Singapore itinerary

Jan 17, Bringing Food Out of Singapore

2012-02-09T06:23:00.000-08:00

by Johnna
(Singapore)

Hello, I just want to confirm if bringing food like bakkwa (BBQ meats) to the Philippines - any restrictions?

Hi Johnna

You'll be better off checking directly with your destination airport in the Philippines.

Gabriel

View the original article here

Jan 19, 5D5N Family Vacation in Singapore

2012-02-08T17:02:00.000-08:00

by Jen
(Reader's Question)

A 5-day-5-night itinerary for a large-family vacation in Singapore!

Hi! We'll be a family of 5 adults and 5 young children (ranging from 3-10 years old) visiting Singapore for the first time during the Holy Week. We need your help to fine-tune our itinerary below.

Day 1: Arrive at 11am. Check in at hotel. Visit Singapore Flyer, Merlion Park, Helix Bridge. Cruise?

Day 2: Universal Studios Singapore

Day 3: Singapore Zoo and Night Safari

Day 4: Jurong Bird Park and Science Centre

Day 5: Sentosa Island

We'd also like to see Chinatown, Little India and some of the colonial buildings. When should we squeeze it in?

Thanks so much for your time and attention.

Jen

Hi Jen

Here are some suggested refinements for your family vacation in Singapore:

Day 1 - Marina Bay and Singapore River

After checking into your hotel, start with the Singapore Flyer, the Helix Bridge and Merlion Park. From Merlion Park, you could embark on a Singapore River Cruise.

Day 2 - Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios opens at 10am - so arrive accordingly. Allow 6 hours here. You could end the day at Resorts World Sentosa or proceed to Vivo City Mall for shopping.

Day 3 - Singapore Zoo and Night Safari

Start the day with something light - such as the Duck Tour from Suntec City Galleria - or just laze by the hotel pool in the morning.

After lunch, leave for Singapore Zoo. This is followed by the Singapore Night Safari in the evening.

(Avoid starting at the Zoo too early Otherwise, the kids to be tired out.)

Day 4 - Jurong Bird Park, Science Centre & Chinatown

Morning: Jurong Bird Park

Afternoon: Singapore Science Centre

Evening: Chinatown

Day 5 - Little India & Sentosa Island

You could spend the morning in Little India Singapore, and leave for Sentosa after lunch.

Important Note

With young children, consider taking it easy. Be prepared to cut down on movements and see "less". This way, the entire group is more likely to enjoy the vacation in Singapore.

Travelling Together During Your Vacation in Singapore

If your budget allows it, consider hiring a licensed Singapore tour guide - who could pre-arrange your tours and take you around in a mini-bus during your Singapore vacation.

This way, your family could travel together and cut down on time waiting for each other. Here's an enquiry form for a customised Singapore travel package.

Have an enjoyable family vacation in Singapore.

Gabriel Tan

View the original article here

Jan 20, Chinese New Year in Singapore 2011 - A Guide to Events.

2012-02-08T09:04:00.000-08:00

A one-stop guide to celebrating Chinese New Year in Singapore 2011...
On 3 February 2011, the Chinese around the world usher in the Year of the Rabbit. Here are a few exciting events to look out for if you are celebrating Chinese New Year in Singapore 2011...

Jump down to:
[Chinatown Events] [River Hongbao @ Marina Bay] [Sentosa Flowers]
[Chingay Parade] [FAQs]

When: 15 Jan 2011 to 6 Mar 2011, 7pm till late.
Where:
Eu Tong Sen Street, New Bridge Road, South Bridge Road, Garden Bridge and side-streets near Chinatown MRT station.
Switch your camera to Night Mode for those over-street fairy lights and over-sized lanterns. Nightly.
The Chinese New Year Street Light Up will be launched 15 Jan 2011. Expect fire crackers and fireworks.
When:
14 Jan 2011 to 2 February 2011; late afternoon till late night.
Where:
100+ stalls along Pagoda Street, Temple Street, Smith Street, Sago Street and Trengganu Street.
Getting here:
Take MRT to Chinatown Station. Take the Pagoda Street exit.

Take a break as you browse the night market and look out for the nightly stage performances at Kreta Ayer Square (beside Chinatown Complex).
In the years past, these have included lion dance competitions, acrobatics, and some enchanting Chinese dances. You can expect the same this year.
After dinner on Chinese New Year's Eve (2 Feb 2011), the vendors at the night market give hefty discounts on their wares - because nobody would buy them the next day. This might be a good time to snag some nice souvenirs or tidbits.
Thereafter, join the crowds near the MRT station for the Chinese New Year 2011 Countdown Concert, which is likely to culminate with fireworks at midnight.
See some photos of the shopping frenzy and performances during Chinese New Year in Singapore (past years).

When: 1-13 Feb 2011.
Festive bazaars, cultural performances and fireworks. Fireworks on the nights of 1 & 2 Feb 2011. Schedule of Fireworks!
Where:
The Floating Platform @ Marina Bay.
Getting here:
Take MRT to Esplanade or Promenade Stations and follow the directions to Esplanade Theatres. Thereafter, just follow the crowds.
There's always a great atmosphere at the River Hong Bao.
Watch a demonstration of Chinese cooking, or Chinese papercraft. Then join in the fun.
Watch the acrobats contort on stage. And the enchanting dancers in their beautiful costumes.
Then walk among the super-sized lanterns: animals of the Chinese zodiac, the god of fortune and other mythical beings. Photo opportunity.
And be sure to watch the fireworks displays (see schedule above).
See some photos of past River Hong Bao events.
The much-loved Sentosa Flowers Festival is back in 2011. On display were very enchanting light displays, including the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac and the specially-lit Merlion.
This was a nice way to round up a day during Chinese New Year in Singapore 2010.
When : 3-13 Feb 2011, 10am-10pm.
Where:
Sentosa Boardwalk, Resorts World Sentosa, Imbiah Lookout, Merlion Walk
Getting here:
Take the MRT to Harbourfront Station, followed by the Sentosa Express (monorail) from Vivo City Level 3 to Imbiah Station. Sentosa Flowers 2011 was free but admission to Sentosa Island applies.

Photo:
A stilt-walker during the Chingay Parade.
Where:
Singapore F1 Grand Prix Pit Building @ Marina Bay
When:
Friday, 11 Feb 2011, 8.30pm
Saturday, 12 Feb 2011, 8pm
It started off in the 1970s as a street parade to 'raise the volume' during Chinese New Year.
Today it has become Asia's grandest street parade. Participants for Chingay 2011 come from almost every continent.
You can watch Chingay 2011 for free along the parade route. But the best views are from the ticketed seats.
Don't miss this if you plan on celebrating Chinese New Year in Singapore 2011!
When in 2011: (to be confirmed!)
Where: Read Bridge at Clarke Quay; Singapore River.
Getting here: Take MRT to Clarke Quay Station.
Performances at Read Bridge: Stilt-walkers, acrobats and calligraphers entertain on Friday and Saturday evenings. Lion Dance on Boat: Lion dancers perform on a Chinese New Year boat as it sails down Singapore River. Evenings of Friday and Saturday. Fireworks on Saturday evenings. Watch from riverside locations at Clarke Quay.
Please note that these events at Clarke Quay may not be held in 2011. Watch this space for updates!
Chinese New Year in Singapore - FAQ!
Q. Does everything shut down during Chinese New Year in Singapore 2011?
A. Most shops do close on the first 2 days of Chinese New Year (3 & 4 February in 2011). You might want to avoid Chinatown on these 2 days.
But if you go to Little India or Kampong Glam Malay-Arab Quarter during these 2 days, it's business as usual.
Also, the major attractions such as the Zoo, Night Safari, Jurong Bird Park and Sentosa are all open.
So there's still a lot to see and do.
Enjoy a great Chinese New Year in Singapore 2011.
Chinese New Year Celebrations in the Heartlands.
Chinese New Year Lion Dance Performances.
Past fireworks during Chinese New Year in Singapore.
Page author: Gabriel Tan. All rights reserved.
Page created 3 January 2010. Updated 2 Feb 2011.
View the original article here

Jan 23, 4-Day Singapore Tour for Young Couples

2012-02-08T05:32:00.000-08:00

by Lacie
(Philippines)

A fun 4-day Singapore tour plan for young couples...

Hi, my fiance and i will be visiting Singapore this January.

We will be arriving wednesday late night and will be leaving Sunday evening (7pm).

I have the following itinerary in mind.

day 1 (Thur)
Universal Studios (am)
Sentosa (mid-pm)

day 2 (Fri)
Jurong Bird Park (am)
Singapore Zoo (pm)
Night Safari (pm)

day 3 (Sat)
Malacca day trip (is it advisable?)
Shop?

day 4 (Sun)
need advise

I would appreciate it if you could pitch an idea for day 3 and 4.

I have the following in mind...merlion, haw par villa.

Hi Lacie

Your plan looks do-able for Day 1 and Day 2.

However, it can be quite tiring to visit the Jurong Bird Park, Singapore Zoo and Night Safari in one day - lots of walking. So if you are planning on doing that, I suggest you use the taxi for transport, and as a way to let your legs rest.

Given the short duration of your holiday, I recommend that you sight-see just Singapore and leave Malacca for another trip.

So here's a suggested Singapore Tour itinerary Days 1-4:

Day 1 - Universal Studios & Sentosa Attractions

Universal Studios (am)
Sentosa (mid-pm)

Day 2 - Animal Parks

Jurong Bird Park (am)
Singapore Zoo (pm)
Night Safari (pm)

Day 3 - Singapore River & Clarke Quay

Singapore River (Day)

Clarke Quay Singapore (Evening)

Day 4 - Shopping in Orchard Road or Bugis

a) Shop in Orchard Road

b) Check out Bugis / Kampong Glam

Check out the shops at Bugis Junction, Bugis Street Bazaar and the Waterloo Street area. If time allows, walk down the road to Kampong Glam.

Enjoy your Singapore tour.

Gabriel Tan

View the original article here

Mar 21, Singapore F1 2011 - Secure the best seats, hotels and flights.

2012-02-07T18:01:00.000-08:00

23-25 September 2011. Remember these dates for Singapore F1 2011.
Then secure the best seats, hotel rooms and airfares...
Pit BuildingStart and finish of the race. Some seats offer views of garage and podium. Turn 1 Cars jostling to get ahead; braking from 290km/h. Turn 2Views of first 3 turns in circuit. Rapid changes in speeds. RepublicRapid changes in speeds. Cars rev up for the street section of circuit. StamfordCars negotiate multiple turns, requiring skillful, rapid braking. PadangGreat views against heritage buildings. Near main entertainment stage. Connaught Clear views of Turn 14, where cars have a chance to overtake each other. Esplanade Multiple turns with hard braking. Near the outdoor performances at Esplanade. BayGreat views of the cars against the city skyline. Cars exit below the stands.
* Early Bird Prices valid till 8 May 2011.
Also available are:
the less expensive Walkabout and Premier Walkabout tickets.wheel-chair accessible tickets.
Here for more information and to get your Singapore F1 tickets online.

During the Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix (23-25 Sep 2011), you'll expect hotel
rates to go up.
This is especially so for those hotels near the Singapore F1 circuit. But these
hotels do offer a clear advantage - they are only a short walk to your F1 seats
and the fringe entertainment venues.
Here are the best-rated hotels near the Singapore F1 circuit, classified as
5-star, 4-star and budget:

These luxury hotels offer F1 fans great convenience - they are closest to the best
and most expensive F1 seats.
More about these 5-star hotels at Singapore Marina Bay.
These 4-star hotels provides fairly luxurious comfort, at lower costs than the
Marina Bay luxury hotels. They are especially close to the seats at Padang and
Connaught Grandstands.
More about these 4-star hotels in Singapore city.
If you plan on keeping your costs in check, these budget hotels are within
walking distance of the Singapore F1 circuit and offer decent value.
More about these budget hotels in Singapore city.
Whether you plan on booking a full-service airline or a budget flight to Singapore,
the options are quite bewildering. Here are some tips and a great comparison tool
to help you secure a good, cheap flight to Singapore.

