96 Hours in Singapore

Before gaining independence in 1965, Singapore was a part of Malaysia with an ailing economy, flourishing corruption, and lack of clean drinking-water. During the last 52 years, the Singaporean republic managed to jump from a Third World country to a First. Visiting the Lion City now might be compared to a trip to the future. Its shining skyscrapers, magnificent gardens, and cutting-edge urban projects make Singapore one of the most visited cities of the world (and one you might want to see for yourself this holiday season).
To travel to Singapore Ukrainians need a visa. Yet, if you are going to stay in Singapore only a few days before or after a trip to Asia, you can take advantage of the visa-free 96-hour transit. Of course, 96 hours would never be enough to explore this city in full. So let us share a special list of the most spectacular and unusual Singapore spots travellers shouldn’t pass up.

Merlion
This mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish stands right at the mouth of the Singapore River. As a symbol of Singapore and a place where the city’s history started, the Merlion overlooks some marvelous views of futuristic architecture.

Clarke Quay
Take a stroll along the historical Singapore Riverside. Clarke Quay has long been a vibrant dining and party destination where you can suddenly find yourself drinking cocktails, eating Asian specialties, or hitting the dancefloor in one of the iconic clubs.

Marina Bay Sands Rooftop Bar
An unforgettable sky-high view awaits at the Marina Bay Sands rooftop bar, made even more special at night. Make sure you enjoy it with the country’s signature cocktail since the early 1900s – a Singapore Sling.

Gardens by the Bay
Spend a few relaxing hours under the giant trees in the Gardens by the Bay nature park. It seems hard to swallow that such a busy city still has so much space for gardens and parks. Finish your walk cooling down near the 35-metre waterfall amidst the orchids in the Cloud Forest.

Neighbourhoods
While Singapore continues to evolve by leaps and bounds, its ethnic districts like Chinatown or Little India maintain their distinct old traditions and culture. These bustling neighborhoods boast local markets, souvenir shops, street food eateries, and colorful old temples, where the “king of fruits” – durian, must be tried!

Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam is a famous heritage Muslim district with a beautiful Sultan Mosque in its heart and traditional Middle East and Malay cafés spread around the quarter. The neighbourhood walls are covered with amazing street art pieces created by local and world-renowned artists. Lined with local designer shops and hip bars, Haji Lane is a key highlight not to be missed.

Jambo Seafood
The only restaurant in this list is Jambo Seafood, which is famous for its mind-blowing recipe of fresh chili crabs. Roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a guilty pleasure.
* Make sure you reserve a table a day or two before visiting.

Night Safari
The Night Safari is an attraction that is distinctly Singapore. Take a guided tram or a walking trail around the world’s first nocturnal zoo and experience the natural wildlife habitat.

Before landing in the city…
Visa-free transit through Singapore is provided only to tourists who travel from one country, for example, Ukraine, to another, like Malaysia, by air. While passing through customs in Singapore Changi Airport you might be asked to show flight tickets with departure date, hotel booking, or other details of your stay in the country.

Mind the fines
To keep the city clean by all means, Singapore authorities have put in a system of strange fines, so avoid eating on the subway, chewing gum, or littering on the streets. Connecting to somebody’s else Wi-Fi may cost you up to S$ 10 000, and don’t forget to flush the public toilets or you may have to pay a S$ 150 fine!