Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
ShowingFilter 1381-1400 of 1872 listings.
Sichuan Opera House
For more than 100 years dancers, singers and other performers have been presenting traditional Sichuan operas for travelers and tourists seeking a true cross cultural experience. Divided into two distinct spaces, the VIP Chinese Opera House and the Liyuan Opera House, Sichuan Opera House is a must-see stop on any Chengdu visit.
Arrive early to watch dancers and singers expertly apply makeup and get an up close look at the colorful traditional costumes that bring life to this one-of-a-kind act. Audience members will experience the music of five ancient styles, including thumping percussion and high-pitched melodies. Stick puppets and hand shadows are part of this multi-sensory experience that is sure to redefine the meaning of opera for western travelers.
Practical Info
The opera house is located in the Chengdu Cultural Park on Qintai Road. Shows take place every evening from 8 pm until 9:30 pm.
Address: Qintai Lu #23, Chengdu, China
Admission: Ticket prices start at 150 yuan
From $ 20
Singapore Discovery Centre
Is edutainment a thing? It certainly is at the Singapore Discovery Centre! The S’pore, as the locals call it, presents the history of Singapore as a country, a global nation and a lively city in an informative yet highly entertaining way. Is the S’pore a museum, an art gallery, a science center… or all of these things? The many exhibits focus on interactivity and storytelling, and showcase the way Singapore developed while living under the flags of Japan, Great Britain and Malaysia before becoming an independent nation. Its main goal is to encourage the enquiring minds of both locals and visitors alike to build a better future for Singapore by learning more about its past. Young visitors can also try their hand at being a professional for a day, whether they opt for being a city planner, broadcast journalist, wartime general or professional Singaporean dancer.
The center features movie theaters, exhibition halls, a playground, an aircraft display, a paintball arena, a virtual shooting range, a 4D simulator ride and even pedal boats. There are also two restaurants on-site for visitors thinking of taking a day trip out at the S’pore.
Practical Info
The Singapore Discovery Centre is located in Western Singapore. It can be accessed from the downtown core in less than half an hour via Shenton Way and AYE routes, or in one hour via rail (stop Jon Koon on the EW line). Guided tours are available. The center is open between Tuesdays and Sundays from 9AM to 6PM, and entry costs $15 for those over 21 years old, $13 per 13-20 year olds and $10 for those less than 12 years old. Guided visits are available every day at 30 minutes past.
Address: 510 Upper Jurong Rd, Singapore
Hours: Tues-Sun 9AM to 6PM
Admission: $15 (adults)
From $ 120
Signal Hill Observatory Platform
Located on the hills near Padang Merdeka, the Signal Hill Observatory Platform is the highest point in Kota Kinabalu, which means it’s one of the best places to go for sweeping, unobstructed views of the city and beyond.
Signal Hill is widely considered a ‘mustdo’ attraction for all visitors to Kota Kinabalu. From this decked observatory platform, you’ll not only get a panoramic, bird’s eye view of the sprawling city center, but also vistas extending to the beaches of Tanjung Aru and Likas Bay, and even to the outlying islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.
You can visit Signal Hill as part of a halfday city tour, which also takes in other Kota Kinabalu attractions and landmarks, including Wisma Tun Mustapha (Sabah Foundation Building), the City Mosque, the University of Sabah, and the Sabah Museum.
Practical Info
The Signal Hill Observatory Platform is open from 8am until midnight. Arrive in the early evening and you’ll be rewarded with the spectacular sight of the sun setting over the city.
From the Atkinson Clock Tower, it’s around a 20 to 30minute walk uphill via a winding road to the observatory point. Alternatively, take a taxi directly to the observation platform.
Address: Jalan Bukit Bendera, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Malaysia
Hours: 8am - midnight
From $ 47
Singapore Turf Club
Founded in 1842, the Singapore Turf Club is the only horse-racing club in Singapore and the only authorized operator of horse racing in the country. The turf club hosts both local and major races, like the Singapore Airlines International Cup and the KrisFlyer International Sprint, as well as the prestigious Longines Singapore Gold Cup.
