Singapore's Rich Culture, Modern Wonders: Ultimate Destination For Solo, Family Trips

For solo explorers or for a fun-filled family trip, Singapore has it all.

Singapore is one of the developed countries. The city-state balances modernity with strong-rooted culture, making it an ideal travel destination.

The rich cultural diversity of Singapore—encompassing Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences—creates a melting pot of various cultures, and provides a distinctive and captivating mix of cultural experiences and tourist attractions.

It is relatively easy to go to Singapore compared to those nations with the requirement for a visa. Visa process is smooth and can even reach you in a week.

Having a comfy stay during your travels is the key. After a lot of planning I decided to book my stay at Shangri-La Singapore, that suits all my itenary. The hotel, built on 15 acres of verdant gardens, was like entering another world. The musky, inviting aroma in the lobby immediately soothed my tired traveling nerves. Constructed in 1979, the resort had an air of history about it—My guide said there were visits by prominent visitors like Donald Trump, and Ariana Grande. With three separate wings—Tower, Garden, and the private Valley Wing—the hotel accommodated all, from families and individuals to business executives and honeymooners.

My Valley Wing room was a dream come true. Spacious with a king-size bed, a comfortable sofa, and a chandelier casting soft light, it felt like home away from home. The hotel also had the themed suite, with children's facilities and access to the hotel's large kids' club. To me, the little details made a big difference: like a Nespresso machine along with Shangri-La's own tea flavors, L'Occitane toiletries in the large bathroom, and fast Wi-Fi that kept me connected without a problem. The bathroom, with its walk-in shower and enormous bathtub felt just wonderful.

Singapore itself was great to visit. You can easily explore it and start with Gardens by the Bay, where the Supertrees will take your breath away, particularly at night when they lit up. You can also explore Universal Studios. Strolling through Chinatown and Little India, by immersing in the colorful streets and enjoying food that combines Malay, Indian, and Chinese tastes is one of the finest activities to do in Singapore. Haji Lane's colorful murals are without a doubt best for Instagram uploads. The Singapore Flyer provided me with a stunning view of the city skyline. I also enjoyed the nightlife at Clarke Quay and experienced the diverse culinary of the city-state. The Merlion, spitting water against the backdrop of Singapore Flyer, felt like the heart of Singapore’s story.

At Shangri-La, the food was a different story altogether. From Cantonese food to Italian pastas and local heritage food, each meal felt like a party. At the multiple restaurants in the hotel, I indulged in a lavish buffet spread along with some cocktails that had something for everyone. Every visit was made special by the warm staff.

The garden of the hotel became my retreat. With more than 110 species of plants, including native trees such as durian and rambutan, it was serene . The Orchid, an open greenhouse in the Garden Wing, was a tribute to Singapore's national orchid. I watched many children having fun in the splash zone of one of the hotel's pools, while I relaxed nearby, letting the cares of the day wash away.

One afternoon, the hotel organized a trip to the National Museum of Singapore. Strolling through exhibits on the history of the city, from its colonial past to its emergence as a world metropolis, I gained a greater appreciation for the city-state. Another highlight of my trip was a 40-minute boat cruise that I hiked along the Singapore River. Drifting past Helix Bridge, Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Merlion, I even caught glimpses of Peranakan houses—vibrant remnants of a rich cultural heritage.

For sheer pampering, I slipped out to Chi, The Spa. The attention of the staff left me in awe, modifying the treatment according to my requirements and finishing with a soothing cup of ginger tea that was like getting a hug in a mug.

When my vacation was over, I knew Singapore—and Shangri-La—had given me more than I could have wished. The staff  It wasn't the sights or the high life; it was the manner in which the city and the hotel welcomed me. I departed from there feeling at ease, and with lots of memories.