Five areas not to miss when exploring Singapore

Wednesday, 22 February 2012 11:51 AM

If you're thinking of booking a break in Singapore, you might be wondering what the city state has to offer. The answer is plenty, whether you want to spend time soaking up local culture, sunbathing or dancing until dawn. Read on to discover five areas worth visiting on a holiday here.

Many people visit Singapore to witness some of the state's rich heritage and culture, and if this is something you want to do, be sure to head into the city centre. You might want to book your accommodation here, as you'll be well placed for getting around as well as visiting some of the location's most fascinating attractions.

There are numerous art centres you can explore in the centre, one of which is the Singapore Art Museum 8Q Sam. Pay a visit and you'll be able to admire the largest collection of south-east Asian art in the world.

Also in the vicinity are various temples, such as Thian Hock Keng - one of the oldest and largest Chinese places of worship in the city. In addition, there's the Sri Srinivasa Perumal temple, which is home to a huge sculpture of the god Vishnu.

Singapore is also well-known for its vast array of shopping centres, so if you want to indulge in a little retail therapy during your stay, you're likely to wonder where you'll find the best shops.

The main retail and entertainment thoroughfare through the area is Orchard Road, along which 22 shopping malls and six department stores are situated.

Jewellery fans should head to the Far East Shopping Centre to browse gold, silver and gemstone jewellery, while those looking to scour boutiques might be happier at Orchard Central. ION Orchard, meanwhile, is a vast centre where you can shop for both designer and high street goods over 600,000 sq ft of retail space. Brands like Topshop and H&M sit beside celebrated names like Prada and Chanel here.

After a busy afternoon of shopping you might decide to spend some time relaxing in natural surroundings, in which case you should make your way to Marina Bay. Numerous developments are being undertaken here to add several green spaces, but a popular spot that is already established is the Sands SkyPark. This 1.2 hectare tropical haven can be found dozens of storeys high in a hotel tower. The garden is open to the public and includes restaurants and an infinity-edged swimming pool, as well as an observation deck, from where you can take in amazing views of the city below.

The Botanic Gardens are also a natural oasis of tranquillity where you can take a walk through rainforest and admire heritage trees and plentiful flowers.

If you want to make the most of Singapore's lovely beaches once you've touched down from your flights, you might decide to make the island of Sentosa your base. This former fishing village is now a popular resort home to many attractions, not least the various beaches to be visited.

Among the most renowned sandy spots is the family-friendly stretch at Palawfffan, and the trendy location of Siloso. You can spend some time relaxing in the sun, or get active with a game of volleyball. You might also want to rent a kayak and head out on to the water.

The island is home to some amazing wildlife and you can get close to pink dolphins during your stay. Alternatively, call in at the oceanarium or pay a visit to the butterfly park.

Top sights to witness in Sentosa include Mount Imbiah, the Images of Singapore museum, the Enchanted Grove of Tembusu and Carlsberg Sky Tower - Asia's tallest observatory tower.

When evening falls, Singapore comes to life, and the city state is fast becoming known for its lively nightlife. Among the top places to soak up the party atmosphere is Orgo on the Esplanade. The Stamford Equinox Complex is also worth calling in at if you want to rub shoulders with a young, fashionable crowd.

Arguably the most famous nightclub in the area is Zouk, which is located on Jiak Kim Street. There are various rooms inside that play different genres of music.

Whether you want to lounge on the beach, dance the night away or soak up some authentic culture, cheap flights to Singapore could see you well on your way to doing all this and more.