Save time and money with a F1 ticket/hotel/airport-transfer deal. Check out this All-in-One Singapore F1 Package. If you are in the mood to splurge and absolutely pamper yourself
during the Singapore Grand Prix, your money will be well spent on a couple
of ultra-luxurious heritage hotels:

Both are walk-able to the F1 circuit.

If you are on a tight budget, consider staying in one of the budget hotels
outside the CBD.
The budget hotels in Singapore Little India provide good value and are only
2 MRT stations to the Singapore F1 area.
Farther out, there are a few decently cheap hotels on Balestier Road. It's
a longer bus journey to the F1 area, but you may be surprised by the
facilities at these hotels.
The F1 races take place only from 8pm to about 10pm each night. What are
you going to do beyond those hours?
The areas around the Grand Prix circuit are full of history and worth exploring.
You could easily spend a day visiting the museums and entertainment spots
around the Singapore River. Nearby, the party is expected to go into overdrive
at Clarke Quay.
For something quite different from F1, consider taking a Singapore farm tour. And here are more Singapore tour ideas.
Page author: Gabriel Tan. All rights reserved.
Page updated: 21 March 2011.
Page created: 4 April 2010.

View the original article here

Mar 14, Guided Bugis Street Walking Tour - This is the real Singapore!

2012-02-07T05:14:00.000-08:00

On this Bugis Street Walking Tour, get up close with the locals. Yes, feel the heartbeat of the real Singapore...

At first glance, the Bugis/Waterloo Street area is just a busy place - full of buying and selling. But look carefully and you'll realise this: it's a great place to understand ordinary Singaporeans.

It's true - the shopping here is good. But you see that some things are sold more than others. Why? You see a frail old woman donating generously at the temple's donation box. Why? You see folks run their hands all over The Laughing Buddha. Again, why?

On this guided Bugis Street Walking Tour, the guides from Summer Footprints take you to a place that is often called the 'Real Chinatown'. They tell juicy stories from the area's past; and they de-mystify everything you see in the present.

The Dark Past of Bugis Street. Transvestites used to ply their trade on Bugis Street. As did Japanese prostitutes before World War 2. Theirs were not just money-for-sex transactions. On this Bugis Street Walking Tour, allow your guide to re-live their stories of loyalty, betrayal and heart-aches.

The Largest Street Bazaar in Singapore. Do not hit the stalls and shop like mad straight-away. First, let your guide point you to a few oddities in this maze of 600+ stalls. Then armed with the necessary knowledge, return at the end of the tour to snag the bargains.

Sure, you'll find the odd handphone cover here and there. But many shoppers have got their hands on one-of-a-kind, home-made creations - stuff which you can't find elsewhere...

One of the '1000 Places to See Before You Die'. Patricia Schultz listed this as one of 1000 places you must see before you die. Yet Singaporeans are so lucky that they can go there everyday! Find out what this place is on this Bugis Street Walking Tour.

The Street of Faiths. Within 250m on this little street, you'll find:

Singapore's Most Powerful Chinese Temple? The Japanese WW2 pilots didn't dare to bomb this temple, even as they ravaged everything else around it. Childless couples come to pray for breakthrough here. Terminally ill people come to plead for healing. Why is there such a buzz in this place? Find out for yourself. Not-Just-Any Hindu Temple. But a Hindu temple that houses a Buddhist deity and accepts joss-sticks offerings from Chinese devotees. Religious harmony or what? You need to see it. The Malay Church. Self-explanatory. A Jewish Synagogue. Yes, Singapore is more diverse than you think.

Temple Rituals De-mystified. Why is the lotus flower a best-seller outside the temples? Why do some devotees offer only red lotus flowers? What does it mean when a believer runs her hands over the belly, or the lips, or the ears of The Laughing Buddha? After a devotee has finished praying, how does she get answers from the gods? Get explanations from your guide.

Visit this authentic part of Singapore. See the real Singapore on this Bugis Street Walking Tour.

Your Guide for Bugis Street Walking Tour:
Chiep Ping or Sharon, from Summer Footprints Pte Ltd.

Day/Time:
Tours run on Wednesday, departing at 9.30am and ending about 12.30pm.
(A booking is essential for the tour to run. Use the form below.)

Meeting Point: Bugis MRT Station (Exit C)

Online Price: S$30 per adult.

For the tour to run, a booking is essential (minimum of 2 adult participants).Please book at the latest 3pm on the day before the tour date.Children below 12 years of age join for free with paying adults.

Inclusions:
1) The guidance and commentary of a STB-certified tour guide.
2) Complimentary local coffee and local snacks to sample.

Exclusions:
All personal purchases along the route of the walking tour.

To register your interest in this Bugis Street Walking Tour, fill in the form below:

Guided Little India Walking Tour

Guided Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour

Bugis Street Walking Tour as Part of Travel Package

View the original article here

Nov 9, 4 Days Vacation in Singapore

2011-12-22T19:02:00.000-08:00

A couple would like to take a 4-day vacation in Singapore, visiting the main attractions and doing self-guided walking tours. How should they arrange their visits? And just how much would it cost them?

We are planning to have a vacation in Singapore. Kindly give an estimate on how much will we spend for two on this itinerary and please refine.
Day 1.
Morning: Walking tour of Chinatown
Afternoon: Walking tour of Singapore River
Evening: pls. suggest
Day 2. Sentosa Island
Day 3.
Morning: Jurong Bird Park
Afternoon: Singapore Zoo
Evening: Night Safari
Day 4.
Morning: Walking tour of Little India
Afternoon: Walking tour of Orchard Road
Hi there
Here are some suggestions to improve your 4-day vacation in Singapore:
Day 1 - Chinatown, Singapore River & Marina Bay
Morning: Walking tour of Chinatown
Afternoon: Walking tour of Singapore River
Evening:
Culminate with a stroll along the Marina Bay waterfront. Be sure to catch the free laser show 'Wonder Full' put up by Marina Bay Sands (8.00pm & 9.30pm). Dinner could be local delights at the open-air eatery called Makansutra Glutton's Bay, next to the Esplanade Theatres.
Day 2 - Sentosa Island
Take in Universal Studios Singapore, plus a couple of other fun activities on Sentosa Island. Or if you plan of spending less, check out this DIY one-day Sentosa Island tour itinerary.
Day 3 - Light Activity, Singapore Zoo & Night Safari
Morning: Light activities, such as:
a) having tea at Raffles Hotel's Seah Street Deli or Empire Cafe,
b) taking the Duck Tour, or
c) taking a Singapore River Cruise.
Afternoon: Singapore Zoo
Evening: Night Safari
It's quite tiring to visit 3 animal parks in a day, given the heat and humidity in Singapore. Hence, do something light in the morning. If you're out of time, give the Bird Park a miss and settle on just the Zoo and Night Safari.
Day 4 - Little India & Orchard Road
Morning: Walking tour of Little India
Afternoon: Walking tour of Orchard Road
Cost Estimates for a 4-day Vacation in Singapore
Cost of Meals
Per person @ food court in a shopping mall = S$5-10
Per person @ ordinary restaurant in a shopping mall = S$20-30
Cost of Transport
About S$5-8 per person per day if taking the MRT and buses.
Entrance Fees to Main Attractions in Singapore
Singapore Zoo + Night Safari 2-in-1 Ticket
= $42 adult, $28 child
Singapore Zoo + Night Safari + Bird Park 3-in-1 Ticket
= $58 adult, $38 child
Universal Studios + 2 other Sentosa attractions
= about S$120 adult, S$100 child
(Please be aware that ticket prices may change by the time you read this. It's your responsibility to get the latest prices from the attractions.)
I hope these travel tips will enhance your vacation in Singapore.
Gabriel Tan
View the original article here

Dec 4, Guided Little India Walking Tour - Explore Singapore!

2011-12-22T14:39:00.000-08:00

Join a guided Little India Walking Tour. Get to see the real Singapore...
The sights and sounds in Little India are many. But their true meanings may be lost on you if you are visiting for the first time. To fully enjoy this part of Singapore, try joining a guided Little India walking tour - and let a local guide show you all the finer points of Indian culture.
I went on the Little India Walking Tour by Summer Footprints and enjoyed it tremendously. Now, allow me to recommend it to you.
Your friendly local guides - Sharon or Chiep Ping - will take you on a fascinating journey through this fascinating part of Singapore...
The "Midwife" Who Delivered 1.2 Million Singaporeans. This is glitzy Singapore. So it's hard to believe so many Singaporeans were born in a humble location in Little India. Find out where this little spot is, and what the mid-wives did when they ran out of space to hold the babies. It's quite astounding.
The Strangest Looking Vegetables and Fruits. If you think cauliflower and broccoli look strange, wait till you see the vegetables in Little India.
Garlands Galore. You will be struck by the colourful garlands. But who would buy them and what are they used for? Get answers on this tour. And watch how the garland makers magically weave flowers into garlands in no time.
Hinduism 101. Visit 2 Hindu temples. Marvel at the chillingly realistic sculptures of Hindu gods. Get a lowdown on the architecture of Hindu temples. Watch the priests, the devotees and their rituals. And allow your guide to explain everything that is unfolding before you eyes. Hinduism is de-mystified on this guided Little India Walking Tour.
Immerse Yourself in Indian Culture. Try out an exquisite saree. And if you'd always wanted a tatoo but feared you couldn't wash it away, why not have your hand henna-painted instead? On this Little India walking tour, you get to try this form of Indian body-art. It's great fun.
Meet Mani the 'Psychic' Parakeet. Germany had Paul the Octopus, of World Cup fame. Well, Singapore has Mani the Parakeet, who also predicted everything correctly - until the final game ;-). A prominent star on Mainstreet Little India, Mani brings in brisk business for his owner.

Organisers:
The Guides from Summer Footprints Pte Ltd.
Day/Time:
Tours run on Tuesday & Friday, departing at 9.30am and ending about 12.30pm.
Meeting Point: Little India MRT Station (Exit C)
Online Price: S$30 per adult.
A minimum of 2 adult participants is required for the tour to run.A booking is required at the latest 3pm on the day before the tour date.Children below 12 years of age join for free with paying adults.
Inclusions:
1) The guidance and commentary of a STB-certified tour guide.
2) Local snacks for participants to sample.
3) Complimentary henna-painting for 1 (one) person on the day's tour. Fee of $5-20 applies for second and subsequent persons who want to have their hand henna-painted.
Exclusions:
All personal purchases along the route of the walking tour.
To register your interest in this guided Little India Walking Tour, fill in the form below:
Guided Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour
Guided Bugis Street Walking Tour
Little India Walking Tour as Part of Travel Package
View the original article here

May 31, Fireworks in Singapore - When and Where to See Them.

2011-12-22T10:13:00.000-08:00

I've received many emails asking me when and where to see fireworks in Singapore.
So I decided to put everything I know into one page for everybody's benefit.
If you discover a great spot to see these fireworks, do use the form below and tell us about it.
Fireworks will be launched during Chinese New Year 2011:
In Chinatown:
When: 2 Feb 2011, 11.59pm.
Where: Eu Tong Sen Street near Chinatown MRT Station.
Event: Chinese New Year Countdown Concert
At Marina Bay:
Where: Marina Bay, near the Floating Platform.
When: 1 Feb 2011, during the River Hongbao Opening Ceremony2 Feb 2011, during River Hongbao Chinese New Year Countdown Concert SINGAPORE NATIONAL DAY PARADE & REHEARSALS
Singapore National Day Rehearsals (NE Shows, Saturdays):

NE Show 1 - 9 July 2011 NE Show 2 - 16 July 2011 NE Show 3 - 23 July 2011
(NE Shows are 'full dress rehearsals' of the National Day Parade. They are watched by primary school students.)

