I’d never visited any part of Asia until last year. I wish I’d taken the leap sooner – because I’ll most definitely be back. 

My sister and brother-in-law moved to Singapore a few years ago and I was lucky enough to spend time with them last year. I’ve never experienced a place quite like it. Incredibly clean, a collision of cultures, home to the most delicious food, a global financial hub and rich in history and art. 

There are many a blog and guide book that will reveal the hidden gems, the must-visits and the best food spots – so I’m throwing in my two cents. My trusty Lonely Planet became a constant companion, alongside my sister’s insider knowledge! So, here’s my ‘guide’ to Singapore through photos and thoughts.

The food that made me sing

Sin Hoi Eating House – a stone’s throw from my sister’s walk-up apartment – was by far my standout food moment from my time in the city. Tables spill out of the restaurant, seats are always full and Auntie quickly ushers you to your table from the street. Ribs in red wine sauce, chilli crab, mapo tofu, fried rice – relaxed, authentic dining.

Dim sum at Red Star Restaurant was an experience. We were met with a queue to the lift, so half the party walked up many flights of stairs to be met with a bustling restaurant at the top of a high-rise housing estate. That’s when I knew we were in for a treat. Thankfully, our family’s Singaporean friend was there to order all the best food to try. The roast meats – the duck in particular – were mouth-watering.

A whistle stop cycle tour around the city-state

My university friend lives in Singapore, and it was a joy to catch up with her, her boyfriend and their dog – Soba. She grew up near by in JB, Malaysia and went to school in Singapore, so knows the city very well. We rented bicycles and they took me on a tour around the city. It was a great way to see the sights from a different point of view – the Gardens by the Bay, the F1 race track, famous hotels and monuments. Only downside, we got caught in a rainstorm – but that’s to be expected in a tropical environment!

The hawker markets of Singapore are renowned. I only visited a few, with the Newton Food Centre being a memorable stop. Having local guides in my family and friends was definitely helpful!

The satay skewers – chicken, pork and mutton – were so tasty. The sambal stingray – spicy, flaky, moreish. The carrot cake, made with cubed radish, fried eggs and spicy sauce – unique, but not my personal favourite. On the drinks front, I tried soursop juice – made from a green, prickly fruit which has a sweet, tangy flavour!

A Singapore sling in Raffles

Is it a Singapore trip without a visit to the infamous Raffles Hotel? My parents and I stopped by for a Singapore Sling, a surprisingly fruity cocktail, at the Long Bar. Yes, it is a tourist trap, and very expensive, but in my opinion, worth a visit.

I especially enjoyed wandering around the courtyard and a peek into the luxury shops. We finished off our excursion with a kopi (coffee) and randomly, a large slice of chocolate cake.

Understanding Singapore’s rich history

I’m a sucker for a museum and visits to the National Museum of Singapore, Changi Chapel Museum and the National Gallery Singapore were well worth it. An insight into the birth of the city-state was fascinating and shed light on its multicultural heritage. It helped me put everything I saw in context from the melding of communities you see across different districts, the food I was eating and the different neighbourhoods we explored.

I wish I’d had more time to see the Asian Civilisations Museum and the ArtScience Museum. Next time!

The places I reluctantly dragged my family to so I could see the architecture

I’ll admit, I can be frustratingly stubborn. Once I’ve set my mind on going somewhere, I most likely will go. Tiong Bahru was one of these moments. A trendy neighbourhood, and one of the oldest housing estates in Singapore, it boasts chic coffee spots, a French patisserie and a traditional food market. A cold pint and these photos made it a worthwhile excursion… to me, at least.

CHIJMES – which you may recognise from the hit film Crazy Rich Asians – was once a Catholic convent and has now turned hip food and entertainment venue. We went in the middle of the day, ended up eating hot pot before heading home. A fun adventure, but I hear there’s much more of a buzz in the evening.

A stroll along Koon Seng Road, a street of Peranakan architecture, was an Instagrammer’s dream. Colourful houses built in the 1920s line this road in the Joo Chiat district. Each neighbourhood has something distinct to offer visually.

Food, more food and family

Looking back over photos, food was very much central to our trip! Modern Asian restaurant, Xiao La Tou was very cool – a bustling, cosy restaurant. The sticky marmite chicken was my favourite dish (right). They also served one of the better pints of Guinness I had in the city.

After our meal, we took a short walk to Sago House, a trendy bar in Duxton Hill, for a cocktail or two.

Singapore is home to every cuisine under the sun. Our morning Two Men Bagel brunch spot in Joo Chiat sported a long queue, but that’s when you know it’ll be good!

Although the Chinese cuisine was undoubtedly my favourite, it was exciting to try something new. Kotuwa, a Sri Lankan restaurant in New Bahru offered street market inspired food with flavour packed bites.

Speak easy, cocktail dreams

When the city (slightly) cooled at night, it was the perfect excuse for a drink. My brother-in-law took us to a speak easy cocktail bar Chandu, a secret parlour hidden in The Robertson House hotel. A 10/10 negroni and even lovelier hosts.

Stomping around East Coast Park

A fast paced walk through East Coast Park chasing after my Dad and brother-in-law’s longer strides was a much-needed break from the eating and drinking.

When we return later this year with Bobby, I’ll be giving a full rundown on the hidden gems we find next time round.