Suzy and her family recently spent 48 hours in Singapore… and they wish they could have stayed longer! Here are the highlights of their city stopover.
Would you recommend Singapore as a stopover destination?
Absolutely! Singapore is the perfect introduction to Asia for families with children of all ages.
If yes, why?
The city is clean and bright, the people are so friendly, the weather is gorgeous (hot and humid but everywhere has aircon to escape the heat), and there’s so much to do for old and young alike!
How long would you recommend?
We were travelling onwards to New Zealand, so we only spent 48 hours in Singapore to break the journey… but the city warrants more time! An ideal stopover would be at least 3 nights, but the city is a destination in its own right, so we’d happily spend 5 nights there!
Is it good for a stopover with children?
Our boys loved their first taste of South East Asia. There’s less hustle and bustle here compared to other cities in this part of the world, and English is spoken everywhere, so children of all ages will instantly feel at home. Singapore is very modern with skyscrapers, shopping malls and advanced tech to compete with any other city in the world, but it manages to keep one foot in the past, so you experience old and new in one cohesive, stunning, bite-size metropolis.
Where would you recommend staying and in which room?
We stayed at the magnificent Ritz-Carlton Millenia right on Marina Bay. It’s a large hotel but it feels personal and the hotel team are fantastic! The Kallang rooms are spacious and have far-reaching views across the Kallang River and beyond, but we wholeheartedly recommend the rooms overlooking Marina Bay – the views are incredible! For an extra taste of luxury, treat yourself to a Club access upgrade and enjoy sensational views across the Marina and the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel, with breakfast and all-day wining and dining thrown in!
Ritz-Carlton Millenia is the perfect choice for families, and their Ritz Kids programme is fun and engaging for little ones… with activity books, snacks, and their own shower products. All rooms have a bath with a wonderful view – bath time will never be the same again! – and youngsters will love the Ritz Kids Night Safari Adventure… a cute little tent set up in your room, with cuddly toys for a night to remember. They even have little robes and slippers!
What did you do in Singapore? Any guidance on family friendly activities?
The Ritz-Carlton Millenia is perfectly located on the Marina… just a short walk across a pedestrian bridge to the Marina Bay Sands hotel – head to the viewing deck for breathtaking vistas – and Gardens by the Bay, home to the mesmerising Supertree Grove… a must to see lit up at night accompanied by uplifting music! For teenagers, the city’s Apple store is pretty iconic in itself, sitting over the water on the Marina! There are also boat trips to enjoy and markets to explore. Or head to Raffles for an infamous Singapore Sling – with a mocktail version for kids! On nearby Sentosa Island, you’ll find Universal Studios, waterparks, beaches and much more. When it’s time to cool off from all the exploring, wander back to Ritz-Carlton Millenia for a dip in the hotel’s fabulous outdoor pool.
Another must-do has to be ‘Jewel’ at Changi airport! This multi-level rainforest haven located in the airport features shops, bars, restaurants, and a range of fun activities for families… from climbing nets suspended high above the buzz below, mirror mazes, canopy bridge and slides! Arrive extra early at the airport and burn off energy before your flight! You can pre-book activities to save time queuing.
What was the food like? Did you try any local delicacies?
With a blend of Chinese, Malaysian, Indonesian and Indian cuisines, the range of food in Singapore is extensive and delicious. Follow the locals and try a variety of dishes at one of the city’s many food markets. We ate at Lau Pa Sat, a 20-minute stroll from our hotel around the Marina past the Merlion, and we struck gold! So many stalls, so many dishes to try! It’s a simple set up but the food is fabulous! There’s also a great restaurant and bar scene along Boat Quay and Clarke Quay.
What’s it like travelling around the city? Did you walk/bike/take taxi/have driver?
From the Ritz-Carlton, you have shops, bars and restaurants just a short stroll away. The whole loop around Marina Bay is 3.5km, and you can stop along the way to eat, drink and enjoy the views! Walking is flat, easy, and very safe, but keep in mind the humidity can zap energy. If you’re feeling the heat, hop on the MRT (metro) or download the Grab app (similar to Uber).
Can you describe the city in three words?
Vibrant. Easy-going. Pristine.