30 July 2011 - Preview Parade for Singapore National Day 2011
9 Aug 2011 - Singapore National Day 2011
Where:
NDP Fireworks will be launched from around the National Day Parade venue (The Float @ Marina Bay). Watch this space for updates nearer National Day 2011.
What Time: At the end of the Show Segment of NDP (likely from 7.30pm).

More about Singapore National Day 2011; Past Years' Fireworks

IMPORTANT NOTE:
In the event of bad weather (or for health safety and other pertinent reasons), the NE Shows and Parades may be delayed, cut short or postponed. If this happens, the fireworks will be similarly affected.

SINGAPORE FIREWORKS CELEBRATIONS
Aug/Sep 2011: Singapore Fireworks Celebrations
(Not held in 2010! To be confirmed!)
Ticketed event at Marina Bay Floating Platform.
(As of May 2011, there is still no confirmation of the Fireworks Celebrations.)
31 December 2011: Marina Bay Countdown to 2012
At midnight, but you need to be there by 10pm to stand a chance. Draws the thickest crowd in the fireworks calendar.
Apart from the free-to-view spots listed on this page, you may also pay to watch the fireworks from the Marina Bay Floating Platform.

Best Picnic and Photography Spots to Watch Fireworks in Singapore:

Map showing the spots to watch fireworks in Singapore.
The Esplanade Theatre Waterfront Promenade

A very convenient spot overall. You need to find a good spot if you don't want to see the construction sites in your fireworks photos.

The Esplanade Bridge

A good place if you want the Merlion included in your fireworks photos. However, you still need to a wide-angle lens because the fireworks are pretty near. This spot is incredibly crowded during the New Year's Eve Countdown fireworks.

Merlion Park
Go to the Merlion Park if you want to hear the loud booms and to feel the fireworks 'falling on you'. A difficult place to get everything into your camera unless you use a fish eye lens or a wide-angle lens. Suitable to take children to, but crowded. You'll need to get there early and occupy the kids meaningfully.

Clifford Pier

A small area available to the public. Better if you book a seat at One on the Bund restaurant (see below).

The Promontory @ Marina Boulevard

This spot was a fireworks photographer's favourite before the re-construction took place. You get sweeping views across the water towards the Marina Bay hotels. Now refurbished, it's a lovely green space. Likely the venue of some carnival or fair during fireworks night and therefore a good spot to take kids to. Some photos of fireworks as seen from Marina Boulevard.

Marina Bay Sands Waterfront Boardwalk
This newly completed timber boardwalk is situated just in front of Marina Bay Sands. It takes you all the way to the water's edge.

Helix Bridge

The spiralling steelwork may hinder your view of the fireworks. But it also creates an interesting perspective. There are also uninterrupted platform areas that protrude over the waters, which offers an interesting vantage view over the skyline.

Marina Barrage

Farther away than all the other viewing spots, but offer a 'sense' of seclusion. Take the MRT to Marina South Station. Then SBS Bus No. 400 or the Marina Barrage Shuttle Bus to the Barrage.

Swissotel the Stamford Ritz Carlton Millenia Singapore Highly recommended. Want to see the fireworks while soaking in a bath tub? This is it. Compare and find the best rates for Ritz Carlton Millenia. The Fullerton Hotel May not have the height of all the other hotels. But this heritage gem is closest to the action and has rooms that face the fireworks area. Compare and find the best rates for Fullerton Hotel Singapore. Mandarin Oriental Singapore Marina Mandarin Hotel Singapore Pan Pacific Singapore Marina Bay
Remember to book a room facing Marina Bay!

The restaurants listed here are for their views of fireworks in Singapore Marina Bay. There is no judgement on the quality of their food.
Equinox Restaurant (Level 70, Swissotel the Stamford) See the fireworks from 226m up. You literally are above the fireworks!Book way in advance. Hai Tien Lo (Level 37, Pan Pacific Singapore Hotel, Tel: +65 6826 8240) Cantonese food, including Peking Duck.Request for table near the window. Dolce Vita (Mandarin Oriental, Tel: +65 6885 3551) Posh Italian restaurant - dine indoors or on the pool terrace. The Axis Bar & Lounge (Mandarin Oriental, Tel: +65 6885 3098) The Lighthouse (Fullerton Hotel, Tel: +65 6877 8933) In a spot where a lighthouse used to be.Italian cuisine.You need to book early and ask for a table by the window. One Fullerton Restaurants Sano Bar - fine Lebanese food, Tel: +65 64239182Pierside Kitchen & Bar - Tel: +65 6438 0400Palm Beach Seafood Restaurant - Chinese seafood restaurant, Tel: +65 6423 0040Starbucks - we all know this one. Orgo (Roof Terrace @ Esplanade Theatres, Tel: +65 63369366) Chill out at the open-air area or in one of the air-conditioned glass capsules. Al Dente Trattoria @ Esplanade (Colours by the Bay, Tel: +65 6341 9188) Italian fare served on a roof-top terrace overlooking Marina Bay. One on the Bund (Clifford Pier, Tel: +65 6221 0004) You need to book a table at the al fresco area.
Please note that if the fireworks are launched from the Esplanade Bridge, views from these restaurants may be obscured.
Singapore Fireworks Celebrations 2008 Photos
Chinese New Year Fireworks in Singapore
Singapore National Day Fireworks Photos
Singapore National Day Videos: Fireworks & Other Shows
NDP Fireworks Photos Taken from Marina East Gardens (before the works).

Have you taken a nice shot of fireworks in Singapore? How about sharing it with us? Or do you know of a nice spot to watch the fireworks, which I have missed out? Let us know.
What Other Visitors Have Shared
Click below to see contributions from other visitors to this page...

Page author: Gabriel Tan. All rights reserved.
Page updated: 20 Jan 2011.
View the original article here

Nov 22, Singapore Tourist Pass Transferability and Validity

2011-12-22T01:39:00.000-08:00

Transferability and Validity
by Rex
1) Can you share a Singapore Tourist Pass between multiple individuals?
2) Also when you purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass, does it expire according to the time it was passed to you?
Thanks.
____________________________________________________
Hi Rex
1) You cannot share the Singapore Tourist Pass with another person. Each tourist is entitled to one pass only.
2) The Singapore Tourist Pass expires on the day you start using it - at the time when the last bus/train ends its service. It is not based on a 24-hour validity.
Gabriel Tan
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Nov 1, 6D5N Singapore Tour - Family with Young Children

2011-12-21T18:06:00.000-08:00

by Cecile
(Philippines)

The things you could do with young children on a 6-day Singapore tour...

Hi, we are a family of 6, (this includes 3 children ages, 4, 7 and 12 with 1 senior) We will arrive on the 21st of December, 2011 in Singapore @ 14:10 hrs and depart on 26th of December 16:20 hrs. We are staying in Orchard Parade. Below is my itinerary for your review and enhancement.

Day 1 (Dec 21) - Night Safari
Day 2 (Dec 22) - Singapore Zoo
Day 3 (Dec 23) - Jurong Bird Park / Snow City/ Marina Bay
Day 4 (Dec 24) - Fort Canning Park / Sentosa
Day 5 (Dec 25) - Universal Studio/ shopping
Day 6 (Dec 26) am - visit other parks, if time permits

Thanks in advance.

Hi Cecile

Here goes...

Day 1 - Night Safari

Consider having dinner at an eatery around your hotel before leaving for the Night Safari. Meals at the Night Safari are limited in variety and quite expensive. Set off for the Night Safari about 6pm, so that you can catch the Bornean Tribal Show before going into the park.

Day 2 - Singapore Zoo + Light Activities

You'll need about the entire morning at the Zoo. Thereafter, get back to town for some activities that require little walking, e.g.

i) take the Singapore River Cruise,

ii) take the Duck Tour, or

ii) have a high tea buffet at the Equinox Restaurant.

Day 3 - Jurong Bird Park + Snow City + Marina Bay

There's a free laser show at Marina Bay Sands at 8pm and 9.30pm, called 'Wonder Full'. So don't miss that one.

Day 4 - Fort Canning Park + Shopping

You must have a compelling reason to go up to Fort Canning Park. Otherwise, it's just a park. You could consider visiting the Battle Box (ticketed) at Fort Canning. You take a walk through a World War 2 bunker and watch a very good re-enactment of what happened here during the Japanese occupation.

Get down to Orchard Road to shop.

Top Tip: During the Christmas season, Orchard Road is very prettily lit up. Check out the lights and Christmas floats.

Day 5 - Universal Studios + Sentosa Attractions

Check out this itinerary for Universal Studios and Sentosa in a day.

Top Tip: The entrance fee to Universal Studios Singapore is lower on a weekday, compared to the weekend or public holiday. So arrange you visit USS on a weekday if you could.

Day 6 am - Last-minute Shopping around Your Hotel

Plan to be at the airport on time.

Have a good Singapore tour.

Gabriel Tan

View the original article here

May 31 @ Lavender Food Square

2011-12-21T05:35:00.000-08:00

by Ah Leng
(Singapore)
This new stall serves one type of yee mee. They call it Poh Chai Mee.
I like the piping hot soup and the freshness of their ingredients. The handmade deep fried pork balls and the minced pork needles. Something i thought was good.
Some may find it expensive but i thought the effort and ingredients match the price.
Ask for half cake of noodles. They don't charge you for that.
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Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Singapore Hawker Food.

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Feb 21, 4D3N Singapore Tour - Highlights of the City

2011-12-16T10:51:00.000-08:00

by Bianca del Rosario
(Manila, Philippines)
Bianca submitted a very do-able 4D3N Singapore Tour itinerary. Take a look!
Hello, Gabriel! So lucky to have found your awesome site! We're very much excited to visit Singapore and I hope you could extend your invaluable assistance by helping us plot our itinerary. We're six in a group from Manila, Philippines (late 20's) that will arrive on February 9, 2011 at 15:40 and will depart on February 12 at 19:55. Both flights via Cebu Pacific.
Here's what we have initially planned:
Feb 9 (arrival)
-check in hotel
-Little India
Feb 10
10:00 A.M-3:00 P.M Universal Studios
4:00 P.M ? 6:00 P.M Underwater World & Dolphin Lagoon
7:00 P.M ? 8:00 P.M Songs of the Sea
8:00 P.M Kou Fu Food Court dinner
9:00 P.M onwards Clarke Quay and G-max Reverse Bungee
* Can you please advise us the cheapest transportation to these places?
Feb 11
Marina Bay (Can you please suggest places to visit here?)
Merlion Park
Singapore Night Safari
Feb 12
Orchard Road
Departure
Thank you very much in advance for your precious insights! We're truly grateful if you can help us with our transportation and food options so we can save money as Singapore is a very expensive city.
Thank you again!
Regards,
Bianca Del Rosario
Hi Bianca
I hope you've had a good holiday in Singapore.
My apologies for not getting this up earlier. I've been overwhelmed with other things in life. And I feel dreadful when I think of the backlog of requests queuing up to be answered.
Anyways, I'll proceed to answer your questions for the benefit of future travellers to Singapore.
1) Itinerary Refinement
Your itinerary is very do-able. There's not much to change - except that if you plan on watching Songs of the Sea, you're never going to make it to Clarke Quay at 9pm. But Clarke Quay opens till late and you'll still have lots of time if you make it there by 11pm.
2) Transport Savings
Except for the Night Safari, you're visiting the places close to the city. So the MRT will be good enough. Take a taxi to the Night Safari to give yourself more time there.
3) Marina Bay - Things to Do
Apart from the mandatory photo against the city skyline, you'll be spoilt of choice if you like shopping: Marina Square, Suntec City, Marina Bay Sands, Raffles City and Peninsula Plaza, and more.
You could also take a Singapore River Cruise from a few spots in the Marina Bay area.
Obviously the Singapore River is nearby and offers some good distractions.
To everybody reading this belated Q&A post: have a great vacation in Singapore.
Gabriel Tan
View the original article here

Jan 11, Singapore Tour Guide

2011-12-16T07:19:00.000-08:00

by Eddie Lee
(Sarawak)

A reliable Singapore tour guide could make all the necessary arrangments for you before you arrive in Singapore...

