Explore Singapore on a twin centre holiday

Why visit Singapore on a twin centre holiday?

If you're planning to travel halfway around the world, it makes sense to see more than one destination if you can fit it into your holiday plans. Singapore is a logical step in the way, because it is a common stop-off for many flights from Europe to elsewhere in Asia and beyond. Not only because of the great flight connections but also it helps to break down a long flight journey.

Rather than just spending a few hours in the - admittedly impressive - Changi Airport, allow a few days to fully explore what Singapore has to offer; you might just be surprised at what you find. This is an incredibly multicultural city, with Chinese, Malay, Indian and European influences helping mould it into what you find today.

Singapore is renowned for its shopping opportunities, but it's also home to numerous museums, stunning national parks and public gardens, beautiful beaches and luxurious hotels and spas - certainly enough to keep you busy for a few days.

Discover the culture of the city

Singapore's varied cultures are, arguably, its biggest draw. There's nothing quite like spending a morning exploring Chinatown, with all of the sights, sounds and smells of a bustling Chinese city, and then wandering through the colourful streets of Little India, sampling the fragrant and tasty food being prepared at the local restaurants.

The colonial district, which is centred along the riverside area, is also worth delving into, as this offers an insight into yet another side of Singapore's heritage. This colonial outpost has helped the country develop into the thriving hub that it is today and many of the old buildings from this era of European expansion still stand, framed by modern skyscrapers.

A trip to Raffles for an authentic Singapore Sling is not to be missed - as long as you can dress to impress, of course - while The Arts House and Singapore Art Museum provide the opportunity to see world-class art pieces in stunning settings.

Pair Singapore with other nearby destinations

It's all well and good planning to spend a few days in Singapore, but where else can you go on your twin-centre holiday? The obvious choices, especially if you're looking for a complete contrast to city life, are the idyllic beaches of the Indian Ocean islands or the perfect mix of nature, beach and culture in South East Asia.

There are various options in this pristine part of the world – on one hand you have the postcard-perfect deserted islands of the Indian Ocean - the incredible Seychelles, with their glorious beaches and stunning natural parks; the luxurious Maldives, which their luxury hotels and amazing scuba diving opportunities; beautiful Mauritius, where you can combine time lounging on the beaches with days spent exploring the lush, mountainous interior; and Sri Lanka, which boasts outstanding coastline, enthralling heritage sites and enchanting national parks.

On the other you have the mystifying allure of Southeastern Asian nations such as Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, each with its unique fascinating culture, religion, traditions and breathtaking nature.

Whichever of these destinations you choose to pair with a trip to Singapore, you're guaranteed a wonderful and varied holiday.

Ultimate luxury in Singapore

Should luxury be at the front of your mind when booking your twin centre holiday to Singapore, you won't be disappointed by what you find in the city's hotels. These establishments cater excellently for travellers looking for a little something extra, with many of the best hotels boasting relaxing spas, secluded pools or amazing infinity pools looking over the striking skyline and fantastic restaurants.

If you're not quite ready to leave the beach behind, stay on Sentosa Island, where you can lounge on sandy shores, soak up the sun during the day, and visit excellent eateries and chic bars once the sun goes down.

Of course, Singapore is also home to vast shopping malls that sell everything from clothing and jewellery by world-renowned designers, to every electronic gadget under the sun. Splash some cash and enjoy the atmosphere as you browse in one of the city's cosmopolitan malls (just don't expect it to be a cheap experience – you're in one of the world's most expensive cities after all).