48 Hours in Singapore

Gardens By The Bay: Gardens by the Bay are 250 acres of living gardens and exhibits, with a very futuristic and innovative feel. They really showcase Singapore's commitment to sustainability and greening. The Cloud Forest exhibit is my favorite - a modern greenhouse complete with a massive waterfall. This place is just amazing and such a cool experience.

Sentosa Island: Sentosa Island, the most southern part of continental Asia. The beach was super tropical and everything was so clear. You can spend the day lounging on the beach and exploring. Or, if you're pressed for time, you can make a quick trip and explore for one to two hours.

Hawker Centres: Hawker Centres are basically the equivalent to food courts - a big open-air space with multiple different food shops. They are a big part of Singapore's food culture, there are over 100 Hawker Centres in Singapore! Anthony Bourdain had raving reviews about a number of stands, specifically at the Maxwell Hawker Centre.

Little India: In Little India, the streets come alive with the aromas of exotic spices, the vibrant colors of silk saris, and the sound of Bollywood music. You can wander through narrow lanes lined with intricate Hindu temples, busy markets, and authentic eateries.

Spectra Light Show: Remember how I said there are so many things Singapore does to show itself off to visitors? Enter the Spectra Light & Water Show. The show is located right outside the Marina Bay Sands mall area. The show is at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 8 p.m., 9 p.m., and 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The good seating for this show filled up fast, but you can always stand in the back. It's about 15 minutes of lights, lasers, water movement, and music. It's so cool!

Chinatown: Stroll along bustling streets lined with traditional shophouses and decorated with colorful lanterns. Discover hidden temples, such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, shop for souvenirs, try delicious traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese community in Singapore.

River Cruise: A cruise along the river provides panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands, and the historic Fullerton Hotel. It's a great way to see the beauty that is Singapore.

Eat:

• Lau Pau Sat: Popular Hawker Centre, known for their satay stalls.

• Fuzhou Oyster Cake: The Fried Oyster Cake is literally the only thing on the menu, but it's so good. Anthony Bourdain had a good point. If you've been in business for years, with only one thing on the menu…you must be doing it right. At the Maxwell Hawker Centre.

• Spago: Rooftop restaurant at the Marina Bay Sands. The restaurant has sliding doors that open the inside to the outside, so the view of the city was amazing.You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu.

• Tippling Club: Run by Chef-Owner Ryan Clift and offers a delicious, fine dining experience.

• Odette: A timeless restaurant offering modern French cuisine.

• Ya Kun Kaya Toast: Kaya Toast is one of my favorite things ever. It's a popular breakfast dish in Singapore, and is essentially buttered toast with Kaya (coconut/egg jam) on top with a side of soft boiled eggs.

• Cure: Contemporary European cuisine with a Michelin-star

Drink:

• CÉ LA VI: Rooftop lounge/restaurant on top of the Marina Bay Sands with amazing views of the city.

• Long Bar: Located at the Raffles hotel, Long Bar is where the famous "Singapore Sling" cocktail was invented in 1915.

• Smoke & Mirrors: Cocktail bar with amazing views of the city, including a view of the Marina Bay Sands.

• Employees Only: Great cocktails and live performances.

• Lantern: Rooftop bar located at the Fullerton Hotel. Amazing views of the Marina Bay waterfront.