The turf club’s horses are exclusively imported from overseas, as there is no breeding industry in Singapore. Purebred bloodstock is primarily imported from Australia and New Zealand, with a minority coming from other countries like Japan, Ireland, France, South Africa, the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany.
Visitors thinking of visiting Singapore Turf Club should plan ahead: the Singapore races are held on selected Fridays, Sundays and public holidays of each month, with varying starting times depending on the number of races being held that particular day.
Practical Info
Singapore Turf Club is located just a few miles outside the Malaysian border in northern Singapore. It is reachable in less than half an hour by car from central Singapore via routes KPE, PIE and BKE or, alternatively, by rail from Marina Bay in one hour (stop at Kranji station) or bus (routes SBS 160, 170, SMRT Bus 178, 925, 960 and 961). Admission costs $6 for any of the stands or $30 for a seat at the Owner’s Lounge (which is equipped with a full-service bar, restaurant, high value bet counters and a personal television screen). Guests must be 18 years old and above to enter the racecourse on race days. All guests must abide by the smart casual dress code – shorts, sandals and tank tops are not allowed.
Address: 1 Turf Club Ave, Singapore
Admission: Admission: $6-$30
From $ 53
Singapore Art Museum
Singapore’s art scene benefits from Chinese, Indian and Middle Eastern cultural influences, and the Singapore Art Museum showcases a rotating collection of more than 6,500 pieces by Singaporean and Southeast Asian artists. The museum opened in 1996 inside the nineteenth century St. Joseph’s Catholic School, and limited gallery space means the works on display are always changing and you’re likely to see something new every time you visit.
The museum’s curators design exhibits based on stylistic, social and historical themes. Visiting international exhibits round out the museum experience. The E-Mage Gallery displays works from public and private collections throughout Asia on high-definition monitors, and the Q8 wing of the museum highlights works by living artists. If you’re visiting with children, be sure to swing by the Children’s Gallery for a little hands-on art.
The museum’s curators design exhibits based on stylistic, social and historical themes. Visiting international exhibits round out the museum experience. The E-Mage Gallery displays works from public and private collections throughout Asia on high-definition monitors, and the Q8 wing of the museum highlights works by living artists. If you’re visiting with children, be sure to swing by the Children’s Gallery for a little hands-on art.
Address: 71 Bras Basah Road, 189555, Singapore
Hours: Mon-Thurs, Sat-Sun 10am-7pm, Fri 10am-9pm
Admission: Adults: $10, Students: $5
From $ 29
Singapore Cable Car
The Singapore Cable Car provides a 360-degree panoramic view of city’s best attractions, including the Singapore harbor, Sentosa Island, and the city skyline. More than 100 cabins carry passengers along 3 miles (5 kilometers) of cableway. Tickets grant access to a museum detailing the history of the cable car system.
The Basics
The Singapore Cable Car system includes two different lines, the Mount Faber Line connecting Faber Peak and Sentosa Island, and the Sentosa Line connecting various island attractions. Passengers can purchase tickets for one line or a combo ticket that includes a ride on both.
Couples looking for a romantic night out can tuck into a private 4-course dinner on a special dining car passing between Mount Faber and Sentosa. The cable car is also an option on the Singapore Pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Singapore Cable Car is a must-ride for families, couples, and first-time visitors.
- Book your cable car tickets ahead to avoid the hassle of waiting in line.
- Choose between a single line ticket or a Sky Pass that gets you on both the Mount Faber and Sentosa lines.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera; the views from the cable car are certainly photo-worthy.
How to Get There
Visitors can board the cable car from several points in the city, including Sentosa, HarbourFront, Merlion, and Siloso Point stations.
When to Get There
It’s best to ride the cable car on a clear day when the views are unobstructed by low-lying clouds. While rain is frequent in Singapore throughout the year, November, December, and January tend to be the wettest months. Expect long lines during national holidays, especially Lunar New Year.