Hello, do you have any contact of a Singapore tour guide who can bring a group of people (4 persons) around in Singapore for 3-4 days, and also provided the transport as well as manage all the entrance tickets.

Cheers,
Eddie Lee

Hi Eddie

Yes, we do. If you are looking for someone to organise your vacation in Singapore, you could use our form to contact a licensed Singapore tour guide.

This guide could then work with you to create a customised Singapore travel package, which usually includes:

1) pre-booking all your meals, entrance tickets and activities

2) airport-hotel return transfers

3) transport to take you to the sights and activities

4) commentary and guidance of a licensed tour guide.

Enjoy your Singapore tour.

Gabriel Tan

View the original article here

Feb 13, Most Awesome Views of Singapore

2011-12-16T00:54:00.000-08:00

(Reader's Contribution)

Probably the most awesome views of Singapore at any time of the year, but particularly during any fireworks at Marina Bay area. There's a restaurant on the 62nd floor of One Raffles Place called Stellar & their rooftop bar at 1Altitude is simply amazing! Go check it out!!!

Click here to post comments.

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Feb 14, Singapore & Malaysia Tour Package

2011-12-15T12:19:00.000-08:00

by Esther
(Vancouver, Canada)

DIY or Book a Singapore Malaysia Tour Package?

Hi, we are in a group of 4, will be arriving Singapore early a.m. on 20 April, 2011 and leaving Malaysia international airport on 25 April 2011.

During our time of staying, we would like to spend one night in Singapore & 4 nights in Malaysia.

Is there a guided tour including hotel package that we can join? Or any other options you would suggest for us?

We would like to book this tour online. Much appreciated for your help & answers.

Esther

Hi Esther

First of all,

You'll be hard pressed to find someone who can create a complete 1-day Singapore, 4-day Malaysia Travel Package for you.

Depending on what you'd like to do in Singapore and Malaysia, you could consider the following:

Singapore Leg of Your Vacation

1) Book your Singapore hotel online & use these itineraries for a DIY Singapore tour.

2) Get a licensed Singapore tour guide to organise a customised Singapore travel package.

Malaysia Leg of Your Vacation

Book one of these Malaysia tour packages (departing from Singapore):

1) 2 Days 1 Night Kuala Lumpur Tour

2) 4 Days 3 Nights Malacca-Kuala Lumpur Tour

Use the link below to post any further questions you may have.

Enjoy your Singapore-Malaysia tour.

Gabriel Tan

View the original article here

Apr 22, Half-Day Singapore Tour (Sightsee and Shop)

2011-12-15T08:05:00.000-08:00

On this 'Sightsee & Shop' Half-day Singapore Tour, you'll enjoy the most interesting sights in the city and the best shopping in Chinatown..A highlight of 'Sightsee & Shop' Half-day Singapore Tour:
Sweeping views of Marina Bay and the city skyline.

A morning itinerary lasting about 4 hoursA personalised tour for private groups/families
(You have exclusive use of the transport and tour guide.)- Flexible pick-up time, starting from 7am.
- Flexible pick-up place: hotel, airport, cruise centre, etc. Licensed tour guides from Summer Footprints Pte Ltd

YOU MIGHT ENJOY THIS HALF-DAY SINGAPORE TOUR IF...

You want to enjoy the most enchanting sights in Singapore city, with some shopping thrown in. OR You arrive in Singapore in the morning but can only check-in to your hotel in the afternoon. OR You are transiting at Singapore Airport and have at least 7 hours of wait time. OR You are arriving at the Singapore Cruise Centre and want a local guide to give you a hassle-free introduction to Singapore. OR You want to enjoy a time-saving city tour, with transport, tickets, routing all pre-arranged for you.

Once your guide has met up with you, you'll be chauffered to the Marina Bay area. Here, you'll take a 30-minute ride on the 165m-high Singapore Flyer - to enjoy vantage views of the city skyline and beyond.

What you see from afar on the Flyer, you'll see close-up also, at the Merlion Park and the Civic District. Your guide will walk you through this very historic area in Singapore,

where some of the finest colonial-era architecture still stands,

and

where some of the most important events in Singapore took place.

Photo opportunities abound at this point of your half-day Singapore tour. But do allow your guide to tell you a story or two of the fascinating historical events that took place here.

Your transport then takes you to Singapore Chinatown. The first stop is the Chinatown Heritage Centre, where you get a glimpse of the harsh life experienced by early immigrants to Singapore. And more...

Around this part of Chinatown, you'll also be introduced to the colonial-era Singapore shophouse. Some of the activities that took place in these shophouses are as fascinating as their architecture. Your guide will unveil some of their secrets to you.

The final segment of this half-day Singapore tour is a trip to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum. This is not a usual temple visit, because some of the golden structures and human relics found here will blow your mind away.

Before you say goodbye to your guide, let her/him know what you'd like to take home as souvenirs. Antiques? Art and calligraphy? Clothes and shoes? Consumer electronics? Local labels? You won't be disappointed because shopping is quite wonderful in Chinatown. And your guide can point you to the right shops.

Else, you can get onto your return transport to wherever, all pre-arranged for you by your guide.

BONUS! On this tour, you'll get to see the biggest, single, pure-gold structure in Singapore! A 320kg shrine made from gold donated by folks from the region.

If you are booking for more than 10 people, please get the tour fare from the organisers. (Indicate your group size in the form below.)

Inclusions for 'Sightsee and Shop' Half-day Singapore Tour:

The service of a licensed Singapore tour guide. Transport in the form of MPV, mini-bus or VIP coach depending on group size - includes pick up from specified location and transfers between the non-walking sections of the tour.

Post-tour Transport:
If you require transport back to your hotel, the airport, the cruise centre or any other place in Singapore, a transfer fee of S$50 per group will be added to the total bill.

Tickets for the Singapore Flyer and Chinatown Heritage Centre for all participants are included.

Exclusions:

Personal purchases in the course of this half-day Singapore tour. Personal travel insurance. Tips for tour guide and driver.

To book or enquire about this half-day Singapore tour, fill in the form below. The organiser, a tour guide from Summer Footprints Pte Ltd, will contact you to:

address your concerns, verify the number of people in your group, andprovide a final fare quote based on your group size.

Once you confirm your booking, she/he will then guide you through the online payment process.

'City Panorama' Half-day Singapore Tour (afternoon itinerary)

Other Half-day Singapore Tours

Other Guided Singapore Tours

Customised Singapore Travel Package

View the original article here

Dec 19, Christmas Vacation in Singapore

2011-12-15T03:53:00.000-08:00

(Reader's Question)

Hi! We are Malaysians and plan for a family Christmas vacation in Singapore.

Date: 25 Dec 8am - 27 Dec 10pm

There will be 4 senior citizens and 4 adults (2 families of parents and son/daughters).

Age: Range from 20s, 50s and 62 years old

Transport & Accommodation- Driving from Malaysia, staying at friend's house in Larkin, Johor Bahru.

Our Itinerary:

Day 1:
Morning - Bugis Junction
Afternoon - Chinatown, Pagoda Street
Evening - Orchard Road

Day 2:
Morning- Sentosa Island
Afternoon- Resort World Casino
Evening- Songs of the Sea / Universal Studios (evening entrance)

Day 3:
East Coast Beach - Clark Quay - Merlion - Shopping
or
Ducktour Package

Aside from the itinerary, we would like to get your advise on the parking cost and available parking location (especially near to Orchard Road).

Appreciate your advice and suggestions.

Merry X'mas

Hi there

Here are a few tweaks to make your Christmas vacation in Singapore more enjoyable:

Day 1 - Chinatown, Bugis, Orchard Road

Chinatown starts to buzz earlier in the morning than the Bugis area. Hence I suggest a morning start at Chinatown instead of Bugis.

Morning: Chinatown

Have breakfast at People's Park Food Centre, Chinatown Complex Food Centre, or Maxwell Road Food Centre.

Thereafter, check out the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, Sri Mariamman Temple and the side streets in Chinatown, e.g. Pagoda Street.

Afternoon: Bugis Area

Don't restrict yourself to just Bugis Junction. Also browse the interesting shops at the Bugis Street Bazaar and Waterloo Street.

Evening: Orchard Road

The Christmas Light Up is on till the second day of the New Year. So if you don't like crowds, plan to see the lights outside Christmas Day.

But if you like the festivities, the Christmas Grand Concert takes place on Orchard Road in the evening. A section of Orchard Road will be closed to vehicle traffic - so take note.

You may still find suitable parking at Goodwood Park Hotel, Far East Plaza, Pacific Plaza or Hotel Royal Plaza on Scotts - all of which are on Scotts Road but close to the Orchard Road concert area.

Day 2 - Sentosa, Resorts World and Universal Studios

Sentosa attractions in the morning and the casino in the afternoon should be comfortable.

However, Songs of the Sea runs at 7.40pm and 8.40pm, while Universal Studios evening entrance is 7-9pm.

For you, this means:

1) A quick visit to Universal Studios early in the evening followed by 8.40pm Songs of the Sea, OR

2) An unhurried dinner within Universal Studios only, OR

3) 7.40pm Songs of the Sea, followed by supper at

a) Resorts World, or

b) one of the hotels in Sentosa, or

c) Lau Pa Sat in Shenton Way, a short drive away from Sentosa. Lau Pa Sat opens till late and serves good satay, seafood, and other local food.

Day 3 - Duck Tours, Marina Bay Shopping, Clarke Quay Dinner

Clarke Quay comes alive in the late afternoon/evening. So I counter-suggest the following plan:

Morning: Duck Tours departing from Suntec City Galleria.

Late Morning/Afternoon: Shopping at Suntec City, Marina Square, Citylink Mall, and Raffles City Shopping Centre.

Evening: Dinner at Clarke Quay.

Have an enjoyable Christmas vacation in Singapore.

Gabriel Tan

View the original article here

Aug 26, Singapore Lantern Festival 2011 - Enchanting Lanterns, Fireworks & Celebrations.

2011-12-14T17:59:00.000-08:00

Singapore Lantern Festival 2011

Highlight Events in Chinatown

Street Light Up. Lanterns galore! Festive Bazaar. Buy delicious mooncakes and snag a handmade lantern. Lantern Procession. Take the kids there and join in.

Highlight Events @ Chinese Gardens

Giant lanterns, games, food stalls, stage performances.

On this page:
[Tips for Visitors - The Festival in 2011] [Singapore Lantern Festival Photos]

The Lantern Festival ("Mid-autumn Festival") falls on the 8th Lunar Month, which runs from 30 Aug 2011 to 25 Sep 2011.

Here are the highlights for Singapore Lantern Festival 2011...

Lantern Festival Events in Chinatown Chinatown Lantern Festival Street Light Up Huge lanterns and fairy lights brightened up Eu Tong Sen Street, New Bridge Road and the street bazaars along the side streets. From Sat, 30 Aug 2011 to 25 Sep 2011. From 7pm till late nightly. Lantern Festival Opening Night.The festival will be launched on the evening (7pm-10pm) of Tuesday, 30 Aug 2011 near Chinatown MRT - with a flurry of energetic activities. Enjoy the lantern street parade, lion dance performance and fireworks. Street Bazaar Pagoda Street, Terrenganu Street, Sago Street and Chinatown Complex become pretty busy with vendors selling mooncakes, savouries, lanterns and other festive wares. From Mon, 29 Aug 2011 to Mon, 12 Sep 2011. From 11am till late daily. Stage Shows A good mix of traditional and comtemporary entertainmnet at Kreta Ayer Square (near Buddha Tooth Relic Temple). From Tue, 30 Aug 2011 to Mon, 12 Sep 2011. From 8-10pm nightly.
Mass Lantern Procession From 7.30pm to 10pm on Sat, 10 Sep 2011. The procession starts at the open field near Outram MRT Station and loops around Eu Tong Sen Street back to the heart of Chinatown. Join in with your own lanterns! Lantern Festival @ Chinese Gardens Check out the huge lanterns over 8 hectares of the Chinese Gardens. This year's theme: The World of Legends. Find also food stalls, carnival games and cultural performances. Nightly, 26 Aug - 18 Sep 2011. Tickets: $12 per adult, $8 per child (11 years and younger).

