Colonial Singapore
4 days
This programs combines Singapore's classic sights together with a look at the colorful history and culture of the Peranakans. The Peranakans, predominantly Chinese-Malay, were historically traders who have lived for generations along the straights of Malacca. Members of this community address themselves as "Nyonya Baba," the words for ladies and gentlemen respectively. Visits include the Peranakan Museum, a stroll through Emerald Hill Road to view the lovely Peranakan influenced homes, and a delicious Peranakan lunch. Also included is a private city tour designed to gain understanding of this island nation. Visits include some of city's most popular areas and attractions, such as Orchard Road, Thian Hock Kheng Temple, and Merlion Park. Also visit the National Orchid Enclosure to see these iconic flowers of Singapore bursting in a riot of colors and shapes. There is also free time to enjoy the city on your own. Taking in some shopping on Orchard Road, visiting the colonial-style Raffles Hotel for a refreshing Singapore Sling, or heading over to Boat Quay or Clarke Quay for al fresco dining along the Singapore River are just a few of the options.
Private tour itinerary

Day 1: Singapore. Arrive at Changi Airport and transfer by sedan to your hotel in Singapore.
Day 2: Singapore. Explore the sights and sounds of Singapore this morning. You will visit the National Orchid Enclosure to see one of the largest collections of orchids in the world. Some of the species and hybrids can only be found in Singapore. Driving down fashionable Orchard Road will bring you to the civic district, where you will be able to see some of the city's landmark buildings, such as the Supreme Court, City Hall, and the Old Cricket Club. Have a photo stop at Merlion Park for a picture with the Singapore icon, and enjoy views of Marina Bay. Finish with a visit to Singapore's oldest Chinese temple, "Thian Hock Kheng," before returning to your hotel. (breakfast).
Day 3: Singapore. Discover Singapore's Peranakan Heritage on a half-day tour with specialist guide. Singapore is known as a melting pot of east and west, where everyone lives harmoniously in a multi-racial society. In this atmosphere evolved a new culture known as the Peranakans. Descendants of late 15th and 16-century Chinese immigrants, and usually traders, the Peranakan culture is a mix of Malay and Chinese, with cross cultures found in the food, clothing, jewelry, lifestyle, and music. Begin the tour with a visit to the Peranakan Museum, followed by a short walk through Emerald Hill Road to admire some of the beautiful Peranakan influenced homes. A visit to a traditional Peranakan shop affords the opportunity to see the influence on goods such as batiks and beaded shoes, and even in the taste of some of their desserts. Conclude the tour with a delicious, traditional Peranakan lunch. The afternoon is free to enjoy the city on your own. (breakfast, lunch).
Day 4: Depart Singapore. Transfer to Changi Airport. (breakfast).

Meals: breakfast daily (3), and one lunch.

Cost per person, double occupancy from $1,345.
Our deluxe Singapore tours are carefully designed to provide a unique experience in the destination, promote cultural understanding and exchange, flow smoothly from place to place, allow time for relaxation and exploration on your own, provide maximum value, and very importantly to be enjoyable. The itinerary can be modified to suit your tastes, time frame, budget, and special interests.