Sorting Out Singapore: 2-1/2 Day Intinerary
 

I am trying to figure out the best use of time for our visit to Singapore in July. We are staying at the Intercontinental (Club Floor). Here is my take on what might work (please read the notes at the end of this post):

Sunday afternoon (flight arrives late morning):
Asian Civilizations Museum 2 PM tour
Raffles Hotel/St Andrews Cathedral/Huan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple
Dinner where? (want to do one hawker center and one good restaurant)
Night Safari

Monday:
Botanic/orchid gardens
Tanglin Shopping Center
Another museum (Peranakan, Modern Art or National)?
Chinatown (temples, Chinatown complex)
Dinner where? (want to do one hawker center and one good restaurant)

Tuesday:
Singapore Zoo
Little India/Mustafa Centre
Another museum (Peranakan, Modern Art or National)?
Dinner at hotel (hors on club floor - very early am departure)

I'm thinking it might be nice to squeeze in a 30 minute river cruise from Clarke's Quay (rhkkmk did this) at some point and do the Singapore Flyer at sunset.

For scheduling purposes, note that we usually return to the hotel for cocktails before going out to dinner and other activities. We snack during the day but we do not normally eat at a restaurant at lunchtime as breakfasts tend to be huge.

I know that the zoo and the night safari are next to each other but the zoo closes at 6 pm and the night safari opens at 7:30 pm. I also know that there is a restaurant open for dinner before the night safari but I'm not sure I would want to eat out there with so many other options.

For what it's worth, we will have spent 10 days in Kuching, Langkawi and Penang, Malaysia prior to staying in Singapore so not really looking to take in a lot more Malaysian culture, unless it's something truly unique.

Raffles though expensive is great for Lunch or dinner. Their Chinese restaurant is one of the best. Though Little India is talked about by all I was somewhat disappointed. That does not mean not to go but 1 hour is enough to see most of what you went there for. Chinatown is not very much if you have been to Chinatown in KL or in US in SF or NY. If not 30 minutes+ is really enough. The Clarke's was not a highlight and I would take a pass.The balance of your plans are really the highlights and all worth going to, in my opinion. The new casino that opened 1 year ago is really worth a visit even if you do not gamble. It is an excercise in opulance that is unless you have been to Las Vegas. It is a "gas" and after dinner we enjoyed it for an hour plus. You will find taxi's are not inexpensive but car rentals are not an option and public transportation though doable will really take 2 hours more out of each day expecially for those things like the zoo.
We foound the Peranaken and Modern art Museum worth going to but several friends told us to take a pass on the National. ENJOY.

Craig-

Random thoughts on your plans:

It's a tough choice whether to go to the Zoo and Safari at the same time. On one hand, it's a long ride to get out there. On the other, It is going to be crazy hot at the zoo in July, and if you try to do both, you may just be too hot and tired to enjoy the Safari.

Singapore zoo is one of my favorite zoos anywhere, but when we went in "cool" November we really had to pace ourselves at the Zoo. It was humid and there was absolutely no breeze. Since you'll be going to the Night Safari (again, a great place to go), you can decide if you are up to going back to the zoo on Tuesday. The food at the Night Safari is expensive and not worth eating. There is some decent food in the Zoo, but IIRC they close before the zoo does.

Singapore Flyer at sunset was a lot of fun. Another, similar option, is to go up to the top of the Marina Bay Sands in time for sunset. The views of the city, the ships out in the ocean, and looking down on the Flyer are fantastic, especially as the sun sinks and the city lights up. We got some fabulous photos, even with our tiny camera. There is a restaurant up there. Menus looked good, though very pricey. I would have stopped for a drink if we hadn't had dinner plans. If you do this, go a bit early, as you have to stand in line for elevator tickets.

I see you have the Orchid garden & botanic gardens first on your list on Monday. I grow orchids, so this is one of my favorite activities in Singapore. The gardens were at full bloom in June, so I'm thinking July should still be fantastic. (Early October and early November were not nearly as impressive). Go as early as possible to avoid the heat, plus it's fun to see all the activity in the park during the early hours.

When I was in S'pore in November, they had started a new cab policy in the city. Cabs can not pull over and pick up fares, so don't bother trying to hail one. You either need to find, then wait in a queue or call for a pick-up. There is a surcharge for calling a cab, but a least you'll not need to wait in what can be very long lines. Luckily there is a queue in front of the IC, but many times cabs will drop off, then go away empty to pick up a call in customer. One night we had to wait nearly 30 minutes in front of the IC. Nearly missed our dinner reservations!

It was a mess every time we went to get a cab, but many people said they thought the policy was an experiment. Maybe it has changed.

Straits Kitchen, at the Hyatt has a wonderful restaurant. it is priced like a buffet ($40?) but is set up like a hawker center in a 5 star hotel. Each station represents one type of cuisine (Malay, Indian, Indian, chinese, etc). They will cook up a dish for you, or in some cases you assemble your own. The food is terrific in a lovely setting with AC, bar drinks and great service. It is really a nice spot to get a taste of everything! Reservations needed.