Things to Do on Mount Faber and in Sentosa
Riding the Singapore Cable Car is only part of the fun, as both Mount Faber and Sentosa are packed with attractions. The former is home to several restaurants, shops, lookout points, and the elevated Forest Walk, while the latter is where you’ll find the Tiger Sky Tower (Singapore’s tallest observatory), Madame Tussauds, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Universal Studios Singapore, among others.
Address: Singapore
From $ 18
Singapore River
Flowing through the city’s dense Central Business District, the Singapore River is closely tied to Singapore’s history and modern day-to-day life. It was on the north bank of the river where Stamford Raffles first landed to found his colony, and many government buildings still line its shores. Many of the city’s top nightlife hot spots are also situated along the river, including Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, and Robertson Quay.
The Basics
Whether cruising its waters or sitting along the river banks, viewing the Singapore River is a quintessential experience while in the city. Night owls will want to make their way here for the party scenes along the riverfront, but it’s also possible to take in Singapore’s historic architecture and bridges aboard a Singapore River cruise or on a city sightseeing tour that also stops at other popular attractions like Merlion Park, Kampong Glam, and Chinatown.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Check out the river’s nightlife zone for a lively party scene.
- Don’t forget your camera and comfortable walking shoes; there’s a lot to see near the river’s banks.
- See the river aboard the hop-on hop-off bus, with stops at points of interest like Orchard Road, Gardens by the Bay, and Chinatown.
How to Get There
The Singapore riverside is most easily accessed via the Raffles Place or Clarke Quay MRT stations. Walk along the shores to get from point to point, or take a boat ride.
When to Get There
As temperatures in Singapore can get quite hot during the day, the best time to explore the river is in the early morning (for walking or jogging) or in the evening. Things really come alive after sundown, when bars and restaurants buzz with a mix of locals and tourists. Head to the Marina Bay Sands at the mouth of the river in the evening for the free Spectra light and water show on the bay.
Views of the River from Above
Seeing the Singapore River from a bird’s-eye view is another popular way to experience it. Two of the best views are found at the river’s mouth: while riding the Singapore Flyer Ferris wheel and from the observation deck at Marina Bay Sands Skypark. A great view of the river is also found at Singapore’s highest observation platform, the 1-Altitude Viewing Gallery, rising 925 feet (282 meters) above the city.
Address: Clarke Quay, 179031, Singapore
From $ 26
Singapore Botanical Garden & National Orchid Garden
Dating back to 1859, the Singapore Botanic Gardens displays a collection of some 10,000 types of plants—mostly tropical flora—across 183 landscaped acres (84 hectares). The expansive grounds are home to the National Orchid Garden, with its impressive collection of 60,000 colorful orchids representing 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids.
The Basics
The botanic gardens rank among the most popular Singapore attractions and, in 2016, they became the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some city sightseeing tours include a stop at the garden, but it’s also possible to tour the gardens independently or with a private guide who can offer insight into the economic and cultural importance of the plants on display.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Singapore botanical garden offers a romantic experience for couples and a fun, education experience for families with kids.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and bug spray to protect your skin from the elements.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Most of the garden paths are wheelchair friendly but assistance may be required on hilly terrain.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to the gardens is by taking the Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Circle Line to Botanic Gardens station.
When to Get There
With a steady climate throughout the year, there isn’t really a bad time to visit the gardens, though rainfall tends to be more frequent in November, December, and January. Check the garden calendar, as the Singapore Symphony Orchestra often holds free concerts in the gardens. Expect big crowds on public holidays, especially Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year).
Singapore and the Southeast Asia Rubber Boom
In 1877, the Singapore Botanic Gardens began cultivating rubber seedlings brought to Singapore from Kew Gardens in London. Researchers at the gardens began developing sustainable rubber tapping techniques and by 1917, the gardens were fueling a need rubber throughout the Malay Peninsula by supplying more than 7 million rubber seeds—an economic boom that would bring prosperity to this region of Southeast Asia.
Address: 1 Cluny Road, 259569, Singapore
From $ 4
Silk Island
Known by locals as Koh Dach, Silk Island sits upstream on the Mekong near Phnom Penh and offers travelers to Cambodia’s capital city a quick escape from the urban landscape into a village that feels worlds away.
