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The Lion City with Kids in Tow

Singapore is a popular travel hub, there is a high chance you will find yourself with one or two days’ layover here, even if it is not your final destination.

One of southeast Asia’s most exciting, modern and cosmopolitan cities, Singapore has something for all ages. It is clean, boasts a great transport system and there’s less of a language barrier to contend with than in other southeast Asian countries, not to mention the fantastic food, a host of fun activities and world-class hotels perfectly equipped for the traveling family. All these delights combined make Singapore the perfect choice for a holiday with the kids in tow.

What’s more, as Singapore is a popular travel hub, there is a high chance you will find yourself with one or two days’ layover here, even if it is not your final destination. So, whether you are popping in or stopping for a longer stay, we have all the secrets to a successful family visit. Let us help you plan your adventure, so the whole family can get the most out of all Singapore has to offer.

The majestic Cloud Forest Dome which is part of Gardens by the Bay in Bayfront, Singapore
The majestic Cloud Forest Dome which is part of Gardens by the Bay in Singapore

DO

With so many activities, there’s never a dull moment in Singapore; adults and kids alike will be well occupied at all hours. Take in the views and get your bearings as well as a little history and culture on a traditional bumboat river cruise, sitting low in your brightly-colored craft as you sail around Boat Quay, Circular Quay and Marina Bay.

Don’t forget your cameras and take the opportunity to snap some pictures of the city and your happy gang pointing out the sights in the sunshine. While you are in the waterfront neighborhood, head to the sprawling green Gardens by the Bay where there is a dedicated children’s area, as well as the grown-up gardens where nature is larger than life. Explore the Flower Dome, packed with colorful and exotic species of flora, and the Cloud Forest, where everyone will feel tiny next to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and breathtaking 80-foot supertrees.

Speaking of sunshine, Singapore can heat up to some humid heights: after a few hours spent sightseeing and exploring, you will all be ready to cool down.

Head to the Sands SkyPark, located at the iconic, spaceship-shaped Marina Bay Sands, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool and marvel at the stunning views from your vantage point 57 floors up, gazing out over the city.

Universal Studios Singapore is a theme park located within Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island, Singapore
Universal Studios Singapore is a theme park located within Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island

Alternatively, if you’re the sort of family that fills its days with thrills and spills, head for Sentosa Island, Singapore’s favorite getaway located just across the water from the city.

Though it is easily accessible by road or train, the most exciting way to get to this palm-fringed little isle is by riding the cable car, suspended over the sea. Once there, get into some adventure: you may skim board along the sand, go mountain biking and ziplining through the trees, pump up the adrenaline with some watersports and take a wild sky ride on Southeast Asia’s one and only luge – part go-cart, part toboggan.

Get aquatic at Marine Life Park, where you can get up close with rare and exotic marine creatures and have a splashing good time at the water park. No trip over to Sentosa with the family would be complete without a visit to world-famous Universal Studios, where you can go behind-the scenes of your favorite films and “ride the movies”. Get lost in the magic of the park’s seven worlds, plus countless shows and parades featuring all your favorite characters.

After the sun goes down, the monsters come out, and your little monsters will be enthralled by a night safari at the Singapore Zoo. Plunge into a vast, dense rainforest to explore seven geographical worlds aboard the tram. Travel through the Himalayan foothills, equatorial Africa and more to be dazzled by the array of naturally nocturnal animals, all awake and active. From lions and tigers and bears to flamingos, zebras and elephants, they are all just a stone’s throw away.

Chinatown,Singapore
Chinatown, Singapore

EAT

Busy families with jam-packed exciting itineraries need to stay well-fed, and in Singapore, hungry tummies are no problem. A cultural melting pot, the food here is uniquely diverse and delicious and a flavorsome gastro tour of the city’s street eats is a treat for all ages.

Don’t miss the alluring aromas of Chinatown, where hawkers cook up steaming delicacies right before your eyes and all the authentic tastes come together. For another colorful culinary adventure just as tasty, bring the gang over to Little India to sample all the delights on offer there, from sizzling curries to fresh and crispy samosas.

For those who prefer to dine indoors, Singapore is a singularly family-friendly city and besides great kids’ menus, numerous restaurants offer craft activities or places for little ones to play. The restaurants at the botanical gardens and at Rochester House in Singapore Park, for example, both feature outdoor playgrounds with climbing frames, and the international buffet at the Raffles hotel includes a play area as well, so the kids can let off some steam after lunch and the grown ups can enjoy a little peace.

Capella,Singapore
Capella, Singapore

STAY

Turn your arrival or departure into an unforgettable adventure aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express by Belmond. This utterly stunning, classic locomotive is fitted with dining cars and comfortable cabins for cozy overnight stays and days travelling from Singapore through Malaysia, Thailand and Laos, with views that will have the kids’ eyes glued to the windows.

Once in the city, there is simply no better place to settle the family than at the iconic Raffles hotel, with charms sure to enchant everyone. Located near to all the hotspots, Raffles has fully-equipped family suites with everything you need, including your own personal butler.

For a resort-style getaway, stay on Sentosa Island at beautiful Capella. Near the beaches and Universal Studios, it is also totally self contained, with three stunning pools, a luxurious spa and a gorgeous library for a little peace and quiet.