The crisp air of a Melbourne autumn in May had me yearning for a dose of tropical sunshine. When I stumbled upon a special Qantas A380 flight from Melbourne to Singapore and realized I hadn't properly explored the Lion City before (beyond a brief, unfortunate medical stopover a decade prior at Mount Elizabeth Hospital), a flight-plus-hotel package with Qantas Holidays seemed like the perfect antidote. Aside from a transit or two, Singapore remained an unexplored gem for me.
The allure was further sweetened by a platinum member bonus: 15,000 Qantas Points for bookings exceeding AUD 1,000. This package, encompassing return flights and two nights at JEN Singapore Tanglin by Shangri-La, clocked in at a reasonable AUD 1173.5. Factor in the 10,400 points earned from the flights, and for just around a thousand dollars, I not only got my impromptu getaway but also a delightful bonus of over 20,000 points – a fantastic value!
Day 1 Land On Singapore
Touching down in Singapore around 6 PM, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale and architectural beauty of Changi Airport. I knew then that dedicated airport exploration would have to be a mission for another day. The seamless connectivity of Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (SMRT) beckoned. With a simple tap of my credit card, I navigated the efficient metro system from the airport towards my accommodation.
An hour later, I arrived at JEN Singapore Tanglin by Shangri-La, conveniently located across from the Orchard Boulevard Station. Check-in was swift, and I soon found myself in my spacious and well-lit Superior Room with a king bed. The thoughtful inclusion of a sofa by the window was a lovely touch, and the readily available amenities, including dental kits and slippers, added to the comfort. Housekeeping ensured everything was spotless and replenished daily – a truly pleasant stay.
My stomach soon reminded me of its emptiness. My first Singaporean meal had to be Bak Kut Teh ("pork bone tea"), and a quick search led me to the renowned Song Fa Bak Kut Teh. With multiple outlets scattered across the city, finding one was a breeze.
It's worth noting the distinct difference between Singaporean and Malaysian Bak Kut Teh. The Singaporean version boasts a lighter-colored, intensely peppery broth that can pack a bit of a spicy punch. In contrast, the Malaysian rendition is typically darker and more herbal. I opted for the classic pork ribs soup, and it was an absolute delight. The broth was rich and deeply flavorful, perfectly warming my belly. The pork ribs were incredibly tender, having absorbed all the deliciousness of the soup. What truly elevated the experience was the attentive staff who constantly roamed with a pot of the hot soup base, offering refills. Needless to say, I indulged in several extra bowls – it was simply too good to resist.
With my savory cravings satisfied, it was the perfect time for a cold dessert to escape the lingering tropical heat. I made my way to O'ma Spoon Korean Dessert Cafe, nestled within 313@Somerset Orchard. The yuzu mango bingsu (shaved ice) proved to be an incredibly refreshing treat. Its delicate sweetness perfectly suited my Asian palate.
Day 2 Exploring The City of Gardens and Iconic Landmarks
Singapore truly is a city that wakes up with the sun, and our second day was greeted by that familiar, comforting tropical warmth – a constant 30 degrees Celsius, perfect for outdoor exploration!
We began our day by diving into the vibrant heart of Chinatown. Wandering down Smith Street, I was immediately captivated by the kaleidoscope of colors and the distinct colonial-style architecture. Amidst the bustling scene, I spotted a familiar name: Killiney Kopitiam. A perfect spot for a classic Singaporean breakfast, I settled in for a sweet kaya toast and a refreshing iced milk tea. The combination of crispy toast, creamy coconut jam, and robust tea was an instant delight – a true taste of local morning rituals.
Fun fact: The Chinese name for Chinatown in Singapore directly translates to "Ox Cart Water." This intriguing name harks back to Singapore's early days when bullock carts were the primary mode of transporting water to the area before a piped water system was established. Imagine the scene centuries ago!
Next, a brief but fascinating detour led me to the Chinatown Complex. This sprawling hub is a treasure trove, brimming with countless stalls selling everything imaginable – clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and a myriad of local wares. It’s a bustling testament to Singaporean everyday life.
But when it comes to food, there's one place that stands supreme: Maxwell Food Centre. This iconic hawker hall is a true culinary melting pot, home to dozens of celebrated local delicacies. Be prepared to share tables; it's always buzzing, filled with an equal mix of curious tourists and discerning locals. My mission here was clear: try the infamous Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice. The fragrant chicken rice was undeniably good, and the chicken itself decent. However, despite its media fanfare and slightly higher price point compared to other stalls, I didn't find the chicken exceptionally tender or smooth to warrant a half-hour queue. Don't get me wrong, it's a solid Hainanese chicken rice, but perhaps not the life-changing experience some proclaim!
Our next major stop was the magnificent Gardens by the Bay. It’s a short MRT ride from Maxwell, but prepare for a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the station to reach the main attractions. The futuristic Supertrees loom in the distance, beckoning you forward.
Our first stop within this botanical wonderland was the Flower Dome.
This incredibly well-decorated and spacious conservatory is a global botanical journey. It's cleverly partitioned into different zones, each representing a distinct region and its unique flora. For instance, I discovered an Australian Garden, where familiar plants from back home thrive in this tropical setting.
The sheer variety of flowers and plants on display was breathtaking, from vibrant reds and oranges to delicate whites and purples. Every corner offered a new visual feast, demonstrating the incredible diversity of plant life from around the world. The attention to detail in creating these distinct environments truly makes you feel transported.
Then, it was on to the Cloud Forest, located within the same complex as the Flower Dome. And I must say, this was arguably the highlight of my visit!
During my visit, the Cloud Forest was themed around Jurassic Park, creating an incredibly immersive experience. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of two towering, long-necked Brachiosauruses standing majestically in front of the colossal 35-meter-tall waterfall. To complete the ambiance, the iconic theme music from Jurassic Park subtly played in the background. It truly felt like stepping into the prehistoric world depicted in the movies!
The cool mist from the waterfall created a refreshing microclimate, perfectly mimicking a high-altitude tropical mountain environment. As you ascend through the dome, you navigate walkways surrounded by lush vegetation, discovering exotic plants and diverse ecosystems. The combination of the stunning natural elements and the playful Jurassic Park theme made it an unforgettable sensory experience. Every turn offered a new perspective, revealing the intricate beauty of this unique man-made ecosystem.
After our captivating Jurassic encounter within the Cloud Forest, I embarked on a leisurely stroll across the expansive Gardens by the Bay. The brilliant sunshine illuminated the iconic Supertrees that dotted the landscape, their impressive structures reaching for the sky. Along the way, a whimsical sight caught my eye – a colossal baby sculpture resting peacefully on the grassy meadow, adding a touch of playful artistry to the natural beauty.
The sun, while glorious, was intense, but thankfully, thoughtful covered pathways provided welcome shade as I made my way across the sprawling gardens.
My destination was Floral Fantasy.
Stepping inside Floral Fantasy, I was immediately enveloped in a delightful Disney-themed wonderland. The air buzzed with the excited squeals of children, and honestly, my own inner child was doing a happy dance! The space was adorned with incredible floral art, meticulously crafted to form classic Disney characters. I spotted Winnie the Pooh, Buzz Lightyear, and many more, all brought to life through vibrant blooms. It was a charming and playful experience, a moment to fully embrace the childlike wonder of it all.
As the afternoon wore on, time was ticking, and a crucial mission remained: to behold the magnificent Merlion! It's practically an unwritten rule – if you haven't seen the Merlion, have you really visited Singapore?
I made it! Arriving at Merlion Park, I was greeted by that quintessential Singaporean vista. The iconic Merlion statue proudly spouted water into the bay, with the elegant Fullerton Hotel to its side and the majestic Marina Bay Sands dominating the skyline in the background. What a landscape! It's a view that truly encapsulates the modernity and beauty of Singapore, a perfect blend of architectural marvels and waterfront charm.
Later that night, it was time for a delightful reunion with friends over dinner at The Dancing Crab.
We shared a generous Cajun Crab Combo, a messy but utterly delicious feast! The restaurant offered the choice of eating directly off the table (which was, of course, covered with disposable paper) or having the seafood served in a container. We opted for the latter, though I can imagine eating straight off the table would be a hilariously fun experience! The seafood was incredibly fresh and bursting with flavor.
Just when we thought the evening couldn't get any more entertaining, the lights suddenly dimmed, and the staff burst into a lively dancing session to some cool beats. It was a fantastic show that added an unexpected layer of fun to our meal. Catching up with my friends in such a vibrant and entertaining setting was truly a memorable way to end the day.
Day 3 Farewell, Singapore (for now!)
Our last day in Singapore began with an early lunch at Hawker's Street @ ION Orchard. This spot offered the delightful chaos and diverse flavors of a traditional hawker center but with the blissful comfort of air-conditioning – a welcome luxury! I browsed the various stalls, from aromatic curry shops to delicate cheong fun (steamed rice roll) vendors. Ultimately, I settled on a bowl of Bak Chor Mee (minced pork noodles) from Famous Eunos Bak Chor Mee. It was a hearty, comforting noodle soup, richly topped with minced pork, dumplings, and meatballs. A drizzle of vinegar over the noodles added that perfect zing. Nothing overly fancy, perhaps, but it was exactly the kind of warming, soulful meal that simply hits the spot.
With my appetite satisfied, it was time for one last Singaporean marvel: Changi Jewel. This massive shopping mall, directly connected to Changi Airport, is an attraction in itself. At its heart lies the stunning Rain Vortex, one of the tallest indoor waterfalls in the world – a truly spectacular sight!
I indulged in some last-minute shopping, picking up some delicious beef jerky from Bee Cheng Hiang (sadly, pork jerky isn't allowed into Australia!) and a decadent box of Laderach chocolate. You could easily get lost exploring this colossal mall; it's designed to be an experience in itself. Thankfully, early check-in services are available, allowing me to drop off my luggage and truly immerse myself in one of the world's best airports for the remainder of the day. I also spent some of my remaining hours exploring the various lounges, the details of which I've covered in other posts.
Singapore, you truly delivered on the tropical escape I craved, packing an incredible amount of culture, nature, and delicious food into just 50 hours. I'll definitely be back for more!
Stay: JEN Singapore Tanglin by Shangri-La(Official/Qantas Hotel)
Dine: Song Fa Bak Kut Teh The Centrepoint(Google Maps)
Dine: O'ma Spoon Korean Dessert Cafe – Authentic Bingsu & Waffles | 313@Somerset Orchard(Google Maps)
Dine: Killiney Kopitiam Smith Street(Google Maps)
Dine: Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice(Google Maps)
Dine: Dancing Crab (Orchard Central)(Google Maps)
Dine: Hawkers' Street @ ION(Google Maps)
0 Comments