When we say ‘Singapore’ what comes to mind: Orchard Road and Shopping? Crazy Rich Asians? Well, this tiny country is much more than just a shopper’s paradise or a movie backdrop – no matter what type of traveller you are, there’s always something to do in Singapore that’s perfect for you.
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Don’t believe us? Well, we’ve come up with two 24-hour itineraries exploring completely different sides of the island to give you just a little slice of what Singapore has to offer! ?
Itinerary 1: Immerse Yourself in the Vibrancy of Local Culture
For the more artistically-inclined #CultureShapers who love learning about and immersing yourselves in other cultures, we’ve got to recommend that you spend your day checking out some of Singapore’s finest museums and feasting on local (and some not so local!) halal delicacies.
P.S. For #ActionSeekers who want an adrenaline rush out of their day out, we didn’t forget about you! Scroll down to day 2 to see the exciting activities we’ve got planned for you ?
Start your day bright and early with breakfast at Heavenly Wang (1-1.5hrs)
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After a good night’s sleep at the Concorde Hotel right in the busy Orchard Road district, head on over to Orchard Gateway for a classic Singaporean breakfast at Heavenly Wang. Heavenly Wang specializes in traditional local fare – it’s a must-try to get the full Singapore experience!
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One of the most classic Singaporean breakfast dishes is soft-boiled eggs paired with kaya (a jam made from coconut and eggs) toast. The soft and fluffy eggs pair perfectly with the sweet and crunchy toast – and you can even mix in as much dark soya sauce and white pepper into the eggs as you want to give them an extra kick. Make sure to complete your meal with a hot cup of coffee or tea!
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For #Foodies who want something a little heavier, Heavenly Wang sells other classic local dishes such as mee siam, laksa, and mee rebus as well. The springy noodles and spicy soup will leave you feeling satisfied for the rest of the day – and you can wash it all down with a refreshing glass of lemon tea too.
Halal status: Halal-certified
Contact: feedback.wangcafe.com
Opening Hours: 8am-9.30pm (Mon-Sat), 9.30am-9.30pm (Sun and public holidays)
Address: Orchard Gateway, 277 Orchard Road, #B2-07/08, Singapore 238858 Website | Facebook
Start your day at the National Gallery Singapore with a stunning display of local art (2-2.5hrs)
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After you’ve had your breakfast, start your day right by visiting Singapore’s newest museum. Opened in 2015, the National Gallery Singapore (NGS) holds the biggest collection of modern and contemporary art from around the region! Located in Singapore’s former Supreme Court and City Hall, the old buildings were freshly restored and conserved along with some contemporary upgrades here and there. P.S. Make use of the floor-to-ceiling glass windows inside the City Hall wing to get the best lighting for your commemoratory selfie.
After you’ve had your breakfast, start your day right by visiting Singapore’s newest museum. Opened in 2015, the National Gallery Singapore (NGS) holds the biggest collection of modern and contemporary art from around the region! Located in Singapore’s former Supreme Court and City Hall, the old buildings were freshly restored and conserved along with some contemporary upgrades here and there. P.S. Make use of the floor-to-ceiling glass windows inside the City Hall wing to get the best lighting for your commemoratory selfie.
Make sure to stop by the museum store Gallery & Co. on your way out. Stocking everything from books on local and regional art to apparel showcasing some of the works on display in the gallery exhibits, it’s one of the best places to pick up a chic souvenir to remind you of your trip here. If you’re a #Collector of local designs, this is definitely one of the best places to pick up something unique.
#HHWT Tip: For those who want to see the best NGS has to offer, why not sign up for one of their free hour-long tours? The gallery offers a variety of tours covering gallery highlights and even a rare glimpse of out-of-bounds areas. ? It’s definitely a treat that will set your visit apart from everyone else. Just remember to pre-book a slot for yourself online!
Contact: +65 6271 7000 (Visitor Services Helpdesk)
Opening Hours: 10am-7pm (Sat-Thurs), 10am-9pm (Fri); admission ends 30mins before closing time
Price: $20 standard ticket for non-Singaporeans; special exhibits require a separate fee
Address: 1 St Andrew’s Road #01-01, Singapore 178957
Website | Facebook | Instagram
Head on over to the Vintage Camera Museum, a stone’s throw away from the hip Kampung Glam district (1-1.5hrs)
Singapore has many museums, including impressively huge ones, but we think some of the country’s hidden gems are tucked away in the smallest places. Go off the beaten path and be an #Explorer at underrated treasure troves such as the Vintage Camera Museum. The museum is one of Singapore’s smallest museums, but the pieces on display are a rare glimpse into the history of photography in the country. Film and camera enthusiasts will definitely excited to see the exhibits here, but even photography amateurs will find your attention 'captured' by the artefacts here.
