Singaporeans and travelers alike often overlook the city’s lesser-known gems, but this full-day group tour aims to change that. Offering a chance to explore the vibrant and cultural pockets of the island, the tour promises an immersive experience that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions. From the historic charm of Tiong Bahru to the unique storytelling of Haw Par Villa, this guided journey unveils the diverse facets that make Singapore a truly captivating destination.
Key Points
- This full-day group tour explores lesser-known neighborhoods in Singapore, including Tiong Bahru, Kampong Glam, and Haw Par Villa.
- The tour is priced at Kč 4,323 per person for a 10-hour experience and accommodates up to 42 participants.
- Guests can explore historic art deco buildings, vibrant street art, and Chinese mythology-inspired statues during the tour.
- Live guides are available in Chinese and English, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The itinerary includes local breakfast, lunch, and a nature walk, providing a comprehensive experience of Singapore’s heritage and culture.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour offers a full-day group experience to explore the lesser-known paths of Singapore. Priced at Kč 4,323 per person, the 10-hour tour accommodates up to 42 participants.
A full-day group tour to explore Singapore’s lesser-known paths, accommodating up to 42 participants at Kč 4,323 per person for 10 hours.
Led by live guides in Chinese and English, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Highlights include visiting historic Tiong Bahru, the multicultural Kampong Glam, the mythological Haw Par Villa, and the nature-filled Labrador Reserve.
Transportation, meals, and entry fees are covered, making this an all-inclusive Singapore adventure for travelers seeking a unique culture.
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Itinerary Highlights
Beginning the tour, visitors will explore the historic neighborhood of Tiong Bahru from 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM.
They’ll discover:
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Art deco buildings, quirky cafes, and boutiques that give the area its unique character.
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Tiong Bahru Market, where they can sample local breakfast dishes.
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The neighborhood’s rich history and architecture, learned from the knowledgeable guide.
Next, the group will visit Kampong Glam from 10:15 AM to 10:45 AM, touring the Sultan Mosque and strolling along Haji Lane to experience the district’s multicultural influences.
At 11:15 AM, they’ll explore the mythological world of Haw Par Villa until 12:15 PM.
Tiong Bahru
Visitors kick off the tour by exploring the historic neighborhood of Tiong Bahru from 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM.
They’ll discover Tiong Bahru’s art deco buildings, quirky cafes, and boutiques. The group visits the lively Tiong Bahru Market to try local breakfast dishes.
The tour guide shares insights into the area’s history and architecture, highlighting its unique character.
With a mix of old and new, Tiong Bahru offers a glimpse into Singapore’s heritage amidst a modern city landscape.
This vibrant district sets the tone for the day’s journey through lesser-known parts of the country.
Kampong Glam
Next, the tour moves on to Kampong Glam, where visitors can explore the area from 10:15 AM to 10:45 AM.
Here, they’ll visit the iconic Sultan Mosque and stroll down Haji Lane, discovering the multicultural influences that have shaped this district:
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The Sultan Mosque, with its golden domes, stands as a testament to Singapore’s Malay-Muslim heritage.
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Haji Lane, a charming alley, showcases a vibrant blend of street art, trendy cafes, and independent boutiques.
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Visitors can enjoy the district’s rich history and cultural diversity.
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The guided tour provides insights into the unique architectural and social elements that make Kampong Glam a must-see destination.
Haw Par Villa
From Kampong Glam, the tour heads to Haw Par Villa, where visitors can explore Chinese mythology through over 1,000 statues from 11:15 AM to 12:15 PM.
Haw Par Villa, also known as the Tiger Balm Gardens, is a unique park featuring scenes from Chinese folklore and legends. Guests can wander through the vivid dioramas depicting the ten courts of Chinese hell and learn about cultural traditions and beliefs.
The tour guide discusses the significance of the statues and shares insights into Taoist and Buddhist influences shaping this one-of-a-kind attraction.
Joo Chiat
After exploring the cultural richness of Haw Par Villa, the tour moves on to the vibrant neighborhood of Joo Chiat from 12:45 PM to 1:45 PM.
Participants will enjoy a traditional Peranakan lunch, seeing the area’s unique heritage.
Joo Chiat is renowned for:
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Colorful shophouses and murals reflecting the cultural diversity of the region
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Distinctive Peranakan architecture, a blend of Malay and Chinese influences
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Local boutiques and eateries showcasing the neighborhood’s creative energy
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Insights into the Peranakan community’s traditions and way of life
After the Nyonya lunch, the tour continues to explore the next destination, Labrador Nature Reserve.
Labrador Nature Reserve
The tour then explores Labrador Nature Reserve, a quieter park perfect for nature walks and birdwatching, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
Visitors can discover the historical significance of this area during World War II. The reserve features lush greenery, rocky coastlines, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful respite from the city bustle.
The guide will share insights about the park’s natural and cultural heritage, allowing participants to appreciate Singapore’s natural beauty and learn about its lesser-known historical aspects.
Transportation and Meeting Details
For this tour, you will be transported via an air-conditioned coach or van. The vehicle will cover the toll and fuel charges.
The tour includes pickup at 8:30 AM from the Fairmont Hotel, 80 Bras Basah Rd, Singapore 189560. Participants can choose to be dropped off at either HarbourFront VivoCity or Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre.
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments. Participants should bring an umbrella and water, but pets aren’t allowed.
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Seamless transportation arrangements
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Convenient meeting and drop-off locations
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Accessibility considerations for participants
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Recommended personal items to bring
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
According to the tour information, you can bring your own water, but food and other drinks are not allowed. The tour includes lunch at a Peranakan restaurant, so bringing your own food is not necessary.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?
The tour operator does not offer any discounts specifically for senior citizens or students. The pricing is fixed at Kč 4,323 per person regardless of age or student status. Customers should inquire about any available promotions when making their booking.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Unfortunately, this appears to be a set group tour with a fixed itinerary. There’s no option to customize the tour. However, the company may offer private tours with more flexibility in the future. Customers should check with the tour provider for any available customization options.
What Should I Wear for the Tour to Be Comfortable?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended for this tour. Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics, close-toed walking shoes, and bring an umbrella or hat to protect against sun and rain. Layers are advisable to adjust to varying temperatures throughout the day.
Can I Leave the Tour Group and Explore on My Own During the Day?
No, leaving the tour group on your own is generally not recommended. The tour is designed as a group experience, and departing from the itinerary could disrupt the logistics and flow of the day. It’s best to stay with the group throughout the tour.
The Sum Up
This full-day group tour provides an immersive exploration of Singapore’s lesser-known neighborhoods. Visitors can experience the historic charm of Tiong Bahru, the cultural richness of Kampong Glam, and the unique storytelling of Haw Par Villa. The tour also includes a local lunch in Joo Chiat and a refreshing nature walk at Labrador Nature Reserve, offering an unforgettable journey through this dynamic city.
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