Re-Wild Your Itinerary at Mandai
If you think you know Singapore’s wildlife parks, it’s time for a re-introduction. The Mandai Wildlife Reserve has just completed a massive decade-long transformation, officially celebrating its grand opening in May 2026. The star of the show is the new
Rainforest Wild, an adventure-based zoological park with two distinct zones, East and West, inspired by the rainforests of Asia and Africa. The final East zone, which opened this year, introduces visitors to unique species like the okapi, making its Southeast Asia debut. For a break from the tropical heat, the new indoor multimedia attraction Exploria, which launched in March 2026, offers an immersive journey through nature’s hidden realms, from prehistoric giants to deep ocean ecosystems. And for a truly unforgettable night, you can now go glamping in a tent overlooking the crocodile habitat at the new Crocodile Lodge, which began stays in June 2026.
Go Beyond Little India to Joo Chiat
While Little India remains a cultural heartland, repeat visitors are finding new stories in the historic Joo Chiat and Katong neighbourhoods. Long considered one of Singapore’s most beautiful and culturally rich areas, it’s the perfect place to experience the living heritage of the Peranakans—descendants of early Chinese immigrants who blended with local Malay culture. Spend a day exploring the iconic colourful shophouses on Koon Seng Road, which are a photographer's dream. But the real joy is in the details: discovering small, independent boutiques, trying a bowl of authentic Katong laksa, and visiting a private home museum like The Intan to see a priceless collection of Peranakan antiques. It offers a slower, more intimate slice of Singapore life that contrasts with the city’s bustling centre.
Taste the New Culinary Wave
Singapore’s food scene never sleeps, and 2026 has been a bumper year for new openings that cater to every palate. For a meal with a view, check out Xava Skybar, a new rooftop lounge at the National Gallery Singapore that opened in August and offers sweeping panoramas of Marina Bay. Discerning diners can book a table at Assaggi, a new contemporary Italian restaurant from the chef behind the Michelin-starred Buona Terra, which also opened in August 2026. Even casual dining is getting a premium upgrade. Katsu by Kyu, which launched recently, offers a high-end take on the humble tonkatsu, using premium Jeju pork. And for an experience that's sure to be all over social media, the Tiffany Blue Box Café recently opened its doors in ION Orchard, offering breakfast, tea, and all-day dining in its signature robin's-egg blue setting.
Follow the Art Trail
See the city from a new perspective by exploring its burgeoning public art scene. Instead of hopping between museums, you can follow a self-guided trail through the city’s streets. The “Benchmarks” art trail, running until mid-2026, places six unique, artist-designed benches around the Civic District, turning public seating into works of art you can actually interact with. These trails, part of a wider effort by the Public Art Trust and events like Singapore Art Week, encourage visitors to discover sculptures and murals woven into the urban fabric of different neighbourhoods. It’s a fantastic way to slow down, notice the details of the city’s architecture, and stumble upon world-class art in the most unexpected places.
