traced back to the 14th century when it was a trading port for the Malay Kingdom. Over the centuries, it became a melting pot of cultures, including Chinese, Indian, Malay, and European influences. This is reflected in its architecture, which ranges from traditional shophouses and temples to modern skyscrapers and futuristic structures. Singapore is also known for its delicious and varied cuisine, from hawker centers serving local favorites like chicken rice and laksa, to Michelin-starred restaurants with world-class cuisine. The culture of Singapore is equally diverse, with a mix of festivals, arts, and entertainment that showcase the country's heritage and contemporary flair.