Photos from 'Hello Kitty Go Races' Lantern Fantasy 2008 at the Chinese Garden. It's quite surreal, actually...

Argggh... How we miss those huge lanterns at Chinese Gardens in years past...

Lanterns at the River Hong Bao Carnival (Chinese New Year)

View the original article here

Aug 26, Singapore Lion Dance Performances - When & Where to Watch These Breathtaking Stunts!

2011-12-14T14:48:00.000-08:00

Video: Performance by Yi Wei Athletic Association
Singapore Lion Dance Championship 2008Highly Recommended!

Singapore National Lion Dance Championship 2011

When:
Evenings, 5-10 Sep 2011

Where:
Civic Plaza, Ngee Ann City Shopping Centre

What:
Gravity-defying stunts by the best lion dance troupes in Singapore

Singapore Lion Dance National Championships 2011
- Top Tips for Visitors

4 or 5 performances are rostered each evening.
The first performance usually begins around 7.30pm. Nearest MRT: Orchard Station. Most people will take up position, sitting on the steps of Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza. In my opinion, this is not a good position to view the performances, because of the back-lighting. You get to see silhouettes. A better way is to watch the proceedings facing Ngee Ann City itself.

Make time for the annual Singapore Lion Dance Championship. And you'll realise that there're more breath-taking stunts than Shaolin Temple.

These stunts are practised every evening all over Singapore. In the backyards of temples. In the gyms of community centres. In the parade squares of schools. And in many other places. In these unglamourous corners, hundreds of youths punish themselves severely in hope of a single reward: a place in the finals of the Singapore Lion Dance Championships. And who can blame them?

I first saw this love for chinese lion dance when I was teaching in a secondary school in Hougang.

A couple of my students were pretty uninterested in their studies. But they would never, ever miss a single lion dance practice, whether these were on weekdays or during prime-time weekends.

One day, they got onto the wrong side of the law. And their lion dance teacher suspended them from lion dance practices.

Boy! You should have seen the agony on their faces! These boys would have eaten cockroaches. They would have crawled through mud. And they would have barked like dogs. If that's what it takes to get back on the lion dance troupe!

Watch the video above. Listen carefully, and you'll notice a few young boys going 'ooh' and 'ah' in the background. These young boys will one day become leaping lions themselves. And they all started by watching these incredible athletes float from pole to pole. The future of Singapore Lion Dance is safe.

Chinese New Year Performances
- Better than the Singapore Lion Dance Championship?

Lantern Festival 2009

View the original article here

Apr 19, 5-Day Singapore Tour - Main Sights & Shopping

2011-12-14T03:41:00.000-08:00

by Albert Justiniano
(Manila, Philippines)

A 5-day Singapore tour taking in the main attractions - Night Safari, Universal Studios, Sentosa and city centre spots. Plus some shopping...

Day 1 Arrive in Singapore, check in at Hotel, then go to Night Safari (since they open starting 7 pm?)

Day 2 - Visit Universal Studios and Sentosa Island

Day 3 - Shopping trip after hearing mass at St. Joseph's (its my daughter's birthday) - whole day at Orchard Road, then ending at Marina Bay area.

Day 4 - See some historical landmarks - Merlion, Raffles Hotel, etc.; end with more shopping for electronics (Don't know the best place for electronics....help please)

Day 5 - Since our flight is at 1655 (4 pm?), maybe explore the malls around our hotel before heading off to the airport after lunch.

Hi Albert

Some of my thoughts regarding your Singapore tour itinerary:

Day 1 - Night Safari

Assuming an afternoon arrival, a trip to the Night Safari after hotel check-in sounds good. The eateries at Night Safari tend to be expensive (at least in my opinion), so you might want to have dinner near your hotel before leaving for the Night Safari.

Day 2 - Universal Studios and Sentosa Island

It takes a day to enjoy Universal Studios Singapore. So you'll probably be able to fit in only one or two fun things at Sentosa in the evening, e.g. Sentosa Luge & Skyride and Songs of the Sea (pyrotechnic show).

Day 3 - Shopping at Orchard Road + Marina Bay

It's very clever to attend morning mass before going to shop at Orchard Road - because the Orchard Road shops don't open so early.

When you visit Marina Bay in the evening, try to be there before 8pm for 'Wonderfull' - the lights and water show offered free by Marina Bay Sands. If you miss the 8pm one, there's another one at 9.30pm.

Day 4 - City Centre Sights + Electronics Shopping

After seeing the historical landmarks in the city centre, head to Funan IT Mall (5-minute walk from City Hall MRT station). Funan has a good offering of electronics - and tends to have a better reputation for integrity and customer service that some of the shops at Sim Lim Square.

Day 5 - One or Two Sights Before Departure

With a 4pm departure, you could still take in one or two more sights before leaving for the airport. Consider Little India, including some last minute shopping at Mustafa Centre.

Have a good Singapore tour.

Gabriel

You might also find these walking tours worthwhile:

1) Little India Walking Tour

2) Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour

3) Bugis Street Walking Tour

View the original article here

Dec 19, An Optimised 7-Day Singapore Tour

2011-12-13T12:41:00.000-08:00

by Lucy Das
(Bangalore, Karnataka, India)

Dear Gabriel, thanks for maintaining this AWESOME site. It has been the basis of my planning. However, I think my itinerary could use some of your expert advice. Here is what I have. Please optimize it to get the best out of our trip in terms of location/scheduling. Also, kindly suggest best shopping spots where the cost is not high but the goods are of decent quality.

My itinerary:
2 adults + 2 kids aged 6 and 9

DAY 1 ? 25 DECEMBER SATURDAY
(We start our day at around 9:00 or 9:30 am)
1. Jurong Bird Park
2. Snow City
3. Evening: Orchard Street Light up

Your plan for Day 1 looks spot on. Just be aware that the Christmas Grand Concert starts around 7.30pm. A large crowd is expected. You could get to the Concert by exiting at Orchard MRT Station.

DAY 2 ? 26 DECEMBER - SUNDAY
1. Morning Take the FREE TOUR + Bugis Flea Market
2. Visit FRIEND if she is free
3. Take a short break in the hotel
4. Explore Clark Quay (Retire early) ? Extreme swing/Quayside Seafood, Singapore Sling Boutique for a drink
5. Take a relaxing boat ride if possible. Best time (7-7:30pm) ? Hippo cruise

Day 2 looks good on its own. But I noticed that you've planned Arab Street on a later day. Consider visiting Arab Street / Kampong Glam on Day 2 as well - since these places are near the Bugis Street Bazaar.

I'm just curious - what free tour would you be embarking upon?

DAY 3 ? 27 December MONDAY (8:00am ? 10:30pm)
1. Chinatown area ? for shopping
2. Singapore Zoo + Night Safari (see zoo/safari planner)

Day 3 is another well-planned itinerary.

DAY 4 ? 28 December TUESDAY
1. Science Discovery Center + Omnimax movie
(Swap with Day 2 if required)
2. Arab Neighborhood
3. Chinatown on foot/Trishaw? (Tea service)
4. Hotel Break - optional
5. Trishaw + Bumboat tour or just the bumboat ride OR take river taxi and walk back if we haven?t covered it already on Day 2.

Day 4 is too ambitious. You're not going to cover so many places.

If you plan on visiting the Science Centre and Omnimax Theatre, do it on the same day you visit the Jurong Bird Park and Snow City. There's no point making 2 different trips to Jurong - you lose lots of time on commuting.

The same applies for Chinatown, and Arab Street(which is close to the Bugis Street Bazaar).

Remember: less is more!

For Day 4, consider visiting a heartland town centre such as Toa Payoh or Bedok in the morning. You'd be surprised to find some really nice clothes or shoes for children.

Then head for Little India in the afternoon/evening. Check out Mustafa Centre and the bargain shops along Serangoon Road. You'll find something for the family here.

DAY 5 ? 29 December WEDNESDAY
1. Change Hotels
2. Go for the Marina Bay Mall Crawl
3. Spend some time at Marina Bay Sands
4. Explore Raffles Hotel
5. High tea at Swissotel Stamford ? Equinox Book !
6. Dinner at Lau Pat Sat

If you have not already taken the bumboat tour, you could fit in a Singapore River Cruise (bumboat tour) in the evening before heading to Lau Pa Sat for satay and BBQ seafood.

DAY 6 ? 30 December THURSDAY
1. Singapore Botanic Gardens
2. Hotel break
3. Sentosa ? Butterfly Park, Underwater World & Dolphin Lagoon, Sentosa Luge and Songs of the Sea ? Cable car ride. Merlion ? photo opportunity OR
4. Town Center shopping ? Recommendations for outlet stores?

Read my earlier recommendations for town centre shopping.

DAY 7 ? 31 December FRIDAY
1. Relax ? East Coast Park - beach? Flight Experience?
2. Shopping - need recommendations for the best place to shop for clothes.
3. Fireworks in the evening (Promentary ? across the Hotel ? Carnival)

The Waterfront Boardwalk in front of Marina Bay Sands is a nice spot to watch the fireworks. Pack your food, snacks and drinks. Then arrive early and have a family picnic. If you arrive late, be prepared to be bumped off to less desirable spots for fireworks viewing.

However, if you've booked into a Bay-facing room at your Marina Bay hotel, you're better off watching the fireworks from your hotel room or balcony.

Our Hotels: 1st 4 days ? Clarke Quay hotel and next 3 days ? Marina Bay hotel

I have deliberately left out LITTLE INDIA since we are from India. :)

Is there a gems factory that is worth seeing? Read about it somewhere.

Can we ditch Sentosa or is the Songs of the Sea too good to miss?

1) Little India in Singapore, I believe, is slightly different from any spot in India. It's worth the trip for the wonderful family shopping at Mustafa Centre and the other bargain shops.

If you plan on buying gold jewellery and gemstones, Mustafa and the other gold shops in Little India are great for variety.

2) Visiting Sentosa just for Songs of the Sea is not worth it, IMHO. But it's definitely worthwhile when you think of it as a place where lots of family-friendly activities are clustered together. You get to do lots without commuting too much.

The activities you've listed for your Sentosa trip are great for a family with pre-teen children.

3) I noted that shopping is of importance to you. Apart from the shopping spots already recommended, you might want to spend an entire day just browsing the malls on Orchard Road.

Robinson's, as you have already noted, is great for lots of stuff. So is John Little's, Isetan and Tangs. There are also some smaller outlets at Far East Plaza, Centrepoint, Plaza Singapore, etc which offer something slightly different.

Enjoy your week-long Singapore tour.

Gabriel Tan

Thanks a lot
Lucy
Bangalore, India

View the original article here

Apr 13, Half-Day Singapore Tour (Fun by the Waters)

2011-12-13T08:25:00.000-08:00

Enjoy the most spectacular views over Singapore waters. This half-day Singapore tour takes you to the lovely spots at Marina Bay, Singapore River and Clarke Quay.Highlight of 'Fun by the Waters' Half-day Singapore Tour:
Enjoying spectacular views on a Singapore River Cruise.

An afternoon itinerary lasting approximately 4 hoursA personalised tour for private groups/families
(there's no going around picking up different groups)- Flexible pick-up time, starting from 11am.
- Flexible pick-up place: hotel, airport, cruise centre, etc. Licensed tour guides from Summer Footprints Pte LtdYOU MIGHT ENJOY THIS HALF-DAY SINGAPORE TOUR IF..You want to enjoy the waterfront attractions in downtown Singapore. OR You have a mid-day hotel check-out but a flight/cruise/train departing in the evening. OR You are transiting at Singapore Airport and have at least 7 hours of wait time. OR You are arriving at the Singapore Cruise Centre and want to start your vacation from there. OR You have limited time in Singapore and want to see its most charming sights.

