Confession time! Today, my Sony Mirrorless Camera had a little meltdown. But fear not! I still captured all the fantastic moments of my second day in Singapore using my newly purchased Samsung Galaxy 8. And let me tell you; it did not disappoint as a substitute. You see, this edition of my Singapore Diaries is all about embracing the great outdoors, and the photos were essential in showcasing the vibrant colours and breathtaking scenery.

When you think of Singapore, you might immediately picture the bustling cityscape with iconic attractions like Gardens by the Bay, Clarke Quay, and Sentosa Island. And while those are worth a visit, let me tell you, exploring the outdoors in Singapore is truly an awe-inspiring experience in itself. There is much to marvel at, from stunning landscapes to vibrant hues.

On the second day of my adventure, I covered a lot of ground on my two feet and mastered the train system without getting lost. It was a good thing, too, because there was so much to see and do outdoors. And yes, by the end of the day, my trusty Sony Mirrorless Camera was back in action, capturing every incredible moment. Happy days indeed!

 

 

 

 

Singapore Diaries: Day 2 – Living it up in the outdoors of Singapore

Are you ready to take on the great outdoors of Singapore? Whether looking for something adventurous or just a chill day out in nature, Day 2 promises some of the best sights and sounds.

 

Chinese Garden

Discover the ultimate paradise for cyclists and joggers at the enchanting Chinese Garden. Experience the breathtaking beauty of stunning pagodas, water features, and structures adorn this picturesque garden. Immerse yourself in nature’s embrace and soak in the fresh aroma of the open parklands surrounding you.

Best of all, entry to the Chinese Garden is free! Take your time to explore every inch of this meticulously designed sanctuary, as it can easily captivate you for a few blissful hours. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the neighbouring Japanese Gardens, connected by a charming walking bridge. While smaller, they still boast impressive structures and captivating bonsai displays.

Indulge in the sensation of tranquillity and immerse yourself in the magnificence of these extraordinary gardens. Come and experience the allure of the Chinese and Japanese Gardens today!

To Get to the Chinese Gardens, catch the train on the East-West line (green line) and get off at Chinese Garden MRT station.

 

 

 

 

 

Jurong Bird Park

Explore the wonders of Jurong Bird Park, one of Singapore’s top wildlife attractions. Experience the lively spectacle of our feathered friends in action as you stroll through picturesque parklands with your whole family, including the kids. This park is home to diverse species, from penguins and flamingos to majestic peacocks and colourful pheasants.

Don’t miss the captivating shows that feature your favourite birds showing off their talents. The High Flyers Show is a must-see, with its talented singing cockatoo and thrilling displays of birds soaring overhead.

While the park boasts various aviaries showcasing different themes, the Waterfall Avery stands out. This area is a photographer’s dream, with a breathtaking waterfall backdrop and many bird species. Take a stroll through the beautiful garden and capture unforgettable moments.

Experience the magic of Jurong Bird Park and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

 

To get to Jurong Bird Park, catch the train on the East-West Line (Green Line) to Boon Lay MRT and catch the 194 bus from the terminal to Jurong Bird Park.

 

 

 

 

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Step into the mesmerizing and expansive Singapore Botanic Gardens for an unforgettable stroll amidst various plant species. Prepare to be amazed by the beauty and diversity of flora that stretches across 82 hectares of tropical paradise.

While I had previously believed the Melbourne Botanic Gardens to be the pinnacle, the Singapore version completely changed my perspective. Here, the gardens flourish in tropical surroundings, boasting thousands of vibrant plant species.

You’ll encounter various themed areas as you explore, each more enchanting than the last. From the serene Ginger Garden to the lush Rainforest and the delightful Children’s Garden, a captivating experience awaits at every turn. Take a leisurely walk around the three tranquil lakes and revel in their tranquillity. And don’t miss the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage, where many events occur throughout the year.

Allow yourself ample time to appreciate the Singapore Botanic Gardens’ wonders fully. Plan a visit to one of the charming restaurants or cafés for a delicious meal and rejuvenating cup of coffee. Most importantly, this oasis provides a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Let yourself be captivated by the beauty and splendour of this natural sanctuary.

To get to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, catch a train and get off at the MRT station on either the downtown line (Blue Line) or The Circle Line (yellow line).

 

 

 

 

National Orchard Gardens

Discover the enchanting National Orchard Gardens, nestled within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. For just $5, embark on a romantic stroll through this vibrant boutique garden. Wander along paths that meander in every direction, and be captivated by the sight of water fountains, hidden miniature falls, and stunning blooming flowers.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Orchard Garden, which at times may feel like a hidden jungle in the heart of Singapore. This delightful oasis is the perfect destination for nature lovers and city dwellers. Don’t miss the chance to experience this colourful and picturesque sanctuary.

 

Related Content to Fair Dinkum Traveller!

• Getting Around Singapore: Transportation Guide!
• Outdoor Activities in Penang You Can’t-Miss!
• 9 Perfect Reasons to Visit Seoul in South Korea!

