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Travel like a local: Five lesser-known spots in Singapore
When Gloucestershire travel-writer, broadcaster and long-time friend of Holiday Architects, Mark Cummings, heads off on his travels, he rarely does so without picking the brains of our Destination Managers first.Over the years, Mark has used our team's first-hand knowledge to uncover experiences he might otherwise have missed – everything from tucked-away neighbourhoods in Japan to local favourites in Singapore. After putting Fenton and Emma's recommendations to the test in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, it was Ian and Erin's turn to help him make the most of a short stopover in Singapore.The result was a trip packed with memorable moments, brilliant food and a few clever money-saving discoveries along the way. Below, Mark shares the insider tips that helped him see a different side of Singapore and make every minute count.
Last year, thanks to the Holiday Architects team, I discovered hidden corners and secret gems across Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka – experiences I’ll never forget. After Fenton and Emma’s fantastic tips in Japan, it was time for Ian and Erin’s insider knowledge to make my short stay in Singapore truly special.Singapore is a city that feels safe, vibrant and full of joy, and it’s the perfect stopover on the way to Australia. My first visit was back in 1991, when I had hardly any money, very little time, and a basic room at the YMCA hostel. On my recent return, I was determined to see as much as possible.With the help of my friends at Holiday Architects, I managed to make the most of every moment. Here are the five top tips they shared with me to help you squeeze every last drop out of this invigorating city.
Arrive at Marina Barrage about an hour before sunset, picnic in hand, and you’ll find yourself among locals flying colourful kites, sharing food and enjoying a glass of wine. The atmosphere is truly magical, and as the sun dips below the skyline, you’ll have the best seat in town for those iconic Singapore views.Many people part with a fair few Singapore dollars to visit the top of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel and snap that iconic sunset photo. But, by doing this, they miss out on the skyline highlight you need for that perfect ‘Singapore’ photo… the Marina Bay Sands Hotel itself.
Singapore Skyline from Marina Barrage (Taken by Mark)
I wandered around this magnificent, lush, surprising park in light drizzle and loved every minute of it. It rains quite a lot in Singapore, but there are plenty of building overhangs to shelter beneath. This park is where Sir Stamford Raffles built his residence, surrounded by a rich variety of themed gardens and colonial-era military remnants.You can easily spend a couple of hours here, and it’s just a short stroll from the heart of the city.
Singapore Skyline from Marina Barrage
Imagine all your favourite street food trucks gathered under one roof, all competing for your attention. Singapore’s Hawker markets are just that, a truly intoxicating feast for the eyes and the belly.The term “hawker” relates to vendors who “hawked” their wares by calling out to customers. The government relocated street vendors into purpose-built, clean, organised hawker centres back in the 1960s.My favourite was Lau Pa Sat, where I gorged on duck, chicken and veggie dishes each night. A full meal cost about £4, however, a pint of cool, refreshing beer to wash it all down was double that.
Lau Pa Sat hawker market, Singapore
Is it true that you have to queue for hours to get a seat at the famous Raffles Long Bar? No, not if you know when to go.The best time is Monday to Wednesday. Arriving just before opening time at 11am is a good idea, or go before the evening rush. I arrived around 3:30pm and only waited about 15 minutes.Once comfy at the bar you can enjoy a Singapore Sling, munch on the free peanuts and, as tradition dictates, sweep the empty shells onto the floor. Enjoy walking around the whole building, spend time in the Raffles Courtyard and consider indulging in an extra drink in the Lantern Bar or the Writers Bar.
Singapore Sling and peanuts at Raffles (photos by Mark)
Gardens by the Bay (photo by Mark)
This is where you can really stretch a short Singapore stopover.Walk and use public transport.Everywhere I travel, I walk as well as using public transport. It saves money and gives me a deeper connection with the place. Singapore is perfect for this: the streets are very safe, the buses are prompt and the metro is superb.Escape the crowds.If you fancy a mooch away from the tourist trail, try the leafy lanes around Duxton Hill for boho shops, peaceful coffee spots and characterful bars. Just off the bustling Orchard Road you’ll find a similar vibe on Emerald Hill.Gardens by the Bay… so good I went twice.Take a couple of hours to explore the stunning Gardens by the Bay during the day, then return in the evening for the free light show, which is genuinely impressive.Marina Bay Sands views.For panoramic views from the top of Marina Bay Sands Hotel, head to Tower 1 and take the lift up to the Lavo Italian Restaurant and Rooftop Bar on the 57th floor. Step out, walk past the restaurant entrance and you’ll find the viewing platform. The views are absolutely spectacular. Whether you decide to spend the minimum $30 in the restaurant or simply take in the sights and head back down is entirely up to you.Final money-saving tip.If you want that classic photo with a Singapore Sling at the Raffles Long Bar but don’t fancy paying £25, go for the non-alcoholic version instead – it’s about half the price.
Singapore may be compact, but as Mark discovered, it's packed with experiences left, right and centre, if you know where to look. Whether you're stopping over en route to somewhere further afield, or building it into a wider Southeast Asia adventure, a little local knowledge always goes a long way.A huge thank you to Mark for sharing his experiences and putting Erin and Ian’s recommendations to the test. If you've enjoyed reading his travel stories, you might also like his new book, which beautifully captures his love for his (and our!) home county, Gloucestershire. And if you're thinking about a trip to Singapore yourself, Ian and Erin would be delighted to help you uncover a few favourite spots of your own.
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