Singapore has always been a popular stopover for Aussies but I'm here to tell you why Singapore is an incredible holiday destination in its own right! There are plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant city, and you can't fit them all into a quick stopover.
What makes Singapore a unique holiday destination?
For a city full of modern architecture and high-rise living, you can find many green spaces and parks thoughtfully placed to give the city a clean and spacious feel. Singapore is often called the "city in a garden" because of its lush greenery and extensive outdoor areas.
Singapore is also home to a diverse population, with Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian communities. This is reflected in the city's food, culture, and architecture. Singapore is truly an international melting pot, and exploring the different neighbourhoods is an adventure in itself!
One of the best things about Singapore is that you can combine a city and beach stay in one trip without additional transits. Experience the city's highlights for part of your stay, then enjoy a Beach escape with an Island Resort feel on Sentosa Island, just 15 minutes away and with easy public transport options. Sentosa Island provides action-packed holiday options like a waterpark, adventure park, luge rides, iFly, theme parks, cycling and segway exploration options. Alternatively, relax in your resort pool or one of the beautiful beaches. You'll get the best of both worlds.
Singapore travel specialist, Carli Hester, shares her thoughts on why travellers should consider a holiday to Singapore from Australia
Singapore is so much more than a stopover. Yes, there is the shopping, theme parks and Gardens by the Bay, but I love the history and culture of Singapore.
I highly recommend the old Hop on Hop off Bus to show you all a city has to offer. There are such great little pockets like China Town, Little India and Arab Street, but I love the architecture in Singapore the most.
Singapore is also a great base to visit Legoland in Malaysia and the beautiful Bintan Island, Indonesia.
For the nervous traveller, you can't get a much safer and cleaner travel destination. For this reason, it is very popular with all generations.
The shopping centres are amazing, but I love to relax, enjoy fantastic food and watch the world go by. The food in Singapore is incredible. Clarke Quay is a constant with many restaurant choices, but it is certainly worth venturing further to Chinatown and Orchard Road for some fabulous dining options.
Lau Pa Sat, known as Satay Street, is a highlight for many, famous for delicious satays, the many food stalls also serve up Asian favourites, including Chinese, Malaysian, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Filipino, Indian, and Korean, with low pricing for a great value meal.
How to get to Singapore from Australia
There are direct flights from most major Australian cities to Singapore, so getting there is easy, and you won't have to worry about different transit restrictions and connecting flights. Once you're in the city, getting around is also a breeze thanks to the excellent public transport system. If you're staying in the city centre, you'll be able to walk to many popular tourist attractions. If you're staying on Sentosa Island the monorail line, called The Sentosa Express, connects the various parts of the island with the mainland so you won't have to venture too far. It's easy!
What to do in Singapore
There's something for everyone in Singapore! If you're interested in history and culture, visit the cultural neighbourhoods like Chinatown or Little India. Head to any of the hawker centres scattered around the city for a taste of the local cuisine.
Shopaholics will be in heaven in Orchard Road, where you can find everything from high-end designer brands to cheap souvenirs, or if the glitzier malls suit your style, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is for you.
Nature lovers can explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens or go on a hike at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. If you're an animal lover, you will enjoy a Night Safari at Singapore Zoo.
And, of course, no trip to Singapore would be complete without taking a ride on the iconic Singapore Flyer or visiting the world-famous Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck.
Why do Aussies love Singapore?
Visitors love Singapore for its cleanliness, efficiency and safety. They also appreciate the city's blend of East and West, modernity and tradition.
There is accommodation to suit all budgets that varies from traditional properties to the uber-modern. From the rooftop infinity pools of Marina Bay Sands and The Clan Hotel to the historic Museum entrance of the Amoy, the properties themselves form a feature of the city and all add to your experience.
Singapore is a great place to visit if you're looking for an exotic and exciting travel destination that has something for everyone. Whether you're after a relaxing holiday, an action-packed adventure (or a nice mix of both), you'll find it here!
So why not consider making Singapore your next holiday destination? You'll find there is so much more to Singapore than just a quick stopover destination!