Overview: Our trip kicked off with a walking tour of Singapore, exploring some of the city’s most iconic sights while learning about its fascinating history. Our guide talked us through the area’s past, going as far back as the 13th century, from its origins as Temasek, a significant trading post, to Sir Stamford Raffles establishing Singapore as a British trading port in 1819.

Strolling along the Fullerton Promenade, we were treated to spectacular views of the Singapore River, Marina Bay, the Merlion, and the city skyline. As we explored further, we also visited temples, mosques, and traditional shophouses. Singapore offers incredible diversity, and exploring as part of a guided tour meant we were able to truly take it all in.

Highlight: Getting lost among the small streets of Kampong Gelam, my new favourite area in the city. I loved the variety on show, from vibrant street art and trendy coffee shops to traditional landmarks and long-established businesses. The area is a true melting pot of cultures, with an intriguing blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences coming together to create a lively, colourful atmosphere. 

After a first day filled with history and urban adventure, our second day offered the chance to explore some of Singapore’s remarkable nature. Despite its dense skyline, nearly half of the island covered in greenery.

Our morning began at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, where we learned about Singapore’s national flower, the orchid, and marvelled at the thousands of species on display in the National Orchid Garden. It was the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a peaceful few hours surrounded by nature.

Interesting Fact: Singapore Botanic Gardens is the first and only tropical botanic garden in the world to earn UNESCO World Heritage status.

Our final day took us to Sentosa, an island escape often known only for attractions such as Universal Studios, but there is so much more to discover. Sentosa is home to scenic coastal walks and trails, landscaped gardens, and hidden beaches. With a strong emphasis on wellness, the island offers a wide range of activities, from kayaking or paddleboarding along the coast to enjoying a sunset stroll along one of the many boardwalks.

While on the island, we visited the stunning 5★+ Capella Singapore. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat with stylish rooms and excellent family suites. It is a fantastic choice for visitors seeking relaxation, natural beauty, and sophisticated service.

Top Tip: Sentosa is conveniently accessible from the mainland via regular bus services and the MRT, making it easy to move between the city’s vibrant attractions and the island’s more relaxed, beachside setting. For second-time visitors or those looking for a slower pace, Sentosa provides a refreshing alternative to the urban buzz.

Interesting Fact: Despite being a major tourist destination, 70% of Sentosa is covered by secondary rainforest, home to diverse flora and fauna, including monitor lizards, peacocks, birds, and monkeys.

After a fantastic trip, our time in Singapore had come to an end, and we made our way to Changi Airport for our flight back to London. Consistently ranked as one of the world’s best airports, Changi did not disappoint. The airport offers visitors an incredible experience, with amazing shops, restaurants, and water features - it is truly a destination in its own right. We were amazed at how much there was to do even before entering the terminal.

Top Tip: Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare to fully enjoy everything Changi has to offer.

Highlight: The Jewel of Changi is an absolute must-see. At its heart is the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, surrounded by lush indoor gardens. In the evening, the waterfall comes alive with a spectacular light and sound show, where vibrant lights dance across the cascading water in sync with music. The Jewel is not just a transit point but a memorable part of your Singapore experience. It's worth noting that Jewel at Changi is landside at the airport, so you'll need to pass through Singapore immigration if you're wanting to see this on a layover between flights.

Singapore is a destination that offers so much more than just a stopover. You could spend a full week here and still barely scratch the surface. A city of contrast and discovery, Singapore blends modern skyscrapers with lush green spaces, vibrant culture, and incredible food. From exploring historic streets and temples to relaxing on Sentosa’s beaches, Singapore offers a diverse range of experiences sure to delight every visitor.

Efficient, welcoming, and endlessly fascinating, Singapore proved to be a destination truly worth experiencing.