With its lush tropical gardens, vibrant resort island, exotic cultural districts,
and cuisine from around the world that will amaze your taste buds,
Singapore is a place where diverse cultures collide and blend
In the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore captures the world’s attention. Skyscrapers stand shoulder to shoulder with historical buildings, and bustling commercial centers complementing tranquil nature reserves, showcasing a unique urban landscape where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly.
The journey through this garden city begins at Singapore Changi Airport. Flowers and greenery are everywhere, with a 40-meter-high waterfall cascading down, creating a misty atmosphere. Comfortable rest areas are found around. Following the Forest Valley Trail, rows of trees block out the city’s hustle and bustle. The food plaza groups together flavors from around the world. From the fragrant Hainanese chicken rice and Indian curries to delicate French desserts, your taste buds will be extremely satisfied.
Leaving the airport and heading towards the city center, the city skyline gradually comes into view.
Sparkling urban scenery – Marina Bay
Located in the city center, one of Singapore’s most iconic areas, Marina Bay is home to modern architecture and vast green spaces. Strolling along the coastline of Marina Bay, with the breeze on your face, you will find that every corner exudes a unique charm.
Marina Bay Sands
Like a mirage on the edge of Marina Bay, Marina Bay Sands is not just a hotel but a comprehensive resort. Three towering buildings stand side by side, connected at the top by the massive SkyPark. Located on the 57th floor of the hotel, 200 meters above the ground, the SkyPark features an infinity pool, jogging trails, and a viewing deck, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of Singapore’s stunning scenery.
Stepping into the hotel lobby, the high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, marble floors, and exquisite artworks create an atmosphere of luxury and elegance. Looking out from the guest rooms through the floor-to-ceiling windows, you can see ships shuttling on the azure waters, with the cityscape across the bay fully visible. In addition to about 1,850 luxurious guest rooms and suites distributed among the three hotel towers and numerous renowned restaurants, Marina Bay Sands also features a shopping mall, the ArtScience Museum, a casino, and a theater.
As night falls, the entire architectural complex is illuminated by dazzling lights. Marina Bay Sands also regularly hosts various events, such as light and water shows, bringing a double feast for the eyes and ears.
Gardens by the Bay
Integrating nature and technology, Gardens by the Bay has created astonishing plant wonders. The first thing that catches the eye is the 18 Solar Supertrees. These huge tree-like structures not only form a vertical garden but also have the functions of collecting rainwater, generating solar energy, and serving as ventilation ducts for the greenhouses, achieving both aesthetics and environmental protection functions. The Supertrees are connected by skywalks, and walking on them allows you to slowly enjoy the beauty of the garden. The tallest Supertree even has a viewing platform.
The Flower Dome, one of the largest glass greenhouses in the world, houses a variety of rare plants from arid regions around the globe. Stepping inside, the temperature and humidity are just right. Various cacti are arranged in an orderly manner, and clusters of colorful succulents form a sea of flowers. Roses, tulips, and orchids bloom according to the seasons.
The Cloud Forest is like a hidden mountain realm. A waterfall cascades down from a 35-meter-high artificial mountain, with mist swirling around. Walking on the aerial walkway, you can see dense tropical plants below, thick moss covering the rocks, and occasionally some small flowers quietly blooming in the corners.
Outdoors, the vast lawn is an ideal place for picnics and relaxation, and uniquely shaped sculptures add an artistic touch to the lawn. Strolling along Marina Bay, with the open sea view on one side and the lush garden on the other, it is truly refreshing.
As night falls, the light show of the Supertrees begins. Colorful lights dance on the tree-like structures, interwoven with music, creating a memorable scene.
Merlion Park
Although Merlion Park is not large, it is an iconic landmark of Singapore and a must-visit. The most eye-catching feature is the 8.6-meter-tall Merlion statue. The lion head is majestic, the fish body has smooth lines, and the fish tail is slightly raised, as if it is gracefully swimming through the waves. The water spouting from the Merlion’s mouth continuously falls into the pool below, with splashing droplets glistening in the sunlight. Standing in front of the statue, you can see the azure sea in front of you and the skyscrapers across the bay. The sea breeze gently blows, bringing a touch of coolness. Next to it is a smaller Merlion statue, complementing each other in an interesting way.
