When you visit a new country, the last thing you want to do is to see your fellow countrymen everywhere you go – after all, you didn’t fly thousands of miles just to hear the same accents and eat the same food back home, albeit in a warmer and more humid setting. 

Since The Travel Insider is all about equipping you with authentic recommendations from locals who have ‘been there, done that’ for most of their lives, we asked travel blogger Alexis (@alexisjetsets) and her followers for their must-eat, must-see, must-do and must-stay list in Singapore.

 

Must-Eat

@alexisjetsets: Joo Chiat Place Fried Kway Teow

There is a plethora of delicious food in Singapore, and my favourite local dish is Char Kway Teow. This must-eat dish is made up of flat rice noodles stir-fried over high heat with cockles, Chinese sausages, eggs, fishcakes, beansprouts, chives and a huge amount of soy sauce. 

Joo Chiat Place Fried Kway Teow is the stall I highly recommend. Each plate is individually prepared so you can expect a piping hot plate of char kway teow generously packed with ingredients. Instead of the usual sweet finish from the dark sauce, the char kway teow here is more savoury and I love the distinct smokey flavour of the noodles.

 

Image Credit: @alexisjetsets

 

Address: 59A Joo Chiat Pl, Singapore 427783

Opening hours: Mon - Sun, 1100 - 2030

 

@valenciay: Queensway Laksa

Laksa is the best! Especially the one on the ground floor of Queensway Shopping Centre – the one where you sit around the shop to eat!

 

Image Credit: danielfooddiary.com

 

Address: 1 Queensway #01-59, Queensway Shopping Centre, Singapore 149053

Opening hours: Mon - Sun, 1100 - 2100

 

Must-See

@alexisjetsets: Residence of Tan Teng Niah

Being a multi-nationality and multicultural city, there are a few fascinating ethnic enclaves to explore in Singapore. This colourful landmark is the last remaining Chinese villa in the history of Little India. Tan Teng Niah, a successful businessman who owned a confectionery business and various other smaller businesses, built this villa in 1900 for his wife. It was originally whitewashed and the colours were added later on.

 

Image Credit: @alexisjetsets

 

Address: 37 Kerbau Rd, Gholia’s Village, Singapore 219168

 

@brrrrren: Haw Par Villa

I think one of the most underrated places to visit in Singapore, would be Haw Par Villa! I highly recommend anybody who is interested in Chinese Mythology and Folklore to visit this place! 

Personally, I have learnt a lot about the richness of Chinese tradition, and have a deeper appreciation for Chinese culture, that is depicted through the legendary works of Chinese literature. It is also interesting to learn about the history of that place, as it is filled with stories ever since it’s construction in 1937. And the best part about this place is that entry is free!

 

 

Address: 262 Pasir Panjang Rd, Singapore 118628

Opening hours: Mon - Sun, 0900 - 2200 (last entry 2130)

 

Must-Do

@alexisjetsets: Visit Pulau Ubin

This island is often considered the last 'kampung' (village) in Singapore, and it gives you a glimpse into a Singaporean’s life in the 1960’s. The island’s major draws are Chek Jawa Wetlands and Puaka Hill. 

A must-do activity will be hiking Puaka Hill. Bukit Puaka, at a height of 74-metres, is the tallest point on Pulau Ubin. It overlooks the Ubin Granite Quarry with scenic views of Singapore and Malaysia. The hike up Puaka Hill only takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete but due to its rocky and steep trail, you’ll be panting by the time you reach its peak.

 

Image Credit: @alexisjetsets

 

Getting there: Take a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal (Daily, 0600 – 1900)

 

@youmeuseoz: Dragon Boating by Kallang River

Dragon boating by the Kallang River! Not only can you train your arms, core and physique, you can occasionally attend "free concerts" too! By free, I meant the practice sessions by the steersperson during dragon boat training. Oh, and you don’t have to perspire while doing this sport as well; you just have to get wet. 

 

 

Must-Stay

@alexisjetsets: Quincy Hotel

Convenience is key when it comes to deciding on my choice of accommodation during my trips. I enjoy staying close to the city centre, but far enough from the bustling crowd. Located a short stroll away from the vibrant Orchard Road, Quincy Hotel is a great staycation option for social urbanites. 

Look forward to stay inclusions such as the buffet breakfast, all-day light refreshments, in-room mini bar and evening cocktails. The infinity pool and gym are open round-the-clock for your convenience too.

 

Image Credit: @alexisjetsets

 

Address: 22 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore 228517

 

@joannephangyx: M Social Singapore

For a rejuvenating and pampering staycay, I recommend M Social Singapore! From the moment I stepped into M Social Singapore, I knew the experience would definitely be great. It’s no secret that M Social Singapore has a trendy and unique hotel design, perfect for taking loads of photos!

For a hearty brunch, I recommend dining at their in-house restaurant Beast & Butterflies for some Asian cuisine. Their Singapore laksa and lobster porridge are awesome! After brunch, you can even utilise the free shuttle bus services to explore Singapore!

I love to relax and rest at their outdoor swimming pool while having a refreshing dip. And when I'm hungry, I just the Order & Grab service to have meals delivered to my room – I love this convenient service when I want fuss-free dining! 

After all that, the best part is relaxing by the full-length windows while enjoying a gorgeous view of Robertson Quay.

 

Image Credit: M Social Singapore

 

Address: 90 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238259

Now that you’ve gotten an insight into what Singaporeans think best represents an authentic local experience, you can either discover what else Singapore has to offer from our insiders, or start planning and booking your holidays now – we have more than 350 exclusive local and overseas deals for UOB Cardmembers to enjoy!