Anyone who has ever visited Singapore will tell you about the thrill of cruising on Sentosa Island or the pleasure of shopping at the high-end stores of Orchard Road. But what you will never know is the sheer excitement of discovering some of the hidden gems located along the lesser-known, off-beaten tracks in one of the most renowned tourist destinations that appeals to all due to its enchanting landmarks and diverse options for entertainment. Whether you visit this place for its stunning beauty or due to recommendations from friends, you cannot leave before experiencing something unusual that stays with you long after you return back to your regular life.
Below is a checklist of top 15 unusual ways to experience the oriental vibes of Singapore:
Below is a checklist of top 15 unusual ways to experience the oriental vibes of Singapore:
#1 Enjoy a staycation at a local condo
Exploring a new city is never easy, considering you have only so much time and there are just too many places for you to explore. If you are willing to splurge a bit, consider renting a condo for a month or so to imbibe Southeast Asian vibes and take in the breathtaking views of various locales of Singapore.
Pro Tip: Discover the best area and the best condo via PropertyGuru website or mobile app.
Exploring a new city is never easy, considering you have only so much time and there are just too many places for you to explore. If you are willing to splurge a bit, consider renting a condo for a month or so to imbibe Southeast Asian vibes and take in the breathtaking views of various locales of Singapore.
Pro Tip: Discover the best area and the best condo via PropertyGuru website or mobile app.
#2 Go rock climbing at a stone quarry
Spend an afternoon working out those triceps while climbing the natural rocks at Dairy Farm. Diary Farm used to be an old quarry once, but today it stands proud as a nature reserve and one of the most famed outdoor rock climbing locales of Singapore. This site is frequented by avid rock climbers from far and wide, and workshops are held regularly by expert climbers who share your interest in scaling rocks for fun and adventure.
Spend an afternoon working out those triceps while climbing the natural rocks at Dairy Farm. Diary Farm used to be an old quarry once, but today it stands proud as a nature reserve and one of the most famed outdoor rock climbing locales of Singapore. This site is frequented by avid rock climbers from far and wide, and workshops are held regularly by expert climbers who share your interest in scaling rocks for fun and adventure.
#3 Go night cycling in East Coast Park
Singapore is abuzz with entertainment options for the night. One of the most unconventional of these is bicycle riding. Revel in the sheer pleasure of cycling leisurely along the lush, green parks and seasides to feel the cool night breeze flirting with your hair. East Coast Park Singapore makes for a great route- you will even find a few eateries, as well as a 24-hour open MacDonald's outlet for a mid-journey bite irrespective of the time of night. Thankfully, there are umpteen bicycle vendors that let you rent bikes overnight for a few dollars.
Singapore is abuzz with entertainment options for the night. One of the most unconventional of these is bicycle riding. Revel in the sheer pleasure of cycling leisurely along the lush, green parks and seasides to feel the cool night breeze flirting with your hair. East Coast Park Singapore makes for a great route- you will even find a few eateries, as well as a 24-hour open MacDonald's outlet for a mid-journey bite irrespective of the time of night. Thankfully, there are umpteen bicycle vendors that let you rent bikes overnight for a few dollars.
#4 Have fun along Singapore’s most iconic railway track
If you are looking for a quick escape from the fast-paced mood of urban living, take a quick trip to the most iconic railway track of Singapore. The 24-km long Keretapi Melayu railway line is Singapore's answer to the New York's magnificent High Line, a man-made park structured on a perilous segment of the elevated railway tracks. Only difference between the two is that Singapore's version is much larger ( up to ten times) and comprises of a unique chain of interconnected parks that offer umpteen opportunities for leisure and adventure.
If you are looking for a quick escape from the fast-paced mood of urban living, take a quick trip to the most iconic railway track of Singapore. The 24-km long Keretapi Melayu railway line is Singapore's answer to the New York's magnificent High Line, a man-made park structured on a perilous segment of the elevated railway tracks. Only difference between the two is that Singapore's version is much larger ( up to ten times) and comprises of a unique chain of interconnected parks that offer umpteen opportunities for leisure and adventure.
