Escape: Singapore

ELE has just spent a wonderful few days in Singapore, the small island country in Southeast Asia that packs a powerful punch. Located at the tip of the southern Malay Peninsula it is considered one of the world’s major commercial hubs and a stopover for travellers from all over the world. Having passed through Changi Airport in transit numerous times over the years, it was time for us to finally get out and explore the country and we weren’t disappointed – gorgeous green spaces, incredible shopping, food we are still dreaming about and friendly locals make it the ideal place for first time travellers to ease in to Asia.

There is a lot to see and do so we would recommend at least a few days to explore the city and surrounds. Some of our highlights included visiting the Gardens by the Bay at dusk, shopping on Orchard Road (brings your credit card!), riding the Singapore Flyer, zip lining at Sentosa Island and eating our way around Chinatown and Little India.

Travelling with children?  There is so much for kids to see and do, from the Night Safari at the Zoo (our favourite zoo experience anywhere in the world!), Universal Studios, S.E.A Aquarium and the Cable Car ride at Sentosa Island.

And the food, where do we begin? The country is a melting pot for diverse cuisines  from all around the world including Malay, Chinese, Indian and Western.  We had the best Char Kway Teow we have ever tasted from the Malaysian Food Street at Sentosa Island and prawn fried rice at Makansutra Glutton’s Bay. Other must try dishes include chilli crab, fried carrot cake (not what you think!), Hokkien Prawn Mee, Kaya Toast and the famous Hainanese Chicken Rice.

ELE chose to stay at the beautiful Mandarin Oriental Hotel and we were not disappointed – spectacular service, excellent food, a stunning pool overlooking the city and a suite as big as a city apartment made for a wonderful stay.

ELE top tip – it is hot year round but can also be very wet- bring your sunscreen and an umbrella!

Eat:

Makansutra Glutton’s Bay – an open air, star-lit hawker centre serving up cheap eats overlooking Marina Bay. Open until 3am on the weekends, 2am through the week. http://www.makansutra.com

World class celebrity chef restaurants at Marina Bay Sands http://www.marinabaysands.com

Hawker style dining at Malaysian Food Street, Sentosa Island, http://www.rwsentosa.com

Stay:

Mandarin Oriental – five star luxury and impeccable service. 5 raffles Avenue, Singapore http://www.mandarinoriental.com/singapore

The Fullerton Hotel, right on the river this historic hotel is perfectly located and steeped in colonial history. 1 Fullerton Square, Singapore http://www.fullertonhotel.com

Play:

Sentosa Island – Asia’s playground – come here for Universal Studios, Mega Zip Adventure Park, the Cable Car Ride, S.E.A Aquarium and some gorgeous resorts. http://www.sentosa.com.sg

Singapore Flyer – Singapore’s ferris wheel with amazing city views http://www.singaporeflyer.com

Gardens by the Bay- a green oasis in the heart of the city, 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg