There is something for everyone in Singapore.
Past the popular destinations like Orchard Road and Chinatown, Singapore’s different neighborhoods hold lucky finds to make your trip more worthwhile.
See Singapore through the eyes of locals. From heritage tours, retail therapy, gastronomic treats and eccentric discoveries, find the neighborhood that relates to your lifestyle. Immerse yourself with a vibrant, multicultural experience and treat yourself with exciting offerings one can get from the Lion City.
Tiong Bahru
Tiong Bahru, the oldest housing estate in Singapore, has become a swanky lifestyle destination for the hip and trendy, filled with cafes, boutiques, murals and interesting architecture.
Some unique must-tries: Tiong Bahru Bakery, Creamier Handcrafted Ice Cream and Coffee, Monument Lifestyle Retail Cafe. Have dinner and drinks in a cool hole in the wall like Bincho.
Joo Chiat/Katong
For retro aesthetics, the heritage area of Joo Chiat/Katong beckons. Its streets are lined with colorful shophouses reflecting Peranakan culture. But once past the historical façade is a modern Singapore home with contemporary offerings.
Also found in this historical hub are hangouts such as Awfully Chocolate’s premium quality desserts and Chin Mee Confectionary’s traditional kaya and kopi, which has been perfected in the same spot it has been since it opened 40 years ago.
Attaby Collective and Cat Socrates are go-to spots for local artists and offer one-of-a-kind garments, books, trinkets and other finds.
Kampong Gelam
Kampong Gelam has murals and decorated shops along its intimate streets. Take a Vespa Tour and find Sifr Aromatics where a custom scent will be custom-made based on your mood, personality and preferences. Photography buffs will have a good time at the Vintage Camera Museum, while music fans will delight at Curated Records.
The Singapore Tourism Board has released on YouTube the “VicTour Singapore” video series with comedian Victor Anastacio. Each episode explores a different Singaporean neighborhood. Watch out for the finale episode on 29 August and decide which neighborhood is for you.
Log on to go.gov.sg/victoursingapore; www.visitsingapore.com/travel-guide-tips/travel-requirements/; visitsingapore.com. Like www.facebook.com/VisitSingaporePH.