#5 Accept an escape room challenge
If you are bit of an adrenaline junkie, then do consider taking the brand new entertainment option available in Singapore- the escape room challenge, where you basically stay locked with your friends within the confines of a tiny room and decipher the only way to escape by solving puzzles and discovering hidden clues. As unbelievable as it seems, you are actually given a stringent time frame of an hour to so to utilize your wit and reasoning prowess and walk out free. Ditch virtual gaming for a first-hand experience of a reality game at an unknown city to reiterate the thrill of surviving a Zombie apocalypse or breaking free from Dracula's castle.
If you are bit of an adrenaline junkie, then do consider taking the brand new entertainment option available in Singapore- the escape room challenge, where you basically stay locked with your friends within the confines of a tiny room and decipher the only way to escape by solving puzzles and discovering hidden clues. As unbelievable as it seems, you are actually given a stringent time frame of an hour to so to utilize your wit and reasoning prowess and walk out free. Ditch virtual gaming for a first-hand experience of a reality game at an unknown city to reiterate the thrill of surviving a Zombie apocalypse or breaking free from Dracula's castle.
#6 Tour the heritage streets on a trishaw
Go back to the good, old days of Singapore with a tour of the heritage streets on a quaint trishaw driven by the trishaw uncles while listening to detailed explanation of the meaning behind the intriguing sights and sounds of the busy streets. For a more memorable experience, customize the tour in a manner to include the landmarks and experiences of your interests.
Go back to the good, old days of Singapore with a tour of the heritage streets on a quaint trishaw driven by the trishaw uncles while listening to detailed explanation of the meaning behind the intriguing sights and sounds of the busy streets. For a more memorable experience, customize the tour in a manner to include the landmarks and experiences of your interests.
#7 Dine in the company of animals in Gourmet Safari Express
Relish a scrumptious, five-course dinner on a smooth tram ride around the derelict trails of the Night Safari, while gaping at the nocturnal animals peeping through the trees and making a fleeting appearance in the midst of the tracks every once in a while. Make the most of the free-flow of beverages and don't hesitate to sneak a glass or two of wine while the tiny tots marvel at the passing animals. Finish off with a night show that showcases animated performances of the seven animal kingdoms of Night Safari.
Relish a scrumptious, five-course dinner on a smooth tram ride around the derelict trails of the Night Safari, while gaping at the nocturnal animals peeping through the trees and making a fleeting appearance in the midst of the tracks every once in a while. Make the most of the free-flow of beverages and don't hesitate to sneak a glass or two of wine while the tiny tots marvel at the passing animals. Finish off with a night show that showcases animated performances of the seven animal kingdoms of Night Safari.
#8 Attend a trivia night at a Pub
Are you a bit of a geek? Do you wish to brush up your general knowledge? Or, have you always been teased for being a clueless jerk? Then, it's probably time to ditch those mindless gala events and cheap thrills for a more fulfilling, educational and memorable option- trivia nights! Relish free beer as you huddle up with your friends together for an exciting, nerve-wracking night of endless quizzes and knowledge tests. Just don't think about googling answers on your phone.
Are you a bit of a geek? Do you wish to brush up your general knowledge? Or, have you always been teased for being a clueless jerk? Then, it's probably time to ditch those mindless gala events and cheap thrills for a more fulfilling, educational and memorable option- trivia nights! Relish free beer as you huddle up with your friends together for an exciting, nerve-wracking night of endless quizzes and knowledge tests. Just don't think about googling answers on your phone.