The park’s green space is neatly trimmed, with palm trees swaying in the wind. Whether you are taking photos or quietly enjoying the scenery, it is amazingly pleasant.
Sentosa Island: a dreamy holiday paradise
From the thrilling theme park to tranquil beach scenery, and on to historical and cultural sites, Sentosa Island, located in the southern waters of Singapore, is both a playground for children and a leisure destination for adults.
Universal Studios Singapore
Universal Studios Singapore is the second Universal Studios in Asia, divided into seven themed areas: Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, Lost World, Far Far Away, and Madagascar. Each themed area is filled with cinematic elements, making visitors feel as if they are in a movie scene. You can wander through the retro buildings of Hollywood, dance and take photos with classic characters like Marilyn Monroe and Charlie Chaplin. Or be taken back to ancient Egypt to explore pyramids, obelisks, and the army of mummies. Thrill-seekers must not miss the signature attraction, Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon, as well as the Transformers: The Ride-3D, which combines movie special effects with the thrill of a roller coaster. Jurassic Park fans can embark on a Jurassic River Adventure in a raft. During Halloween, Christmas, and other events, the park is decked out in festive attire, with ghost parades and Christmas celebrations bringing extra surprises.
Tickets for Universal Studios can be purchased online in advance, and it is recommended to buy the Express Pass to save time waiting in line.
S.E.A. aquarium
S.E.A. aquarium Singapore is one of the largest aquariums in the world, housing over 100,000 marine creatures. Upon entering the aquarium, a cool and humid atmosphere greets you. The most eye-catching feature is a 36-meter-long, 8.3-meter-high aquarium viewing window. Standing in front of the giant glass window, it feels as if you are in an underwater world, where you can get up close and personal with a variety of rare fish and marine life. The aquarium is divided into 10 different zones and 49 habitats, each with unique marine creatures and ecosystems. Here, you can see sharks, sea turtles, coral reef fish, and even gently touch starfish and sea cucumbers. You can also participate in interactive experiences to learn more about marine life.
Palawan beach
One of the three main beaches on the island, Palawan Beach lies on the southern coast and is renowned for its fine sand and clear waters.
You can lounge on the comfortable sun loungers under the shade of umbrellas, enjoying the sea breeze, the view, or reading a good book. Alternatively, take a walk along the coastline to the aerial suspension bridge connecting the Asian mainland and Palawan Island. The 70-meter-long bridge, made of ropes and wooden planks, sways slightly as you walk across, adding a touch of thrill and fun. Below the bridge, the sea shimmers, with fish darting through the waters. At the other end of the bridge is the southernmost tip of Asia, where a quaint pavilion stands. Climbing up the pavilion, you can take in the magnificent views of the South China Sea.
The beach is surrounded by several snack shops, boutique stores, and bars. After a day of play, order a plate of authentic Nyonya pastries, with the rich coconut fragrance spreading on your tongue. Or enjoy a refreshing young coconut, whose sweet coconut water instantly dispels the heat. As night falls, enjoy a cocktail, sit in the open-air seating, and listen to the interplay of the sound of the waves and music, watching the stars and lights twinkle.
The other two beaches on the island – Siloso Beach and Tanjong Beach – are also worth a visit. Siloso Beach, with its outdoor wave pools, kayaking, beach bikes, and other water activities, is very popular among the younger crowd. Additionally, the sunset scenery here is quite enchanting.
Multicultural cultural districts
Singapore, with its astonishing inclusiveness, weaves together Eastern and Western cultures. However, it is not a simple cultural melting pot but a carefully crafted cultural cocktail, where each culture maintains its unique flavor.
Chinatown
Since the early 19th century, many Chinese crossed the seas and settled here, gradually forming this Chinese-flavored residential area.
Stepping into Chinatown, you see traditional Chinese architecture lined up on all sides, with Chinese signs everywhere. There are both traditional temples and vibrant art galleries, creative studios, showcasing a diverse Chinese charm.
