Singapore is not just a city but a city state. It is a multicultural melting pot that can boast of as many superlatives, if not more, then just about any other world class city. It has one of the best airports and best airlines in the world. It also hosts the first nightly Formula One Race.
Contrary to many other world class cities, Singapore does have an open and airy feel due to the many parks and greenbelts traversing the city. This is not a coincidence, it was planned that way. Not much is left to chance in the Lion City, as its natives call it.
Singapore is arguably the cleanest and safest large city on the planet. Everything seems to work efficiently, from its subway system to its organized government. This is perhaps strength and weakness at the same time as the rules and regulations sometimes can stifle creativity. To overcome this, Singapore, in the last 10 years, has made great strides to rid itself of this reputation. And wow, it has changed the city beyond compare.
These days, Singapore boasts a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Its Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, Robertson Quay, Dempsey and Holland Village areas are just a few of the many party spots that invite for an exciting experience. Of course, Singapore is also a shopping mecca. The Orchard Road area is packed with malls that house just about every fashion brand that exists. The ultra modern shopping malls offer entertainment value even if you are not into the “shop until you drop” mentality. Paragon, Takashimaya and Ion Orchard are just a few of the “temples of spend”.
In 2010, Singapore also opened two world class casinos, fueling further growth in the entertainment segment. Marina Bay Sands, with its iconic three tower design and a rooftop viewing deck stretching across all three towers, is a must see. The rooftop is home to a nightclub, restaurant and infinity edge pool and offers stunning views over the entire city. The shopping center below, again, is a shopper’s paradise providing everything from restaurants to the world’s most exclusive jewelry brands.
Sentosa Integrated Resorts, the other casino, is located on Sentosa Island, which is only a short taxi ride or, if you prefer, spectacular cable car ride from the city. This casino is more geared towards family entertainment, as is the entire island. Here you will find One Degree 15 Marina, a Universal Studio Theme Park, a luge ride to the beach, an exotic botanical garden and many other fun activities ideally suited for the young and young at heart. In addition to family-friendly hotels there is also the romantic, luxurious Capella Singapore Hotel.
Singapore is also a Southeast- Asian hub for first rate education, including Singaporean and foreign schools and universities. Furthermore, the Lion City offers excellent medical care.
With this much to offer, many wealthy people from around the world have made the city their part or full time residence. Singapore’s upscale housing market consists of luxurious condominiums and single family homes.
The best areas to live are:
Bukit Timah & Upper Bukit Timah
A a very popular area enjoyed by expatriates and locals alike due to its lush tropical green surroundings. Bukit Timah Road stretches from Scotts Road just off Orchard Road all the way north west for about 12 kms, thus giving easy access to the city within 15 minutes. The lack of large malls and high rises give the area a unique and tranquil suburban feel.
Nearest International Schools: Canadian International School (Elementary & Middle School Campus), German International School, Chinese Intern. School, Holland International School.
Holland Village
Holland Village, is another very desirable community. Within a 5-7minute drive it provides easy access to Orchard Road & the CBD . Located just north of the Singapore Botanical Gardens, the village is home to many affluent locals and expatriates who enjoy the many fine restaurants, local eateries and specialist gourmet food stores catering to just about everyone’s taste.
CBD
The Central Business District is the main area where major multinational companies are situated. The area is very dense and can easily be crossed within a few minutes from one end to the other. Most people living in this area choose it for its convenience as it allows for minimal commute time to reach their CBD based offices .
Newton & Novena
This area is situated just on the outskirts of Orchard past Newton Circus. The area has easy access to the Orchard Road shopping belt and is about 10 minutes away from the Central Business District (CBD). It is also next to the Central Expressway (CTE).The area is dominated by luxury high rise condominiums.
Nearest International Schools: Overseas Family School, ISS International School (Elementary & Middle)
Orchard
Orchard Road is the” prime district” and Singapore’s best known shopping area. It is the heart of Singapore and it is well known among tourists. On either side of its shady tree lined walkways you find major department stores, supermarkets, movie theatres, restaurants and some of Singapore’s most upscale hotels. Orchard Road is also home to numerous luxury condominium complexes that are the among the most expensive in town.
Nearest International Schools: Oversea Family School (OFS), International Singapore School (ISS) Elementary & Middle, Chatsworth International School
Tanglin
The far end of Orchard Road eventually turns into Tanglin. The area offers hotels, highend home furnishing stores, ‘Tanglin Market Place’ and even a branch of French gourmet food outlet Hediard. In addition, Tanglin has many foreign embassies and consulates. On the residential side, it has a number of large bungalows providing residence to foreign diplomats and senior expatriate management. Many high and lowrise condominiums also exist. Tanglin is in very short walking distance to the Orchard Road shopping belt and the Singapore Botanical Gardens.
Nearest International Schools: Overseas Family School (OFS), International Singapore School (ISS), Chatsworth International School
River Valley
It runs alongside the Singapore River and borders the CBD. River Valley Road runs parallel to the Orchard shopping belt and is only a 5-10 minute walk away. It is also close to the entertainment areas of Robertson and Clarke Quay. Here you also find upscale condominiums with views of the Singapore River and convenient access to a hip and trendy area of cafes, bistros, bars and restaurants and nightlife.
Nearest International Schools: Oversea Family School (OFS), International Singapore School (ISS), Chatsworth International School
Sentosa
Sentosa is an island and typically viewed more as an entertainment and resort area. It is it a bit out of the way (by Singapore standards) For non locals, a commute that takes not more then 20 to 30 minutes, depending on time of day, does not appear all that bad. Sentosa has many tourist attractions and an increasing number of luxury condominiums and single family homes. Most of them offer outdoor balconies with beautiful ocean views and gentle breezes. Especially people that are into the boating life style will enjoy the close proximity to the water and beaches.