Best things to do in Singapore

Appreciate the majesty of exotic and endangered animals at Singapore Zoo, home to the world's largest collection of orangutans housed in free-range enclosures. Other exotic beasts, such as rare white tigers, white rhinos, baboons, and elephants live among the jungle setting. The zoo places a strong emphasis on animal welfare, providing spacious natural habitats. Explore the large zoo easily and beat the heat by riding the shuttle train between habitats.

Enjoy panoramic views of the city from high up above at Singapore Flyer. The Ferris wheel reaches 165 m (541 ft) at its pinnacle and takes half an hour to complete a spin. You can celebrate special occasions on board with a range of packages, including a signature cocktail flight or a couple's dinner with full butler service. Buy your tickets online to avoid waiting in line on the day of your visit.

Lose yourself among the orchids at Singapore Botanic Gardens. Built in 1859, the expansive gardens offer something for everyone, from enthusiastic botanists to guests simply looking for a relaxing stroll. Check out the world's biggest collections of orchids, or learn something new at the botany center. Kids can let off some steam at the children's garden, which offers plenty of entertainment for the little ones, including tree houses, water play areas, and interactive educational activities.

Experience your favorite films come to life at Universal Studios Singapore, where you can take an enchanted 3D adventure with Shrek, or thrill yourself with a crate ride along a wild river in Madagascar. With seven themed areas, including Hollywood, Ancient Egypt, and Sci-Fi City, you can take a mythical world tour in the space of just a few hours. Be prepared for long lines in front of many popular rides, and save some time by purchasing express passes for your favorite attractions.

Discover the scents of traditional food amid the clamor of street markets at Chinatown, Singapore's traditional Chinese quarter. Crowded and busy throughout the day, this neighborhood allows visitors and locals mingle in a cultural melting pot. Treat yourself to some of Singapore's best foods at one of the many authentic restaurants, or cool off at a lively bar. Test your bargaining skills at a street stall, offering discounts on souvenirs, clothing, and electronics.

Take a walk through a futuristic wonderland at Gardens by the Bay, fusing modern design with nature to create an imaginatively functional public space, in keeping with Singapore's reputation as garden city. You can explore air-conditioned flower domes or stand in awe of the "Supertrees," three vertical gardens offering nightly light and sound shows. Kids can work their energy off at the children's garden, an interactive play space for visitors up to 12 years old. Bring swimsuits as many of the kids' activities are water-based. Also part of this attraction, Cloud Forest.

Treat yourself to a shopping spree at Orchard Road, located at the heart of Singapore. With 2.2 km (1.4 miles) of shopping malls and brand-name stores, this popular shopping destination caters to all of your retail needs and desires. Choose from plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars when you need a break from all that bargain hunting. If the weather gets too hot or rainy outside, you can navigate the road via a series of underground passageways.

Stroll along the ultra-modern waterfront promenade at Marina Bay. With impressive views of Singapore's skyline, outstanding shopping, and easy access to many of the city's best attractions, the bay always buzzes with activity. Check out the remarkable Helix Bridge, designed in the shape of a strand of DNA, and the many world-renowned gardens that add a splash of green to the area. With an abundance of bars, restaurants, and cafes, you can always stop to grab some refreshments and admire the views.

Witness one world's most bizarre statues at Merlion Park, famed for its figure of a half lion, half fish shooting water from its mouth in a proud arc. Built in 1964, the 9 m (30 ft) statue now represents one of Singapore's symbols. A smaller statue--the fish-lion's baby--can also be found nearby. The baby statue offers a similar photo opportunity with a fraction of the crowds. After you've taken some photos, turn your gaze around to appreciate sweeping views of the waterfront.

Feel the presence of a sacred religious artifact at Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, featuring impressive architecture and a large collection of Buddhist relics that provide it with an air of historical grandeur. You can see the golden stupa that protects the tooth relic from a public viewing area, and remember that only monks can enter in the inner chamber. Take the elevator to the rooftop garden for a moment of quiet surrounded by nature. Dress respectfully in clothing that covers your shoulders and legs before entering the temple.

Revel in sweeping views over Singapore from Sands SkyPark Observation Deck, a public observation point perched on top a five-star hotel. Complement the 360-degree vistas with a drink from the rooftop bar, or put your photography skills to the test. Hotel guests can also enjoy the surreal experience of swimming in an infinity pool on the edge of the roof.

See thousands of colorful birds in flight at Jurong Bird Park, where you can attend regular live shows and feedings. Rare and exotic birds abound at the open-air aviary, from flocks of pink flamingos to rainbow-colored parrots. You can even get up close to penguins in their icy habitat. Make sure to visit the waterfall aviary, a free-flight habitat centered around a 13-storey cascade. Sightsee without tiring yourself by getting around the park on a hoop-on, hop-off tram.

Get in touch with natural beauty at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. The attraction bears the title of the country's first official wetlands reserve and plays a significant role as a resting habitat for migratory birds. The area's unusually large bird population was first noticed in 1986, when a call was made to preserve the naturally significant area. Today, the area is a popular site for eco-friendly tourism, as it features raised wooden walkways and viewing platforms surrounding the water. Bring your binoculars, as the area is an acclaimed bird-watcher's haven. The reserve offers plenty of educational resources, allowing you to learn more about the region and the animals within the natural habitat.

Experience the vibrancy of Singapore's Indian culture at Little India, where you can immerse yourself in the smells and tastes of aromatic food at the district's range of ethnic restaurants. Try masala dosa--a crispy pancake filled with fragrant potato curry--or a spicy fish dish, washed down with a mango lassi. The neighborhood also has a reputation for bargain shopping, with goods available at a fraction of the price charged by upscale retailers. If you do decide to try out your bargaining skills, watch out for fake or low-quality merchandise sold at the markets.