In transit: 24 hours in Singapore

WARNING!

This entry is not funny and may even provide useful information

8:30 a.m. Coffee at the Polo Club

This list is dedicated to those travellers who may be just on a layover and can only spend one day in Singapore. Here is a small sample of the many special things to do. Any of these will leave an indelible memory of Singapore; however, with comfortable shoes and a little energy, it is also possible to do them all.

First off, coffee at the Polo Club. Unlike other clubs in Singapore, membership is not required at this discreet club full of colonial charm. This is not a publicized bit of information, which is just as well. If you’re lucky, you can enjoy a glass of wine on the verandah overlooking the polo field while a match is going on. If not, you can let your kids walk over to the stables and give carrots to the horses. If you’re not a cat-lover, beware of those pesky cats following you.

10:00 a.m. Shopping on Orchard Road

Singapore is viewed by many as the shopping capital of the world, and if you go to Takashimaya at exactly 10 am when the store opens, each member of staff will bow as you enter through the doors. Prices are still high but the fact that you are briefly treated like royalty definitely improves your disposition.

12:30 p.m. Prawn noodles at Food Republic

There is a dazzling array of food at the aptly named Food Republic (located at Wisma Atria, on Orchard Road) but one vendor is clearly superior: the stall serving a delicious, piping-hot plate of prawn noodles on an opeh leaf (a brown, dried palm leaf). You’ll recognize it from the long line of customers patiently waiting for their fresh noodles cooked on the spot.

2:00 p.m. Luge at Sentosa

Fun for adults and kids alike. You can enjoy the gorgeous views of Sentosa (a popular island resort in Singapore) as you speed downhill. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can jump into the water at Palawan Beach. As long as you ignore the many oil tankers, you’ll feel like you’re on an exotic beach under swaying palm trees.

4:00 p.m. High tea at the Fullerton Hotel

Housed in the old General Post Office building, the Fullerton Hotel is one of the most impressive colonial buildings in Singapore. The facade and luxurious interior will transport you to another age. And the multi-tiered stand of dainty cakes and exquisite sandwiches is not too shabby either.

6:30 p.m. Dinner at a Peranakan restaurant

Peranakans are descendants of early Chinese migrants who settled in Singapore and married local Malays. One of their most significant contributions is culinary. A classic example of their delicious fusion cuisine is laksa (a spicy noodle soup). If you have an addictive personality, avoid it.

8:00 p.m. Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel

Raffles Hotel, established in 1887 by two Armenian brothers, is Singapore’s most venerable institution. It’s a tradition to have a Singapore Sling (the cocktail invented here) at the Long Bar at Raffles. According to a local legend, this is where the last tiger in Singapore was shot. Expect to walk on peanut shells on the way out as patrons are encouraged to throw the shells on the ground (voted Least Popular Joint by cleaners).

9:30 p.m. Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo

Most zoos are depressing places because of the cages. Not the Singapore Zoo. That’s because you won’t find any cages here. No joke. And if you go there at night and see the Halloween-themed park (possibly banned now), your child could easily be traumatized for life. On the other hand, if you just flew in from another country and want him to get over jet lag quickly this could be just the thing. This zoo is truly unique. And that was even before the giant pandas from China, Kai Kai and Jia Jia, arrived.

11:30 p.m. Nightcap at 1-Altitude

For the best view in town, head over to the bar 1-Altitude. Drinks are pricey but the view is worth it. Especially if it’s your only night in town. And someone else is paying.