Exploring Singapore: A 6-Hour Private Layover Car Tour
Are you visiting Singapore on a layover? A 6-hour private car tour is the perfect way to experience the highlights of the Lion City. Known for its blend of modernity and tradition, Singapore offers a unique cultural tapestry and iconic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination. If you have a long layover in the city, a layover tour is an ideal way to maximize your time and get a taste of what Singapore has to offer. Here’s a detailed look at an unforgettable layover adventure in Singapore experienced by Cheryl & Zac, Evie, and Megan.
Cheryl & Zac, Evie, and Megan on their Hello! Singapore 6 hour Private Layover Car Tour.
Merlion Park and Civic District
Cheryl & Zac, Evie, and Megan began their drive to Merlion Park, exploring parts of the civic district of Singapore. At Marina Bay, they viewed the stunning Marina Bay Sands from across the Marina and visited the emblem of Singapore, The Merlion. The group walked across to the Victoria Concert Hall and learned about the Singapore River, the birthplace of multinational trade since 1819. They also glimpsed the historic Fullerton Hotel (Old General Post Office) and the Victoria Concert Hall, while noting landmarks like the New and Old Parliament House and the Sir Stamford Raffles Statue, marking Raffles’ landing point in Singapore.
Beach Road and Iconic Landmarks
The tour continued along Beach Road, with a glimpse of St Andrew’s Cathedral. They discussed the founding of Singapore by Sir Stamford Raffles and how he allocated land for this church. They also passed by the legendary Raffles Hotel, where the famous Singapore Sling, a gin-based cocktail, was concocted.
National Orchid Garden
Next, they visited the National Orchid Garden, located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. With over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids on display, the garden showcased the splendor of these gorgeous blooms.
Black & White Houses and Orchard Road
Driving through the Botanic Gardens, they saw some Black & White houses, including one featured in the movie "Crazy Rich Asians." The city tour then continued along Orchard Road, Singapore’s bustling shopping belt, known for its cosmopolitan vibe, diverse culture, food offerings, and status as a shopping paradise. They also discussed car ownership and the Housing Development Board's (HDB) role in subsidizing housing in Singapore.
Thian Hock Keng Temple and Chinatown
The tour proceeded to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, one of the earliest Hokkien temples in Singapore, built in the 1820s. Here, migrant workers once came to thank their gods for a safe sea journey from China to Singapore. They explored Chinatown, known in Chinese as 牛车水 (bullock-cart-water), learning about how early Chinese migrant workers settled down with help from their clan associations. They discovered how early migrants arrived via the Singapore River, resulting in Chinatown's name, "Street of Harmony," where a Muslim mosque, an Indian temple, and a Chinese temple stand within walking distance.
Long Mural and Singapore City Gallery
At the Long Mural behind the Thian Hock Keng Temple, they recapped Sir Stamford Raffles’ Jackson Plan and how early migrants arrived at Singapore's banks. Local artist Mr. Yip Yew Chong illustrated Singapore's timeline from the late 19th century to modern times. They also discussed Telok Ayer, meaning Bay Water in Malay.
Next, they visited the Singapore City Gallery at The URA Centre, charting Singapore's urban transformation and future plans, gaining an understanding of the city’s urban planning.
Maxwell Road Hawker Centre and Return
The final stop was the Maxwell Road Hawker Centre, an integral part of Singapore's hawker food culture. They enjoyed deep-fried vegetarian spring rolls and sugar cane with lemon juice.
The tour concluded with a drive through the streets of Chinatown, heading back to the hotel, wrapping up a comprehensive and enriching 6-hour exploration of Singapore.