Singapore in 3 days

The diamond shaped city-state island of Singapore is located just one degree north of the equator off southern Mayalsia. A cultural melting pot with a tropical climate and colonial past Singapore is constantly evolving and is much more than the sum of its 63 island parts.

Singapore has come a long way since its inception as trading post for the East India Company back in 1861, although some interesting colonial architecture has been retained in amongst the modernity of the city's skyscrapers and the iconic Marina Bay. Today, this is a place where foodies, explorers, collectors, action seekers, and shopaholics will all find themselves at home, and because of its compact size and layout it is easy to explore in a few days.

We've so far visited Singapore on four separate occasions and even contemplated an opportunity to move here in 2015, so you could say we have become fans! It is very safe and you don't even need any vaccinations (beyond the routine ones) to visit, which Is rare in this part of the world. The main draw to this place though has to be the food, and if you like food you'll love Singapore. Here is our suggested itinerary for three days in Singapore.

Day 1

Arrive in Singapore, (flights usually arrive in the morning or around lunch time) breeze through immigration at Changi airport and collect you luggage - this has to be one of the friendliest and efficient airports in the world. Take a cab from outside the terminal to your downtown hotel. We highly recommend staying at Naumi, a smart boutique hotel located next door to the Raffles complex in the heart of the city.

Familiarise yourself with the downtown area by taking a walk past raffles hotel towards St Andrews Cathedral, have a look around this interesting gothic style structure built by the British in 1861. Next stop, further along St Andrews Road is the regions newest (and largest) museum of modern art - Singapore's National Gallery. Housed within two of Singapore’s awe-inspiring national monuments, it is well worth a visit and will provide a welcome respite from the humidity. After the gallery take a short stroll to nearby Clarke Quay or alternatively head over the Elgin Bridge to Boat Quay and relax with a well-earned drink at one of the many bars or cafes. If you haven't had lunch yet then there are also plenty of places here to eat around here. Head back to the hotel for a rest via Raffles for an original Singapore Sling at the Long Bar. There are many good restaurants and bars in downtown Singapore and most are within a short distance. Our favourites include FOC, Jumbo Seafood (for chili crab) and Flying Monkey.

Day 2

Two things you must not miss in Singapore are Gardens By The Bay and a visit to China Town, fortunately they are located in close proximity. After breakfast take a short taxi journey or walk to the Singapore Flyer for a panoramic view of the city from 165 metres. Next, it's over to Gardens By The Bay - a nature park spanning 101 hectares (250 acres) of reclaimed land, the park consists of three waterfront gardens, two massive indoor conservatories comprising of a cloud forest and flower dome and the Super Tree Grove.

After spending the morning at Gardens by The Bay, head on over to China Town for some Michelin Star quality street food. If you can hold on until after 2pm then this is the best time as it's less busy with office workers. Go to Liao Fan Hawker Chan, for Chan Hon Meng's iconic chicken and rice - possibly the cheapest Michelin star meal in the world. On Maxwell Road you can find the fantastic Amoy Street Food Centre and old favourite the Maxwell Food Centre, both are worth a visit. Take some time to wander around the streets of China town taking in the street market around Pagoda Street, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Sri Mariamman Temple.

Day 3

In the morning head over to Marina Bay for a visit to the Marina Bay Sands sky park and observation deck, or alternatively head for a spot of retail therapy on Orchard Road. For an epic lunch head over to the iconic Raffles Hotel and indulge in a feast of afternoon tea, but be sure to book in advance. In the evening visit the Singapore night safari - a truly unique experience. You should be able to book the night safari in advance either online or with the concierge at your hotel.