Singapore is a hotspot for global travellers, particularly those coming for work, relocation or even leisure trips. The city-state is known for not just its business growth, but also its high living standards, safety levels and top-class cultural landmarks. However, choosing the right neighbourhood in Singapore is essential.
It all depends on the kind of lifestyle you want, where the locality directly influences the quality of your stay. Let us look at some of the best areas to stay for the best of all worlds, as they say.
Top Neighbourhoods in Singapore that Blend Business and Leisure
There are several localities in Singapore offering furnished short-term rentals that suit both business and leisure travellers. Some of the best choices include the following:
Marina Bay:
Marina Bay is the crown jewel of Singapore. Business travellers and corporates love it for its CBD (Central Business District). This is home to several leading multinational companies, well-known banks and exclusive co-working spaces. You can call Marina Bay the architectural and financial hub of Singapore in a way.
Leisure travellers and first-timers will find it convenient to stay in this area. This is because there is the Marina Bay Sands here and also the incredible ArtScience Museum and the majestic Gardens by the Bay. You will also have access to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands for luxury shopping and fine dining choices within walking distance. Connectivity-wise, there are the Downtown, Marina Bay and Bayfront stations nearby.
Orchard Road:
Orchard Road gives you a central location in Singapore’s main shopping hub. It is where you will enjoy a convenient, family-friendly residential lifestyle in sync with the bustle of a shopping hotspot. Business travellers will appreciate the quick MRT ride to the core CBD area (only 10 minutes away) and easy access to multiple offices.
At the same time, if you’re here for leisure and shopping, the avenue is home to several mega-malls, right from Paragon to ION Orchard. You can also relax at the huge Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is in the vicinity. Michelin-starred dining, popular local eateries, medical centres and cinemas- everything you need is available at your fingertips in Orchard Road. What’s more, there are several MRT stations that you can access, including Dhoby Ghaut, Orchard and Somerset, connecting directly to the Circle and North-South lines.
Chinatown:
Chinatown is an excellent choice for both work and leisure. It is a historical neighbourhood which is vibrant and preferred by expats and young professionals. It is just adjacent to the CBD fringe zones. This means that you can conveniently take a one-stop MRT ride or walk into the financial hubs at Raffles Place directly.
From the leisure standpoint, it is home to several heritage landmarks like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the famous Maxwell Food Centre. You will also find it easy to access the vibrant nightlife options in Ann Siang Hill. It’s like the best of everything, i.e. you get affordable hawker dishes with trendy bars, fine dining joints, shophouses and boutique gyms. There are also the Outram Park, Telok Ayer and Chinatown MRT interchanges for smooth access to all parts of the city.
Sentosa:
Sentosa is a surprisingly convenient place to stay for both business travellers and tourists. It works if you want a more resort-style living experience that’s slightly away from the city bustle. The island links directly to key business hubs through the Sentosa Express, vehicular causeways and cable cars. Several corporate and technology parks, including Mapletree Business City are only 10 minutes away by car.
In terms of leisure, Sentosa is absolutely unmatched, being home to the awe-inspiring Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium. There are several gorgeous tropical beaches and golf courses, along with spas, beach clubs and residential communities. The HarbourFront MRT station links to the mainland, while a drive to Orchard or the CBD takes only 15-20 minutes.
Top Localities in Singapore for Relocation
While the areas mentioned above are suitable for relocation in many ways, there are some that also fit the bill conveniently. These are more family or work-oriented communities that you can consider.
- Tanjong Pagar: It is a high-energy zone that is ideal for technology and finance professionals, consultants and those who want to walk to their offices. The entire zone is home to several rooftop bars, late-night dining joints and fitness centres.
- River Valley and Robertson Quay: They are social, community-oriented and posh neighbourhoods preferred by solo travellers, expats and young couples. The tranquil streets aside, other attractions include a vibrant nightlife circuit, charming riverside walks, cute cafes and more. The CBD is only 10-15 minutes away from the locality.
- East Coast and Katong: These are more culturally elevated and relaxed areas with a strong residential vibe. Food lovers, families and those preferring suburban lifestyles can consider the stretch. The East Coast Park is nearby for recreation, while you will love the Peranakan heritage of the area and its local eateries. This neighbourhood is hugely popular with expats and families who prefer renting holiday apartments for more space and convenience.
Singapore offers several wonderful neighbourhoods for the best mix of work, leisure and even relocation. Choose based on your specific needs, book your accommodation in advance to get better rates and factor in connectivity to your workplace or places of interest (to reduce commuting times).
