Southeast Asia’s Gems: Singapore and Malaysia Adventure!

Embarking on a thrilling solo adventure, I had the pleasure of exploring the vibrant countries of Singapore and Malaysia in June 2023. For 10 exhilarating days, I immersed myself in the rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisines that these Southeast Asian gems had to offer. From the futuristic cityscape of Singapore to the lush green tea gardens of Malaysia, every moment was filled with awe and wonder.

In this blog post, I’ll share about my personal experience of traveling through these beautiful countries, hoping that it’ll help you to plan your trip too!

Useful Trivia for Traveling in Singapore and Malaysia:

My flight was from Mumbai to Singapore was with Air India + FlyScoot, Singapore to Kuala Lumpur with Air Asia and from Kuala Lumpur to Mumbai with SriLankan Airlines.

For Indian travelers, obtaining a visa for Singapore is a straightforward process, I got a long term visa for 2 years, while for Malaysia I received it for 3 months.

I stayed at The Bohemian in Chinatown, Singapore and at Sunshine Bedz in Bukit Bintang, KL, Malaysia.

The local currency in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD), and in Malaysia, it’s the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

English is widely spoken in both countries, with Malay being the official language in Malaysia.

The largest community in Singapore is the Chinese community, while Malaysia boasts a diverse mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities.

Exploring the countries was made convenient through efficient local transport systems, such as MRT in Singapore and buses/taxis in Malaysia.

To stay connected, I purchased a local SIM card (Singtel in Singapore and Maxis in Malaysia), which provided me with data and voice services throughout my journey.

I found it helpful to download essential apps like Grab for transportation, Klook for day trips / activities and Happy Cow for vegetarian food options.

Lastly, I cannot stress enough the importance of travel insurance to ensure peace of mind during your solo travel adventures.

Day Wise Itinerary:

Day 1 – 10th June: Arrival and Gastronomic Delights

I arrived in Singapore, eager to explore the vibrant city-state and immerse myself in its unique culture. After landing at Changi Airport, I made my way to Paul Le Cafe, located within the airport premises. There, I indulged in a delicious Tomato Mozzarella Sandwich, accompanied by a refreshing Mixed Berries Smoothie and a delectable Blueberry Tarte. The flavors tantalized my taste buds and set the stage for my culinary adventures in Singapore.

From the airport, I took a Grab car to my hostel, The Bohemian, which provided a cozy and comfortable stay for my time in Singapore. After settling in, I ventured out to the nearby 7/11 convenience store to purchase an MRT Train Card and a Singtel SIM Card. Equipped with convenient transportation and reliable connectivity, I was ready to explore the city.

My first stop was Gardens by the Bay, a horticultural paradise renowned for its iconic Supertrees and stunning conservatories. This nature park encompasses three beautiful waterfront gardens: Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden. Bay South Garden is the largest of all and is home to two cooled conservatories – the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest.

Within Gardens by the Bay, I explored the Flower Dome, an enchanting display of diverse flora from around the world. It is the largest glass greenhouse in the world, featuring exotic flowers and plants from five continents.

A beautiful waterfall that’s known to be the largest indoor waterfall in the world welcomes you into the Cloud Forest.

The Cloud Forest, with its misty ambiance and breathtaking waterfall, provided a surreal experience, enhanced by the Avatar-inspired landscape. I also enjoyed the Crystal Mountains, Lost World, Tree Top Walk, and the serene Secret Garden.

As the day turned into evening, hunger struck, and I made my way to Shake Shack, a popular burger joint known for its flavorful offerings. I savored a satisfying meal of fries and a delicious burger, refueling myself for more adventures.

To satisfy my sweet tooth, I stopped by at Home Best, a gelato shop in Chinatown during evening and savored the delightful flavors of chocolate and lemon gelato, a refreshing way to end the day.

Day 2 – 11th June: Cultural Exploration and Natural Wonders

In the morning, I made my way to Chinatown’s Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum. This magnificent temple is not only an architectural wonder but also holds great spiritual significance. Inside, I marveled at the intricate details and learned about the revered relic housed within its premises.

After immersing myself in Chinatown’s vibrant atmosphere, I sought refreshment at Home Best, known for its delicious milkshakes. I indulged in a delightful mango milkshake and a refreshing strawberry milkshake, a perfect way to beat the Singaporean heat.

Keen to explore more, I topped up my MRT card and headed to Little India. The vibrant neighborhood welcomed me with its colorful facades, aromatic spices, and bustling markets. I quenched my thirst with a refreshing coconut water, enjoying its natural sweetness.

