The norm is for tourists and visitors to immediately gravitate towards the main shopping districts or popularised attractions such as the zoo. However, activities such as shopping and visiting tourist attractions are not unique and are not relective of Singapore's real character. You'll find that by wandering around the suburbs, seeking out food at corner coffee shops and participating in adrenalin-pumping activities is where real fun lies. Go where most tourists don't, only then will you see the city's character, away from all the glitz.

Explore the Suburbs

Eastern Singapore - Geyland, Katong/Joo Chiat Districts

Ironically, most visitors travelling to and from the airport will pass these areas along the expressway without once exploring this vibrant portion of Singapore. Compared to areas such as the ethnic enclaves and the civic district in the city centres, Eastern Singapore is more reflective of local culture with well-preserved shophouses and authentic cuisines, in particular Peranakan food.

The Geyland precinct remains Singapore's infamous red light district, where the flesh trade continues to take place, with numerous brothels and prostitutes. However, in recent times, these are not as pervasive as they once were. You will not have to worry about being harrassed. Rather, you should visit Geyland for several picturesque alleys (lorongs in Singapore nomenclature) that include colourful shophouses and temples or shrines. Lorongs 27, 24A and 34 are worthwhile visits, with renovated shophouses, colourful temples and are indicative of the charm of the area.

Joo Chiat or Katong is the area where the Peranakan culture is slowly being revived. Take a leisurely stroll along the streets filled with daytime businesses, karaoke lounges, restaurants and hawker centres. On Joo Chiat Road, there are well-restored Peranakan terrace shophouses that give a taste of old Singapore. While in the vicinity, do also check out the Katong Antique House along East Coast Road, where you'll find a fantastic collection of Peranakan antiques and artifacts.

Forest Adventure at Bedok Reservoir Park

This is an aerial course built amongst the trees in Bedok Reservoir Park. Get ready to feel the rush of excitement as you traverse obstacles, swing from tree to tree and zip across the reservoir. This obstacle course is great fun and development for children and anyone else wishing for an adrenalin rush. Do check out the forest adventure website at http://forestadventure.com.sg

Wakeboarding at Ski360

At East Coast Park, there is the Ski360, Singapore's first cable-ski park. Instead of being pulled by a boat, participants are dragged along by an overhead cable and taken for a ride round a lagoon. For the adventurous, why not take a shot at wakeboarding or water-skiing? Find out more at http://www.ski360degree.com

Go Karting at Kartright Speedway

On the western part of Singapore, all the way in Jurong, is the newly opened Kartright speedway, Singapore's premier go karting facility. Whether you are simply looking for a bit of fun or are a serious racing enthusiast, go karting is a great way to let the speed demon inside you loose! With a 750m all-weather track and an option to race at night, Kartright Speedway is a perfect getaway from the monotonous shopping or attraction hopping. http://www.kartright.com is where you'll find more information on opening times and track availability.

Singapore-style Seafood

While in Singapore, it is an absolute must to try seafood done Singaporean-style. You might have heard of dishes like chilli and black pepper crab, drunken prawns etc. The East Coast Seafood centre is a great place to have dinner and whet your appetite. With numerous seafood restaurants to choose from, you'll have a hard time picking out one as they all seem to have the same food on the menu! However, whichever restaurant you choose, give such Singaporean seafood dishes a try. It is certainly something different, though you can let the waiter know how you want your seafood done i.e. steamed, with additional garlic, with sauce on the side and so on.

Side Trips

Pulau Ubin

This island is a mere 15-minute bumboat ride from the Changi Ferry Terminal. For first-timers, it will literally feel as if you have been transported back in time! The island is mainly covered in mangrove swamps and has nice hiking and cycling trails. The small local population still live in traditional kampong houses. The many shops offering bikes for rental should provide you with what you need, be it a simple clunker or a good mountain bike. It is highly advisable for you to test your bike brakes before setting off, as you'll come across several steep slopes and uneven trails as you explore the island.

People come to Pulau Ubin to bird-watch, hike, bike and learn about the culture on this untouched jungle island. The famous Chek Jawa wetlands area is also located here, on the eastern most tip of the island. Hence, grab a map, set a destination, and simply explore and be adventurous when on Pulau Ubin.

Johor Bahru (JB)

Just across the causeway, is JB, a de facto suburb of Singapore, considering the many people who take the occasional drive over to take advantage of the ever cheaper shopping options. In addition, thousands live in JB and commute to Singapore for work daily. Dining in JB is great if you are looking for more authentic Malay cuisine. The streets and alleys in JB are littered with excellent street-food options. For the various methods of getting to Johor from Singapore, you can find out more here.