The rural community of Silk Island is comprised of dozens of local artisans—well-trained silk masters who hand weave some of the most glamorous fabrics from one of the nation’s most prized resources. Visitors say that the residents who carry on this age-old craft are kind and inviting, offering a warm contrast to the hustle of city streets. Silk Island offers travelers the perfect opportunity to step back in time, see artisans at work, learn more about the silk trade and collect some handmade crafts before heading back to the mainland.
Practical Info
Half-day tours to this tiny island are easy to find along the Sisowath Quay near Street 136. The hour-long boat ride up the Mekong is scenic and typically costs between $10 and $15 each way.
Address: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Admission: Price of a ferry ride
From $ 24
Singapore Chinatown
For many visitors, Singapore’s Chinatown is the sightseeing focus of the city, home to traditional shophouses, temples, and cultural heritage. Take a wander down the atmospheric streets, dropping into shophouses to see what’s for sale. Admire the rooftop dragons of Thian Hock Keng Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea, and the festively gaudy Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple, covered with colorful cows and depictions of the gods. Of course, Chinatown is also the place to go to for great food, especially along Smith Street.
The Basics
When Sir Stamford Raffles divided up Singapore among its ethnic groups, the Chinese immigrants received the largest portion of land. Today Chinatown remains one of the city’s most vibrant and popular neighborhoods, and visitors have a wealth of options for experiencing it. Catch the highlights—including Thian Hock Keng Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, Maxwell Road Hawker Centre, and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple—on an evening trishaw, riverboat, and walking tour of the neighborhood, or treat your tastebuds to a food tour of Chinatown’s best bites. The neighborhood is included in many Singapore sightseeing tours, and it’s also a stop on the hop-on hop-off bus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Singapore’s Chinatown is a must for first-time visitors and foodies.
- Experience the neighborhood as part of a city-wide sightseeing tour or dive deep on a dedicated Chinatown food tour or trishaw ride.
- There’s a lot to see (and buy, and eat) in Chinatown, so don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Chinatown is to take the MRT to Chinatown Station and exit toward Pagoda Street.
When to Get There
Shopping the markets of Chinatown is best during the late afternoon or early evening, to see the major attractions before the neighborhood’s night market and nightlife scene begins to pick up. The district is particularly lively in the months leading up to Chinese New Year, with decorations and lights adorning the streets and stalls.
Understanding Singapore’s Chinese Heritage
To truly understand Singapore you have to understand its many ethnic influences, including that of its sizable Chinese population. One of the best places to do so is at the Chinatown Heritage Centre. This museum comprises re-created scenes depicting day-to-day life of Singapore’s Chinese immigrants from the 1950s onward, with stories of how they went from being mere visitors to the largest ethnic group in the country.
Address: Smith Street, 058971, Singapore
Admission: Free
From $ 14
Siloso Beach
On Siloso Beach, the most popular of three sandy expanses on Sentosa Island, visitors can go for a swim, laze on the palm-lined white sand, relax in a beachside whirlpool or even surf a manmade wave at Wave House Sentosa. Themed bars and restaurants line the beach, and some of them offer sun loungers to their customers — perfect for enjoying a cold drink with a view.
Beach volleyball courts in the sand are free to use on a first-come-first-served basis, or it’s possible to rent kayaks to paddle out into the water. Biking and rollerblading are also popular along this stretch of shore. After dark, the scene turns into a lively party almost every night.
Practical Info
Red and yellow flags indicate areas supervised by Beach Patrol Officers that are safe for swimming.
Address: Sentosa Island, Singapore
From $ 30
Similan Islands National Park
Thailand’s Similan Islands National Park, a group of 11 islands in the Andaman Sea, is one of the most pristine places in the world for diving. The islands boast picturesque landscapes with white-sand beaches, large granite rocks jutting out from the earth, dense jungles teeming with diverse fauna and flora, and crystal-clear azure waters.
