A decade and a half ago when I last visited the tiny island nation of Singapore; I left with the impression that it was too sterile. Sure, there were fancy buildings and shopping malls, but beyond that it seemed to lack color. So much has changed since then. During a trip this year, I have to publicly admit that my judgment of so long ago has been effectively shattered by the changes that have taken place on this island since.
Singapore today is vibrant and offers the visitor far more than just modern buildings and shopping malls. It has soul, and plenty of it. This dynamic city today brims with color and energy, and is sure to leave an indelible mark on those visiting the island.
The multi-ethnicity that makes up the population of this nation contributes to an array of ethnic neighborhoods that are sure to delight most visitors. There is the Arab Street, Little India where you will be greeted by the strong, heady scent of spices and jasmine garlands, followed by the treasure trove of silverware, brassware, ethnic jewelry and colorful silk saris, dazzling to behold, or Chinatown: each with its own brand of culture and hospitality.
And for families, what better way to spend a holiday vacation than in a city-state that offers so much? Families would certainly be thrilled on an excursion to the unique Night Safari, riding on coaches after dusk through the animal kingdom. You can look a rhinoceros in the eye, hear the howls of a pack of striped hyenas or watch giraffes glide serenely across the plain in the still of the night. Or indulge in an opulent breakfast with free-roaming orangutans at the Singapore Zoo.
An early evening tryst in the Singapore Flyer, the world’s largest observation wheel, is an experience in itself. Located on Marina Bay, each of the 28 air-conditioned capsules is capable of holding 28 passengers, and a complete rotation of the wheel takes approximately 30 minutes. Built at a stunning 165m from the ground, the Flyer offers you breathtaking, panoramic views of the Marina Bay, the island city and beyond. Directly below, the Formula One Circuit weaves its way while in the distance, Merlion Park and Sentosa Island, located on the picturesque waterfront overlooking Marina Bay; Esplanade- Theatres on the bay is Singapore’s most exciting performance arts venue to date. With a 1,600-seat concert hall, a 2,000-seat theater and several recital rooms, theater and rehearsal studios as well as outdoor performing spaces, the dome-shaped complex also boasts a shopping mall, cosmopolitan food outlets and an arts library.
And for those seeking serenity, a short hop by road or a thrilling ride in a cable car brings them to Sentosa Island. Minutes away yet worlds apart, visitors revel in an idyllic island escape where nature meets luxury at The Sentosa Resort & Spa. Set atop a cliff amidst lush tropical gardens overlooking the South China Sea, The Sentosa Resort offers the tranquility of a luxury resort, with beach access, just minutes from downtown Singapore. This Sentosa Hotel is renowned for its award winning Spa Botanica, Singapore’s first garden destination spa. Palawan Beach offers a range of fun sports and activities for the whole family. With amenities easily within reach, it’s no wonder it is called Singapore’s happiest family beach! Take a stroll with your family to the southernmost point of continental Asia via the suspension bridge or bring the kids to the delightful Animal & Bird Encounters which is sure to entertain.
Accommodations range from the exclusive and historic Raffles Hotel to the multi-national chains of very well-managed hotels, the Mandarin being one of them. And for evening dining and fare, I would certainly recommend Clarke Quay, a colorful kaleidoscope of restaurants, cafes, entertainment spots and retail shops. There is so mush more for the visitor, that they will truly leave this island having experienced something called ‘uniquely Singaporean’.
Yes indeed, the bore has certainly vanished from Singapore and I would recommend without hesitation a trip to this island nation for those contemplating their vacation destination this summer.
Getting there: Fly the world’s premium airline for comfort and convenience. Singapore Airlines offers direct flights from both Jeddah (3 weekly) and Riyadh (4 weekly). Contact the airline directly or your travel agent for booking. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.