Singapore itineraries

Chinatown to Marina Bay

Kaya toast first, then two temples, chicken rice, the Cloud Forest, a 57th-floor deck and the 8 pm laser show over the water. This is the loop most one-day visitors end up walking, in the order that works.

Two Days from Bugis

Day one is for colour: Kampong Glam, Little India and the river. Day two is Sentosa, cable car and sand. Base yourself in Bugis so everything is a walk or two or three MRT stops away.

Three Days from Chinatown

For anyone who has already ticked off the big sights: Tiong Bahru market, the Botanic Gardens, Peranakan houses in Katong, the Night Safari and a morning walk over Henderson Waves. Base yourself in Chinatown or Tanjong Pagar and mix taxis with the MRT.

Festivals & seasons

• 1 — Thaipusam procession
• 2 — Chinese New Year light-up and Chingay Parade
• 2 — Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar and Hari Raya light-up
• 6 — i Light Singapore
• 7 — Haze season, May to October
• 8 — National Day Parade and fireworks
• 9 — Mid-Autumn lanterns and Chinatown light-up
• 10 — Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix night race
• 11 — Deepavali light-up in Little India
• 12 — Christmas Wonderland and the Orchard Road lights
• 12 — Wet season, November to January
• 12 — Marina Bay Countdown fireworks

Souvenirs

• Ya Kun kaya jam
• Bacha Coffee drip-bag box
• TWG tea tins
• Bengawan Solo pineapple tarts
• Bee Cheng Hiang bak kwa
• Irvins salted egg chips
• Mustafa Centre odds and ends (Tiger Balm, spices, Himalaya skincare)
• Peranakan tile coasters and Haji Lane perfume