Despite its misconceptions, Singapore is a highly developed country. Located in Southeast Asia, the island is renowned for its urban green spaces, providing spectacular displays of how nature and architecture coexist. Interested in visiting? We have provided 10 attractions you should visit or avoid. Let’s take you through our recommendations.
Gardens by the Bay
Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay is a horticultural exhibit that combines nature with technology. Supertree Grove, one of its most iconic attractions, features futuristic structures that host thousands of plant species and sustainable technology such as solar panels and water irrigation. Glimpse the city’s “Garden in the City” vision with its focus on conservation and renewable energy.
Singapore Botanical Garden
Fulfilling the “City in the Garden” image, the Singapore Botanical Garden is another spectacular exhibit that attracts tourists worldwide. The 166-year-old tropical garden is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been Asia’s top park attraction on TripAdvisor since 2013. Located at the heart of the city, the botanical garden serves as a site for research and conservation.
Cloud Forest
Cloud Forest is an exhibit at Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay that describes the upper canopy habitat and its dense fog. The exhibit consists of a mountainous structure of plants from around the world and houses one of the largest indoor waterfalls (approximately 115 feet). Walk the amazing aerial walkway and see some of Earth’s most incredible plant species.
Singapore Zoo
The Singapore Zoo features over 300 species (over 4,000 animals) in innovative, open-concept environments. Many exhibits use hidden barriers like moats and boulders to give the animals and visitors a more organic experience. The zoo’s free-range orangutans are internationally recognized, free to roam in their spacious, tree-filled environment. For a one-of-a-kind zoo experience, the Singapore Zoo delivers.
Marina Bay
Marina Bay is a freshwater bay at the confluence of four rivers. The surrounding area connects four distinct commercial, entertainment, and residential sections: Downtown Core, Marina East, Marina South, and Straits View. Attractions include Marina Bay Sands, Helix Bridge, ArtScience Museum, Gardens by the Bay, and more. Adjacent to the central business district, Marina Bay is considered Singapore’s new downtown.
Sim Lim Square
Sim Lim Square, or SLS, is a renowned hub for electronics and IT products. The six-story building houses over 500 shops offering various items such as mobile phones, laptops, cameras, and computer parts. While the complex is known for its bargains, it is also known for its scams. Frustrated customers have filed complaints against some shop owners. Tourists should be wary of getting swindled.
Little India
Little India is an ethnic enclave in Singapore known as Tekka by the locals. The neighborhood attracts tourists seeking Indian food, street art, shopping, and architecture (like the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple above). While it can be an incredible experience, some tourists might avoid Little India for its massive crowds, narrow sidewalks, and busy atmosphere.
East Coast Park
East Coast Park, at 460 acres, is Singapore’s largest park. Located at the city’s southeast coast, the park includes a man-made beach, barbecue pits, a cycling and skating track that runs the perimeter, and other recreational sports. While it has potential, tourists may want to skip this park. It can be exceptionally crowded on the weekends, and litter can accumulate on the beach. Also, public transit doesn’t provide easy access.
Sentosa
Sentosa is a destination island off the southern coast of Singapore. Resorts World Sentosa boasts tourist attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore (depicted above), Adventure Cove Waterpark, and the S.E.A. Aquarium. While the adventures are alluring, some tourists skip Sentosa, citing transportation and high cost as deterring factors. The mainland provides plenty of equitable options for those looking for an affordable vacation.
Orchard Road
Orchard Road is an almost 2-mile-long commercial district with department stores, shopping malls (ION Orchard above), restaurants, and coffeehouses. The area is typically bustling with tourists, which, along with the focus on commerce, can deter others looking for a more authentic experience. If you’re traveling on a budget, skip Orchard Road.
