Central Singapore

Singapore Zoo

The Singapore Zoo is considered one of the best in the world. And it is not hard to see why – there are more than 3050 animals and 290 species held here in enclosures that give the impression the animals are roaming free. Of course they are not, but the barriers are hidden from the visitors’ eyes so it’s easy to imagine the animals in their natural habitat. One of the highlights here is the Orang utan enclosure where you can even have breakfast with these friendly animals at the Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife programme. Getting there: Taxi is the easiest option, but you can also take the MRT to go to Ang Mo Kio Station then take bus 138. You can also take the MRT to Choa Chu Kang Station then take bus 927. Prices: $15 adult, $7.50 child. Tram ride: $5 adult, $2.50 child. Tel: (65) 6269 3411. Opening hours: 8.30am-6pm daily.

Night Safari

One of the magnificent things about Singapore is the city’s ability to come up with new concepts that stretch common perceptions. The Night Safari is one of those. Illuminated by special “moonlight” lights, and divided up into eight geographical zones, the Night Safari is home to more than 900 animals and 130 species. It is open from 6pm to midnight daily when you can watch the animals as they prowl the night. Getting there: Taxi is the easiest option, but you can also take the MRT to go to Ang Mo Kio Station then take bus 138. You can also take the MRT to Choa Chu Kang Station then take bus 927. Prices: $20 adult, $10 child. Tram ride: $8 adult, $4 child. Opening hours: 6pm-12am daily. Tel: (65) 6269 3411.

Botanic Gardens

Today the Botanic Gardens in Singapore are some of the most spectacular of their kind in the world. Originally at Fort Canning since 1822, the collection was moved to the present location in 1859. The site covers 53 hectares and, along with its restaurants both inside the park and nearby, is a wonderful place to spend a couple of hours just before sun down. Take a walk through the gardens as the sun goes down, then settle down for some fine food in extra fine surroundings! Among the attractions is the National Orchid Garden, which is the home to the national flower – the Orchid. It is here that you’ll see a vast array of Orchids and learn about the history of the beautiful flower. Also at the Botanic Gardens is an outdoor stage where you’ll be able to sit and enjoy an outdoor concert. Opening hours: Botanic Gardens: 5am-midnight daily. Orchid Garden: 8.30am-7pm daily. Getting there: Take the MRT to Orchard, then bus 7, 77, 105, 106, 123, 174. Prices: Botanic Gardens: Free Orchid Garden: $2 adults, $1 children. Tel: +65 6471 7361 (back to top)

MacRitchie Reservoir

Singapore, while a modern city, is also famous for being the greenest city in Asia, if not the world. Lying at the centre of the island is a beautiful example of this – MacRitchie Reservoir. The Reservoir is surrounded by jungle filled with nature paths for you to explore. If you get there early you are more than likely to catch a bunch of monkeys at play in the cool morning air. The morning is also a great time to get yourself ready for the day by practicing a bit of Tai-Chi – or if you can’t do that, then just watch the locals. Spreading themselves out amongst the trees and beautiful gardens, the sight of people preparing for the day in such a way is strangely relaxing! Getting there: Take MRT to Novena then bus 132 or 167. Prices: Free of charge. (back to top)

Kranji Racecourse

Horse Racing has been a part of Singapore life since 1842 when the first jockey club was formed. Today the Singapore Turf Club is located at Kranji at its new headquarters since 1999. The racecourse is one of the best in Asia, making a night out at the races a real event on anyone’s calendar. The racing lasts most of the year, with only December having no meetings. Address: 1 Turf Club Avenue. Tel: +65 6879 1000. Getting there: Kranji MRT Station. Bus 170, 178, 925, 960, and 961. Prices: $3 Level 1 (non-air-conditioned), $7 Level 2 (air-conditioned), $20 (air-conditioned with attached restaurants). Race days in October/November/December 2004: October 9 – Raffles Cup (Group 1) November 13 – Stewards’ Cup (Group 3) November 14 – Singapore Gold Cup (Group 1). (back to top)

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

This huge wetland reserve is a favourite for Singaporeans wanting to experience a bit of nature. The mangrove swamps attract all sorts of migratory birds as well as a wide range of animals such as lizards, fish and fish. This is a great place to go for a bit of peace and quiet while also catching a glimpse of the island’s natural eco-systems. Address: 301 Neo Tiew Crescent. Tel: +65 6794 1401. Getting there: Woodlands MRT Station, then bus 925. Mon-Sat the bus drops you at the Kranji Reservoir carpark, about 20mins from the Reserve. On Sun and PH the bus will take you all the way to the main gate. Opening hours: 7.30am-7pm Mon-Sat; 7am-7pm Sun & PH. Last admission is at 6pm. Prices: Free on weekdays, $1 adults, 50c children Sat, Sun, PH and School Holidays. (back to top)

Mandai Orchid Gardens

Dedicated to the nation’s national flower, Mandai Orchid Gardens is the largest privately-owned orchid garden in Singapore. You’ll find about 200 different orchid species here including the national flower, Vanda Miss Joaquim. You can also buy orchids here and overseas delivery can be arranged. Address: 200 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729827. Tel: +65 6363 2206. Opening hours: 8.30am-6pm Mon, Tue-Sun 8.30am-8pm. Restaurant Vanilla Pod: open until 10pm (Tel: +65 6368 0672). Prices: $3 adults, $1 children. Getting there: Ang Mo Kio MRT Station, then bus 138. (back to top)