Multicultural, eclectic, and progressive, Singapore is one
country where size truly becomes irrelevant. From Chinatown’s Oriental dining
holes to Universal Studio’s Hollywood-themed offerings, Singapore is brimming
with popular attractions to keep every kind of explorer happily occupied. And
because first-rate entertainment hubs require equally world-class stays, be
sure to book one of Singapore’s upscale
and full-serviced hotels to complement your travel experience.
But beyond Singapore’s usual “been there, done
that” destinations are a plethora of newly opened lifestyle hubs that
often slip past the tourist radar. If you’re looking for something that can’t
be found on guidebooks, here are four underrated Singapore destinations that
you can check out.
Image via Flickr by Eugene Lim
Coney
Island (Pulau Serangoon)
When you want to escape Singapore’s urban jungle, there’s
no better place to do escape to than Coney Island. This forested island off northeastern Punggol
features tree-lined, coastal trails where you can marvel at more than 80 bird
species while riding a bike. Woodlands and grasslands housing macaques, Brahman
cows, and presumed-extinct flora are also found within the 50-hectare
space.
If biking is not your cup of tea, you can book a guided
tour and explore the Haw Par Beach Villa along the way. The villa is accessible
from five different locations, but be sure to always stick with your guide as
the surrounding mangroves experiences sudden tidal rises.
After your exploration, be sure to drop by Punggol
settlement for fresh servings of seafood dishes at any of the seafront
restaurants within the area.
Image via Flickr by Jnzl
Urban Ski
From biking adventures in raw terrain, move on to skiing
within the tropical cityscape. Urban Ski in Raffles Boulevard is the first in the country
to offer revolving ski slopes in an indoor setting. The slope is made of
synthetic nylon tufts that are continuously flushed with water for a smooth ski
and snowboarding experience.
The slope’s steepness and speed are adjusted according to
the user’s level, so even kids can join in. If you’re a first-timer,
there are instructors on-site offering ski and snowboarding lessons, starting
at $77.
The
National Gallery Singapore
Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply on the hunt for
a less crowded vantage point overlooking the financial district, the National Gallery
Singapore fits the bill perfectly. The gallery, which opened in late 2015,
sits on what was once the 19th century Singaporean Supreme Court and City Hall.
It features classic architecture and more than 8,000 Southeast Asian artworks –
the largest thus far in the region.
But don’t leave just yet! Make sure to check out the
claustrophobic inmate holding cell as well as a 1937 time capsule — which
opens in the year 3000 — for extra fun.
Image via Flickr by smuconlaw
PAssion
Wave @ Marina Bay
PAssion Wave @ Marina Bay is proof that Singapore is more
than just skyscrapers. This leaf-shaped integrated community center along
scenic Marina Bay offers everything from coffee workshops to in-line skating
and windsurfing. The most popular activity among sports buffs here is dragonboat
kayaking, which affords a couple of paddlers an unobstructed view of the
Benjamin Sheares Bridge and Garden by the Bay (if you’re traveling solo, or if
it is your first time to kayak, you can ask a crew to accompany you). Other
places worth checking out here are the lush Eco-Garden, and Kontiki, a
biker-themed restaurant-bar.
