Work today, fly tomorrow • August 2015
Wondering how to make the most of a flying visit to this vibrant city state? Theresa Wong, British Airways’ commercial manager based in Singapore, shares her local knowledge with The Club
Put on comfortable walking shoes and head to Marina Bay. First stop is Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic garden that fuses nature and technology, with giant artificial trees that glow after dark and two cooled conservatories. For views, take a turn on the Singapore Flyer. The 150-metre observation wheel takes 30 minutes, showcasing views of the bay and financial hub.
Grab a street food-style bite at Makansutra Gluttons Bay. The satay, barbecue wings and fried carrot cake are all highly recommended.
Nicknamed ‘The Durian’ by Singaporeans for its resemblance to the popular fruit, Esplanade has a 1,600-seat concert hall, a 2,000-seat theatre and several smaller performance spaces. August sees a programme of shows celebrating Singapore’s National Day.
For a taste of ‘old’ Singapore, visit Telok Ayer Street in Chinatown. This is where Chinese immigrants first settled, with temples and mosques marking their gratitude for safe passage across the sea.
Enjoy a drink at a watering hole on the slopes of Ann Siang Hill, or head off the beaten track to Prelude on the lip of the Singapore River to watch the comings and goings in the harbour. If beer’s your thing, try Level 33, the world’s highest urban-craft brewery.
New Ubin Seafood Restaurant in Sin Ming offers a taste of kampong (village) spirit with its cze char (dishes cooked in a wok over a fire). Try rib-eye steaks, served with caramelised onions and fried rice cooked using fat from the steak.
In the grounds of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel and Casino is the ArtScience Museum. On the first Thursday of every month, the museum is transformed in the evening into a cool hangout. Catch cutting-edge performances or wind down at the bar.
Naumi is a small boutique hotel, offering sweeping views of the city skyline from its roof. Take a dip in the rooftop infinity pool, or take a stroll along to one of the many shopping, dining and entertainment options nearby. Tea Bone Zen Mind is the perfect place for a green tea and a snack.
Make the most of the open-all-hours Mustafa Centre by visiting late into the night. Located in Little India, the building has multiple floors containing everything from electronics and watches to gold, fabrics and groceries.
This article has been tagged Destination, Travel Tips