The Basics
The main attraction of the Similan Islands are their coral reefs teeming with wildlife. Divers and snorkelers can see a number of marine species such as manta rays, sea turtles, sea snakes, a number of pelagic species, and perhaps even a whale shark.
The only way to explore the islands is through an organized tour from Phuket or Krabi. Day tours generally include snorkeling or diving, a buffet lunch, and free time to explore the islands. Some tours include the national park entrance fee for visitors to the Similan Islands.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Similan Islands are a must visit for scuba divers, snorkelers, and nature lovers.
- The islands are quite remote and do not have many facilities, so it is best to be prepared with reef-safe sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a towel.
- Tours include snorkeling equipment and lifejackets for swimmers of all skill levels and ages to enjoy.
How to Get There
The archipelago is located about 44 miles (70 kilometers) off the western coast of southern Thailand. Since the islands are heavily protected by the Thai government, the only way to access them is through an organized tour.
When to Get There
The Similan Islands are open only between mid-October and mid-May, to allow the delicate ecosystem to recover from tourism. Scuba divers and snorkelers are encouraged to visit during the months of December and March, when there is less rain and the waters are the clearest. These months are considered the high season, the weather is most pleasant.
Diving the Similans
The coral reefs of the Similan Islands are ideal for experienced scuba divers. Spots like Shark Fin Reef, Boulder City, Bird Rock, and Anita’s Reef offer some of the area’s best visibility and an abundance of wildlife such as leopard sharks, moray eels, and stingrays. Liveaboard tours are available for experienced divers and range from a couple of days to a full week.
Address: Similan Islands National Park, Southern Thailand and Andaman Coast, Thailand
From $ 110
Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo)
While visiting the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, it’s almost impossible to miss the Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo), an impressive, opulent structure. With a floor that’s covered with five tons of silver, a Baccarat-crystal Buddha perched on a gilded pedestal (known as the Emerald Buddha) and a life-sized solid-gold Buddha that weighs almost 200 pounds (90 kg) and is covered with 9,584 diamonds (the largest is 25 carats), a visit to the Silver Pagoda is one that is not easily forgotten. Though they’re hard to get a peek at (they’re covered up for protection), see if you can get a look at one of the more than 5,000 silver tiles that were inlaid during King Norodom Sihanouk's pre-Khmer Rouge reign and are the reason for the temple’s nickname.
Though the temple’s true name is Wat Preah Keo Morokat, which means Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the moniker The Silver Pagoda the more common name. Built between 1892 and 1902 under King Norodom, it’s an interesting structure—it’s actually separated from the Royal Palace by a walled walkway, but it’s still located on palace grounds, in the larger complex. Unlike most pagodas, no monks live here—instead, it’s the pagoda where the King meets with monks to listen to their sermons and where some Royal ceremonies are performed. Be sure to check out the gorgeous Ramayana frescoes that are painted on the walls and see the Buddha relic from Sri Lanka, which is housed in a small gold and silver stupa in front of the life-sized gold Buddha.
Practical Info
The Silver Pagoda is open to the public every day from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 2 to 5 p.m., unless there is an official function scheduled. Enter from the gate on Sothearos Boulevard, about 300 feet (100 m) north of Street 240. Guide pamphlets and tour guides are available near the admission booth; multi-lingual tour guides available. Admission is 25,000 Riel (USD $6.16).
Address: Sothearos Boulevard, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Hours: Daily 7:30 a.m.–11 a.m. and 2–5 p.m.
Admission: Admission is 25,000 Riel (USD $6.16)
From $ 15
Sin Chai Village
Sin Chai Village is situated near Sapa in Northern Vietnam, at the foot of Mount Fansipan. Located in a rainforested area protected by the Hoang Lien National Park, the village is home to the Black H’mong people, whose traditional wooden houses are scattered across the valley.
Local life here is simple, with people earning a living from farming, dying indigo, planting flax, and textile weaving. Most tours of Sin Chai Village focus on the daily life of the villagers, who still maintain their ancestor’s way of life and take much pride in their community. The short yet scenic trek through the landscape of rice paddies, streams, and corn fields serves to culturally acclimatize visitors to Sin Chai and its pace of life.
