Singapore

Gardens by the Bay are among the world's most spectacular urban developments. The Gardens' inauguration in 2012 marked a decisive step towards refashioning Singapore from "Garden City" to "City in a Garden" — it's easy to see why while wandering its 100+ hectares. The Gardens’ Supertree Grove consists of 18 tree-like structures, some reaching up to 50m in height. What’s hard to wrap one’s mind around is how closely these “trees” mimic their natural counterparts: overgrown with exotic plants and flowers, they mimic photosynthesis via a complex system of environmental technologies, and collect rainwater that later goes towards irrigation and fountain displays. There is a spectacular Skyway stretching between 2 of the tallest trees, which features a light and sound display at night. Another two unmissable attractions at the Gardens are the two conservatories: the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest.

Tiger lays claim to have been the first beer brand in the country, launched in 1932. Today, the lager is the most consumed on the Asian beer market. So, if you happen to be a beer lover and would like to gain a glance into the production facilities of the company, regular tours are taking place here, followed by the chance to enjoy a cold one, or two, on site.

Singapore's Changi Airport has won multiple awards (voted "Best in the World" for 7 consecutive years), and the jewel in its crown of regalia is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, fittingly called just that: Jewel. The waterfall comes down from the roof, creating a breathtaking vortex which recirculates rain water. The Rain Vortex is surrounded by a multiple-level display of tropical flora, including various species of blooming orchids; the top level features a family-friendly canopy park, and there are dozens of further shopping and entertainment venues around. One doesn't often hear of city residents doing day trips to the airport to simple spend time there, but it certainly is the case with jewel -- you'll see many making the trip to Changi with no luggage whatsoever, with the sole purpose of visiting the Jewel.

The iconic Marina Bay Sands dominates Singapore's cityscape, and is probably the city-state's most recognisable attraction. The imposing structure consists of three towers with a continuous lobby at the bottom (open to visitors), and topped with a spectacular SkyPark that links them all at roof level. The infinity pool is no longer accessible to those who aren't staying at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, but the rooftop bar is, and so is the separate Observation Deck area (access via Tower 3 basement).

The Singapore Zoo is a so called “open zoo” and a world famous zoological garden with 315 animal species, of which approximately 60 are endangered. You can find all the big cats here: lion, tiger, jaguar, leopard and puma, as well as rare white tigers. If you want to, you can meet orangutans face-to-face. Most of the animals are kept in spacious, landscaped enclosures separated from the visitors by dry or wet moats. Dangerous animals are housed in landscaped glass-fronted enclosures. The park also offers an exciting Night Safari and River Safari, all available as part of discounted entry ticket bundles (along with the Bird Park in Jurong).

The Sultan Mosque with its cupola and minarets gleams light green and is a very beautiful building in the Kampong Glam district. This mosque is the Muslims’ most important building in Singapore (there are 68 mosques in the city in total). Visitors are welcomed to the mosques even if certain parts are still off limits to those who are not of the Muslim faith.

This park, in the middle of the colonial city centre, is a great spot for anyone who wants to learn more about Singapore’s military history. Raffle’s last home during his time in the city is also here. An exciting tour of the subterranean command headquarters used by the British during the Second World War is a must when visiting the park.

Standing at 165 meters, the Singapore Flyer is even taller than the London Eye. This Ferris wheel gives you a visual feast of the Marina Bay and the great icons and landmarks of Singapore.

Often referred to as "Holland V," this happening area is popular with young Singaporeans and expatriates. It offers a bohemian mix of fine restaurants, cool bars and street eateries. Holland Village also is a hub for antiques, with many outlets dealing arts and handicrafts, especially home ware and furniture.

A remnant of the luxurious greenery once covering the whole of the island, the Southern Ridges are a series of green spaces strung along 9 km. Take the elevated Canopy Walk through the rainforest, stop to study all things gardening at Hort Park, then cross the beautifully designed Henderson Waves bridge, and, finally, take the cable car down to Sentosa Island after having admired the panoramic view from Mount Faber.

The Singapore Sling was created here in 1915, by the bartender Ngiam Tong Boon, and is still served at the timeless Long Bar. This is a wonderful hotel with a great atmosphere, a museum and beautiful gardens. Food is important at the hotel where the cuisine is world-class. For anyone who wants to learn to cook like the great chefs, courses are given at the Raffles Culinary Academy. Just outside the entrance stands, perhaps, the world's most photographed doorman.