Jimmy Rees at Merlion Park
Australian comedian Jimmy Rees has revealed his first impressions of Singapore and the destination’s must-do activities following his first visit to the Lion City in January this year.
Recently announced as the ambassador for Singapore Tourism Board (STB) Oceania’s Find Yourself in Singapore campaign, Rees visited the city for the first time this year. Prior to that, he had only transited through Changi Airport.
“My top tip to Aussie travellers is to leave Changi Airport! Singapore is a destination with something for everyone. It’s a playground of unexpected and surprising adventures, and I can’t wait to come back here with my family. The ease of travel and variety of things on offer means my wife and I can let the kids go wild, but we won’t be bored either!”, says Rees. He added that savouring local food was also a standout experience. “Enjoying the amazing culinary delights is also a great way to immerse yourself in local culture, especially when so much of the country’s history is wrapped up in its favourite dishes!”
Rees’ trip was part of STB Oceania’s Find Yourself in Singapore campaign which invites Australians to guess the locations where six 3D-printed miniature figurines have been hidden, for a chance to win a $500 travel voucher for Singapore.
Rees has shared some Singapore highlights for first-time visitors.
“It’s not short of iconic attractions.”
Singapore provides endless Instagrammable moments, so for those looking for an iconic Instagram shot, don’t miss the Merlion – the famous half-lion and half-fish statue at Merlion Park.
Spouting water from its mouth, this national icon stands at 8.6 metres and weighs 70 tonnes, and as Rees found out, provides limitless photo opportunities.
“It’s a great blend of old and new.”
Many first-time visitors see Singapore only as a modern metropolis, but a closer look reveals how it seamlessly blends the old with the new, and modern with traditional. This shines best in its cultural neighbourhoods. Chinatown, for example, is not just home to temples and traditional goods, but also to street art and cool finds.
Another pit-stop has to be at one of Singapore’s oldest hawker centres, Lau Pa Sat (or “old market” in the Hokkien dialect), which is housed in a beautifully restored cast iron heritage building, and offers a mix of local and international cuisines. A favourite for both locals and visitors is its “Satay Street” – where adjoining Boon Tat Street closes to traffic from 7pm to transform into a line of satay stalls which grill and serve satay the al fresco old-fashioned way!
“It’s perfect for the family.”
Whether you’re looking for animals and adventure activities, museums, attractions or just spending time in nature, your family will find plenty of fun activities and experiences in Singapore.
The newest wildlife park to join the country’s famous Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and River Wonders is Bird Paradise – home to over 3,500 birds. Eight walk-through aviaries have been designed to resemble natural habitats of the world where multiple species co-exist and interact with each other. Sentosa Island also offers a range of experiences for all ages to enjoy, including theme parks like Universal Studios Singapore, beach clubs and food trucks amongst other exciting offerings.
“It’s easy to get around.”
At just seven hours away from the east coast of Australia and only five hours from Perth, Singapore is the perfect destination to stretch your legs after a long flight, or for a long weekend escape.
Singapore not only packs a lot into its compact size, but also makes it easy to get around too, so you’re never too far away from the next attraction or dining option! The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) train system is an affordable and most convenient way to zip around the country, especially since most attractions are just a short walk away from an MRT station.
