Originally founded as a colonial trading post by Sir Stamford Raffles, the small island city-state of Singapore is today one of the world’s most highly developed market economies and is a melting pot of different religions and cultures, writes Emma Allen.
Sleeping
Raffles, the grand dame of Singapore hotels, reopens this summer following a complete refurbishment. Elsewhere, the recently opened Six Senses Maxwell is set in a restored row of chop houses in Chinatown while M Social in nightlife district Robertson Quay boasts eclectic Philippe Stark designs.
Eating
Incredible city views and Michelin-star dining are on offer at Jaan, while Blue Lotus Chinese Eating House is one of the best places for Singapore’s famous chilli crab. Downtown, Lau Pa Sat has great satay dishes. Try hawker centres (food courts) like Maxwell Food Centre for cheap eats.
After Hours
Head to CÉ LA VI perched at the top of Marina Bay Sands for a sky-high view or hang out in the Singapore outpost of New York bar Employees Only for swanky cocktails. Native on bustling Amoy Street serves a range of fine gins while night owls can head to club favourite Zouk in Clarke Quay.
Getting downtown
Changi Airport is around 10 miles from the city centre. Singapore’s efficient Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) train is the cheapest way to get into the centre and takes around 30 minutes. Metered taxis are freely available at the airport or, alternatively, private transfers can be arranged via the airport’s 24-hour Ground Transport desks in the airport arrival halls.
Must See Sights
Little India and Chinatown have heritage and temples in abundance. Shoppers will love Orchard Road, a three-mile stretch of malls and designer stores, while the nearby resort island of Sentosa offers attractions like Universal Studios and SEA Aquarium. The tranquil greenery of Gardens by the Bay, with the incredible Supertree Grove, makes a restful retreat from the city.
Getting There
British Airways operates direct flights twice a day between London Heathrow and Singapore’s Changi Airport. Singapore Airlines operates four flights a day from Heathrow to Singapore and five times a week from Manchester. Flights take around 12 hours.
Further Information
For details on conferences and events, visit Singapore Exhibition and Convention Bureau (SECB) at visitsingapore.com/mice or email secb@stb.gov.sg
