First it was the blockbuster romantic comedy “Crazy Rich Asians,” where one of Asia’s most eligible bachelors found love while visiting family in Singapore. Then the latest season of “The Bachelor” saw Colton and his Bachelorettes touch down in Singapore for the first time ever, to discover romance in the city-state. As viewers watched the on-screen protagonists’ romance blossom, they found themselves falling head over heels with Singapore as well.
Singapore has stepped into the spotlight as one of the world’s most romantic destinations. That’s not a surprise, because no matter what you and your loved one are passionate about, you’ll enjoy getting to know the local culture. Taste your way through Singapore’s dynamic culinary scene, from its legendary street food to its Michelin-starred restaurants; take in the city’s breathtaking views; and embark on adventurous surprises. All this and more will create unexpected moments of romance. Here’s how to live out your romantic dreams in true Singaporean style.
Be Seduced by Dancing Lights
Under a darkened sky, twinkling lights begin to appear on the Supertrees that climb to 160 feet tall. Soon, the entire forest is awash in a rainbow of dancing illumination, accompanied by a perfectly syncopated soundtrack. This one-of-a-kind performance, the Garden Rhapsody light show at Gardens by the Bay, makes for the perfect moment to cuddle up. Take it in from the OCBC Skyway where you’ll be above the crowds, nearer to the treetops and close to your loved one.
Have a Spirited Celebration
With inventive, dramatic drinks created by some of the world’s top mixologists, Singapore’s sophisticated bars and lounges are some of the city’s best places to find romance. Head to the grand, Art Deco-designed space of Atlas and celebrate with some of the world’s rarest Champagnes, or choose from the world’s largest collection of gins. Or slip into Native, a romantic hideout that infuses local flavors and elements into their cocktails, ceramics, and music.
Dine With a (Michelin) Star
Peranakan cuisine, which blends Chinese ingredients with spices and techniques from Malaysia and Indonesia, has been passed down through generations from the area’s early migrants. Creating it is truly a labor of love: Preparation involves spending many hours in the kitchen. But the result is worth it—delicious dishes that perfectly reflect Singapore’s cultural melting pot. And there’s no more romantic place to sample this signature cuisine than Candlenut—the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant—where traditional recipes are given a modern spin and served in an intimate space.
Swoon with a View
What’s more romantic than a sky-high gondola ride? Ride the dramatic Singapore Cable Car to the top of Mount Faber—at sunset, of course—to enjoy breathtaking views out across the city. Then take in more inspiring vistas by walking over the undulating, illuminated bridge known as Henderson Waves; it’s more than 100 feet off the ground and features plenty of nooks and niches for romantic canoodling.
Get Your Heart Pumping
For couples that enjoy bonding over a rush of adrenaline, Sentosa—the island off Singapore’s southern coast—is the place to go. Speed from jungle to beach on the MegaZip, a zip line more than ¼-mile long and some 250 feet off the ground; just don’t forget to soak up the amazing view as you race your partner. You can also climb, jump, and bounce your way to more thrills and views. And to really “fall” for your mate, bungy jump from more than 150 feet in the air at AJ Hackett Sentosa—you can truly say you’ve taken the plunge!
Experience the Art of Romance
You may expect rigid formality inside Singapore’s stately National Gallery—after all, the building once housed the Supreme Court and City Hall—but this museum offers a range of surprises perfect for couples to discover together. Wander through the blend of traditional and modern designs and explore the world’s largest collection of modern Southeast Asian art, then enjoy musical performances and other cultural events. Stay in the building for a romantic dinner of modern French cuisine at Odette, and finish your magical day with rooftop drinks at Smoke & Mirrors, where you’ll find a cityscape view that’s sure to stoke the romantic fires.
