Must-Do's in Singapore: 10 Unforgettable Experiences

As Singapore celebrates its 58th National Day on August 9th, we are excited to present a comprehensive guide to the Lion City's most captivating experiences. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this article will unveil the top 10 must-do activities that will leave you with lasting memories.

1. Marvel at the Gardens by the Bay

Adorned with futuristic Supertrees and enchanting floral displays, Gardens by the Bay is a horticultural paradise spanning 101 hectares. Explore the Flower Dome, housing the world's largest glass greenhouse, and the Cloud Forest, a vertical garden with a breathtaking 35-meter waterfall. Visitors can also take a refreshing stroll along the Bay East Garden, which offers panoramic views of the Marina Bay skyline.

2. Ascend the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

Perched atop the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the SkyPark provides unobstructed views of Singapore's cityscape from an astounding height of 200 meters. Step out onto the observation deck and feel the adrenaline rush as you gaze upon the vibrant cityscape, including landmarks like the Singapore Flyer and Gardens by the Bay.

3. Explore Sentosa Island

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city on Sentosa Island, a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, lush greenery, and thrilling attractions. Bask in the sun at Siloso Beach, take a cable car ride to Mount Faber, or embark on an educational journey at SEA Aquarium, home to over 100,000 marine creatures.

4. Discover Chinatown Heritage

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Singapore's Chinatown, the largest historic district in Asia. Explore the vibrant streets lined with traditional shophouses, visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, or savor authentic Chinese cuisine at the Maxwell Food Centre.

5. Experience the Night Safari

Embark on a captivating nocturnal adventure at the Night Safari, the world's first nocturnal zoo. Witness the fascinating behavior of over 1,000 animals from 135 species, including lions, tigers, and elephants. Take a guided tram ride or embark on a walking trail to observe these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.

6. Visit the Singapore Zoo

Rated as one of the world's best zoos, the Singapore Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals from 380 species. The zoo boasts innovative exhibits such as the Fragile Forest, where visitors can walk alongside and interact with critically endangered primates. Don't miss the iconic orangutan enclosure, where you can observe these playful and intelligent animals up close.

7. Shop at Orchard Road

Indulge in a shopping spree along Orchard Road, Singapore's renowned shopping paradise. This bustling thoroughfare is lined with luxury stores, designer boutiques, and local brands. From international fashion labels to electronics and souvenirs, Orchard Road has something for every shopper.

8. Explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens

Stroll through the serene landscapes of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With over 10,000 species of plants, this lush oasis offers a tranquil escape from the city. Admire the grandeur of the National Orchid Garden, home to over 2,000 species of orchids, or visit the Ethnobotany Garden to learn about the medicinal and cultural uses of plants.

9. Walk the Helix Bridge

Connect the Marina Bay area to the Central Business District via the Helix Bridge, an architectural marvel designed to resemble the molecular structure of DNA. The bridge's unique form and vibrant lighting make it an iconic landmark that offers stunning views of the surrounding cityscape.

10. Embark on a Duck Tour

Combine sightseeing and entertainment on a quirky Duck Tour. These amphibious vehicles take you on a guided tour of the city, both on land and water. Explore the historical landmarks of the Civic District, then splash into the Singapore River for a unique perspective of the city's skyscrapers.

Tables

| Table 1: Key Facts about Singapore |
|---|---|
| Population | 5.8 million |
| Area | 728.6 km² |
| GDP | US$524.3 billion |
| Human Development Index | 0.961 (very high) |

| Table 2: Must-Do Activities in Singapore |
|---|---|
| Gardens by the Bay | Marina Bay Sands SkyPark |
| Sentosa Island | Chinatown Heritage |
| Night Safari | Singapore Zoo |
| Orchard Road | Singapore Botanic Gardens |
| Helix Bridge | Duck Tour |

| Table 3: Pros and Cons of Visiting Singapore |
|---|---|
| Pros | Cons |
| Clean and safe city | High cost of living |
| Excellent public transportation | Crowded during peak hours |
| World-class cuisine | Limited green spaces |

| Table 4: Estimated Expenses for a Week in Singapore |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | US$500-1,000 |
| Food and drinks | US$200-500 |
| Attractions and activities | US$100-300 |
| Transportation | US$100-200 |
| Total | US$900-2,000 |