My Singapore experience

My Singapore Experience
By Gillian Roffe – 11 June 2025

Singapore is a city that instantly welcomes you with its warmth and hospitality. From the moment you arrive, the friendliness and efficiency of the locals leave a lasting impression. Their pride in showcasing the best of Singapore is admirable, and for those who love shopping, this destination is a dream come true. English is widely spoken, with Mandarin as a secondary language, making communication easy for most visitors.

I had the pleasure of visiting Singapore in April this year and wanted to share some highlights—from food and shopping to hotels and must-see attractions.

Getting There

We flew with Singapore Airlines, consistently rated the best airline in the world. The onboard service was exceptional—polished cabin crew, delicious meals, and top-tier comfort made the journey a breeze. Upon arrival, Changi Airport lived up to its world-class reputation. Immigration was quick, and staff were courteous and efficient. Within 30 minutes, we were in the heart of the city.

Where to Stay

We chose the Hilton Hotel, which offered an excellent experience. A helpful tip: consider upgrading to the Executive Room Package. This includes exclusive lounge access, afternoon high tea, evening sundowners, and dinner with your choice of drinks. Complimentary coffee and tea are available all day. Breakfast is included and features an extensive buffet to suit all dietary needs. The hotel’s restaurant holds a Michelin Star and serves a mix of European, Chinese, Malaysian, and Asian cuisine—beautifully prepared and full of flavor.

Many restaurants in the Food Euphoria group also hold Michelin stars and offer exceptional dining. You’ll find these spots mainly on ground or basement levels in shopping centres, and all accept both cash and credit cards.

Exploring the City

Singapore is best explored on foot, so bring comfortable shoes. Orchard Road is the main shopping thoroughfare, packed with major shopping centres like ION Orchard, Paragon, Jewel at Changi Airport, Clarke Quay, and Marina Bay Sands. While Marina Bay’s luxury stores are eye-catching, they are also high-end—perfect for window shopping. If you’re hunting for bargains, Bugis Street Market and Chinatown offer fantastic value. Bugis Village is particularly lively and great for souvenir shopping.

Getting around is easy with the MRT and bus systems—both punctual and user-friendly. Grab, a popular ride-hailing app, works well for taxis. Drivers are exclusively Singaporean, highly knowledgeable, and courteous. The city traffic flows efficiently, and with security cameras on every corner, the roads are safe and orderly. We didn’t see a single police officer—yet everyone followed the rules.

Booking Attractions

Singapore is always bustling, so pre-booking attractions is essential. I recommend using the Get Your Guide app to purchase tickets in advance. Be sure to download them in a secure Wi-Fi environment like your hotel, as not all areas have internet access. This ensures smooth entry when scanning at venues.

One standout experience was the Evening Cruise and Gardens by the Bay Light Show, which we booked through a local agency. The small group size (no more than six people) and knowledgeable guides made it truly enjoyable.

Iconic Experiences

A visit to Raffles Hotel is almost a rite of passage—especially for their iconic Singapore Sling. Expect a bit of a wait (around an hour), but once inside, the atmosphere is lively, and service is efficient. Two Slings cost approximately R1,600 based on the April exchange rate (R14/1 SGD), and they’re worth every cent. Another must-try is Afternoon High Tea at Raffles, a refined experience featuring exquisite cakes, scones, and pastries. Reservations are essential, and the cost is about R1,500 per person.

Coffee lovers shouldn’t miss BACHA PALACE, located in many shopping centres. Their coffee and gourmet treats are a delight for caffeine connoisseurs.

Must-See Attractions

Gardens by the Bay is a top attraction. Entry to the outdoor Supertree Grove is free, while access to the Skyway requires a ticket. The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest house plant life from around the globe. We were thrilled to find a section dedicated to South African flora. The Cloud Forest misting show at noon is not to be missed—absolutely magical!

The Sky Deck at Marina Bay Sands offers stunning city views. The complex is expanding, with a fourth tower expected by 2028–2030. Each tower features unique experiences and numerous dining options.

Sentosa Island is another must-visit, known for its beautiful beaches and fun attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium. Entry to the aquarium costs around R652 per adult, and it’s a hit with visitors of all ages.

Final Thoughts

Singapore offers a seamless blend of culture, modernity, and natural beauty. With so much to explore—from gourmet food and luxury shopping to lush gardens and vibrant markets—there’s something for every traveller.

If you’re planning a trip, feel free to contact Penny at our office for help with bookings or travel advice. You can reach her at penny@xlbaytravel.co.za or call 041 360 9409. I’d also be happy to share more insights from my journey.

I look forward to visiting Singapore again—it’s truly a destination that stays with you.

— Gillian Roffe