The villagers draw fresh water from the stream running from the foot of the mountain range, and collect plants from the mountain to treat ailments and illnesses, instead of using modern medicines. It is thought that the pure water supply, fresh mountain air, and natural diet and remedies are among the reasons that the Black H’mong people living in Sin Chai Village live for so long, with many members of the community reaching their 100th birthdays and beyond.
Practical Info
Most visit Sin Chai Village as part of an organized tour from Sapa. These can be easily arranged either online or via any tour operator in town.
Address: Sin Chai Village, Sapa, Northern Vietnam, Vietnam
Admission: Dependent on tour
From $ 57
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
A rocky mountain plateau rising some 660 feet above the relatively flat landscape in central Sri Lanka supports one of the country’s most significant cultural and historical sites: an ancient sky palace.
Atop this massive rock column, King Kassapa I built a palace complex in the late fifth century. Experts say less than 20 percent of the original structures survive today.
While for some it’s enough just to visit the onsite museum and glimpse the monolith from below, most visitors attempt to climb the approximately 1,200 steps to the summit of Sigiriya. Through an entrance guarded by lion’s feet, visitors ascend to Mirror Wall, a narrow passageway which now appears as an orange ring near the base of the rock. There, a smooth, lacquered wall reflects original frescoes of deities painted on the rock face opposite. Afterward, a not-for-the-faint-of-heart series of spiral staircases lead to more frescoes and to the final Lion Staircase, where visitors make their final ascent to the summit Sky Palace. All vantages afford much-needed breaks and breathtaking views of the jungle below. The summit’s terraced gardens and water gardens, along with the remaining foundations of early structures, leave everyone marveling at this remarkable feat of sky-high engineering.
Atop this massive rock column, King Kassapa I built a palace complex in the late fifth century. Experts say less than 20 percent of the original structures survive today.
While for some it’s enough just to visit the onsite museum and glimpse the monolith from below, most visitors attempt to climb the approximately 1,200 steps to the summit of Sigiriya. Through an entrance guarded by lion’s feet, visitors ascend to Mirror Wall, a narrow passageway which now appears as an orange ring near the base of the rock. There, a smooth, lacquered wall reflects original frescoes of deities painted on the rock face opposite. Afterward, a not-for-the-faint-of-heart series of spiral staircases lead to more frescoes and to the final Lion Staircase, where visitors make their final ascent to the summit Sky Palace. All vantages afford much-needed breaks and breathtaking views of the jungle below. The summit’s terraced gardens and water gardens, along with the remaining foundations of early structures, leave everyone marveling at this remarkable feat of sky-high engineering.
Practical Info
Sigiriya is approximately 3.5 hours from Colombo by car and 2.5 hours from the city of Kandy. Many country-wide tours include visits to this UNESCO World Heritage site. Hot and humid weather can make the three-to-four-hour climb to Sigiriya’s summit arduous, so come prepared with lots of water and appropriate clothing.
Address: Sri Lanka
Admission: USD $30 admission fee for non-residents
From $ 12
Singapore Flyer
All great cities of the world seem to have a big wheel these days, and Singapore is no exception. Lifting you 540 feet (165 meters) into the air, the Singapore Flyer is Asia’s largest observation wheel, providing amazing panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the surrounds from one of 28 capsules.
The Basics
Affording some of the best views of the city, the Singapore Flyer has quickly become a top billing attraction since its opening in 2008. Experiences run the gamut from a single 30-minute rotation to extras like Champagne, Singapore Slings, or even a high-in-the-sky dining experience. You can purchase individual tickets, but admission is also included with the HiPPO Singapore Pass, along with other top attractions like the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Safari, the Jurong Bird Park, the S.E.A. Aquarium, the Singapore Cable Car, and the Trick Eye Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Singapore Flyer is a must for families, couples, and first-time visitors.
- Choose between a standard admission ticket or a multi-attraction pass.