In the bustling market, traditional handicraft stores offer exquisite wood carvings, embroideries, and ceramics. In traditional Chinese medicine shops, experienced TCM practioners skillfully dispense and weigh medicines, with various herbs emitting a fragrant aroma. The food here is a must-try, with steaming Hainanese chicken rice, smooth and chewy fried kway teow, sweet and non-greasy red bean mooncakes, and crispy egg rolls. As night falls, red lanterns are hung high, adding a warm and harmonious atmosphere to the entire district.
Little India
The streets of Little India are lined with colorful buildings, with windows and doors carved with Hindu deities, flowers, and geometric patterns. The air is filled with the rich aroma of spices, a mix of curry, cumin, and cloves.
Hindu temples are the soul of Little India. The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore. Devotees, dressed in bright traditional attire, come with flowers and candles on hand, praying devoutly. During significant festivals like Diwali, the temple is adorned with lights.
Arranged along the streets, shops display gorgeous sarees, comfortable kurtas, as well as handcrafted silver and copper items. Delicate jasmine garlands emit a fresh fragrance, often used for worship or as hair decorations. When it comes to food, authentic Indian curries are unparalleled. Red, green, and yellow curries each have their unique flavors, paired with Indian flatbread, samosas, or poured over hot Indian fragrant rice, every bite is rich and memorable. The thick and creamy Teh Tarik is also a must-try; tea artists repeatedly pour milk and tea, creating fine foam for a unique taste experience.
Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam, this Malay cultural district steeped in history, named after the once-abundant “gelam” trees, remains the spiritual home of the Malay community and Muslims in Singapore.
The Sultan Mosque, with its pristine white exterior and golden minarets, exudes solemnity and reverence. Inside, the spacious hall is tranquil and serene, with exquisite carpets covering the floor. Outside, the colonnaded corridors feature geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy on the stone pillars, narrating religious stories.
Traditional Malay houses are scattered throughout Kampong Glam. The wooden structures, topped with unique Malay roofs, have gracefully curved eaves. The walls are often painted in soft colors like light blue, pale pink, and goose yellow, complementing the surrounding greenery and flowers, creating a peaceful and leisurely ambience.
The aroma of coconut rice, classic satay, and various pastries fills the air. In handicraft shops, handwoven baskets and furniture are uniquely designed. Traditional Malay clothing features distinctive batik patterns. There are also various handcrafted silver tableware and jewelry, adorned with auspicious patterns.
Wellness hotels and spas
As an international transportation hub and a city that blends Eastern and Western cultures, Singapore has gradually become an important birthplace and gathering place for wellness hotel brands in recent years. Many wellness hotel brands have set up their headquarters in Singapore, combining local culture with modern wellness concepts to offer unique experiences for body and mind rejuvenation.
Six Senses Hotels & Resorts
Headquartered in Singapore, Six Senses Hotels & Resorts is renowned for its unique wellness philosophy and high-end spa services. Six Senses integrates traditional wellness concepts with modern technology to provide comprehensive body and mind care. The group’s Duxton Six Senses and Maxwell Six Senses in Singapore are located in the heart of Chinatown and the former nutmeg plantation, respectively.
The Six Senses Duxton on Tanjong Pagar Road is the brand’s first urban resort hotel. The hotel’s design is inspired by Singapore’s historical architecture, blending retro elements with modern design styles. Traditional Chinese medicine wellness concepts run through the entire Six Senses Spa here. The spa joins hands with TCM clinics to offer guests free consultations and give personalized health advice. In the signature Singapore Traditional Wellness Retreat, traditional Chinese medicine and massage techniques are perfectly combined. The treatment includes back, neck, and shoulder massages, where therapists will use warm amethyst to relax your body and mind, alleviating daily stress and tension. This is followed by a Himalayan salt scrub with orchid fragrance, combined with a rose body mask and a firming facial massage.
