1.WATCH THE MARINA BAY SANDS WATER LIGHT SHOW
The first thing you will want to see in Singapore (and not just you, but also the youngsters) is Marina Bay Sands. This fascinating architectonic miracle along with its phenomenal waterfront promenade creates the most glorious spectacle one can find in the world. Saunter around the harbour front, experiencing jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Skyscrapers, Marina Bay Sands Complex, Singapore Flyer as well as the famous Gardens by the Bay. It is completely free.
Take your children to watch Marina Bay Sands light show hosted every night around 8 pm. The laser effects will blow their mind away!
2.LOOK FOR SOME LEGO FLOWERS IN THE REAL JUNGLE
Another vivid spectacle is presented by the waterfront gardens, right next to the MBS. The Gardens by the Bay is a massive jungle park providing some more mesmerising views of the city. The little ones will definitely love getting lost in the lush evergreen gardens with palm trees, cactus and exotic flowers – amongst which there are also hiding huge LEGO flowers.
Let them appreciate the gorgeous Flower Dome and Cloud Forest – a real jungle covered with mist. The effects here are simply amazing! It is as beautiful in the daytime as by night, when the impressive trees of the “Super-tree Groves” light up and change colour during the light and sound show.
3.TAKE A CITY RIVER CRUISE/CITY BUS TOUR
If you do not have enough of the stunning views walk to the Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Robertson or Collyer Quay and join a riverboat tour. The striking riverside and its picturesque setting will somehow remind you of Venice.
You will get to see some of the historical landmarks of the town as well as various colourful buildings, absorbing shopping malls and charming waterfront restaurants, where you might want your family to taste some of the best foods in Singapore.
There are also available combined packages of a city bus tour and river cruise or you can enjoy one of them individually – there is a feast for the eyes everywhere in Singapore.
4.UNWIND IN THE JAPANESE AND CHINESE GARDEN
After the busy city time, you might well seek for some peace. MRT will take you from bustling city to the less visited tranquil zone of Singapore; Japanese and Chinese Gardens. This verdant estate is a great retreat for the whole family where you can find gorgeous lily ponds, bonsai garden, stone walkaways, characteristic arching red bridges, tea houses and pagodas. Tell the kids to look out for wildlife!
If your kids like nature you should stop by in the more touristy but centrally located Singapore Botanic Gardens (at no charge) and have an unwinding self-guided walk followed by a nice picnic.
5.GO SAFARI
Singapore teems with nature parks, reserves and animal farms. Jurong Bird Park is something for the kids indeed. This little rain forest exhibits the most fascinating exotic birds from the Asian tropics and you can take pleasure in the bird-singing contests regularly held in the park.
A very attractive part of the area is the Jurong Crocodile Park. The farm accommodates numerous types of crocodiles and alligators and organises crocodile wrestling performances for children.
Parents can even try a freshly grilled crocodile steak in the park`s restaurant. In the Butterfly Park, you can walk among over 50 species of radiant butterflies and the Insect Kingdom offers a huge range of tropical bugs, beetles, scorpions and spiders.
The main family attraction is Singapore`s world-class Zoo. More than 2000 animals across 90 hectares of lush greenery promote an amazing encounter for every visitor. Animal performances, elephant rides, outdoor theatre and various programmes for children are available in the Zoo. But the favourite is absolutely the Night Safari. Many walking trails crisscross the jungle park and special lighting allows a unique opportunity to view nocturnal animals.
6.VISIT SINGAPORE`S NATURE PARKS AND BEACHES
Every child likes to discover nature and wildlife. Well, lucky those who take their little ones to Singapore. Despite the city`s dense population, there are many small parks and gardens and every spare spot is incredibly turned into a green plantation. In case your children want to experience more jungle, pay a visit to the nearby conservation areas and reservoirs. MacRitchie, Seletar, Sungei Seletar, Mount Faber parks are ideal for walking and bird spotting.
Pasir Risk Beach Park has a wooden boardwalk through a mangrove swamp area and Bukit Batok offers spectacular limestone formations and splendid lakes – an imitation of the legendary Chinese Guilin.
Do not forget to have some beach time after all that walking; Changi, Punggol and Sentosa offer gorgeous strands for families!
7.UNCOVER THE SURREAL AMUSEMENT WORLD OF SENTOSA
Opulent resorts. Countless leisure activities. Stunning beaches. But most importantly – tons of fun for families: the Universal Studios, Trick-Eye Museum, Adventure Cove Waterpark, Adventure Cove Water Park, S.E.A. Aquarium, Marine Life Park and the Fort Siloso – all these and much more can be discovered on Sentosa Island.
Sentosa, also known as the “State of Fun“, is literally filled with entertainment options. Have a little walking tour around and enjoy the views from Imbiah Lookout, pass the gigantic Sentosa Merlion and keep walking towards the splendid Siloso Beach. Visit Kidztania – a great interactive indoor facility with over 80 role-play activities for both kids and parents.
Pick a spot under a palm tree, stretch out on the soft sand and let the kids play in the safe, shallow waters of the Singapore Strait. Sentosa Island is a little “fairyland” of Singapore, where one will get stimulated and inspired, distracted, amused and entertained, and most importantly, this place will definitely not leave anyone disappointed.
NOTE
The best way to get around the city is MRT which is Singapore`s subway. Singapore has got one of the most efficient subway systems in the world. It is reasonably cheap too. The downtown is very compact and it is extremely easy to move around either using the subway the or just walking. MRT operates until midnight but if you get stuck feel free to use city taxi.
WHEN TO TRAVEL
For fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices try to avoid the busiest times of the year, such as Singapore public holidays, important international events and weekends. Also always check out for haze which is quite frequent and it can ruin all the spectacular views.
HOW TO GET THERE
Fly to Singapore.
For all international flights go to www.skyscanner.com or www.momondo.com
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