Embark on a bumboat to Pulau Ubin and be instantly transported back to the ’60s. Rent a pushbike or simply spend the day walking under shady palm trees and exploring one of many trails through overgrown rubber plantations and sandy beaches. “One of Singapore’s richest ecosystems,” Chek Jawa Wetland is a great checkpoint to start with, but this boomerang-shaped island is abundant with things to see, taste and do. One of the highlights include Wayang Stage IN the centre of Ubin Town, a colourful shrine that is steeped in history.

To get to Pulau Ubin take a boat (SGD$3) from Changi Point Ferry Terminal near the Changi Village Hawker Centre.

Residing at the edge of Singapore’s Orchard Road district, the Botanic Gardens is an oasis that you’ll gladly get lost in for hours. Free to wander around the gorgeous grounds at your leisure, there are also walking tours, free of cost, led by volunteers each weekend (check the schedule here) if you’re looking for a deeper insight into the gardens.

If you’ve visited Singapore in the past you’ll be familiar with Sentosa and the plethora or theme parks and water attractions that can be found on the island. But beyond the ‘glitz and glamour’ lies unexplored beaches that forgo the hefty entrance fees and instead will have you spending your day on a secluded stretch, far from the tourist hoards. You can get to Tanjong Rimau beach by the edge of the compound by Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa and down the rocky slope that leads to the beach. Pack your swimmers and some snacks and get there before high tide to make the most of this hidden hangout!

Take a hike high above the treetops for a bird’s eye view of The Lion City and the wildlife that surrounds MacRitchie Reservoir. Roughly a 8km roundtrip, you’ll climb to a 250m suspension bridge which connects the two highest points (Bukit Peirce and Bukit Kalang). More info and downloadable maps (although not all who wander are lost!) here.

Curving and twisting 274m-metres along stunning views of the island, the Henderson Waves Bridge offers a unique walk far removed from the hustle and bustle down below. Take a breather in one of the many ‘shell-like’ pods or snap some pics while the sun sets. Alternatively, why not explore the bridge as a part of the Southern Ridges Walk? The 5km hiking trail will take you through three Singapore’s major parks, connecting at Telok Blangah Hill Park and Mount Faber Park.