Craig,

We will stop by Singapore for a night on our way down to Borobudur. Contemplating staying at the new Marina Bay Sands but it's sure hard to beat the Bob's rate for the IC. Check it out on the web perhaps you and Jean might like it.

Plus if you stay at the Marina Bay sands, you not only get to go up on the roof for free, you get to swim in the infinity pool!

Have been to Singapore many times and each time I find myself at Newton Circus, which is probably the most well known hawker centre. Last year when I was in Singapore I'd been to La Pa Sat and would definitely recommmend the complex for an evening meal, there's even a section with numerous satay vendors.

I like the Botanical Gardens early in the morning, just before dawn (around 6ish). It's so jungly and atmospheric.

I don't think I've ever been to the Singapore zoo, but I LOVE the Night Safari, the later the better. Be sure to get off the tram and walk around.

I'm also very fond of the Bird Park.

I always seem to end up at Newton Circus food court and it doesn't disappoint.

New restaurants are opening (and closing) all the time. If you don't mind a splurge Iggy's is renowned (but very pricy). Guntur's too for fine dining (also pricy). I also like Halia in the Botanical Gardens and Graze in Rochester Park. Rochester Park is a bit of a schlepp but the restaurant is charming.

Drinks at the Longbar at Raffles.

we loved the hop on hop off bus for a general overview of the city... there is a stop directly opposite the hotel...

there is a lovely little sandwich shop in raffles that is fantastic for lunch... when we were there they only allowed residents to enter the lobby.... go for a $29 sinapore sling in the long bar...

the orchids are to die for in the garden park...

I was dragged into Raffles for the Spore Sling, and prepared to hate it. The drink and the experience were worth the very steep price!

Thanks for all of the responses. We love zoos so the zoo is on the list but probably not with the night safari based on the feedback here. We already have prepaid, nonrefundable reservations at the IC. The taxi situation is a bit disturbing - hopefully we can easily call or have the concierge call and bypass any waiting time? Looks like we're going to have to suck it up and drop the big bucks for the Spore Sling. I note that there were 2 votes for the Newton Food Court and I am intrigued by lcuy's reco (which I have seen before) for the Hyatt Strait's Kitchen. Sunset from the MBS could be an option - I assume this is the casino that StanKase is referring to? With Jeane's orchid hobby, the Botanical Gardens is a no-brainer. Pook - maybe we can hook up in Singapore in July?

we had no trouble with taxis at all

It looks like you've outlined a great time for yourselves in SIngapore.

I'm not a fan of the Singapore Sling, but I'd recommend a meal at Raffles. We love Doc Cheng's. Get one of the charming curtained booths. The food was excellent as was the service and the ambiance is just great. You might want to eat there Sunday evening, since you'll be in the area. Have the hotel concierge call and get reservations for you.

Jeane will love the orchid gardens. It is the largest display orchid garden in the world. Years ago, I was able to arrange a visit to a commercial orchid garden in Singapore. It was interesting to see the orchids they grow for cut flowers, and they had a display garden of unusual varieties.

We mostly use the MRT for getting around Singapore, though there are a few places where you'll need a taxi.

Craig- don't worry about the taxis..it isn't really a big problem. I think the rules about hailing cabs had just changed when we were there in November. From this page, I see it is only in the central bus district:

http://www.taxisingapore.com/taxi-stands/

Figuring out fares is really hard. there are surcharges for rush hour, surcharges for the evening, a higher surcharge after midnight, etc.

The IC though is right on top of the Bugis MRT station.

Straits kitchen was featured on Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations" a few years back.

The casino is across the street from the building that has the view decks and pool on top. You have to have your passports to get in to the casino. On the same side of the street as the casino is a very upscale shopping center. Supervise Jeane very carefully here!

We will be going in a couple of weeks time but July is always a possibility as well. If we are there at the same time we would be happy to see you guys there!

We are chili crab people and will let you know if we find something new and good.

Oh its a shame you will miss out on the night Safari, I have been a couple of times and thought it was a great ( if a bit cheesy) experience. Although I am not going in that bat enclosure again!!!!
I am going back to Singapore in August so be interested in your trip report.

I also loved the Botanical gardens first thing in the morning, so lovely to stroll around. Maybe check out Dempsey road warehouses after that as they have some interesting furniture shops/antique places.....( I bought a fab price from Shang Antiques - although that was a few years ago now)

We're not planning on missing the night safari. Will try to get to the Botanical gardens early.

Craig; Yes, it is the Sand's. It is a wonderment of neon, glitz done extremely well. It really is fun. If you gamble just decide before you go how much you are willing to loose and stick to that number.

