Forget the tried and tested and opt for something new this year, with some of these spots all around the island. The candlelight dinner can come after. SAFRA members enjoy perks at some places too!
1. Cycling or rollerblading around Punggol
Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to be a sedentary affair. For sporty couples who enjoy working out together, bicycle and rollerblade rentals are available at Bikes @ Waterway at SAFRA Punggol. Within the area are plenty of spots to see and explore, including Punggol Waterway Park, the Instagram-worthy Jewel Bridge by the waterfront, as well as Coney Island. Due to Covid-19, all bicycles and rollerblades must be returned to the same place. Bikes @ Waterway is open from 9am to 7pm on weekdays and 9am to 8pm on weekends and public holidays.
SAFRA Members and Affiliated Members get 10% to 16% off on rentals depending on bicycle model (excluding Family Bike) and skate rental at Bikes@Waterway; more info at www.safra.sg/amenities-offerings/bikes-@-waterway
Bikes @ Waterway is located at 9 Sentul Crescent, #01-01A, SAFRA Punggol
2. A day out in Sentosa
There’s something about the island of Sentosa that enables visitors to let their hair down and go straight into holiday mode. This Valentine’s Day, make it a day’s outing as you explore the more than 20 attractions on the island – from Universal Studios Singapore to the newly-opened SkyHelix at Imbiah Lookout Station. While you’re at it, consider making a spectacular entrance to Sentosa via the Cable Car Sky Network, where you’ll get to take in priceless views of the island, its beaches, and its lush greenery.
SAFRA members enjoy 35% off a Cable Car Sky Pass Round Trip. Purchase your tickets at the ticketing counter or online with the code SAFRA35; more info at www.safra.sg/promotions/cable-car
The Cable Car Sky Network is located at Mount Faber Station at 109 Mount Faber Road, Mount Faber Peak.
3. Esplanade Roof Terrace
When it comes to admiring the stunning Singapore skyline, the Roof Terrace at the Esplanade offers views of the republic’s iconic structures in spades. Located on the second floor of the durian-shaped icon, the outdoor Roof Terrace boasts one of the best views of the Singapore skyline due to its proximity to Marina Bay, the Civic District, and the Central Business District (CBD). The space provides plenty of photo opportunities for the ‘gram, as well as seats for couples to enjoy a quiet tete-a-tete, away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
To get there, simply head to the second floor and follow the signs. Entrance to the Roof Terrace is free. All entrances to the Esplanade are open from 8am to 11.30pm daily.
Our top tip: Head there just before or during sunset, where you can see some of Singapore’s oldest buildings against the backdrop of the striking sky.
The Esplanade is located at 1 Esplanade Drive; more info at www.esplanade.com
4. National Gallery Singapore
Housed in Singapore’s former Supreme Court Building and City Hall, the National Gallery has so much to offer visiting couples. Art aficionados will go agog at the over 9,000 pieces within the gallery’s collection, while curious Singaporeans may simply wish to explore the place, which were previously restricted to the public.
Within the gallery, there are plenty of things to do, see, and explore– from top to toe. A must-visit here is the gallery’s Rotunda Library, the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden, as well as its rooftop, which offers panoramic views of the Padang and the nearby CBD.
At night, have dinner at one of the gallery’s fine restaurants such as Odette, Smoke & Mirrors, Yan, and Aura.
Fun fact: Many couples have opted to have their wedding photos taken within the building too, so no question of romantic vibes here.
National Gallery Singapore is located at 1 St. Andrew’s Road; more info at nationalgallery.sg
5. Johor Straits Lighthouse
The 12m-high lighthouse located at Tuas West is regarded as one of the more popular locations for wedding portraits and tourist photos due to its unique backdrop. Built in 1994, the lighthouse is located at the end of the pier of Raffles Marina club and overlooks the Tuas Second Link bridge that crosses the Straits of Johor. The Johor Straits Lighthouse is maintained by Raffles Marina, and is the only lighthouse not owned and operated by the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore. Following a trip to the lighthouse, end the day with a romantic meal at one of the club’s restaurants.
Johor Strait Lighthouse is located within Raffles Marina at 10 Tuas West Drive; more info at www.rafflesmarina.com.sg
6. Hampstead Wetlands Park
If you’re looking to impress your Anglophile partner, Hampstead Wetlands Park is the perfect spot for your date. Located next to The Oval at Seletar Aerospace Park, Hampstead Wetlands Park is evocative of a lush sprawling English garden with water lilies dotting the pond within the park. Spanning 3.23 ha, Hampstead Wetlands Park is home to an impressive array of plant species, birds, and other wildlife, which makes the area ideal for nature-loving couples and couples seeking a respite from city life.
Hampstead Wetlands Park is located at 1 Baker Street; more info at www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/hampstead-wetlands-park
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