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple (the Temple of Thousand Lights), House of Tan Teng Niah (utterly Instagram-worthy), Indian Heritage Centre, Little India Arcade, Serangoon Road, and Mustafa Centre are some of the best places to visit in Little India.

Continuing my journey, I made my way to the renowned Supertree Grove within Gardens by the Bay. These towering structures adorned with vertical gardens amazed me with their sheer beauty and innovation. I climbed the 50-meter tall observatory, which provided panoramic views of the cityscape, a testament to Singapore’s commitment to urban greenery.

Seeking solace in nature, I visited the tranquil Kingfisher Wetlands within Gardens by the Bay. This serene oasis allowed me to reconnect with the natural world, observing the diverse flora and fauna that call Singapore home.

As evening fell, I made my way back to the Supertree Grove to witness its captivating light show. The Supertrees came alive with a symphony of lights and music, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that left me in awe.

Additionally, I couldn’t resist the allure of the Helix Bridge which is inspired by the geometric arrangement of a DNA strand and the Art Science Museum, where I witnessed the mesmerizing Spectra Light Show. This vibrant display of lights and lasers left me spellbound, a testament to Singapore’s creativity and innovation.

I also couldn’t miss the opportunity to experience the Time Capsule exploring the interactive exhibits, immersive displays, and engaging storytelling that highlight Singapore’s history, cultural heritage, and its vision for the future; and Singapore Flyer, a giant observation wheel offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. I had pre-booked my experiences through Klook, ensuring a memorable experience. It’s best to buy a combi ticket (Singapore Flyer and Time Capsule) as it saves money.

To conclude the day on a high note, I visited Venchi, an Italian gelato shop in Marina Bay Sands Mall. There, I indulged in a trio of flavors – Cremino, Strawberry, and Lemon gelato – each spoonful bursting with rich, creamy goodness.

With the day filled with enriching cultural encounters and awe-inspiring natural wonders, I concluded my second day in Singapore, excited for what the rest of my journey had in store.

Day 3 – 12th June: Wildlife Encounters and Nighttime Adventures

On the third day of my Singapore journey, I embarked on an exciting wildlife adventure. I started my day by visiting the renowned Singapore Zoo, a haven for animal lovers. Home to about 2,800 animals of 300 species, Singapore Zoo is one of the best rainforest zoos in the world.

At the zoo, I marveled at the diverse array of animal species and immersed myself in the captivating world of wildlife. Alongside the zoo, I also explored the enchanting River Wonders exhibit, learning about the unique aquatic ecosystems found in the region.

In the evening, I embarked on an extraordinary adventure at the Night Safari. The park came alive as I ventured into the mystical realm of nocturnal creatures. The Creatures of the Night show left me in awe as I witnessed the incredible abilities and behaviors of these captivating animals.

After the Night Safari, I savored a delicious vegetarian banana leaf meal for dinner, savoring the flavors and immersing myself in the unique ambiance.

At the end of the day, I reflected on the incredible wildlife encounters I had experienced, feeling grateful for the opportunity to connect with nature in such a remarkable way.

Day 4 – 13th June: Artistic Explorations and Botanical Beauty

The fourth day of my Singapore adventure was filled with artistic delights and a tranquil escape into nature. I started my day by visiting the Art Science Museum, where the Future World awaited me. Immersed in a world of interactive and futuristic installations, I marveled at the intersection of art, science, and technology. This museum is clearly one of the most instagrammable locations in Singapore. And nothing short of a bucket list item!

Afterward, I indulged my sweet tooth with a chocolate croissant and a refreshing JJ Wonderblend at Sweetspot Cafe within the Art Science Museum. The combination of flavors and textures was a delightful treat for my taste buds.

To quench my thirst, I enjoyed a refreshing Peachy Iced Tea at R&B within the mall, finding respite from the Singaporean heat. I also made a quick stop at a Guardian store within the mall to purchase wet wipes, a handy essential for my travels.

Eager to reconnect with nature, I made my way to the iconic Singapore Botanic Gardens, the oldest garden in Singapore (about 160 years old) and Singapore’s first UNESCO Heritage Site. The lush greenery and meticulously manicured landscapes provided a serene backdrop for my explorations. Within the gardens, I visited the Orchid Garden, which swanks the largest orchid display in the world.

To take a break and savor the tranquil ambiance, I enjoyed a cappuccino at Bees Knees, a charming cafe nestled within the Botanical Gardens. The aromatic coffee and the soothing surroundings offered a moment of relaxation and rejuvenation.