#9 Explore the Hidden Cave in Sentosa
Talk about hidden gems in Singapore, and Tanjong Rimau cave occupies the top spot. Lying in a secluded spot below the natural cliffs on the coasts of Rasa Sentosa, Tanjong Rimau lies testimony to infinite adventures over time. While the nearby Resorts World and Tanjong Beach Club have been frequented by tons of tourists and locals every year, this hidden cave, located just a stone's throw away is worthy of an equal amount of attention. Only one problem though- Google Maps won't be your aid in this adventure, so you have to unleash your inner explorer to crack the right track. And when you do find it, celebrate your victory with a few snaps.
Talk about hidden gems in Singapore, and Tanjong Rimau cave occupies the top spot. Lying in a secluded spot below the natural cliffs on the coasts of Rasa Sentosa, Tanjong Rimau lies testimony to infinite adventures over time. While the nearby Resorts World and Tanjong Beach Club have been frequented by tons of tourists and locals every year, this hidden cave, located just a stone's throw away is worthy of an equal amount of attention. Only one problem though- Google Maps won't be your aid in this adventure, so you have to unleash your inner explorer to crack the right track. And when you do find it, celebrate your victory with a few snaps.
#10 Indulge in Your Culinary Passions
Do you want to take a slice of Southeast Asia back home with you? Then, consider doing it the unconventional way. If you have ever dreamed of becoming the top chef among your friends, book a class with Palate Sensations, the most established and renowned cooking school of Singapore with more than a decade of experience. Facilitated with a 2000-sq ft. big open kitchen, around 70-75 participants sweat it all out to whip up delicacies after delicacies in a single session. Bond with the other expats and locals, as you become proficient in regional cuisine and learn how to cook Indonesian, Peranakan, Thai and even Vietnamese.
Do you want to take a slice of Southeast Asia back home with you? Then, consider doing it the unconventional way. If you have ever dreamed of becoming the top chef among your friends, book a class with Palate Sensations, the most established and renowned cooking school of Singapore with more than a decade of experience. Facilitated with a 2000-sq ft. big open kitchen, around 70-75 participants sweat it all out to whip up delicacies after delicacies in a single session. Bond with the other expats and locals, as you become proficient in regional cuisine and learn how to cook Indonesian, Peranakan, Thai and even Vietnamese.
#11 Take a Tour of Haw Par Villa
Step inside the bizarre, fantasy world of ancient Chinese folklore, legends and arcane myths at the mystical park of Haw Par Villa. Established with the objective of showcasing Chinese traditions, Haw Par Villa is home to over 1000 electric caricatures and 200 dioramas, including the ten courts of hell, as well as the iconic laughing Buddah. Expect some interesting sights and hair-raising moments on this fascinating tour.
Step inside the bizarre, fantasy world of ancient Chinese folklore, legends and arcane myths at the mystical park of Haw Par Villa. Established with the objective of showcasing Chinese traditions, Haw Par Villa is home to over 1000 electric caricatures and 200 dioramas, including the ten courts of hell, as well as the iconic laughing Buddah. Expect some interesting sights and hair-raising moments on this fascinating tour.
#12 Discover the secluded shrine in the Macritchie Reservoir Park
Singapore is not just famous for its towering, majestic mountains and scenic islands, it is also known for its beautiful nature reserves that offer endless possibilities for outdoor adventure. One of these is the Macritchie Reservoir Nature Park which houses the Syonan Jinja, a nondescript Shinto shrine established by the Japanese battalion in World War II. Bordered by thick, lush foliage, the trail leading to the shrine starts along a bifurcation of the Terentang Trail. You will know you are on the right track when you see a secluded water tank along the path. And don't forget to congratulate yourself when you notice the entrance marked by three big rocks.
Singapore is not just famous for its towering, majestic mountains and scenic islands, it is also known for its beautiful nature reserves that offer endless possibilities for outdoor adventure. One of these is the Macritchie Reservoir Nature Park which houses the Syonan Jinja, a nondescript Shinto shrine established by the Japanese battalion in World War II. Bordered by thick, lush foliage, the trail leading to the shrine starts along a bifurcation of the Terentang Trail. You will know you are on the right track when you see a secluded water tank along the path. And don't forget to congratulate yourself when you notice the entrance marked by three big rocks.
