FOLLOW THAT BOAT
Get a little history along with a leisurely river cruise in a ‘ bumboat ’: sometimes known as a tongkang or twakow , these wooden cargo boats were employed from the 19th to 20th century , transporting goods along the Rochor , Kallang and Singapore rivers , but modern times have seen them re-deployed as tourist boats . These eye-catching vessels will cruise you past some of Singapore ’ s most iconic landmarks and districts , including Clarke Quay , Marina Bay , the Esplanade , Merlion Park , and the historic landing site where Sir Stamford Raffles ( one of the founding fathers of modern Singapore ) is thought to have first arrived in 1819 .
You can hop on ( and hop off !) the bumboat tours at several points along the river . We suggest embarking in the dreamy golden light of late afternoon or after dusk . That way , you can catch the sunset over the river and , if you time it right , see the bright lights of the city ’ s urban nightscape come alive , too .
PHOTOS : ADOBE STOCK / RIGEL / WINEL SUTANTO / JOYLYNN GOH ; UNSPLASH
RIVERSIDE REVELRY
Singapore comes alive as the sun sets , and by the edge of the Singapore River is the place to be . Clarke Quay is the go-to place to let your hair down , with its colourful facades and boisterous bars that fill up by night with young Singaporeans . There ’ s a huge array of casual restaurants serving up at outdoor terraces too , so you can dine with the lights of the CBD ’ s skyscrapers as a backdrop .
Or for a ( slightly !) quieter yet equally enticing dinner and drinks option , head to nearby Boat Quay , which offers a fantastic array of restaurant and cocktail bars with views onto the waterfront that will keep you well satiated in style . holidaysforcouples . travel 77