You'll be transported to the Queen Elizabeth Walk, where you'll take a walk down memory lane. As you pass several monuments, your guide will recount some of the most fascinating events that took place in Singapore.

Then, you'll walk through Singapore's first pedestrian underpass, and emerge at the Merlion Park. The reward? Panoramic views of Marina Bay and the city skyline.

Next stop: the Singapore River. Stand on the oldest bridge over the Singapore River and have fun spotting all its engineering flaws - it was designed as a vehicular bridge, but became the most charming pedestrian bridge in Singapore. Else, let your guide point these quirks out to you, as well as other unusual sights along the River.

Beyond the bridge, you'll come to the Raffles Landing Site, where the founder of modern Singapore first set foot on the island.

Then comes the highlight of this half-day Singapore tour: a Singapore River Cruise. Sit back on a refurbished old-world boat, and enjoy the enchanting views over the banks of the River.

The last stop on this tour is Clarke Quay. This is a great place to party the night away. But there are also lots to do if you're coming with young children or older folks. Watch the remote-controlled kites. *Frighten yourselves on the reverse-bungy. *Join a pewter-craft workshop. And more. Let your guide know what you'd like to do and she/he will show you the way.

(* These activities are at your own expense.)

You could end this half-day Singapore tour at Clarke Quay; then linger on and enjoy an extended dinner, chill out or do other fun things. Or you could pre-arrange for transport to send you back to your hotel, the airport, or any other location in Singapore. (Indicate in the form below.)

If you are booking for more than 10 people, please get the tour fare from the organisers. (Indicate your group size in the form below.)

Inclusions for 'Fun by the Waters' Half-day Singapore Tour:

The service of a licensed Singapore tour guide. Transport in the form of MPV, mini-bus or VIP coach depending on group size. The transfer will include pick up from your specified location to the start point of the tour at Queen Elizabeth Walk.

Post-tour Transport:
If you require transport back to your hotel, the airport, the cruise centre or any other place in Singapore, a transfer fee of S$50 per group will be added to the total bill.

Tickets for the Singapore River Cruise for all participants.

Exclusions:

Personal purchases in the course of this half-day Singapore tour. Personal travel insurance. Tips for tour guide and driver.

To book or enquire about this half-day Singapore tour, fill in the form below. The organiser, Sharon from Summer Footprints Pte Ltd, will contact you to:

address your concerns, verify the number of people in your group, andprovide a final fare quote based on your group size.

Once you confirm your booking, she will then guide you through the online payment process.

'Culture & Heritage' Half-day Singapore Tour (morning itinerary)

Other Half-day Singapore Tours

Other Guided Singapore Tours

Customised Singapore Travel Package

View the original article here

Apr 18, Half-Day Singapore Tour (City Panorama)

2011-12-12T23:01:00.000-08:00

Panoramic views over Marina Bay, Singapore River and other city spots. Enjoy all these on the 'City Panorama' Half-day Singapore Tour.A highlight of 'City Panorama' Half-day Singapore Tour:
Enchanting views over the Singapore River.

An afternoon/evening itinerary lasting about 4 hoursA personalised tour for private groups/families
(there's no going around picking up different groups)- Flexible pick-up time, starting from 12 noon.
- Flexible pick-up place: hotel, airport, cruise centre, etc. Licensed tour guides from Summer Footprints Pte LtdYOU MIGHT ENJOY THIS HALF-DAY SINGAPORE TOUR IF..You want to enjoy panoramic views over Singapore Marina Bay and Singapore River. OR You have a mid-day hotel check-out but a flight/cruise/train departing in the evening. OR You are transiting at Singapore Airport and have at least 7 hours of wait time. OR You are arriving at the Singapore Cruise Centre and want to start your vacation from there. OR You want to enjoy a time-saving city tour, with transport, tickets, routing all pre-arranged for you.

The first stop on this half-day Singapore tour is the Singapore Flyer, a 30-minute ride that takes you 165m above the waters. You get to enjoy 360° panoramic views of Marina Bay in the comfort of an air-conditioned capsule.

Then descend from your lofty heights, and take a delightful walk along the Esplanade and the Colonial District. As you soak in the views from the waterfront promenade, your guide will help you understand the mix of old and new landmarks in the city - a Singapore Transformation 101 crash course, if you like.

Next up on this half-day Singapore tour is a Singapore River Cruise. Enjoy sweeping views over the Singapore River, as the bumboat ride takes you through an enchanting mix of modern skyscrapers, colonial-era Singapore shophouses, and 19th-century European architecture.

Try to spot the unusual features along the River, and quiz your guide about them. It's great fun. And you'll make some fascinating discoveries about early Singapore.

This tour ends at Clarke Quay, which is a fun place for several reasons. You could linger on and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner by the riverside. Or shop. Or party. Or do other fun things. There's something for everyone here. Let your guide know what you fancy - and she/he will have recommendations for you.

However, if you've run out of time and would like to be transferred back to any other location in Singapore, your guide could pre-arrange the transport for you. (Just indicate this in the form below.)

BONUS! On this tour, you'll visit one of the '1000 Places You Must See Before You Die' (listed in travel book by Patricia Schultz). Find out what this place is.

If you are booking for more than 10 people, please get the tour fare from the organisers. (Indicate your group size in the form below.)

Inclusions for 'City Panorama' Half-day Singapore Tour:

Post-tour Transport:
If you require transport back to your hotel, the airport, the cruise centre or any other place in Singapore, a transfer fee of S$50 per group will be added to the total bill.

Tickets for the Singapore Flyer and Singapore River Cruise for all participants are included in the tour fare.

Exclusions:

Personal purchases in the course of this half-day Singapore tour. Personal travel insurance. Tips for tour guide and driver. Activities, dinner and drinks at Clarke Quay are at your own expense.

To book or enquire about this half-day Singapore tour, fill in the form below. The organiser, Sharon from Summer Footprints Pte Ltd, will contact you to:

address your concerns, verify the number of people in your group, andprovide a final fare quote based on your group size.

Once you confirm your booking, she will then guide you through the online payment process.

'Sightsee & Shop' Half-day Singapore Tour (morning itinerary)

Other Half-day Singapore Tours

Other Guided Singapore Tours

Customised Singapore Travel Package

View the original article here

Jan 17, Hand Carried Luggage - Guidelines on Dimensions

2011-12-08T23:27:00.000-08:00

by Khagendra Rai
(Sydney)

Hi, my question is on the size of the hand-carried luggage (cabin baggage). It says 115cm. Does it mean the maxium height or the cicumference of the luggage? Confused! Please help me.

Thank you
Khagen

Hi Khagendra Rai

It means this:

Imagine a rectangular-block-like bag. It has a length edge, a height edge and a width edge.

When you add up the length, height and width of your cabin baggage, it should at most add up to 115cm.

Gabriel

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Feb 25, First Timers' 4D4N Vacation in Singapore

2011-12-08T19:55:00.000-08:00

by Icey
(Manila, Philippines)

An itinerary for a 4-day vacation in Singapore. Plus answers to a few pertinent questions: choosing transport, finding affordable hotel rooms, enjoying cheap-and-delicious Singapore food, and managing your time in Singapore.

Hi e-Tour! Boy, am I glad to see that you provide critiques and/or comments on Singapore tour plans. You will definitely be of help to me and my family on our visit there on March.

I (26 yo) will be going to Singapore with my mom (46 yo), brother (23 yo) and aunt (50 yo). We will depart from the Philippines on March 26 at 21:10 hrs and arrive at 00:40. Our flight back is scheduled on the 30th of March at 17:10 hrs.

I tried hard not be overwhelmed with all the information and all the things that we should do while in Singapore. Although I have yet to ask them about our budget for sightseeing and other activities (I have a feeling we may be on a tight budget), here is the itinerary I have tentatively came up with:

Day 1: BASIC/MUST DO OR SEE

See the infamous Merlion and the Singapore River.

Experience the Equinox High Tea Buffet OR ride the Singapore Flyer.

Visit Chinatown and have dinner at the Maxwell Food Center.

Day 2: KIDS FOR A DAY

Enjoy the Underwater World and Dolphin Lagoon from early morning until about lunch time.

Spend the rest of the afternoon and early evening at the Resorts World Sentosa.

Day 3: BE ONE W/ NATURE

Feed the animals at the Singapore Zoo, see the Bird Park, and be amused at the Night Safari.

Day 4: WHAT'S A TOUR W/O THE SHOPPING?

Walk all the 5km of Orchard Road.

Check out Sim Lim Square, the flea market and one of the heartland shopping spots.

I am not sure if these activities are near each other or even possible to do in each of the day I have assigned them to. Also, I am hoping that all these will not leave us too exhausted to enjoy each day.(:

Hi Icey

For someone who hasn't been to Singapore, your schedule looks pretty do-able! I have 2 comments regarding your vacation in Singapore:

1) How much walking is your family used to? The schedule for Day 1 and Day 2 looks comfortable to me. But Day 3 and Day 4 involve lots of walking, which I myself would not do if I were in your shoes. Consider seeing less. But ignore my rumblings if all of you are fit and used to walking all day.

2) The Singapore Zoo and Night Safari are next-door neighbours. So it's better to see the Zoo in the afternoon, rest, have dinner, and then proceed to the Night Safari.

Oh, and here are some of my questions:

1. Since we will be arriving past midnight, what will be the best way to go to our hotel - a taxi or the airport shuttle?

*BTW, we have yet to book a hotel since we are looking for a place which can accommodate all four of us in one room at an affordable price (something like S$100/night). Is there such a hotel??

a) Take the taxi from the airport to your hotel. With 4 persons, it's cost effective.

b) It's almost impossible to find a decent hotel room in Singapore at S$100 nowadays (double/twin), let alone a family room for that price.

You could consider YWCA Fort Canning Lodge. They do have family rooms. Rates are likely to be upwards of S$200.

2. Except for the Maxwell Food Center, where are the other places we can experience local food without hurting our pockets? How much, in average, should we allot for our food during our entire stay?

The most affordable eating places in Singapore are food centres (a.k.a. hawkers' centres) and food courts. They are spread all over the island and easy to find.

In Chinatown, you could also check out Chinatown Complex Food Centre and People's Park Food Centre.

Food courts are found in most shopping malls. Check their store directories - the food courts are usually on the highest floor or at the basement.

In Sentosa, the most affordable place to have a meal is probably Koufu Food Court on Palawan Beach.

3. If we will be doing all the activities I have included, is there some place where we can get a discount for all of them like a tourist package or something? (:

If you are visiting at least 2 of the animal parks (Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, Jurong Bird Park), you could buy the 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 Park Hopper tickets - some decent discounts.

4. Is it advisable for us to purchase the S$8 Unlimited MRT and bus rides considering all the activities we are planning to do?

For the outlying attractions, such as Jurong Bird Park and the Zoo, I recommend taking the taxi. It saves you loads of time.

If you are walking the whole of Orchard Road, there's no need to get the $8 tourist pass.

These day passes are useful for people who like to move among many places in a day. If you spend lots of time at one place - something which many visitors end up doing - just pay cash when you buy the train tickets.

5. I think we should leave for the airport right after lunch. Will the last day itinerary allow us to do such?

Please, please provide any feedback you may have. I am super excited for our trip (as you notice it's still 3 months away hehe) and I want it to be fun and memorable for us. BIG THANKS in advance!!

Your last day is spent shopping. So 'play by ear'. Some people plan to spend 2 hours on Orchard Road. They may eventually spend 2 days there!

Just take it easy and be prepared to forego something. Should you like one place very much, linger on and forget those places down your itinerary. You can always have another vacation in Singapore.

Plan to be at the airport 2 hours before departure time. So work backwards and you'll know when to leave for the airport.