The Museum has around 1,000 cameras on display, with some dating all the way back to the 19th century! Every camera comes from the 2 founders’ personal collections, making this place truly a labour of love. There aren’t just your usual handheld cameras here either – the more unique pieces include a James Bond-like spy camera hidden in walking sticks, and a rare machine-gun camera used by the Japanese during World War 2!
While you’re there, make sure to take some photos of your own! Besides the eclectic sculptures out on their front lawn, there are also ‘living’ paintings inside that you can pose with inside. Ever wanted to accept your very own Grammy award? Well, this is where you can do just that.
Credit: @iamceno2 on Instagram
While you’re at the Museum, make sure to snap a photo with this amazing mural on its exterior wall! Did you know that the mural was a collaboration between local Singaporean artist Ceno2 and budding Indonesian artists Kare and Bunga Fatia? When the mural was first started in 2017 it was Kare’s first trip overseas, and Bunga had quit her corporate job to pursue street art. With Ceno2’s mentorship, they succeeded in creating a piece that reflects both Singaporean and Indonesian influences – truly a spot where Passion’s Made Possible!
Contact: +65 6291 2278
Opening Hours: 10.30am-9.30pm (Mon-Sun including public holidays)
Price: $20 (adults), $15 (senior citizens and children below 12); free admission for children age 5 and below
Address: 8C-8D Jalan Kledek, Singapore 199263 Website | Facebook | Instagram
Take a mid-day break and do your prayers at Masjid Sultan (15mins-30mins)
By now it’s mid-day and it’s almost time to do your prayers. Thankfully Kampong Glam’s iconic Masjid Sultan (Sultan Mosque) is just a short walk away from the Vintage Camera Museum. Did you know that despite Singapore being a secular country, there’s at least one mosque in almost every neighbourhood? So, you definitely won’t have to worry about finding prayer spaces even while you’re exploring the streets!
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The mosque was originally built in 1824 for the 1st sultan of Singapore, Sultan Hussein Shah, and has a blend of Indian, Islamic, and European influences in its architecture making it stand out amongst the shophouses surrounding it. ? Today its towering golden dome and stately minarets make it a regal yet familiar sight in this busy district, and you’ll find a steady stream of locals and tourists alike paying it a visit over the course of the day.
#HHWT Tip: If you’re visiting the mosque do remember to dress appropriately and visit during the assigned opening hours mentioned below. Muslims are welcome to visit the mosque for their prayers outside of the timings mentioned below.
Contact: +65 6293 44 05 or email info.sultan.mosque.org.sg
Opening hours (walk-in visits): 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm (Sat-Thurs), 2.30pm-4pm (Fri).
Address: 3 Muscat Street, Singapore 198833 Website | Facebook | Instagram
Fuel up for the afternoon with a local lunch at Hjh Maimunah restaurant (1-1.5hrs)
Credit: @hjhmaimunahrestaurant on Instagram
After conquering two museums, we know you’re going to be hungry. That’s why Hjh Maimunah’s (pronounced Hajjah Maimunah) is the perfect lunch stop. The eatery serves up a huge menu of local kampung (traditional village) favourites throughout the day – and many of the dishes are inspired by Indonesian cuisine too!
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Hjh Maimunah is famous for its nasi padang (steamed rice with various dishes) that is served throughout the day. ? With a wide variety of dishes available, it’s definitely a more affordable alternative compared to the other cafes and restaurants scattered around the area.
Credit: @hjhmaimunahrestaurant on Instagram
Once you’ve gotten your food, make sure to tuck in and eat it before it’s hot. Hjh Maimunah’s is often touted as one of the best Malay food in the country, and we can definitely understand why. Their signature siput sedut lemak (needle snails in coconut gravy) and beef rendang will keep you wanting more – and their assortment of traditional kuih and desserts will be the perfect end to the meal!
#HHWT Tip: If you’re visiting during weekend afternoons make your way over to Baghdad street nearby once you’re done!
