Vicky Singapore is often thought of as a shopping destination or short-term stop-over between flights. But there are some wonderful things to visit in the city that will keep the whole family, and especially the children enthralled when on vacation. Bear in mind that Singapore’s climate is tropical with high temperatures and humidity and sudden downpours of rain most afternoons. It is important to take water, suntan lotion, insect repellant, and an umbrella when venturing out on excursions.
Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island sits just off-shore Singapore’s main island. For children, an exciting way of reaching it is to take the cable car. Or go by bus or taxi across the causeway. A whole day can be spent on Sentosa Island, visiting the various attractions which include:
- Butterfly Park to see hundreds of brightly coloured tropical butterflies
- Luge and Skyride for a bit of action
- A tour of Fort Siloso to see the fortifications and artifacts from World War 2
- The Mega Zip ride – similar to a flying fox, age and height restrictions apply, children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult
- A cycle tour is a leisurely way of getting around the island
- Resorts World Universal Studios movie theme park where the children can pretend they are movie stars
- The circus for some eye-popping entertainment
Visit Pulau Ubin Island, near Singapore
Another little island to visit but for a different reason is Pulau Ubin. Getting there is a short ride in a ‘bum boat’ (traditional boat) from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. The boats go across and back during daylight hours. Pulau Ubin has retained its traditional architecture and is a chance for visitors to see how the lifestyle of Singapore used to be. Stroll around the village or hire bikes by the hour to go further afield. Allow a couple of hours for a visit.
East Coast Park
If the children want to let off steam, run, and swim, they will enjoy a visit to East Coast Park. The longest beach (man-made) and largest park in Singapore are here. There are lots of food outlets, shady trees to picnic under, and walkways through the park. Hire bicycles or rollerblades, swim and build sandcastles on the beach, and count the numerous ships that are anchored just off-shore in this, one of the world’s busiest ports.
Animal Encounters in Singapore – the Zoo, the Night Safari and Jurong Bird Park
These three places are the top attractions in Singapore and a must for any visitor, especially those with children. A special 3-in-1 Park Hopper ticket gives discounted admission to all three places and is valid for one month. There is also a 2-in-1 ticket to visit two of the parks. These tickets can be bought at any of the parks. Another bonus is free admission on your birthday – what better treat for the birthday boy or girl!
Singapore Zoo
Open every day from 8.30 – 6 p.m.the zoo is huge with its animals and birds living in open habitats in the rainforest. There is a little tram that takes visitors around, stopping at 3 stations within the zoo so visitors can hop on and hop off when they like. Or the children might enjoy going in a horse-drawn carriage, on a 30-minute boat trip on the reservoir, or even having a ride on an elephant.A not-to-be-missed photo opportunity is having your picture taken sitting with the orangutans. Or for a real treat, book a ‘Breakfast with the Orangutans’. Various shows featuring different animals are held during the day and there are opportunities for children to interact with the animals.
The Night Safari
Adjacent to the zoo and open daily from 7.30 p.m. till midnight, the Night Safari will enthrall adults and children alike when they see nocturnal animals in their natural habitats. Animals from eight regions around the world live here. This is a chance to see many rare species such as tapirs and giant ant-eaters as well as leopards and lions, elephants, and giraffes. A 45-minute tram ride takes visitors on the Night Safari or there are 3 tracks through the rainforest park to walk at your leisure. The ‘Creatures of the Night’ show is well worth attending. At the entrance to the Night Safari, there are food outlets, shops, and a foot spa where dozens of ‘doctor’ fish nibble at your toes and fire-eating tribesmen from Borneo demonstrate their skills.
Jurong Bird Park
Over 8,000 birds live at Jurong Bird Park which is open from 8.30 to 6 p.m. daily. A monorail train transports visitors around the park or visitors can walk the many pathways between exhibits. Children would enjoy going to ‘Breakfast with the Birds’, where they can have their fortunes told by Merlin the parrot and hand-feed several feathered friends. Another experience that is out-of-the-ordinary is the ‘Birds of Prey’ show where handlers work with eagles, hawks, and other raptors.
Singapore can be an exciting vacation destination for families when activities and visits are tailored to children’s needs. Close-up encounters with animals and birds, adventure rides, and entertainment centers are all part of the mix that will keep children amused for several days in Singapore. Make allowances for tiredness and the heat, vary the outings, and don’t try to do too much in one day. Then the whole family will be happy with their holiday in Singapore.