If you find yourself with a long layover in Singapore, you’re in luck! This vibrant city offers a wealth of attractions to explore in just a few hours. Three must-visit places are Jewel Changi Airport, Merlion Park, and Gardens by the Bay. Here’s how to make the most of your time.
Getting to Know Singapore
Before diving into the attractions, let’s cover some basics about Singapore. This island nation is known for its multicultural society, efficiency, and safety. English is one of the four official languages, making it easy for travelers to communicate. The other languages include: Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil. The currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD).
A Brief History
Originally a small fishing village known as Temasek. At that time, Singapore was not an independent nation; it was part of the larger Malay Archipelago and had a mix of indigenous Malay, Chinese, and Indian populations engaged in fishing and trade.
Singapore became a British trading post in 1819 and gained independence in 1965. Since then, it has evolved into a global financial hub. Its commitment to safety and cleanliness makes it a top destination for tourists.
Safety and Tips
Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world. Violent crime is rare, and public transport is reliable. However, remember to respect local laws, which can be strict. For example, chewing gum is largely prohibited, and littering can lead to hefty fines.
Jewel Changi Airport
Overview
Jewel Changi Airport is a breathtaking multi-use complex located right at Changi Airport. Opened in April 2019, it features a unique blend of nature and technology. This stunning structure is home to over 280 retail and food outlets, making it a shopper’s paradise.
Getting There
Jewel is connected to the airport terminals via walking paths. It’s just a short 5 to 10-minute walk from any terminal, making it easily accessible.
Highlights
The centerpiece of Jewel is the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at 40 meters (about 131 feet). It cascades down from the roof and is surrounded by lush greenery. Don’t miss the Canopy Park on the top floor, which features mazes, bridges, and interactive installations.
Special Events
Jewel frequently hosts special events and exhibitions, especially during festive seasons. Check their official website for current happenings.
Merlion Park
Overview
Merlion Park is home to Singapore’s iconic Merlion statue. This half-lion, half-fish creature symbolizes the city’s origins as a fishing village and its transformation into a bustling metropolis.
Getting There
To reach Merlion Park from Changi Airport, take the East West Line on the MRT (subway) to the Raffles Place station. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and it’s a short 10-minute walk from the station to the park.
History
The Merlion was designed in 1964 by the artist Fraser Brunner and has become a national symbol. The statue stands at 8.6 meters (28.2 feet)
tall and spouts water from its mouth into Marina Bay. The Merlion represents Singapore’s humble beginnings and its growth into a thriving global city.
What to Do
At Merlion Park, you can take stunning photos with the skyline in the background. There are also benches and green spaces for a quick rest.
Gardens by the Bay
Overview
Gardens by the Bay is a futuristic garden located near Marina Bay Sands. Opened in 2012, it features a diverse range of flora and stunning architectural structures.
Getting There
From Merlion Park, you can walk to Gardens by the Bay in about 20 minutes, or take a quick taxi ride. It’s roughly 3 kilometers away.
History and Purpose
Gardens by the Bay was built to enhance the greenery of the city and promote environmental awareness. It spans over 101 hectares (250 acres), showcasing Singapore’s commitment to sustainability.
Attractions
The park includes the iconic Supertree Grove, which features vertical gardens that light up at night. You can stroll through the OCBC Skyway for panoramic views of the gardens and the skyline.
Costs and Free Activities
While the outdoor gardens are free to enter, some attractions have admission fees. The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest require tickets. Both offer stunning displays of flowers and a cool mist environment, respectively.
Light Show
Don’t miss the Garden Rhapsody light and sound show at the Supertree Grove. The show runs daily at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM and lasts about 15 minutes. It features music synchronized with lights illuminating the Supertrees, creating a magical atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
With a long layover in Singapore, you can experience a slice of this remarkable city. I would have loved more time to wander around the Gardens of the Bay and honestly you could spend a whole day shopping, eating and exploring Jewel Changi. We were a bit rushed trying to fit in each of these sites, a weekend would have been the perfect amount of time to see visit all three if you want to take your time. But if you just have a long layover, I would happily chose 1 or 2 of these places. From the stunning Jewel Changi to the iconic Merlion and the breathtaking Gardens by the Bay, each stop offers a unique glimpse into Singapore’s culture and innovation. Enjoy your time, respect local customs, and make the most of your layover!
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning, Singapore’s blend of nature, history, and modernity is sure to impress. Safe travels!
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