The Six Senses Maxwell is designed by the famous designer Garcia, preserving the appearance of the historical building while presenting its renowned Baroque design style. The guest rooms are equipped with brass, lacquerware, and marble minibars, as well as handcrafted Lefroy Brooks bathroom fixtures. The spa is located on the fourth floor of the hotel. Apart from traditional wellness, more innovative experiences have been added, such as sound vibration therapy and detox treatments. Among them, the Cleansing Retreat, which boosts immunity, includes body and facial treatments with ingredients like vitamin C, jasmine essential oil, green coffee, and chili peppers, as well as detox drinks, yoga classes, and healthy lunches.
Banyan Group
Although its flagship is in Phuket, Banyan Tree’s headquarters is actually based in Singapore, known for providing high-quality wellness resort experiences.
In April of this year, Singapore will welcome its first glamping resort – Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree, located within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. It is adjacent to popular attractions such as the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and River Safari. The unique natural environment combined with Banyan Tree’s wellness philosophy creates a tranquil wellness haven for guests.
The resort, covering an area of 4.6 hectares, features 338 rooms, including 24 treehouses that float above the ground. It is worth mentioning that Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree is the first resort in Singapore to receive the Platinum Green Mark certification for Super Low Energy. The resort collects rainwater for use in toilet flushing systems and has interactive displays in the guest rooms to remind guests of energy consumption.
The Banyan Tree Spa features wooden structures and an open design, allowing natural light and breezes to flow freely. Warm tones, natural wood and stone, along with carefully arranged greenery, create an atmosphere reminiscent of a tropical rainforest retreat. The signature Royal Banyan treatment uses warm herbal poultices soaked in sesame oil, gently pressed onto the skin to promote blood circulation and relieve muscle soreness. Furthermore, the jade facial massage deeply nourishes the skin, bringing out a natural glow.
The Banyan Tree Spa at Marina Bay Sands is also worth a visit – it is located on the 55th floor of the hotel and is the highest spa in Singapore. The Oriental-themed space features 15 treatment suites, each named after a Singapore’s national flower, the orchid. Every suite is equipped with modern facilities while retaining traditional Asian styles. While enjoying the treatment, you can take in the stunning city skyline views through the large floor-to-ceiling windows.
Capella Singapore and Auriga SPA
Nestled within the lush tropical rainforest of Sentosa Island, Capella Singapore is not merely a luxurious resort but a serene oasis where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. Designed by the world-renowned architect Sir Norman Foster, the hotel masterfully blends 19th-century British colonial architecture with modern aesthetics, creating a unique sense of timelessness. It is a sanctuary in the heart of the city, a haven where the mind and body can find complete relaxation.
The design of the hotel draws inspiration from Singapore’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage, with every detail reflecting a deep respect for history and a vision for the future. The historic Tanah Merah structures harmonize with contemporary glass facades, narrating the evolution of Singapore from its colonial past to its modern present. Inside, the hotel showcases over 900 pieces of art, while six ancient trees stand as silent witnesses, creating an atmosphere where nature and history coexist in perfect harmony.
Auriga SPA, like a radiant gem, complements the natural beauty of its surroundings. The tranquil space is infused with subtle aromas, offering a sanctuary of calm. Inspired by the lunar cycle, the spa’s unique treatments – whether it’s the warm stone massage, aromatic oil therapy, or the moon-inspired signature rituals – are meticulously designed to help guests unwind and find inner peace.
Each morning, guests can partake in guided flow yoga sessions held in the hotel’s tropical gardens, accompanied by the gentle melodies of birdsong and the soothing rustle of the breeze. For those who prefer a more active start, the hotel provides jogging routes and maps, allowing guests to explore the meticulously landscaped gardens. Along the way, they may encounter peacocks leisurely strolling by, offering a delightful moment of connection with nature.
The cascading pool is another enchanting feature, inspired by the terraced landscapes of Bali. The layered waters and surrounding greenery create a picturesque scene, like a living painting. Here, guests can swim freely or recline on sun loungers, immersing themselves in the tranquil passage of time.
At Capella Singapore, every moment is a precious experience of harmony with nature and history. It is a place where luxury meets serenity, and where every detail is designed to inspire relaxation, rejuvenation, and a deep connection to the world around us.
