At first glance, Singapore might feel like a futuristic city, hyper-modern and squeaky clean, with the world’s tallest indoor fountain and a three-tower 57-story downtown hotel that resembles a house of cards, blurring the boundaries between art and architecture. But 48 hours is just enough time to step away from the glitz and glamour and discover the true essence of this island-city state with its umpteen hawker centres, colourful temples and melting pot of a culture.
A place, no matter how unique or picturesque, is first defined by the people who inhabit it. In the face of countless skyscrapers jutting into the sky like fireworks raring to take off, our signature experiences focus on championing the tireless residents of this booming metropolis, whose ancestors had once travelled from far and wide to create a new home in this tropical island. It is here that so many distinctive cultures and cuisines met and evolved to produce something so specific to Singapore, that its warmth and wholesomeness would be difficult to replicate anywhere else.
On that note, we start off bright and early on the first day to explore Kampong Glam, the city’s Muslim quarters, which is also home to live music bars, hip fashion outlets and boutiques. Your local guide will tell you about the rich history of the “Arab Kampong” and stories of a pioneering Arab family with their own MRT station, while you take in the aroma of freshly roasted coffee as you pass by popular cafes. You will also get the opportunity to meet one of Singapore’s last traditional barbers and unleash your artistic side in a graffiti workshop, guided by a skilled street artist.