 

 

 

 

I can’t believe it took me so long to explore the vibrant city of Singapore. This Southeast Asian metropolis has always been at the top of my travel list, and finally, I can proudly say that I’ve checked it off my bucket list.

Embarking on another thrilling solo adventure, I plan to immerse myself in the city’s wonders by exploring on foot. From the iconic Gardens by the Bay to the vibrant Clarke Quay and the mesmerising Sentosa Island, I’ll be ticking off numerous attractions during my brief stay.

But before diving into the whole Singapore experience, let me take you through day one of my Singapore Diaries as I settle in and prepare to uncover all these incredible city offers.

 

Are you looking at making your memories in Singapore? Find a great hotel with Booking.com!

 

 

 

Getting to Singapore was not smooth sailing for me, thanks to my decision to choose a cheaper, more extended option that included a seven-hour stopover in Bali. Upon arrival at Ngurah Airport, the friendly staff seemed perplexed that I wanted to stay in transit for such a long time, considering I arrived at midnight and departed at seven. I mean, what else was I supposed to do?

To add to the trouble, the airport security didn’t want to let me in until closer to boarding time, even though I already had my boarding pass. I informed them about my 6-hour access at the Premier Lounge and threatened to get a refund if they didn’t let me through. That silenced them, and I was finally granted permission to enter the transit area.

Finally, I made it to the Premier Lounge, which was worth the extra money. They had free food, drinks, comfy chairs, and even showers. But, of course, security wasn’t done with me yet. They woke me up while I was sleeping to check my passport and boarding passes again. Talk about frustrating!

After all that drama, I enjoyed the next six hours in the Premier Lounge and finally flew with Air Asia to Singapore, where real adventures awaited me.

 

 

 

Highlights of Singapore Diaries: Day 1 – New Adventures in Singapore

Welcome to the first day of your Singapore adventure! Get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime as you explore one of the world’s most vibrant and fascinating cities. As you step off the plane, you’ll be greeted by warm, humid air and the hustle and bustle of a thriving metropolis.

 

 

Checking in at Fragrance Hotel – Sapphire

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Singapore, the Fragrance Hotel – Sapphire might be the spot for you. Situated in the Geylang area – known to locals as not the fanciest part of the island – this hotel offers limited amenities, small rooms, and no swimming pool to escape the heat.

However, what it lacks in frills, it makes up for in comfort and convenience. With a cozy bed, a refreshing shower, a television, coffee and tea provisions, and air conditioning, the essentials are all covered. Plus, the hotel is known for its accommodating management.

They even allowed me to check in early! And the best part? All this comes at an affordable price of around AUD 60. So, if you’re willing to forgo the bells and whistles, the Fragrance Hotel – Sapphire is worth considering.

 

Do you want to stay in a boutique hotel in Singapore? Check out Shappire for yourself with Booking.com!

 

 

Wandering Around Geylang

If you’re a curious traveller heading to Singapore, you may have heard of Geylang as the city’s “naughty area,” with legalised prostitution, adult stores, and gambling parlours. While it might sound daunting, it’s important to remember that Geylang is a legalised district and one of Singapore’s most popular areas.

If you’re not actively seeking out these activities, you’ll find a vibrant neighbourhood to experience local cuisine, colourful markets, and bustling streets filled with the sounds of daily life. Don’t let Geylang’s reputation scare you away – embrace the chance to discover a new side of Singaporean culture.

 

 

 

While it might not be as shiny and sleek as the city centre, there’s a certain charm to its old, rundown buildings and bustling streets. The footpaths could indeed use some widening, and the hotels could use a fresh coat of paint, but don’t let that discourage you from exploring the many delights of this vibrant neighbourhood.

And when it comes to food, Geylang truly shines. You’ll find plenty of excellent restaurants serving mouth-watering dishes at prices that won’t break the bank. Trust us, the $4-dollar noodle duck is not to be missed! So why not venture off the beaten path and discover what Geylang offers?

 

 

 

 

The Amazing Suntec City

If you’re looking for a city within a city, Suntec City is the place to go. With a trusted Uber driver, getting to this haven of the modern class is easy.

First, a massive shopping complex is filled with all the major retail chains. But that’s only the beginning. The Sky Garden boasts top-class restaurants perfect for indulging in some fine dining. Looking up, there are business buildings and luxury apartments for those who can afford it.

Five towering buildings make up Suntec City; as you walk around, they hover above you like giants. And let’s not forget the famous Fountain of Wealth, dazzling on display for everyone to see. Suntec City is a must-visit to experience a slice of high-end living.

 

 

 

 Getting Lost on Singapore MRT

Navigating the Singapore Rail System may initially seem daunting, especially with multiple rail lines crisscrossing throughout the city. However, with some time and familiarity with the colour-coded system, it becomes much easier to master, similar to the Seoul Subway System in South Korea.

On my first day, I only took the train for a few stops, and even then, I found it a bit confusing and overwhelming. I was tired from a long day and night, and I wasn’t in the mood to deal with the complexities of the train system.

Instead, I decided to take the easy route and ordered an Uber ride back to my hotel. It was a bit more expensive, but it saved me from the hassle I felt at that moment.

I’ll save exploring the train system for day two.