#13 Zoom Around Marina Bay in a hoverboard
A riverside stroll along the long stretch of Marina Bay can be rather tiring, so if you are not quite into tiring yourself, consider renting out a hoverboard to zoom around the area while glancing at the breathtaking lights of the Singapore River at night, as well as the stunning night views of Helix Bridge and Bay Sands. And the best part is that the hoverboards can be maneuvered by children aged 12 and above, which makes it a casual, family-friendly activity for all.
A riverside stroll along the long stretch of Marina Bay can be rather tiring, so if you are not quite into tiring yourself, consider renting out a hoverboard to zoom around the area while glancing at the breathtaking lights of the Singapore River at night, as well as the stunning night views of Helix Bridge and Bay Sands. And the best part is that the hoverboards can be maneuvered by children aged 12 and above, which makes it a casual, family-friendly activity for all.
#14 Visit an adventure playground
Ditch the mundane city sights for a unique experience at the Forest Adventure Course. Let yourself loose while swinging from the treetops and test your abilities to complete the 35 different gravity-defying obstacles sprawled across all the four sites of this expansive, impeccably designed adventure playground. Set among the lush, green surroundings of Bedok Reservoir Park, it is a great spot to overcome your phobia of heights while engaging in an adrenaline-pumping journey amid the lap of Mother Nature.
Ditch the mundane city sights for a unique experience at the Forest Adventure Course. Let yourself loose while swinging from the treetops and test your abilities to complete the 35 different gravity-defying obstacles sprawled across all the four sites of this expansive, impeccably designed adventure playground. Set among the lush, green surroundings of Bedok Reservoir Park, it is a great spot to overcome your phobia of heights while engaging in an adrenaline-pumping journey amid the lap of Mother Nature.
#15 Explore Singapore's White House- Istana
The heavily-guarded premise and official residence of the President of Singapore, Istana has its doors open to commoners up to 5 times a year on specific public holidays. Set amidst leafy surroundings, Singapore's version of White House is a great spot to take pictures, and strolls, as well as appreciate the stunning grandeur of the 148-year old structure. For a full-fledged touristy experience, opt for guided walks and end the day with a hearty picnic lunch on the lawn. Entrance to the grounds is free, and a measly amount is charged to access the main building.
The heavily-guarded premise and official residence of the President of Singapore, Istana has its doors open to commoners up to 5 times a year on specific public holidays. Set amidst leafy surroundings, Singapore's version of White House is a great spot to take pictures, and strolls, as well as appreciate the stunning grandeur of the 148-year old structure. For a full-fledged touristy experience, opt for guided walks and end the day with a hearty picnic lunch on the lawn. Entrance to the grounds is free, and a measly amount is charged to access the main building.
Ending Note...
There are two ways to traverse a tourist destination- conventional and unconventional. Sure, the conventional way will save you on time and energy, and help you to take a glimpse of all the renowned, frame-worthy landmarks of the place, but if you are looking to get a first-hand experience of venturing into the unknown at a foreign land, then the unconventional way is your answer. Besides the thrill and laughter of indulging in unusual experiences, you will also have some exciting stories to tell your friends back home!
There are two ways to traverse a tourist destination- conventional and unconventional. Sure, the conventional way will save you on time and energy, and help you to take a glimpse of all the renowned, frame-worthy landmarks of the place, but if you are looking to get a first-hand experience of venturing into the unknown at a foreign land, then the unconventional way is your answer. Besides the thrill and laughter of indulging in unusual experiences, you will also have some exciting stories to tell your friends back home!
Damn... that was an interesting list.. Will try to do just that in my next visit there to Singapore
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ReplyDeleteLove it. You shared such a Beautiful Blog.
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