My friend was telling me (who lives in SP) that you have to pay to go to the top of the Marina bay resort (unless you are staying or dining there)

Craig am planning a short trip to Borneo, I can't remember if you have been there? Got a trip report I should read if you have?

It's $20 to go on top of the Marina Bay Sands. $17 if you are 55 or older. I remember because we were there right after my 55th birthday and it was the first time I ever got a senior discount!

I can tell you Craig it is worth the $20 when you are spending thousands. That is as I said earlier un;less you have been to Las Vegas or Macau..

Have stayed at Raffles, was underwhelmed by the service and teh meals, won't stay there again nor would I return to have a meal there, but do recommend visiting the Long Bar for a Singapore Sling.

Do go to Sand's if possible.

In the hawker stalls, try chilli crab and satay. YUM! And don't forget to drink Tiger Beer.

Isn't it funny about different experiences, we had some of the best service we have ever encountered at Raffles and still remember it fondly. Only ate breakfast so can't really comment on the food, maybe we got lucky or when partyon stayed they were unlucky!

I like the east coast hawker centre, but nothing beats eng sent ( for me) re the black pepper crab!

Whatever you do Craig I am sure you and Jeane will have a fab time and your reporting will be top notch!

Some suggestions:

1) Chinese dim sum restaurant called "Red Star", its very good but go early to avoid long queues (note: do not expect 5* service).

2) 'Old Airport Road Hawker Centre' (accessible via the MRT Circle line) where alot of the local pioneer stalls are located.

3) Sentosa Island (if you have not already visited) is great for a full day out.

4) Zouk Club (Popular club with guest DJs from around the world) > Do try the 'Sour Plum Vodka' & 'Ginseng Vodka' at the wine bar!


People here in Singapore are friendly and you can approach anyone on the street and I'm sure you can get some help.

Taxis are safe but some areas in the City are no-flag-down zones so do keep a lookout for taxi stands.

I'm sure you'll have a good time in Singapore!

Oh and I'd avoid Tanglin Shopping Centre as there is nothing much in the building. I'd recommend a visit to Ion Orchard instead.

Also do Dempsey (various restaurants with foods ranging from local to italian to dessert joints), its a very nice place to hang out for dinner and drinks/desserts.

I can't imagine you and Jeane wasting your time going to Sentosa!

I haven't been in Tanglin since about 3 years ago, but there were some really nice antique shops at that time. I still regret not buying a piece I saw there.

Jeane is into more furniture (antique or otherwise) and I'm not sure if there is anywhere else on our itinerary where she can shop for that...

Always looking for recommendations: Kuching, Langkawi, Penang or Singapore.

Furniture? How about Dempsey Road?

Dempsey road is so great for furniture and I too regret not buying a price in Tangling .
Craig I have a small list ref Penang did I send it to you a while back I can't remember? GREAT little gallery/ jewellery shop on Armenian street in Penang

Kathie, Nicky - we'll check out Dempsey Road.

Yes, Nicky - you did send me your list. Thanks again.

Okay, trying to sort out Marina Bay Sands - I'm trying to keep our visit simple - this place is huge with tons of restaurants, etc. Do we want to bother to have dinner there? If so, where? Or otherwise, just pay the $20 to get to the viewing platform at sunset? We don't gamble at all so no desire to spend time at the casino. I would never stay at this place - it's too big, like a cruise ship as one tripadvisor reviewer noted...

Craig,

We leave for Singapore tomorrow and I almost booked a room at the Sands but then I got a room at the Four Seasons for 1/2 the price with breakfast - hard to beat! However, we will visit the Sands and let you know our opinion of the mall and the roof but will probably dine somewhere else nearby, perhaps at "No Signboard" seafood restaurant.

Pook, I need your help in convincing Maeng that she would like Singapore! We are going out of Thailand for a few days, probably around the 25th of this month, but have no tickets or plans just yet. I'd love to see S'pore. I would also enjoy Penang, I think.

Carol,

I think it's a very easy destination for Thais to travel to, short flying time but a bit expensive for hotels and food. The thing that might entice Maeng is perhaps the food there. Multi cultural and I'm sure she can pick up a few things for her own cooking.

Great! I'll tell her! I can get the hotel w/Marriott points, hopefully, so not a biggie.

IMHO Newton Circus is over-rated and is rather more for tourists and late suppers due to the proximity from the Orchard Road night spots. There's some decent food. If you decide to visit make particularly at the seafood bbq stalls make sure you ask for the prices.

I would prefer the Old Airport food centre as mentioned by disillusioned. It's near the Mountbatten and Dakota stations along the Circle line.

For dinner you've mentioned one good hawker center and one good restaurant. On one evening I think most folks would only be able to handle one. Usually locals when going for meals in groups/families at hawker centers would order food from different stalls for sharing at the table.

There's lots of info on restaurants and hawker centres here.
If you have questions you can pose them in the forum.

http://ieatishootipost.sg/