travel

'This underrated Asian city is the perfect destination for solo travellers.'

Singapore is a place I've been to many times. I just never left the (albeit incredible) airport.

Whenever I plan a holiday to Europe or India, I always have a stopover in Singapore. This time however, Singapore wasn't just a stopover for me… it was my final destination. And I'm so glad it was because I'm already planning a trip back.

Watch: Horoscopes at the airport. Post continues below.


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Singapore is extremely underrated as a holiday destination. The film Crazy, Rich, Asians was working overtime in the visual depiction of Singapore, and I'm happy to report that the aesthetics are picture-perfect.

It's a city that provides endless options to explore and, yes, while Singapore has a reputation for being expensive, there are plenty of affordable options for food, transport and activities.

The first thing I said to everyone when I returned from my trip was "I want to go back… Like yesterday."

Now, I've convinced six of my friends and family to swipe their credit cards and book a holiday to Singapore, and I just know that I'm about to convince you to do the same.

Why visit Singapore?

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I'm kicking myself for not exploring Singapore before. I'm a nervous traveller who loves to travel alone… and yes, I see the irony.

What makes Singapore truly special is its seamless blend of efficiency and excitement. The city-state has mastered the art of being both ultra-modern and charmingly traditional. It's also incredibly safe for solo travellers, with well-lit streets and reliable public transport.

We were on our way back home from dinner at 10.30pm and I saw a woman RUNNING BY HERSELF… ON THE STREETS… I nearly took a photo to show everyone back home before I realised how creepy that would've been (while also defeating the whole 'feeling safe at night' thing they have going on).

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Everyone I met there is extremely respectful, understanding and kind. I was standing in a line for 30 minutes to get some dumplings (they were really good dumplings) and when I got to the front, I realised they were a cash-only business. Of course, I only had my card on me (foolish behaviour).

The chef said to me, "Go enjoy your meal and take your time. You can pay before you leave." I was starving and hormonal and that sentence alone nearly made me burst into tears.

What to do in Singapore.

I don't even know where to start. There is soooo much to do here, so I did the lord's work and covered all my bases.

Singapore is a place where you actually want to play tourist because its most well-known features are exceptional.

Gardens by the Bay is a must during the evening. The dome conservatories are beautiful — we spent hours in them (make sure you wear comfy shoes). If you visit just before sunset you can view the domes in the beautiful evening light while also catching the Garden Rhapsody light and music show when it gets dark.

Flower dome conservatory, Garden Rhapsody show & the Peranakan MuseumFrom left to right: Flower dome conservatory, Garden Rhapsody show, Peranakan Museum

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Now, I'm gonna be honest with you, I'm not a big nature girly and yet I went on a HIKE and I ENJOYED IT.

The MacRitchie Treetop Walk is perfect for anyone who loves being in nature… and for those of us who just want to tag along.

The views are stunning from the 250-metre suspension bridge and although Singapore is insanely humid, the canopy keeps the forest reasonably cool, which makes the walk much more fun.

Although I'm not a nature girly, I am a culture girly.

Little India, Kampong Gelam and all the other cultural precincts are a must. If you appreciate history, it's amazing to see the many cultures that have influenced Singapore over the years — Peranakan Museum is another must-see if you want to learn more.

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MacRitchie Treetop Walk, Sentosa & Singapore city.From left to right: MacRitchie Treetop Walk, Sentosa & Singapore city.

Of course, you also have to take a day trip to Sentosa. It's an island that you can travel via cable car (360-degree view — slay). There is so much to do in Sentosa, from the S.E.A. Aquarium that houses more than 100,000 marine animals, to watching light shows, or just hanging out at one of the many beach clubs sipping on cocktails.

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Perfect for families, perfect for couples, perfect for groups, and perfect for solo travellers.

Best places to eat in Singapore.

Ah yes, my absolute favourite thing to talk about — food.

I'm just gonna say it--: Singapore's food scene is top-tier, and I'm not joking when I say that since returning, I've been thinking about the meals I ate every single day.

I'm going to be real with you, the only places you need to eat are at the hawker centres. They're these large food halls where you can get EVERYTHING.

There's one on every corner and they're massive. The food is brilliant (some are Michelin-rated).

Food in Singapore.I think about this food every single day. Image: Supplied.

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The one must-visit (which has gained so much popularity thanks to the film Crazy, Rich Asians) is Lau Pa Sat. It's a beautiful cast-iron heritage building and in the evenings, traffic is redirected as the entire street transforms. It's known as "Satay Street" and yes, the satay is incredible.

Where to stay in Singapore and how to get around.

I stayed at the M Social Hotel Singapore. The rooms are perfect for anyone travelling alone. They also have a big breakfast buffet that transforms into a restaurant during the day.

The location of the hotel was perfect for travelling around on foot, as well as via Singapore's MRT system. It's a metro that takes you EVERYWHERE. Super efficient, super easy to navigate and super smooth.

What surprised me most about Singapore was its ability to constantly surprise. Just when you think you've seen it all, you'll turn a corner to find a hidden speakeasy, a peaceful garden, or a hawker stall serving the best meal of your life.

It's a holiday of mine that I think about every single day and I'm immediately booking my next visit.

If you want more from Emily Vernem, you can follow her on Instagram @emilyvernem.

Feature image: Supplied.

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