Singapore is known for having one of the cleanest, most comfortable, and most reliable public transport systems around the entire world. In surveys, the city-state managed to outrank major cities such as Paris, Tokyo, London, and New York City.
By using its bus and train lines, visitors can explore many of the island’s popular landmarks and tourist destinations. However, there is another way to get to know Singapore: through a good, old-fashioned road trip.
Going on a road trip in Singapore is a completely different adventure with your travel buddies. Driving on the open road, stopping at interesting places, and passing through scenic routes is the best way to see places.
All you need to do is to get a car rental and begin your road trip in Singapore. Here are some stops that you need to add to your itinerary.
Bright Hill Temple
The Bright Hill Temple located in Bishan is the largest and one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Singapore. In 2020, this landmark celebrated a century since its establishment.
This spot is not just for the religious. Bright Hill Temple is a window to a time that has long ago passed. The well-preserved intricate ancient architecture will make you feel like walking back in history and you will be in awe of the size of the structure. The peace and quiet within the grounds is a welcome escape from the noise pollution from which every major city suffers.
The Bright Hill Temple is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Kampong Lorong Buangkok
Nestled within modern houses and buildings is the last surviving kampung in mainland Singapore. The Kampong Lorong Buangkok is a small village in the middle of Buangkok. It is home to a tight-knit community of about 30 families.
The Kampong Lorong Buangkok has been around since 1956, back when Singapore is still not the rich developed country that it is today. Back then, the area experienced flash floods quite regularly but the cheap rent encouraged people to keep relocating there.
The fast and steep rise of the nation into the richest economy in Southeast Asia did not change the Kampong Lorong Buangkok. By 2007, the rent in the village was reportedly as low as $10 a month.
When you go to the village, you will see a quiet neighbourhood filled with trees and grasses, exposed electrical wiring, and four-digit street signs. It may not sound much, but it recalls the humble history of Singapore, way before the tall buildings started popping up across the nation.
Hay Dairies
There is a goat farm in Singapore and for just $5 you can feed and pet baby goats.
Hay Dairies is the only goat farm in Singapore. It was established way back in the late ‘80s. The farm is home to about 800 goats of mixed breeds. They feed hay hailing from Australia and the United States which might be why their milk tastes so much better than what you can find in grocery stores.
If you swing by early in the morning, around 9 to 11, you can see goats being milked by farmers. By the end of your visit, you can take home fresh goat’s milk to nourish you for the rest of the trip.
One Kind House
One Kind House is a farm, an art gallery, a cooking school, a community space, and one of the best stops during your road trip. It is the perfect destination for those who love plants and gardening.
One Kind House is located in the East Coast district of Singapore. It is run by the owner Madam Soh who visitors affectionately call Mummy Soh.
It is a place to gather for like-minded people to bond, get to know each other, relax, and, of course, eat. Most of the ingredients used during the cooking classes are harvested straight out of the garden.
Singapore has a lot of sights to offer that is accessible by car. Having a road trip will offer a side of the city-state that not every tourist gets to experience.