- While restrooms are located at the base of the Singapore Flyer, there are no facilities within the capsules themselves.
- The Singapore Flyer is fully accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Situated in Marina Bay, you can easily reach the Singapore Flyer by public transportation. Take the Circle Line to Promenade Station or any number of public buses to Before Temasek Avenue. The Ferris wheel is also a stop on the hop-on hop-off bus.
When to Get There
While there’s not really a bad time to ride the Singapore Flyer, many travelers choose to visit just before dusk, when Singapore’s skyline begins to illuminate but it’s not yet too dark for photos. The capsules are air-conditioned, making the Flyer a great option for cooling off during a hot afternoon.
Views From the Top
From the top of the Singapore Flyer, it’s possible to see up to 28 miles (45 kilometers) in the distance. Some landmarks visible from the wheel include the country’s East Coast, Marina Barrage, the Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the National Stadium, as well as the neighboring islands of Indonesia and Malaysia.
Address: 30 Raffles Avenue, 039803, Singapore
Hours: Ticketing Counter Operating Hours: 8:30am – 10:00pm
Last Flight Admission: 10:15pm
Admission: S$33.00
From $ 14
Simon Cabaret Show
One of the most popular shows in Thailand and certainly the glitziest drag show in Phuket, the Simon Cabaret Show is an evening of glamorous entertainment that wows night after night. A family-friendly show, the performance tends to appeal to a wide range of people of all ages.
Rivaling many Las Vegas shows in terms of sheer size, charm and glitter, the show sees Simon Cabaret’s world-famous ladyboys decked out in dazzling costumes to perform comedy acts and show-stopping song-and-dance routines inspired by Thai culture and traditions. Clever choreography and rapid set changes, plus the sheer energy of the highly skilled transgender and transvestite entertainers, ensure a good night out for everyone, while bright lights, booming sound and elaborate sets all add to the theatrical extravaganza. Guests also have the opportunity to meet the stars afterwards and have their photos taken with them.
The Simon Cabaret Show is hugely popular, so it’s best to book tickets in advance; this will give you the choice of show times—either the early evening show at 7:45pm, or the later show starting at 9:30pm.
Practical Info
The Simon Cabaret venue is located along Sirirach Road at Patong Beach. A popular place, it is easy to reach via taxi or tuk tuk.
Address: 8 Sirirach Road, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Hours: 7:45pm and 9:30pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Singapore Night Safari
The legendary Singapore Night Safari goes above and beyond the typical zoo experience. Enhanced by the subtle glow of moonlight, the jungle comes to life each night for visitors to see animals exploring their free-roaming environments, designed to replicate the Himalayan foothills, Southeast Asian rainforest, and Indian subcontinent.
The Basics
Located next to the Singapore Zoo, the Night Safari is one of the city’s top family attractions. During the tour, visitors can explore 86 acres (40 hectares) of the huge jungle park aboard an open-air tram, spotting nocturnal animals as they roam and play. After the tram ride, a guide leads travelers along walking trails such as Fishing Cat Trail, Wallaby Trail, and Leopard Trail.
To make the most of your Night Safari experience, finish with an add-on buffet dinner at the Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant, which serves international and traditional Singaporean cuisine. Or, set off earlier in the day on a tour that also includes visits to the Singapore Zoo, Jurong Bird Park, or the River Safari. Travelers can gain admission to these animal-themed experiences with a Singapore City Pass, plus entry to other top sites including Universal Studios Singapore, the SEA Aquarium, and Gardens by the Bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Plan to spend three or four hours exploring the Night Safari park.
- Don’t forget insect repellant—the open-air park is located in a tropical jungle and mosquitoes can be prevalent.
- Strollers and wheelchairs must be folded before boarding the safari tram.
How to Get There
Singapore Night Safari is located adjacent to the Singapore Zoo, roughly 30 minutes by road from the downtown area. Transport from downtown Singapore hotels is included in most tours, but the park is also accessible via public transportation.