Far East Hospitality Group
Far East Hospitality Group operates multiple brands, including Oasia and Quincy, with the Oasia brand being particularly known for its wellness focus.
Oasia Resort Sentosa is a tranquil oasis on this resort island, just a stone’s throw away from Siloso Beach. The design concept of the hotel integrates natural elements into the space. The exterior retains the old appearance, while the interior features calming earth tones and is lined with plants in the corridors.
The Oasia Spa offers Asian-inspired treatments aimed at creating a balanced wellness experience. The Oasia Signature Massage combines Thai, Japanese shiatsu, and gua sha techniques to help guests release full-body tension. Before the treatment, therapists conduct a sensory test to select the appropriate custom massage oil for guests. The KOTOSHINA facial treatment uses natural organic products from the Japanese brand KOTOSHINA, combining aromatherapy with bamboo fragrance scrubs and jojoba exfoliating granules to gently exfoliate and deeply hydrate the skin, followed by a relaxing massage.
The Meditation Lounge, equipped with MedKlinn Cerafusion™ technology, emulates the Japanese forest bathing experience, allowing guests to relax in a fresh forest atmosphere. You can also visit the Tea Lounge to enjoy specialty teas and the Remedy Corner to savor nutritious food and purchase healthy living products.
In addition to these wellness hotel brands headquartered in Singapore, many luxury hotels around the world have also set up branch in Singapore, offering luxurious accommodations and wellness experiences that combine local characteristics to create unforgettable travel experiences for guests.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the skyscrapers, there are also many city spas and wellness studios that can quickly soothe the body and mind and rejuvenate vitality.
ESPA at Sentosa
Surrounded by tropical plants and with a view of the azure sea, ESPA at Sentosa is just a few steps away from the beach, with a prime location. Upon entering, the teakwood floors and soft lighting create a Southeast Asian leisurely style. The thermal stone bathroom, equipped with a smart temperature control system, can accurately regulate the temperature. The open-air rain shower area simulates a rainforest shower scene to wash away fatigue. From the Finnish sauna to the open-air massage bathtub overlooking the sea, every detail is meticulously crafted. The signature “Island Rejuvenation Package” combines coconut milk scrub with tropical fruit essence body mask, removing skin keratin while deeply nourishing the skin. The massage package, which combines Balinese and Singaporean traditional techniques, allows therapists to accurately press acupoints, and muscle tension dissipates instantly.
Chun Ran Ge TCM wellness center
Hidden in Singapore’s old district, surrounded by ancient buildings, Chun Ran Ge naturally exudes a sense of tranquility that comes with the passage of time. The interior layout is simple and elegant, with Chinese screens and wooden tables and chairs. The traditional moxibustion bed is precisely perforated according to the human meridians and acupoints for convenient moxibustion. There is also a medicinal bath area equipped with various TCM decoction devices, filled with a rich medicinal aroma. The signature program, “Qi and Blood Regulation Wellness Package”, starts with a face diagnosis and pulse diagnosis by a professional TCM practitioner to customize a wellness plan. The moxibustion journey begins next, with the warm sensation of the ignited mugwort stick penetrating the acupoints, dispelling dampness and cold. The medicinal bath is another highlight, soaking in a bath filled with TCM decoctions effectively improving blood and qi circulation, allowing people to radiate health from the inside out.
Healing Touch
Healing Touch is one of the best-reputed and most cost-effective spas in Singapore, with nine branches across the city, making it one of the most convenient options. The massage oils used in the treatments are all naturally extracted from plants such as lavender and lemongrass, which have the effects of soothing the nerves and relaxing the muscles. The spa offers a variety of massage services, including traditional deep tissue massage, tuina, and the unique Pokin Osteopathy Massage. The latter, utilizing the therapist’s professional osteopathic knowledge and unique techniques, targets skeletal and muscle issues. It is particularly effective in relieving cervical and lumbar problems caused by long-term desk work.
Singapore, the city that blends modern prosperity with natural tranquility and harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures, has left countless beautiful memories for travelers.