Have a great vacation in Singapore.

Gabriel Tan

View the original article here

Feb 11, 3 Day Singapore Tour - The Main Sights

2011-12-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

by Neha
(Mumbai)

Take in the main sights on a 3-day Singapore tour.

Hi, me(28) & my husband(29) plan to visit Singapore from Feb 12-14 for our first anniversary and we will be going forward to Bintan from 15-19.

We need your help to make the most of our 3 days in Singapore. After going through all the various options on your wonderful site, i have narrowed down our plan as below, please suggest how this could be bettered.

12th Feb - Arrival in Singapore at 8am.
Singapore Zoo - 10 am - 4 pm
4pm -6pm - Relax or High Tea Buffet in Singapore.
7pm onwards - Night Safari

13th Feb - Sunday
Morning - Visit to Chinatown.
Singapore Wheel ride etc..
Need options for the rest of the day

14th Feb - Monday
Visit to Sentosa
Morning - Universal Studios - Disney World
4pm onwards - Sea World

Would 1 day be enough to enjoy Disney World and Sea World both or should we spend 2 days in Sentosa?

We are not very keen on shopping and are more inclined towards activities.

Please suggest what would be the best possible way to accomplish this plan. Looking forward to a wonderful first visit to Singapore.

Hi Neha

I'll recommend some changes for the Singapore leg of your anniversary celebrations. So here's the revised Singapore tour itinerary:

Day 1 - Duck Tour City Sights, Singapore Zoo & Night Safari

Join the Duck Tour - take an amphibious vehicle and see the main sights in Singapore city (land & water). This will cut down on walking and leave you with good energy to walk the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. Here's the detailed itinerary for Duck Tour + Singapore Zoo + Night Safari.

Day 2 - Universal Studios & Sentosa Attractions

Set aside 6 hours for Universal Studios Singapore. Then in the late afternoon / early evening, take in one or two more sights in Sentosa.

(Please note that neither Disney World nor Sea World exists in Singapore!)

Day 3 - Marina Bay, Singapore River & Clarke Quay

Check out the sweeping views over Singapore Marina Bay. Then explore the Singapore River and culminate with a romantic dinner at a riverside restaurant at Clarke Quay.

Enjoy your 3-day Singapore tour. And have a great wedding anniversary.

Gabriel Tan

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Oct 23, Maximum Singapore Dollars Allowed

2011-12-07T19:37:00.000-08:00

by Phillip Phelan
(Melbourne Austrslia)

We are travelling to Singapore in March 2012 and have bought some Singapore Dollars - Is there a limit on how much Singapore Dollars we can bring into the country or do we have to bring Australian Dollars?

----------------------------

Answer:

There's no limit on the type or amount of currency you can take through Singapore. but any amount equal or exceeding S$30,000 has to be declared at customs.

Please be aware that I'm sharing to the best of my knowledge and the information provided here needs to be verified with the Singapore Customs, etc.

Gabriel

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Jan 13, 6 Days' Singapore Tour for Yuppies

2011-12-07T07:29:00.000-08:00

by Eunice
(Reader's Question)

Here's a tour plan which covers many lovely spots in Singapore.

You could skip the question, and head down to the 6-day Singapore tour itinerary below...

Hi! By April 2011, a number of individuals, including me are coming for a Singapore tour for the first time. There are about 16 adults. We will be spending 6 days and 6 nights there. Arrival in Singapore will be by noon on the 14th and immediately proceed to the hotel.

We wanted to make our travel meaningful, delightful and as much as possible visit all the important scenic spots in Singapore. Well, let's face it, it's more delightful to tour at minimal expense.

By the 20th, we will leave the hotel and reach for the airport.

For first timers in Singapore, where should we go?

This is a sample of our itinerary:

Day 1 (Apr. 14 Thursday)

After lunch, we'd like to ride on a tour bus to get ourselves acquainted with the city.

By late afternoon, we'd like to shop for a good and quality camera. Is Funan DigitaLife Mall a good choice for camera shopping? It's nearer to the bay, isn't it?

By night, we'd like to check out the Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay, Suntec City Mall (watch the fountain), Esplanade, Boat Quay and Raffles landing site just for taking photos.

Day 2 (Apr. 15 Friday)

In the morning, tour the historic district of Singapore (Colonial/Civic District structures e.g. St Andrew's Cathedral and Parliament House). We'll have lunch nearby.

After lunch, visit the National Museum and some tourist spots near the museum. Do you have recommendations for a historical tour of Singapore?

By night, I'm not quite sure if we'd like to spend it at Clarke Quay.

Day 3 (Apr. 16 Saturday)

Morning: Tour the Botanical garden, Jurong park and Singapore Zoo.

By late afternoon, visit the Orchard and malls nearby.

Day 4 (Apr. 17 Sunday)

China Town and other religious scenic spots. Maybe we could visit the Art Science museum too.

Day 5 (Apr. 18 Monday)

Sentosa Day
Images of Singapore, Butterfly Park (optional),
Fort Siloso, Tiger Sky Tower, Underwater World, Snow City, Songs of the Sea.

Mustafa Shopping Center by late night since it?s aA 24-hour shopping mall.

Day 6 (Apr. 19 tuesday)

Morning: Science Center Singapore and Singapore Discovery Center.

Afternoon-Night: Little India and Arab Street.

Day 7 (Apr. 20 Wednesday)

Leave Singapore.

Did I forget anything? I'm just hoping we'll get to visit all these places when we get to Singapore, and take all the memories with us as we head back to hometown.

Hope to read your feedback soon.

Hi Eunice

Here are some changes recommended for your Singapore tour plan:

Day 1(PM) - Singapore City Centre & Marina Bay

Forget about taking a bus to acquaint yourselves about the place.

Upon arrival at the airport, grab hold of one of the free maps from the Visitors' Centre and have a good read, familiarising yourselves with the spots you want to visit on Days 1 & 2.

To prevent backtracking on Day 1, take the MRT to Promenade Station and see these places in sequence:

a) Singapore Flyer

b) Suntec City Mall/Esplanade

d) ArtScience Museum

e) Merlion Park & Raffles Landing Site

f) Boat Quay or Clarke Quay

(You may not have time to see them all. So be warned!)

Day 2 - Colonial District & Little India

Take the MRT to City Hall Station. Then visit:

a) St Andrew's Cathedral

b) Parliament House

c) Camera shopping at Funan DigitaLife Mall

(Lunch)

d) National Museum

e) Battle Box Tour @ Fort Canning Hill

(Look at the war relics, and hear the story of how battle was planned and fought here during World War 2.)

f) In the evening, take a walk through Singapore's Little India and head to Mustafa Centre for some late night shopping.

Day 3 - Jurong Attractions

Morning: Jurong Bird Park

Afternoon/Evening: Singapore Science Centre & Omnimax Theatre

See this day tour to Jurong.

Day 4 - Botanic Gardens & Orchard Road

Start the day early at the Botanic Gardens, making sure to visit the National Orchid Garden.

Spend the rest of the day shopping on Orchard Road. Don't under-estimate the place - it's bigger and more "time-consuming" than you think.

Day 5 - Sentosa Attractions

Day 5 will be spent entirely on Sentosa Island.

Day 6 - Singapore Zoo & Chinatown (or Kampong Glam)

Spend the entire morning at the Zoo. In the afternoon/evening, check out either Chinatown or Kampong Glam (including Arab Street & Haji Lane).

Enjoy your Singapore tour.

Gabriel Tan

View the original article here

Jan 17, Singapore for Chinese New Year?

2011-12-07T04:19:00.000-08:00

by Sha
(Canada)

Is Singapore worth visiting during Chinese New Year?

Hi, I will be visiting Singapore/Borneo from mid-January for about 2 weeks. I could finish the trip before New Year's Day or stay and fly out on Feb. 2 or 3. Should I avoid travelling during New Year's as it's crowded, or is it worth it to "experience" the holiday in Singapore?

Thanks,
ps Any suggestions of how much time to spend and where would be welcome!

Hi Sha

If you've never seen how Chinese New Year is celebrated in this part of the world, it is worth tweaking your itinerary to have a look. Particularly, check out:

1) Chinese New Year Light Up and Night Markets in Chinatown

2) The River Hongbao Festival at Marina Bay

and if you are still around beyond the first few days of Chinese New Year in Singapore,

3) Chingay Parade

Have an enjoyable Chinese New Year in Singapore.

Gabriel Tan

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Nov 29, 18-hour Stopover Tour of Singapore

2011-12-06T16:01:00.000-08:00

by Sundari
(India)

Itinerary for a 18-hour Stopover Tour of Singapore, taking in Marina Bay + Chinatown or Orchard Road.

Hi Gabriel

Glad to see this site holding an amazing amount of information. It's really helpful.

I am traveling to Melbourne and I have a stop over in Singapore for 18 hours. I will be arriving singapore at 6am (19 Dec) in the morning and my next flight is after 18 hours at 12:15 AM (20th Dec). I would like to go around few places during my stopover. I am 29 old female traveling alone. It would be of great help if you could let me know what places i could cover in this time.

I am thinking of Singapore Flyer, Merlion, Chinatown, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Botanic Gardens and some shopping at Orchard Road. Will i be able to cover these? What would be the best mode of transport ? Is there any other nearby place which i could see in this timeframe?

Hi Sundari

18 hours of stopover in Singapore may seem a lot. But it's not. So this is what I suggest for your stopover tour of Singapore:

MORNING - EARLY AFTERNOON

EITHER

Option 1 - Chinatown

Transport: MRT - Changi Airport -> Tanah Merah -> Outram Park -> Chinatown

Catch breakfast at People's Park Food Centre or Chinatown Complex. Then Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and shopping in the conservation areas.

Option 2 - Botanic Gardens & Orchard Road

Transport: MRT - Changi Airport > Tanah Merah > Buona Vista > Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens is home to the National Orchid Gardens, which is a lovely stop if you like the flower. There are a number of buses outside Botanic Gardens that take you to Orchard Road.

LATE AFTERNOON - EVENING

Transport: MRT to Promenade Station

Shop around the Marina Bay area. Then take a sundown flight on the Singapore Flyer around 7pm. Culminate with a gentle stroll along the waterfront promenades at Marina Bay - don't miss the laser show entitled 'Wonder Full' by Marina Bay Sands at 8pm or 9.30pm.

MRT back to Changi Airport.

Have a good stopover tour of Singapore.

Gabriel Tan

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Mar 5, Guided Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour - See the real Singapore!

2011-12-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

On this guided Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour, discover things that surprise even the locals...

Singapore Chinatown is a great place to explore - delightful secret places, awe-inspiring religious treasures, quirky Chinese goods, and more.

The guides from Summer Footprints Pte Ltd invited me to go on their guided Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour. And I was humbled to re-discover a place I thought I knew quite well.

Yes, go beneath the surface. Peel off the layers. And you won't see Singapore the same way again...

The Dark History of Early Chinese Immigrants. In the 19th Century, Chinese men challenged destiny and braved the 'southern seas' for a better life. They arrived in Singapore - only to take on back-breaking jobs, live in dirty quarters, and eventually become addicted to opium.

On this Singapore Chinatown walking tour, go on-site, re-visit this slice of Singapore history, and hear the complete story.

Nanyang Coffee Stall and Museum. Why do some Singaporeans insist on the regional version of the cuppa (Nanyang coffee)? Enjoy a cup of Nanyang coffee on your guide, and see how it is different from your premium latte or cappucino.

Buddhism De-mystified. Buddhist devotees from the region donated their gold ear-rings, bangles, bullions and family heirloom - amounting to 320kg of the real McCoy! Just why did they do such a thing?

The gold was smelted and turned into a masterpiece by Buddhist craftsmen. What does a 320kg golden shrine look like? See it for yourself on this Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour.

Then once you've been awe-struck, proceed to the Buddha Tooth Relic Museum: to discover how Buddhism began, and to see more jaw-dropping relics.

