Regarded as a shopper’s paradise and a holiday Mecca for the cosmopolitan masses Singapore is a destination synonymous with a fast paced lifestyle and futuristic efficiency. While most travellers flock to the plush and chic mallscapes and the glittering theme parks of the island other still attempt to discover a different side to this Asian icon by taking a tour of its waterways and exploring its confines on engaging boat cruises along its channels. Touring the Singaporean landscape off the beaten track these relaxing and educational cruises are ideal ways to explore the island for those on time constraints as it gives participants an all encompassing degree view of a stunning island nation and all its finest attributes.
The Singapore River Cruise is of course an iconic tour that no visitor to the Lion City should miss out on as the Bumboat tour which sets off at all hours of the day is one of the most spectacular and convenient river cruise excursions in the country. Setting off from both Clarke Quay and Boat Quay the 40 minute tour charges a nominal fee for the wealth of captivating sights it offers discerning passengers. Having commenced operations as far back as 1987 the fleets of bumboats have steadily grown to 24 vessels in recent times with new additions being introduced on a regular basis. Incorporating reputed food and beverage providers the cruises also specialize in eclectic menus of local delights that only heighten the cruise experience with a culinary component.
Sampan rides along the Marina Bay Sands canal on the other hand is a new addition to Singaporean cruises as The Shoppes and its canals were constructed less than five years ago. The Chinese style wooden boat with its hand paddling oarsmen takes passengers along a magnificent channel of azure water beneath the Marina Bay Sands. Visitors can make a wish once they reach the Rain Oculus circle and also enjoy a 22,000 liter liquid cascade created by Ned Kahn’s steel art piece with an acrylic bowl that spurts water from two stories above the canal.
The Singapore Zoo also offers visitors a chance to explore the animal enclosures of the venue on a boat ride along the coast. With two boat docks located near the white tiger exhibit and the Rainforest Kidzworld area visitors can encounter sea eagles, crocodiles and monitor lizards on this unique journey around the sanctuary.
Travellers in search of Singapore apartment hotels should look no further than La Residenza Serviced Suites. Offering guests beautifully furnished living spaces these elegant rests are among the serviced apartments Singapore counts among its best accommodation options for short-stay and long-stay visitors.