Explore Singapore After Dark
They say New York is the city that never sleeps, but in Singapore, you can eat, drink, and even fish around the clock. Begin your night at any one of Singapore’s highly acclaimed cocktail bars or by tucking into tasty nosh at a local eatery, then set out to discover the Lion City after dark.
Party Until Dawn
As night falls, the riverside bars and restaurants along Clarke Quay start buzzing with tourists and locals alike. Start your night here before heading to clubbing powerhouses Attica and Zouk to dance the night away. Prefer to belt out your own tunes? Karaoke rooms are available for hire at Tang Music Box; make sure you’re aware of the minimum spend before commandeering the mic. Thrill seekers make a beeline for G-Max Reverse Bungy, where you’ll be sent hurtling at a speed of up to 200km/h into the night sky. There’s a stunning view of Singapore to be enjoyed if you can keep your eyes open.
Searching for a truly crafty cocktail? Check out some of Singapore’s most lauded bars – our picks include hidden gems like Employees Only, Native, Operation Dagger, and 28 HongKong Street. Gin lovers should not miss the towering three-storey gin wall at Atlas; coupled with the plush art deco surroundings, it’s a sight to behold.
Shop Until You Drop
Shoppers have no need to fret when the swanky malls of Orchard Road close their doors for the evening, as Little India’s Mustafa Centre is open 24/7. A bargain hunter’s paradise, it offers everything from household groceries to the latest electronics, exotic fabrics to glittering gold jewellery. While the aisles heave during regular shopping hours, they quiet down around midnight, allowing you more space to wander without navigating through a sea of shoppers. However, be prepared to become completely lost within this behemoth centre; its layout can be confusing, and some hallways lead to dead ends. It’s often easier to head outside and then figure out how to navigate your way home.
Uncover Singapore’s Underbelly
Peek behind Singapore’s shiny, modern facade with a nighttime tour through Geylang, the island’s unofficial red-light district. Expect to hear stories of the area’s origins, its mishmash of religions, and its intriguing history while touring some of Singapore’s less savoury streets. This tour reveals a side to Singapore you may not have known existed. Not everyone heads to Geylang for a wild experience. In fact, the area also boasts many famous eateries, including the renowned chilli crab hot spot No Signboard Seafood and frog porridge purveyor Geylang Lor 9 Fresh Frog Porridge, making it a top destination for local cuisine at its best. With Geylang’s streets bustling at one o’clock in the morning more than at one o’clock in the afternoon, it’s definitely worth a late-night visit.
All Night Feasting
Singapore is celebrated for its dazzling array of tasty dishes, so no matter what time it is, you’ll find something to tantalize your taste buds. Late-night dim sum enthusiasts head to 126 Eating House for steaming dumplings and juicy pork belly buns. Centrally located, BK Eating House features various stalls continuing to dish out cheap, delicious fare into the early morning hours – don’t forget to try the mee sua (wheat flour noodles) at Yan Kee Noodle House.
If you’re craving an evening treat, you’ll be delighted by the enticing desserts (which are best paired with an equally decadent cocktail) at famous Singaporean chef Janice Wong’s 2am: dessertbar. For something less sweet, consider sampling durian, fondly known as the ‘king of fruit’. This spiky fruit’s aroma is unmistakable; the sickly-sweet scent, likened to rotten meat, will hit you as you approach one of Singapore’s all-night durian stalls. Sellers will eagerly teach you about the durian selection, opening, and tasting process. Plastic gloves are provided, and many first-timers say the first bite is the toughest. However, those brave enough to try again often find it slightly better. Tuck in if you dare!
Midnight Massage
If you want to soothe your tired muscles after a long day exploring the Lion City, Peoples Park Complex in Chinatown is a local favorite for affordable massage spots. For a notable experience, try Mr Lim Foot Reflexology, which will leave your weary feet feeling rejuvenated. If it’s after 10pm, head to Le Spa, a 24-hour center where you can choose from Swedish or Balinese massages, complete with additional treatments like cupping and ear candling. Looking for a traditional Chinese experience? Book in for a ‘tui na’ session at Natureland. This therapeutic practice aims to clear blockages interrupting the body’s vital energy, known as ‘qi’ in traditional Chinese medicine. Make sure to stay hydrated after your treatment.
Cast a Line
Prawning is a beloved pastime in Singapore, with many prawning farms operating 24/7. Simply hire a rod at the entrance, settle down next to a dark-watered pool, cast your line, and await a catch. Techniques involve cutting bait small enough, maintaining your rod at the right angle, and reacting quickly when you feel a nibble. If you’re not having luck, feel free to ask the attendants for advice. Once you’ve finished prawning, head to the grills to cook your fresh catch, which pairs perfectly with an ice-cold Tiger beer.
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