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Contact: +65 6297 4294 or email hjh [dot] maimunah [at] gmail [dot] com
Opening Hours: 7am-8pm Mon-Sat
Address: 11 & 15 Jalan Pisang, Singapore 199078 Website | Facebook | Instagram
Shake off that post-lunch ‘food coma’ with a visit to Wardah Books (1-1.5hrs)
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If you’re done with lunch but not ready to brave the heat again just yet, pop into Wardah Books which is a small bookstore along Bussorah Street that specializes in books for Muslim readers. The bookstore stocks books on a wide range of topics including Sufism, Islamic history and philosophy, and Singapore literature. They even have a whole shelf dedicated to children’s books about Islam!
Wardah Books’ own philosophy revolves around being able to step into a bookstore and browse to give your mind a break from a busy day. So don’t be afraid to explore their collections which are all laid out on the shelves waiting for you. You might even see some books that you can’t find in their online catalogue ? (And yes that’s a deliberate choice, so keep your eyes wide open for these hidden gems!) Contact: +65 6297 1232 Opening Hours: 10am-9pm (Mon-Sat), 10am-6pm (Sun) Address: 58 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199474 Website | Facebook | Instagram
Take refuge from the heat and grab a snack at Mother Dough Bakery (15-45mins)
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Tucked away in a shophouse behind Masjid Sultan is one of Singapore’s latest artisanal bakeries. Mother Dough Bakery only opened its doors mid-2018 but it’s already known for its fresh bakes and coffee which are made daily ? If you’re aiming to buy their fresh bread or baguettes (which start selling at 1pm) make sure to get there early! It’s common for both the pastries and bread to sell out by 5pm some days!
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One of the must-buy items at Mother Dough is definitely their croissant. Coming in three versions – plain, almond, and chocolate – the flaky exterior and chewy layers make this an absolutely delicious snack that will fill you up too ? Get a cup of coffee to go along with it, and you’re set for a teatime treat!
Halal status: Muslim-owned
Contact: +65 6909 6604
Opening Hours: They change it monthly so check it out here! Instagram
Address: 749 North Bridge Road, #01-01, Singapore 198717 Website | Facebook | Instagram
BONUS: Catch the show of your dreams at the National Stadium!
If you’re a #Socialiser who’s a big fan of live shows and performances, you’re in luck! There’s almost always something going on at the National Stadium. The Stadium hosts everything from basketball matches to pop concerts, and the enthusiastic atmosphere of the crowd is sure to turn any event into a memory you won’t forget! ? Address: 1 Stadium Dr, Singapore 397629
Itinerary 2: Get Your Heart Pumping With A Fun-Filled Day Out
If you’re an #ActionSeeker-type daredevil that just wants to be outdoors and scream your lungs out from excitement, then this itinerary for a day out on Sentosa island is perfect for you!
Wake yourself up bright-and-early at the Skyline Luge (15-30mins)
Wake yourself up with a visit to the Skyline Luge that’s a thrilling activity for all ages. The best part of the Luge is that it’s a gravity ride – meaning it’s the rider who gets to control how fast they descend! So if you’re raring to go and you can’t wait for the rest to catch up, you can definitely fly down the track with no hesitation.
P.S. All Luge tickets include a Skyride up to the start of the tracks, which gives you the chance to see the lush Sentosa greenery from a rare birds-eye-view. if it’s hot out though, try not to get the sun in your eyes!
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The Luge has 4 tracks to choose from that zoom through Sentosa’s rainforest, each of which are full of their own unique combination of hairpin turns and long straight paths. This is definitely one unique way to see the greenery of the island, and by the time you reach the bottom of the track, we’ll guarantee that you’ll be wide awake. ? Contact: +65 6274 0472 or email sentosa [at] skylineluge [dot] com Opening Hours: 10am-9.30pm daily (last ride 9.15pm, subject to weather conditions) Price: $23.50/person onwards (adults depending on combo package, family combo prices available on the website) Address: 45 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, Singapore Website | Facebook | Instagram
Chase excitement at the AJ Hackett Bungy (45mins-1hr)
Once you’ve caught your breath from the trip down the Luge, it’s time to take a short walk (only 5 mins!) over to the AJ Hackett Bungy to get your energy levels back up. The attraction is the AJ Hackett brand’s only bungy in Southeast Asia and stands at an impressive 50 metres above the beach. If you’re able to keep your eyes open, you’ll be able to see the sand and the sea – and maybe a few curious onlookers waiting to see you jump!