Singapore's Oldest Hindu Temple, in Chinatown? The first Hindu temple in Singapore was built mainly for the Indian population. But why was it situated in the heart of Chinatown? Get an explanation from your guide. Then stand under the ceilings of the temple and marvel at the astoundingly beautiful murals.

We Chinese Are Quite Quirky! Geckos, fungi, and other unmentionable parts of exotic animals. Personally, I squirm just looking at them; yet the Chinese in Singapore still eat them. Check these out at the medical halls in Chinatown. And learn about their (alleged?) medicinal properties.

The Colonial Singapore Shophouse. French louvred windows, Chinese roofs, and Malay frames. Join them together, throw in one or two more exotic designs, and you get the colonial-era Singapore shophouse. Quirky or quaint? Decide for yourself on this Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour.

Your Guide for this Walking Tour:
Chiep Ping or Sharon, from Summer Footprints Pte Ltd.

Day/Time:
Tours run on Monday & Thursday, departing at 9.30am and ending about 12.30pm. (Tours run only when a booking is made. Please use the form below.)

Meeting Point: Chinatown MRT Station (Exit A)

Online Price: S$30 per adult.

Inclusions:
1) The guidance and commentary of a STB-certified tour guide.
2) A complimentary cup of Nanyang coffee for each participant.

Exclusions:
All personal purchases along the route of the walking tour.

To join or enquire about this guided Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour, fill in the form below:

Guided Little India Walking Tour

Guided Bugis Street Walking Tour

Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour (Street of Faiths)

View the original article here

Jan 17, Perfume in Luggage During Singapore Transit

2011-12-06T02:56:00.000-08:00

by Khagendra Rai
(Sydney)

I am stopping for a transit of about 9 hours at Changi Airport. My question is: am I allowed to carry perfume in my luggage and if yes, how many bottles? Thank you.

Khagen

Hi Khagen

If you leave your perfume in the checked-in luggage, it shouldn't be an issue. (Please verify this with your origin airport.)

If you plan on taking perfume in you cabin luggage, it has to be bought from the duty-free shops in the restricted area of your origin airport.

Gabriel

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Nov 7, Christmas in Singapore 2011 - A Guide to Exciting Events!

2011-12-05T16:59:00.000-08:00

Be enchanted this season. Celebrate Christmas in Singapore 2011...

On this page:
[Photos: Christmas Past] [2011 Light Up Locations] [Hotels for Christmas]

Events:
[Orchard Road] [Marina Bay]

Mouseover for descriptions!

Where: When: Evenings, 19 Nov 2011 to 2 Jan 2012

The Light Up will be declared open by President Tony Tan on the evening of 19 Nov 2011. The highlight for this year's opening ceremony: the lighting of 1000 'electronic candles'. Finding this hard to imagine? Then go down to Orchard Road on opening night.

What: 5+ km of enchanting Christmas lights. Buskers. Free performances at various locations.

Live Concerts along Orchard Road.

Christmas tunes by various groups, including local celebrities. Interactive Christmas Village (location to be advised) Christmas Day Grand Concert (Concert timing to be advised). Performances and spontaneous carolling on Orchard Road. The section of Orchard Road between Scotts Road and Bideford Road will be closed to vehicles for this concert. Photo opportunity with the Christmas floats on Orchard Road. Gifts and acts of kindness to invited charities.

Map of Orchard Road:
Locations of Free Performances during Christmas in Singapore 2011

(These are tentative locations; final locations to be advised. Please watch this space.)

Parade of Christmas Floats from Orchard Road to Heartland Towns.

Look out for the parade of Christmas floats at sundown, week leading up to 25 Dec 2011. (Event to be confirmed.) Best Dressed Building Competition among Orchard Road Malls. Photo opportunities galore. One of my favourite malls during the Christmas season is Tanglin Mall - it's always interesting and has something to entertain the kids. Watch out for surprises at ION Orchard as well - last year they gave us the opportunity to stand inside a Christmas tree!

Mass Caroling by Church Groups 23, 24 Dec 2011. 8-10pm. Join in the singing of Christmas songs at Marina Square (on stepped terraces facing the Esplanade Theatres). Marina Bay Countdown 2011/2012
31 Dec 2011. Concerts and Fireworks to usher in 2012.

Watch this space for updates on discounts and freebies for tourists.

Would you like to stay in the heart of the Orchard Road Christmas Light Up? Consider the excellent Royal Plaza on Scotts Hotel:

Here are more good 5-star hotels in Singapore Orchard Road - give yourself a treat during Christmas in Singapore 2011.

But what if you are on a tight budget? Don't worry. Check out these affordable Orchard Road hotels.

Cheap Hotels to Celebrate Christmas in Singapore 2011

Orchard Road Christmas Light Up 2008: A Photo Tour

Merry Christmas in Singapore 2011!

Watch this space for updates...

Do you have a memorable photo of the Christmas Light Up - taken either this year or in the past? Why not share it with us?

Page author: Gabriel Tan. All rights reserved.
Page created 15 Nov 2010, updated 7 Nov 2011S.

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Dec 4, Guided Little India Walking Tour - Explore Singapore!

2011-12-05T07:35:00.000-08:00

Join a guided Little India Walking Tour. Get to see the real Singapore...

The sights and sounds in Little India are many. But their true meanings may be lost on you if you are visiting for the first time. To fully enjoy this part of Singapore, try joining a guided Little India walking tour - and let a local guide show you all the finer points of Indian culture.

I went on the Little India Walking Tour by Summer Footprints and enjoyed it tremendously. Now, allow me to recommend it to you.

Your friendly local guides - Sharon or Chiep Ping - will take you on a fascinating journey through this fascinating part of Singapore...

The "Midwife" Who Delivered 1.2 Million Singaporeans. This is glitzy Singapore. So it's hard to believe so many Singaporeans were born in a humble location in Little India. Find out where this little spot is, and what the mid-wives did when they ran out of space to hold the babies. It's quite astounding.

The Strangest Looking Vegetables and Fruits. If you think cauliflower and broccoli look strange, wait till you see the vegetables in Little India.

Garlands Galore. You will be struck by the colourful garlands. But who would buy them and what are they used for? Get answers on this tour. And watch how the garland makers magically weave flowers into garlands in no time.

Hinduism 101. Visit 2 Hindu temples. Marvel at the chillingly realistic sculptures of Hindu gods. Get a lowdown on the architecture of Hindu temples. Watch the priests, the devotees and their rituals. And allow your guide to explain everything that is unfolding before you eyes. Hinduism is de-mystified on this guided Little India Walking Tour.

Immerse Yourself in Indian Culture. Try out an exquisite saree. And if you'd always wanted a tatoo but feared you couldn't wash it away, why not have your hand henna-painted instead? On this Little India walking tour, you get to try this form of Indian body-art. It's great fun.

Meet Mani the 'Psychic' Parakeet. Germany had Paul the Octopus, of World Cup fame. Well, Singapore has Mani the Parakeet, who also predicted everything correctly - until the final game ;-). A prominent star on Mainstreet Little India, Mani brings in brisk business for his owner.

Organisers:
The Guides from Summer Footprints Pte Ltd.

Day/Time:
Tours run on Tuesday & Friday, departing at 9.30am and ending about 12.30pm.

Meeting Point: Little India MRT Station (Exit C)

Online Price: S$30 per adult.

A minimum of 2 adult participants is required for the tour to run.A booking is required at the latest 3pm on the day before the tour date.Children below 12 years of age join for free with paying adults.

Inclusions:
1) The guidance and commentary of a STB-certified tour guide.
2) Local snacks for participants to sample.
3) Complimentary henna-painting for 1 (one) person on the day's tour. Fee of $5-20 applies for second and subsequent persons who want to have their hand henna-painted.

Exclusions:
All personal purchases along the route of the walking tour.

To register your interest in this guided Little India Walking Tour, fill in the form below:

Guided Singapore Chinatown Walking Tour

Guided Bugis Street Walking Tour

Little India Walking Tour as Part of Travel Package

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Dec 4, Buffet at Oscars, Conrad Centennial Hotel

2011-11-23T21:15:00.000-08:00

by RDR
(Singapore)

Buffet @ Oscars Conrad Centennial Singapore

Excellent spread of international and Asian dishes. From sashimi to oysters. Salads & roasts. Italian, Indian, Chinese & Japanese + local prawn mee & a noodle bar - they have it all.

The desserts are just great - in quality and quantity !!!!!

Chances are one won't be able to try/enjoy each and every dish - There are just too many out there !

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Dec 19, Christmas Vacation in Singapore

2011-11-23T11:18:00.000-08:00

(Reader's Question)

Hi! We are Malaysians and plan for a family Christmas vacation in Singapore.

Date: 25 Dec 8am - 27 Dec 10pm

There will be 4 senior citizens and 4 adults (2 families of parents and son/daughters).

Age: Range from 20s, 50s and 62 years old

Transport & Accommodation- Driving from Malaysia, staying at friend's house in Larkin, Johor Bahru.

Our Itinerary:

Day 1:
Morning - Bugis Junction
Afternoon - Chinatown, Pagoda Street
Evening - Orchard Road

Day 2:
Morning- Sentosa Island
Afternoon- Resort World Casino
Evening- Songs of the Sea / Universal Studios (evening entrance)

Day 3:
East Coast Beach - Clark Quay - Merlion - Shopping
or
Ducktour Package

Aside from the itinerary, we would like to get your advise on the parking cost and available parking location (especially near to Orchard Road).

Appreciate your advice and suggestions.

Merry X'mas

Hi there

Here are a few tweaks to make your Christmas vacation in Singapore more enjoyable:

Day 1 - Chinatown, Bugis, Orchard Road

Chinatown starts to buzz earlier in the morning than the Bugis area. Hence I suggest a morning start at Chinatown instead of Bugis.

Morning: Chinatown

Have breakfast at People's Park Food Centre, Chinatown Complex Food Centre, or Maxwell Road Food Centre.

Thereafter, check out the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, Sri Mariamman Temple and the side streets in Chinatown, e.g. Pagoda Street.

Afternoon: Bugis Area

Don't restrict yourself to just Bugis Junction. Also browse the interesting shops at the Bugis Street Bazaar and Waterloo Street.

Evening: Orchard Road

The Christmas Light Up is on till the second day of the New Year. So if you don't like crowds, plan to see the lights outside Christmas Day.

But if you like the festivities, the Christmas Grand Concert takes place on Orchard Road in the evening. A section of Orchard Road will be closed to vehicle traffic - so take note.

You may still find suitable parking at Goodwood Park Hotel, Far East Plaza, Pacific Plaza or Hotel Royal Plaza on Scotts - all of which are on Scotts Road but close to the Orchard Road concert area.

Day 2 - Sentosa, Resorts World and Universal Studios

Sentosa attractions in the morning and the casino in the afternoon should be comfortable.

However, Songs of the Sea runs at 7.40pm and 8.40pm, while Universal Studios evening entrance is 7-9pm.

For you, this means:

1) A quick visit to Universal Studios early in the evening followed by 8.40pm Songs of the Sea, OR

2) An unhurried dinner within Universal Studios only, OR

3) 7.40pm Songs of the Sea, followed by supper at

a) Resorts World, or

b) one of the hotels in Sentosa, or

c) Lau Pa Sat in Shenton Way, a short drive away from Sentosa. Lau Pa Sat opens till late and serves good satay, seafood, and other local food.

Day 3 - Duck Tours, Marina Bay Shopping, Clarke Quay Dinner

Clarke Quay comes alive in the late afternoon/evening. So I counter-suggest the following plan:

Morning: Duck Tours departing from Suntec City Galleria.

Late Morning/Afternoon: Shopping at Suntec City, Marina Square, Citylink Mall, and Raffles City Shopping Centre.

Evening: Dinner at Clarke Quay.

Have an enjoyable Christmas vacation in Singapore.

Gabriel Tan

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Dec 19, An Optimised 7-Day Singapore Tour

2011-11-23T01:54:00.000-08:00