Singapore the lion city

My very first International trip was south-east Asia, where we covered Malaysia and Singapore as our tourist destinations. I still remember me and dad were really excited about getting our passports done, and eagerly waiting for the postman to come and deliver us, as soon as we got our passports in hand, we decided let’s plan an international trip before our passport settle in our shelf.  We had planned it through Raj Travels, as it was all of a sudden, we were added to a group who were already travelling in Bangkok (and their upcoming plan was Singapore and Malaysia), so we had our layover in Bangkok for about few hours, which we used it wisely by going to the nearest mall and shop. We had got the visa on arrival which came at a decent cost and so could kill our time.

After a good 4-6 hours of layover in Bangkok, we ended up shopping many pairs of sandals and fancy flats must say they have some really good collection when it comes to footwear. Also, we struggled a little asking for a coffee with milk, because the lady serving us couldn’t understand English. But it was a real short shopping expedition we had in Bangkok for those few hours.

We were really excited about our trip and were eagerly waiting to land in Malaysia, we had flown through Thai-Airways, they had really great service, but the food was not good, the meat was raw, and they did not have any veg meal, because of which my parents had to starve. But nevertheless, the service was great, good entertainment and real warm purple blanket. (Which I took it, sshhhhh…)

This blog is dedicated to my Singapore journey. We rode ourselves to Singapore in an AC Bus, it was a good 4-5 hours trip. As per the itinerary, we stayed for 2-3 days, doing all typical touristy things possible. As it was our first international trip we did not take any risk and pre-planned it. But would suggest it’s always best to do your own research before planning, as it helps you get a good idea of what you might like or dislike as per their itinerary and customise it.

Our Singapore journey started with a basic city tour where we covered Singapore Flyer, the Merlion, Resort world- Sentosa Island, and leading us back to Mumbai.

Singapore flyer

Singapore Flyer is Asia’s Largest Giant Observation Wheel. Standing at a stunning 165m from the ground, the Flyer makes you experience breathtaking, panoramic views of the Marina Bay and beyond.  The ride almost takes 30-40 mins to cover one round, which is pretty decent and pocket-friendly.

Singapore Night Safari

It was a really great experience it began with guided tram ride that takes you across 7 geographical zones of the world. One can see nighttime animals in their naturalistic habitats. After which we were headed to The Creatures of the Night Show is a 20-minute animal presentation showcasing the amazing natural abilities of nighttime wildlife from owls to Cobra and civets. At the entrance courtyard, you have some really good cultural performance going on to entertain us. It’s a must visit if you come along with your family and kids.

Sentosa Island- Resort World

Spanning 49 hectares, RWS is home to key attractions including the region’s first-and-only Universal Studios theme park, S.E.A. Aquarium (one of the world’s largest aquariums), Adventure Cove Waterpark and Dolphin Island. You will need a good 2 days to experience and try every thing in that resort.

1. Universal Studio:

The thrilling world of movie magic as you Ride the Movies on roller coasters and other movie-themed attractions. You will be dazzled and delighted by an amazing entertainment experience that brings the screen to life.

2. S.E.A Aquarium

It is a home to more than 100,000 marine animals of over 800 species, across into 49 different habitats, each one as fascinating as the next. It’s an experience worth watching.

3. 4D experience:

It was an amazing experience with all lots of “twists, turns, thrills and spills” a must have experience. It was very new to me as 4D was not common that time, had a thrilling experience for almost 10-15 mins in that dark room. Would recommend to try it out when you there.

5. Adventure

There are many other activities like Skyline Luge Sentosa rides, the zip line with great jungle views, Skyride chairlift, and many others. We did not have much time in our hand so honestly couldn’t get to see much and experience each every activity. Apart from these, there are an endless amount of fun activities to participate for every age group.

6. Wings of Time, Light and Water Show, Singapore, Sentosa Island

The Merlion

Is a well-known marketing icon of Singapore depicted as a mythical creature with a lion’s head and a body of a fish? It is widely used as a mascot and national personification of Singapore. You can have a closer view of Merlion Park in front of Fullerton Hotel and overlooking Marina Bay. From the Merlion Park, you can also take a river cruise on a bumboat and explore the other famous attractions around.

In Singapore, every individual believes that the flow of the water symbolises the flow of wealth and prosperity; they believe it brings positivity along with it. It is very common to see a statue with flowing water in most of the offices and lobby in the Singapore city.

China Town

It is where Hindu temples and mosques sit right next to Chinese temples. Chinatown in Singapore is a sharp contrast to the rest of the city, with low-rise buildings and culture bursting out onto the streets, from the fragrant smells of traditional cuisine to the bold red and gold tones that run through the neighbourhood. It’s a place where one can see culture, shop unlimited and eat as much as they can. You can try ‘char kway teow’ (stir-fried noodles) and ‘satay’ (barbequed meat skewers) at Chinatown Food Street, a row of hawker stalls, shophouse restaurants and kiosks along Smith Street.

Shopping

When in Singapore you can shop 24 hours, as there are markets which are opened full day- one of which is Mustafa Centre Market. It was a real adventure to shop midnight with the crowd around you. This place is on Campbell Lane in Little India. Bugis Street- It is known for fashion wear products, so in case you planning to shop clothes and accessories this is the place to hunt for. And apart from these, there are many plazas and shopping centres where you can go shopping provided you have time.