Singapore is famous for its multiculturalism, so one of the best things to do in town is to get lost among the sights, smells and sounds of its ethnic quarters: Little India, The Arab Quarter, Chinatown and Geylang Serai (the Malaysian district). Surprisingly, for a Muslim enclave, Geylang is also known as one of the "red light" areas of Singapore. Even if you're not interested in such activities, it's worth a visit at night just to take in the sheer neon energy of the place — and to sample the outstanding food offered at the bustling street-side cafeterias (the ones along Lorong 9 are particularly well-recommended). As with all of Singapore, it is largely safe.
If you're in town on a Sunday then, without a doubt, head to Little India in the late afternoon or evening. Sunday is the only day of the week when most Indian men are not working. So they dress up and take to the streets to socialise with their brethren. And it's quite the sight to see — rivers of men walking with their arms draped around each other's shoulders making music with the staccato sounds of their language. For some free entertainment (even though you won't understand the words), catch the complimentary Bollywood film that plays on a sheet in the open space at Jalan Besar and Weld Road, or in the car park at Upper Weld and Kappor Road.
For a more organised look at Little India, consider taking the Desire Paths walk. Organised by one of Singapore's experimental theatre companies, this non-traditional tour sends you off into the streets with a CD player and headphones, giving you an audio tour which instructs as it entertains with a completely scored and sound-effect-filled tale of young lovers stalking each other through the hot, narrow streets (pre-booking is essential). Alternatively, the Original Singapore Walks Company offers outstanding tours of the city that avoid falling into the "typical tourist" category.
After all that walking, you're bound to need a foot massage. Here's a tip: don't get one at your hotel. You can get excellent foot reflexology or a full-body massage at the myriad shops you'll find all over town (especially in the smaller shopping centres) for a fraction of the cost. Remember: this is Singapore, so things are clean and above-board.
For more sophisticated activities, be sure to check out the many free recitals, dances, and festivals offered by the Esplanade. The Esplanade is our local arts centre and is often referred to as "the big durian" because it looks like two of the odoriferous fruits.
For a good dinner option, head to The Line restaurant at the Shangri-La hotel where you can eat all you want from a dazzling gourmet buffet in an oh-so-mod setting for just S$68 per person.
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