A Stroll Through Singapore’s Past

In any season, Singapore can get steamy. With warm temperatures year-round and a high humidity factor, it’s a place where the mercy of air-conditioning is sought after. Don’t let that stop you getting out and exploring on foot. There are fascinating districts and pockets of Singapore that were made for self-guided walking - or jogging - tours. Whiz by in a taxi and you’ll miss the little details, the photo opps and the chance to see things from a new perspective.

Take the former colonial precinct in Singapore’s Civic District. Filled with architectural gems and historical landmarks, it’s the ideal area for a leisurely walk. A couple of hours should be enough time to wander around and snap some pics; allow more time if you plan to stop for a refreshing cocktail. Tackle the walk in the early morning or after sunset to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Founded by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles almost 200 years ago, Singapore celebrates its stiff-upper-lip colonial past with a statue of Sir Raffles at the riverside spot where he first landed. Pause to read the dedication plaque that lavishes praise on the big man who “with genius and perception changed the destiny of Singapore from an obscure fishing village to a modern metropolis”. Nearby, a memorial stone pays tribute to all of the early founders of what has become a diverse, multicultural crossroads of the world.

The last word in colonial-era luxury, Raffles Hotel is located close by and is an essential stop on any heritage walking trail. Since it opened its doors in 1887, the hotel - named in honour of Sir Raffles - has set the pace for Singapore’s wealthiest residents and visitors. The Singapore Sling cocktail was invented here, the high tea buffet experience was perfected, and legend has it a wild tiger once crept into the deluxe confines of the billiards room. The hotel’s public rooms, hallways, bars and lush grounds are a dream for photographers.

Architecture enthusiasts will have Instagram filters at the ready as they approach the former City Hall and Old Supreme Court Building of Singapore, also in the Civic district. Soaring Corinthian columns, classical designs and sweeping Italian murals decorate this landmark, which was converted into the National Art Gallery of Singapore a few years ago. Don’t miss the spectacular views from the Gallery’s City Hall Wing: two upscale restaurants, Smoke & Mirrors and Aura Sky Lounge, serve up a side order of fabulous skyline views along with cocktails and curated bites.

Looping back towards Fort Canning Park, a charming oasis of green in the middle of the city, you’ll find the National Museum of Singapore - the oldest museum in the country - a treasure chest of historical exhibits and insight. Find out why the port city changed its name from Singapura, and learn more about the deal struck by Sir Stamford Raffles with the local Malay rulers in 1819.

An important defensive stronghold of the British Empire against the Japanese during World War Two, Singapore’s role in the war effort was significant and is chronicled here at the Museum. A short walk away in the direction of Marina Bay, War Memorial Park stands as a permanent remembrance of civilians who died in Singapore during World War Two.

Stop for a moment to reflect at St Andrew’s Cathedral, if you’re so inclined. Located to the west of War Memorial Park, the Anglican cathedral is Singapore’s largest. It stands as a prime example of the architectural style of George Coleman, the man who designed many of the early colonial buildings of Singapore.

Two hours well-spent, a few kilometres walked, and plenty of photos snapped. A walk around Singapore’s Civic district is always a good idea.

Source Escapetravel