When to Get There
The safari is open year-round; five tours run every hour starting at 7:15pm. Tours earlier in the evening fill up fast, so make sure to book in advance. Visit during a full moon when extra light enhances the safari experience, and be sure to swing by the lion and tiger feeding stations near 8pm and 9pm for a chance to see the big cats in action.
Night Safari Shows
At the park, visitors can watch a cultural dance performance by a troupe of Thumbuakar warriors, including feats such as fire-eating and flame-throwing. Another popular attraction is the Creatures of the Night show—a 20-minute educational showcase of nocturnal animals, during which travelers can appreciate the powerful jaws of a spotted hyena, watch the African serval display its ability to leap for prey, and see many more night creatures in action.
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, 729826, Singapore
Hours: 7:15pm–midnight
Admission: Adult: $45, Child: $30
From $ 35
Singapore Cruise Port
Once a British trading colony, Singapore today is the world’s busiest port and one of the most prosperous countries in the world. Consisting of a main island and more than 60 surrounding islets, it boasts expansive parklands and several nature reserves. Culturally diverse, modern and sophisticated, Singapore is also one of the most densely populated countries in the world.
How to Get to Singapore
Most cruise ships dock at the Singapore Cruise Center, which is about a 10-15 minute taxi ride from the city center. It is also connected to downtown by the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. Since 2012, larger ships may instead dock at the Marina Bay Cruise Center. Some ships docking at Marina Bay offer shuttles into the center; otherwise, you will need to catch a taxi. The ride either way is about 25 minutes.
One Day in Singapore
For many visitors, Singapore is all about the shopping and you could easily spend an entire day checking out the many shopping centers around Orchard Road. Try the C.K. Tangs Department Store, the Kinokuniya bookstore, the Wisma Atria and Ngee Ann City.
Aside from shopping, you might start your visit with a stroll along the Boat Quay, a mix of old wharf houses and towering skyscrapers. Then head to the city’s charming colonial district, keeping an eye out for the Old Parliament House, the Fullerton Hotel and St. Andrew’s Church. For lunch, make your way to Chinatown for Chinese cuisine and then check out the Sri Mariamman Hindu temple.
Spend the afternoon exploring Singapore’s nature and wildlife by paying a visit to the Singapore Zoo, the Botanical Gardens or the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Spread across more than 120 acres, the Botanical Gardens feature a rainforest, lake and multiple gardens, including the National Orchid Garden. The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is home to more plant species than all of North America and the Zoo has more than 3,000 mammals, birds, reptiles and fish.
How to Get to Singapore
Most cruise ships dock at the Singapore Cruise Center, which is about a 10-15 minute taxi ride from the city center. It is also connected to downtown by the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. Since 2012, larger ships may instead dock at the Marina Bay Cruise Center. Some ships docking at Marina Bay offer shuttles into the center; otherwise, you will need to catch a taxi. The ride either way is about 25 minutes.
One Day in Singapore
For many visitors, Singapore is all about the shopping and you could easily spend an entire day checking out the many shopping centers around Orchard Road. Try the C.K. Tangs Department Store, the Kinokuniya bookstore, the Wisma Atria and Ngee Ann City.
Aside from shopping, you might start your visit with a stroll along the Boat Quay, a mix of old wharf houses and towering skyscrapers. Then head to the city’s charming colonial district, keeping an eye out for the Old Parliament House, the Fullerton Hotel and St. Andrew’s Church. For lunch, make your way to Chinatown for Chinese cuisine and then check out the Sri Mariamman Hindu temple.
Spend the afternoon exploring Singapore’s nature and wildlife by paying a visit to the Singapore Zoo, the Botanical Gardens or the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Spread across more than 120 acres, the Botanical Gardens feature a rainforest, lake and multiple gardens, including the National Orchid Garden. The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is home to more plant species than all of North America and the Zoo has more than 3,000 mammals, birds, reptiles and fish.
Port Information
Singapore has four official languages, including English, which is widely spoken (Tamil, Chinese and Malay are the others). The official currency is the Singapore dollar. ATMs are available at the cruise terminal and throughout the city and credit cards are also typically accepted.
Address: Singapore
From $ 5