As the day came to a close, I topped up my MRT card, ensuring seamless transportation for the remainder of my journey. To end the day on a high note, I treated myself to two mocktail drinks at the Cé La Vi Club Lounge, located on the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands. The panoramic view of the city from the top was awe-inspiring, and I savored the flavors of the mocktails as I soaked in the breathtaking scenery at midnight.

Day 5 – 14th June: Thrills and Entertainment at Sentosa Islands

On the fifth day of my Singapore adventure, I embarked on a journey to Sentosa Islands, specifically to explore the world-renowned Universal Studios.

As I entered Universal Studios, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and iconic movie-themed attractions. I eagerly immersed myself in the thrilling rides, captivating shows, and immersive experiences that Universal Studios had to offer.

Human vs. Cylon, Transformers, Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, Canopy Flyer, Puss In Boots Giant Journey, Revenge of the Mummy, and Madagascar: A Crate Adventure are some of the best rides at Universal Studios that you definitely should not miss.

If you’ve time and energy, you can cover one of the other attractions in Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) like S.E.A.Aquarium, Adventure Cove Park, Dolphin Island, and Trick Eye Museum.

To make the most of my time on Sentosa Islands, I also indulged in the Wings of Time show, a mesmerizing display of lights, water, and fireworks. The 8:40 pm show lasted for 20 minutes and left me in awe of the artistic spectacle. I also took a stroll at the Siloso Beach which is a place to be.

To reach Sentosa Islands, I opted for the scenic Cable Car round trip, enjoying breathtaking views of the cityscape and the surrounding waters.

During my time at Universal Studios, I took a break at Starbucks to recharge and treat myself to a Tiramisu cake and an iced cafe latte. The indulgent flavors provided a delightful pause in my adventurous day. I also couldn’t resist trying the Almond Croissant and an iced cafe mocha, savoring the rich and comforting combination.

For dinner, I ventured to Chinatown, where I savored crispy potato strips and enjoyed a refreshing mango juice, savoring the local flavors. The bustling atmosphere of Chinatown added to the vibrant experience.

Day 6 – 15th June: Cultural Immersion and Scenic Delights

On the sixth day of my Singapore journey, I immersed myself in cultural experiences and explored the picturesque sights of the city.

To begin the day, I participated in a local tea ceremony experience offered by Singapo Rewards at 9 Neil Road. The session provided a unique insight into the art of tea making and allowed me to engage with Singapore’s rich cultural heritage.

To reach my next destination, Floral Fantasy, I availed the convenient shuttle service, which cost me 3 SGD. At Floral Fantasy, I marveled at the stunning display of vibrant flowers and breathtaking landscapes, immersing myself in the beauty of nature.

To satisfy my thirst, I stopped by Raffles Place at the MRT and enjoyed a refreshing Blueberry Shake, rejuvenating myself for further explorations.

One of the iconic landmarks of Singapore, the Merlion Statue at Merlion Park, beckoned me next. The majestic statue with a head of a lion and the body of a fish, and the unofficial mascot of Singapore, symbolizing the city’s origins as a fishing village, offered a picturesque backdrop for memorable photographs.

For lunch, I indulged in a delicious pizza at Caesar’s, relishing the flavors and the cozy ambiance of the best restaurants in Singapore.

Clarke Quay, a vibrant riverside quay, became my next destination. I soaked in the lively atmosphere, strolled along the waterfront, and admired the colorful buildings that lined the promenade.

The most famous nightclub in the area is Attica, known for it’s banging tunes and ladies nights specials (including free Jagermeister ice cream!). However, if you’re more interested in music, head to Crazy Elephant for some rock ‘n roll tunes. For views, go to Southbridge in neighbouring Boat Quay.

At Venchi, located in the Marina Bay Sands Mall, I couldn’t resist trying their delectable gelato flavors. I treated myself to scoops of Lemon, Pistachio, and Chocolate gelato, savoring the creamy textures and delightful flavors.

To take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city, I visited the MBS Skypark Observation Deck. From this vantage point, I marveled at the city’s skyline and appreciated the architectural wonders that surrounded me.

As the day drew to a close, I visited Yole in Chinatown, indulging in their refreshing Mango Blue Island and Raspberry Matcha Latte, a perfect way to beat the Singapore heat.

Before bidding farewell to Chinatown, I picked up some souvenirs to commemorate my time in Singapore.

Day 7 – 16th June: Departure and Farewell to Singapore and Arrival in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

On the final day of my Singapore massage and adventure, it was time to bid farewell to this remarkable city. I opted for a Grab car to Terminal 4, Changi Airport, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

My Malaysia adventure began as I arrived at KL Airport. To ensure seamless communication throughout my trip, I purchased a Maxis SIM card valid for 7 days.

