Over the last 20 years, it feels like I go to Singapore every year or two. And with every visit I am impressed in how the city has changed. Always hot and muggy, but thank goodness it’s clean and very civilized. The transit system is one of the best in the world, so getting around is very easy.
Changi Airport (SIN), is generally considered one of the best Airports in the world, because it is. After customs, the best and easiest it to get a Taxi, the Taxi Stands are well marked and well managed, it’s Singapore.
Currently, a Valid Passport is the basic requirement for US Citizens.
US Department of State Singapore Information
Part of the APEC Business Travel program
• Expedited Passport Clearance
• All full members of APEC have no need to apply for a visa or entry permit, as the card is treated as such (except for transitional members, USA and Canada)
1 Beach Rd, Singapore 189673
An iconic “Old School” Singapore experience. Currently closed for renovations, and set to open mid 2019. The renovations were much needed to modernize the hotel, but as old world charm goes, this is one of the best of the Old British Colony hotels.
80 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049326
With Raffles closed for remodeling, the next best “High End” hotel in Singapore is The Fullerton Bay Hotel.
83 Duxton Rd
Situated in Tanjong Pagar, the island city-state’s central district and the eclectic heart of Chinatown where business, socializing, dining and nightlife take center stage. This is the first of there City Hotel destinations, and does not have a signature spa. But, a very quaint and cozy hotel. You will also have full access to Six Senses Maxwell which is opening a block from Duxton.
1 The Knolls Sentosa Singapore, Singapore 098297
What used to be a peaceful sanctuary, Singapore turned Sentosa Island into “Asia’s Favourite Playground”. So if you must stay there, Capella is the most pleasant choice.
15 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178906
Originally called The Patina Capitol Singapore, this hotel became stuck in a family legal battle… that over with Kempinski has taken over. A great location and the interior is quite nice.
12 Marina View, Asia Square Tower 2, Singapore 018961
My last time in Singapore, I was lucky to be at the soft opening of the new Andaz in Singapore… and I admit I was pleasantly surprised, it makes an OK choice for a stay. The staffing still needs training, but the location is great, and it has all you need for a full service hotel.
12 Marina View, Asia Square Tower 2, Singapore 018961
This hotel really surprised me, I usually do not care much for the Westin brand and/or business hotels. Great rooftop pool and the 25% off Vueve Cliquot pours for SPG members, made me happy. Bak Kut Teh hawker center is a 3-minute walk, get your satay there.
And for those wanting to stay at Marina Bay Sands, it’s just OK, and the service is a bit scattered. And make sure to use the pool during quiet morning hours, it becomes quiet a human poaching pond later in the day, not recommended for “Clean Freaks” like myself.
1 Cluny Road, E J H Corner House Singapore Botanic Gardens
I now make it a point to dine here whenever I can, the Weekend Brunch is lovely and dinner is superb. And the setting in the Botanical Garden is magical.
1 Saint Andrew’s Road, #01-04, National Gallery, Singapore 178957
A lovely “High End” dining experience. And being located at the National Museum makes this a great location.
20 Teck Lim Road, Singapore 088391
When you need a break from Singaporean food, try some Aussie Bar-BQ.
273 Thomson Rd, Singapore 307644
This is the real local food. No reservations, just park in front and order if there is a table open. A family favorite.
In Singapore, you need to eat at one of the many Hawker Centers, and you discover why the Singaporeans are such foodies.
600 North Bridge Rd, Parkview Square, Singapore 188778
Hands down, a place you should go. The service is a bit slow, but the decor, fabulous.
1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
One of the finest Botanical Gardens in the world. Go early in the day, so the heat does not make you melt. But there is the lovely Cool House in the Orchid Garden for the Orchids that thrive at mountain temperatures.
600 North Bridge Road, Parkview Square Level 3, Singapore 188778
Another reason to head over to Parkview Square… and admission is free.
1 St Andrew’s Rd, Singapore 178957
Housed in the Old City Hall & Supreme Court, the architecture is at times breathtaking. A great place to spend a few hours just keeping out of the heat.
18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Yes, it’s made for tourists, but it is an impressive complex, and afterwards grab some food at Satay by the Bay.
18 Joo Chiat Terrace, Singapore 427186
This is the real deal, Panama Hat, perfect for wearing in Southeast Asia.
Little India – Bukit Timah Rd, Singapore
The Indian Market is fantastic. And great place for lunch.
Between the Orchard and Sommerset MRT Stations, all the high end (and mid-level) shopping you ever need to experience.
• Get a Transit Card and use the MTA, best way to get around Singpore.
• Sometimes waiting in a Taxi Queue can be deadly in the heat.
• Über is fine, but the drivers are mostly inexperienced and don’t know their way around quite so well.
for more basic information: Visit Singapore (Official)
Need a bit of help planning a trip?
Let me know, there is a lot more to Singapore.
page updated: September 2019
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