A City Guide to Hang Out in Singapore

Singapore is a vibrant and exciting city that has an international reputation for being one of the most desirable places to live and work. With a population of over 5.6 million people, Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, languages, religions, and beliefs, and its unique blend of architecture, cuisine, and activities makes it a great place to explore and hang out. From world-class attractions to historical sites, Singapore has something for everyone. Here is a comprehensive city guide to help you make the most of your time when visiting Singapore.

A Brief History of Singapore

Singapore has a long and vibrant history that dates back to the 14th century when it was a trading port for merchants from India, China, and other parts of Southeast Asia. In 1819, British statesman Sir Stamford Raffles established the city as a trading post of the British East India Company, and the island grew quickly to become one of the most important ports in the region. The city was briefly occupied by the Japanese during World War II, but was subsequently returned to British control in 1945. In 1963, Singapore gained independence and joined the Federation of Malaysia. Two years later, it left the federation and became an independent city-state.

Today, Singapore is a modern and prosperous city-state with a robust economy, high living standards, and strong international ties. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Southeast Asia has made it an important hub for trade, finance, and transportation. As a result, the city is a popular destination for business travelers and tourists alike.

Things to See & Do in Singapore

Singapore is known for its unique blend of cultures, architecture, and activities, making it a great place to explore and hang out. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Singapore:

Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is arguably Singapore’s most iconic landmark, offering stunning views of the city skyline from its three towers. The complex includes a luxurious hotel, casino, shopping mall, dining outlets, entertainment venues, and an observation deck on the 57th floor. At night, the complex lights up with a mesmerizing light show that’s not to be missed.

Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is an impressive nature park that’s located in the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District. The park features two large conservatories – the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest – as well as an array of lush gardens and scenic walkways. The park is also home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, which stands at an impressive 35 meters tall.

Singapore Zoo

The Singapore Zoo is one of the country’s most popular attractions. Located in Mandai on the outskirts of the city, the zoo is home to more than 2,800 animals from over 300 species. The zoo is renowned for its lush tropical rainforests and open-air enclosures that give visitors an up-close look at wildlife in their natural environment.

Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island is a popular leisure destination located off Singapore’s southern coast. The island features two world-class golf courses, several luxury resorts and spas, as well as a wide range of attractions including theme parks, beaches, shops, restaurants, and more. Sentosa Island is also home to Universal Studios Singapore and S.E.A. Aquarium – two of the city’s most popular attractions.

Chinatown

Chinatown is one of Singapore’s oldest neighborhoods and is renowned for its vibrant street life and colorful heritage buildings. The area is home to numerous temples, food stalls, shops, art galleries, and more. Chinatown is also home to several historic sites such as Chinatown Heritage Centre, Thian Hock Keng Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum.

Popular Tours in Singapore

Singapore offers a wide range of tours that offer visitors an up-close look at its culture, history, and attractions. Here are two popular tours in Singapore:

Singapore Night Safari Tour

Singapore Night Safari Tour offers visitors a unique experience of exploring nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitats. The tour takes visitors on an open-top tram through the park’s savannas and rainforest to observe over 100 species of animals including lions, tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinos, tapirs, and more. The tour also includes an interactive educational show called Creatures of the Night Show which showcases different nocturnal animals from around the world. Visitors can book a Singapore Night Safari Tour here.

Singapore City Tour

The Singapore City Tour offers visitors an in-depth look at Singapore’s most famous attractions, including Merlion Park, Chinatown Heritage Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore Flyer observation wheel and much more. The tour also includes a visit to Sentosa Island where you can explore Universal Studios Singapore or enjoy various water activities such as kayaking or parasailing. You can book a Singapore City Tour here.

Places to Hang Out in Singapore

Singapore has plenty of great places to hang out with friends or family. Here are some of the most popular spots for leisure activities in Singapore:

Orchard Road

Orchard Road is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Singapore with over two kilometres of retail outlets ranging from designer boutiques to department stores. Visitors can also find plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants along Orchard Road for a bite to eat or a drink after shopping.

Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay is one of Singapore’s most vibrant nightlife spots with numerous bars, clubs and restaurants along its riverfront promenade. Visitors can enjoy drinks at one of the many rooftop bars or take a dinner cruise along the river while admiring the illuminated skyline at night.

Little India

Little India is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and is renowned for its colorful streets lined with traditional shops selling Indian spices and fabrics as well as plenty of eateries serving up delicious South Indian cuisine. Visitors can also find plenty of street art around Little India for some great photo opportunities.

Haji Lane

Haji Lane is one of Singapore’s trendiest neighborhoods with plenty of boutique stores selling vintage clothing and accessories as well as bars, cafes and restaurants offering international cuisine from around the world. Visitors can also find plenty of art galleries displaying local artwork as well as live music venues showcasing local bands.

East Coast Park

East Coast Park is one of Singapore’s most popular beaches with plenty of activities such as swimming, cycling and rollerblading. Visitors can also find plenty of seafood restaurants for a delicious dinner after a day at the beach or catch a movie at East Coast Park’s drive-in cinema which shows classic films from around the world every weekend.

Conclusion

Singapore is an exciting city with something for everyone – from world-class attractions to historical sites – making it a great place to explore and hang out. Whether you’re looking for shopping opportunities at Orchard Road or want to relax on East Coast Park’s beach – there are plenty of options for visitors to enjoy when visiting Singapore. Don’t forget to book one of the popular tours mentioned above for an immersive look into this amazing city-state!