Before heading to my hostel, I indulged in some fresh fruits, savoring the flavors and replenishing my energy for the day. For breakfast, I visited the charming Old Malaya Cafe at KL Airport. I enjoyed a cup of coffee paired with toast, savoring the rich aroma and the delectable flavors.

To reach my hostel, Sunshine Bedz, I opted for a Grab car, ensuring a convenient and comfortable journey. Sunshine Bedz was warm and welcoming, and I really had a blast staying here. I highly recommend it.

To satisfy my craving for Japanese cuisine for dinner, I dined at Kusa, immersing myself in the delightful flavors of All In One Sushi platter, Passion Fruit Kafel, Edamame Fried Rice, Spongy Tofu, Green Tea and Oatmilk Coffee! I savoured these delectable dishes for close to 4 hours while reading Mars and Venus on a Date by John Gray.

In the evening, I embarked on a memorable bar hopping experience with my fellow hostel mates, exploring establishments such as Temptations and Sutraa.

Day 8 – 17th June: Batu Caves and Genting Highlands Excursion

On the eighth day of my trip, I embarked on a day trip to Batu Caves and Genting Highlands, which I booked in advance through Klook.

To respect the cultural norms, I purchased a scarf at Batu Caves to cover my knees while exploring the sacred site.

At Genting Highlands, I couldn’t resist trying the famous Cinnamon Chimney Cake at Rollney. To satisfy my hunger, I indulged in some delectable rolls at Genting Highlands, enjoying the flavors and textures of the savory delicacies.

To rejuvenate myself with a cup of coffee, I visited Molten Chocolate Cafe in KL, savoring the rich and comforting brew.

For a different coffee experience, I tried the Hazelnut coffee at Raflis Vietnam Coffee, appreciating the unique blend and the inviting ambiance.

For dinner, I relished a flavorful meal at TGs, immersing myself in the local culinary delights.

Day 9 – 18th June: Exploring Cameron Highlands

On the ninth day of my Malaysia trip, I embarked on a day trip to Cameron Highlands, an enchanting destination known for its tea plantations, natural beauty, and agricultural wonders.

To beat the heat, I indulged in two refreshing Strawberry Chocolate Popsicles, savoring the fruity flavors as I explored the attractions.

At the Cameron Bharat Tea Plantation, I immersed myself in the tea culture and enjoyed a refreshing cup of teh-tarik accompanied by a delightful carrot cake.

For dinner, I relished delectable Pad Thai noodles and indulged in the classic Mango Sticky Rice at Baan Pad Thai in Pavilion Mall. The flavors transported me to the streets of Thailand.

Day 10 – 19th June: Kuala Lumpur Exploration and Departure

On the final day of my Malaysia trip, I embarked on a memorable exploration of Kuala Lumpur, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and diverse attractions.

I began by taking a Grab car to Thean Hou Temple, where I marveled at the stunning architecture and learned about the cultural significance of the site.

Next, I headed to Petaling Street, Chinatown, to explore the bustling markets and vibrant atmosphere.

To experience the flavors of the local street food, I indulged in some coconut, mango, and strawberry ice cream, relishing the refreshing and sweet treats.

To quench my thirst, I enjoyed a refreshing blend of Pineapple and Dragon Fruit Juice, savoring the tropical flavors.

To witness the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, I took a Grab car, admiring the architectural marvels that graced the Kuala Lumpur skyline.

At the Twin Towers, I got professional photographs captured through local photographers, ensuring that the memories of this magnificent landmark would be preserved.

Before departing from Malaysia, I couldn’t resist indulging in a delectable Baklava treat at Papa Kunafa, savoring the sweet and nutty flavors.

As I boarded my evening flight back to India, I felt grateful and my heart was full with all the adventures. 🙂

My 10-day solo exploration of Singapore and Malaysia in June 2023 was a remarkable journey filled with incredible experiences and cherished memories. From the iconic landmarks like Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and Malaysia’s Petronas Twin Towers to the tranquil beauty of the Cameron Highlands and the bustling streets of Chinatown, I was captivated by the diverse landscapes and cultural tapestries of these countries.

As I bid farewell to these captivating destinations, I am grateful for the opportunity to have immersed myself in their unique charms as a solo traveler. I encourage fellow adventurers to embark on their own solo odyssey, allowing the magic of Singapore and Malaysia to unfold before their eyes.