Singapore is a city dedicated to business and greenery. The spires of its skyscrapers look like a big bar graph pointing to the sky. Incredibly, it is super clean and crime is virtually unknown. But amid this obsessive neatness is a madly chaotic bustle of peoples and cultures. Everyone is drawn to Singapore in pursuit of the almighty Singapore dollar. Get a taste of colonial Singapore at Raffles, where the Singapore Sling was invented. Explore Emerald Hill, with its charming pavilioned pre-war homes. And, of course, the Victorian botanic garden and the green lawns of the Padang Cricket Club. And don’t forget to visit Orchard Road for non-stop shopping.
The Small List
Best Hotels
Marina Bay Sands – A hotel of architectural wonder in the heart of thriving Singapore, crowned by the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool. The best of spectacular nightlife and entertainment, celebrity chef dining and luxury shopping.
Raffles Hotel – Opened in 1887, Raffles Singapore is one of the few remaining great 19th century hotels in the world. No visit to Singapore is complete without a stay at Raffles.
Mandarin Oriental Singapore – In the thick of the action is one of the best luxury hotels located in the Marina Bay business district.
Best Restaurant
Odette – Odette is bathed in a pastel setting. The restaurant is elegant and unpretentious, with refined plates, global flavors and a French flare. Unquestionably, the best!
Best Cocktail Bars
Neon Pigeon – An Eating Drinking Social house that embodies the culture of urban living fused with underground vibes. The name pays tribute to two main influences: NEON: after Tokyo, which is commonly referred to as the “Neon City” and PIGEON: the constant seen in all urban cities.
D. Bespoke – Helmed by Daiki Kanetaka, D.Bespoke is a Ginza-style bar that is a breath of fresh air from the slew of US-style speakeasies in the city. Kanetaka believes drinks should be made to the same standards as a Savile Row suit. Therefore, perfectly tailored to the individual’s preferences.
Manhattan Bar – Welcome to the new Golden Age of fine drinking. Inspired by the 19th century’s Golden Age of cocktails and fine drinking (1840 to early 1900s), Manhattan Bar at Regent Singapore is a grand hotel bar. Here, craft bartending meets artisanal spirits in a glamorous space reminiscent of old New York.
Atlas Bar – Singapore’s most over the top bar located in a glorious and guilded lobby of an Art Deco building. Rumor has it that they have the largest gin collection in the country displayed elegantly from floor to ceiling.
Long Bar – The Singapore Sling, widely regarded as the national drink of the country, was first created in 1915 in Raffles Hotel. Specifically, by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon. The iconic cocktail gained international fame. A century later, it is still enjoyed around the globe.
Things to Do
Gardens by the Bay – “Where Wonder Blooms” – A national garden and premier horticultural attraction for local and international visitors. Gardens by the Bay is a showpiece of horticulture and garden artistry. Accordingly, it presents the plant kingdom in a whole new way. The display entertains and educates visitors with plants seldom seen in this part of the world. Remarkably, the species range from cool, temperate climates to tropical forests and habitats.
The National Orchid Garden – Located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the National Orchid Garden features over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids on display. Above all, the splendor of these gorgeous blooms is absolutely a sight to behold.
Orchard Road – Undeniably, Orchard Road is Asia’s most famous shopping street. Similar to London’s Oxford Street or Hong Kong’s Nathan Road. Chinese emporiums and modern mega malls line the wide avenue.
