If you’re yearning for a vacation abroad but find yourself on a staycation in Singapore, don’t worry! Despite being one of the smallest countries globally, Singapore is full of hidden gems—secret spots of nature and culture that resemble destinations abroad. These off-the-beaten-track places are perfect for a local getaway, offering a temporary escape from the busy life in the Lion City.
Here are some European-themed places in Singapore that are great for taking photos:
(1) The Fullerton Hotel Singapore – This historic hotel is located in a colonial-style building that dates back to 1928. Its architecture and interiors reflect a blend of British and local influences.
(2) Raffles Hotel – Another iconic colonial-style hotel, Raffles Hotel was built in 1887 and has welcomed famous guests such as Somerset Maugham and Rudyard Kipling. Its architecture and decor exude old-world charm and sophistication.
(3) CHIJMES – This complex of restored buildings used to be a convent school and is now a popular venue for dining, shopping, and events. Its Gothic-style chapel is a particularly picturesque spot for photos.
(4) National Museum of Singapore – Speaking of history, another excellent place to immerse yourself in the past is the National Museum of Singapore. As the country’s oldest museum, it showcases historical exhibitions and art galleries. The building itself is a stunning sight, a white neoclassical structure that could easily be mistaken for a museum in the UK or Italy.
(5) Tiong Bahru – This neighborhood is known for its quaint, European-style architecture, with many art deco and modernist buildings. You can stroll along the tree-lined streets and take photos of the colorful facades and vintage signboards.
(6) Dempsey Hill – This former British army barracks has been transformed into a trendy lifestyle destination with upscale restaurants, cafes, and shops. Its greenery and colonial-style buildings make for a charming backdrop for photos.
(7) Rochester Park – Some of the most Instagram-worthy locations in Singapore burst with colours, but the black and white houses in Singapore strive to be distinctive with their whitewashed, vintage exteriors.
These grand residences serve as reminders of the British colonial era, offering a glimpse into both history and classic European architecture. With approximately 500 scattered across Singapore, many of these black and white houses have been transformed into charming establishments such as restaurants, cafes, and bars.
(8) Wessex Estate – It’s well known that charming black-and-white colonial houses are a scarce find, preserving a piece of Singapore’s history with their grand verandas and monochromatic bamboo blinds. Wessex Estate, nestled in the Queensway area, is one such gem adorned with lush greenery, offering a rare glimpse into a bygone era with only a few of these houses remaining scattered around the island.
(9) Ridley Park – Nestled in lush green surroundings, this house is part of an estate named after Henry Ridley, the first director of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Despite being situated near Tanglin Barracks, Ridley Park is often mistaken for housing senior military officers developed by the War Office.
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(Credits: Steemit, OneThreeOneFour, Bottled Grove Photography, lpoholidays.in, Darren and Jade Photography, Tatler Asia, Marriott Hotels, Fullertonhotels, Capella Hotels & Resorts, Kayak, Goy Architects, Capitaland)
