Singapore

Singapore offers a tremendous number of luxury hotels, ranging from boutique brands to towering modern mega-hotels. Singapore has some of the most incredible luxury properties that we have personally experienced and they do come at a steep price. Given its bustling business and leisure scene, there really is not cheap time to stay at one of the best hotels in Singapore.

Hotels like the Parkroyal on Pickering offer guests the spectacular hanging gardens and sky pools, while the boutique properties, like The Warehouse Hotel, provide guests with a sexy small-hotel feel. Brands like Marriott and Hyatt are offering rooms at a steeper points rate, but may be just the thing you need to get yourself a great stay. The Andaz in Singapore, for example, is going for 25,000 points per night for the $450-500 USD room.

Taxis are everywhere, as is the public transportation system. Taxis are more expensive than some of the other Asian countries like Hong Kong, but they are also incredible safe and clean. In general, Singapore is clean, respectful and organized. The Metro (MRT), is cheap, ranging from $.50 to $2.00 depending on where you’re going. Travelers can move from neighborhood to neighborhood using the Metro and walk just about anywhere once you get off.

Singapore offers world-class dining experiences, even down to stalls at the Hawker Centers. Two stalls at Singapore’s famous markets have earned Michelin stars, including the Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle Stall and Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle. Don’t expect anything fancy, but the food is exceptional.

Street food not your thing? Check out one of the other world-renowned restaurants in Singapore, including Odette, Candlenut or Les Amis.

Between markets and luxury shops, you’ll have more than plenty to do if you’re looking to pick up some items in Singapore. Orchard Road offers over 2 kilometers of massive shopping malls. Chinatown offers endless bargain shopping during the evening hours, with everything from candles to jewelry to clothing.

Lastly, head to Clarke Quay for shops and waterfront dining options.

Its contemporary and modern culture consists of Asian and European cultures. Singapore has been known as a country where “East meets West”. Hawker Centers and the food culture bring Singaporeans together in the social and delicious way you see portrayed in Crazy Rich Asians.

Keep in mind, Singapore is also well known for fines and jokes about the harsh government restrictions have been going on since I lived there in the late 1990’s. Be mindful and respectful of the local laws, including where you can and cannot smoke or chew gum.