All of AJ Hackett’s Jump crew are trained and accredited, and regularly attend refresher courses on safety standards, and their equipment is all site-specific and certified before use so you’ll be in perfectly safe hands. Did you know that AJ Hackett was one of the co-developers of the international standards for bungy jumping? That’s how you know they’re dedicated to safety for all of their jumpers!
Bungy jumping is definitely one of the most exciting things to do while on Sentosa – there’s nothing else that comes close to the feeling of the wind in your face, or the sheer thrill as you fall! Plus it gives you a chance to scream your worries away so you’ll feel like you’re still on the top of your world once you’re done ? Contact: +65 6911 3070 or email sentosa [dot] info [at] ajhackett [dot] com Opening Hours: 10am registration opens, 11.30am-7pm jump time (Sun-Thurs); 10am registration opens, 11.30am-9pm jump time (Fri, Sat, and public holidays) Price: $159 per person Address: 30 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, Singapore 099011 Website | Facebook | Instagram
Squeeze in 1 last thrill before lunch at the Mega Adventure Zip (20-45mins)
That’s right! There’s still time for one last thrill ride before lunch, and it’s none other than the world famous MegaZip! The MegaZip is 75 metres high and 450 metres long, and the best thing about it is that there are three wires running parallel to each other. So you can challenge your friends and family to go down the course with you and see who screams the loudest.
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Where else can you get a view this gorgeous? Even though you’ll be zooming down the wire at speeds of up to 60kph(!), you can always take the time to admire the view from up there. It’s not one that anyone apart from bold Explorers get to see, and it’ll definitely be a memory from your trip you won’t forget any time soon ?
#HHWT Tip: Make sure to wear shoes that won’t fall off while you’re on this ride! This means that slippers and sandals aren’t a good idea, but sports shoes and lace-up sneakers are totally fine.
Contact: +65 3163 4394 Opening Hours: 11am-7pm daily Price: $50 for a single flight (packages available) Address: 10A Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, Singapore 099008 Website | Facebook | Instagram
Take a break for lunch at Good Old Days (1-1.5hrs)
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, drop by the Good Old Days restaurant to recharge with a meal showing off the best of local fare. ? The restaurant dishes out a wide range of local cuisines for every palate and even has desserts options available to satisfy your sweet tooth. P.S. Make sure to take a closer look at the decor hanging on the wall, which includes photographs of Singapore from years ago!
Make sure to get their signature Hainanese Chicken Rice for an authentic taste of Singapore’s #Foodie scene. It’s difficult to find halal versions of their Chinese Double Boiled Black Chicken Soup and fusion Hainanese Chicken Chop elsewhere, so don’t miss your chance to try something completely new and exciting!
Halal status: Halal-certified
Reservations/Contact: +65 6377 9688 (10.30am-7pm daily)
Opening Hours: 11am-10pm daily (ala carte, last order 9pm)
Address: 60 Siloso Beach Walk, 098997 Website
Push your limits on the rollercoasters at Universal Studios Singapore (USS)
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It’s impossible to visit Sentosa and not spend any time at Universal Studios Singapore. You could easily spend a whole day here on your own, and the theme park will not disappoint you with its multitude of hair-raising rollercoasters and enthusiastic performances.
#HHWT Tip: If you’re planning to spend your day here, you won’t have to worry about missing your prayers. There’s a prayer space right in USS itself, near the Battlestar Galactica ride! Prayer mats and wudhu (ablution) areas are provided, but remember to bring your own prayer garments.
One of the first things you have to do once you enter is to take a photo with the mascots running about. You can only ‘meet’ your favourite characters from Despicable Me, Shrek, and many other popular movies here at USS so don’t miss out on this rare chance! Contact: enquiries.rwsentosa.com, or through their website
Opening Hours: 10am-9pm (subject to change, available on their website)
Price: Varies according to peak/off-peak periods
Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa, Singapore 098269 Website
Looks like the myth that Singapore is boring or ‘just’ a shopper’s paradise doesn’t tell you anything about the variety of activities you can actually indulge in! Even if you only have 24 hours to spend Singapore, there’s always something waiting just for you. ? Don’t stop at finding out what you can do when you visit, but what you can be when you are here. Because Singapore is where passion and possibilities meet #PassionMadePossible. This article is brought to you by the Singapore Tourism Board.