5 Activities to Do in The Istana Open House

A historical place of national significance, the Istana was once home to the British regime in Singapore. Today, it is now the office of the President of the Republic of Singapore. So if given the chance to explore this important landmark, here are five things to do in The Istana Open House:

#1 Snapping a Picture with the Ceremonial Guards

If you have ever dreamed of visiting Buckingham Palace but can't afford to invest thousands of dollars to fly to the UK, all you have to do is take a train to Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station and head out to the Istana. The royal guards are Singapore's version of the Queen's Guard standing outside Buckingham Palace. This affordable alternative is an excellent way to capture this beautiful moment as a souvenir.

#2 Join a Guided Tour at the Istana Main Building

Don't miss the chance of witnessing the inside of the Istana Main Building. Attend one of the guided tours for a small fee of $2 for locals and $4 for foreigners. Explore the same halls that some of the world's prominent and influential people once walked. You'll also get to view a unique display of some of the great gifts from all over the world presented to the President and the Prime Minister of Singapore over the years.

#3 Indulge with the Exceptional Views

Do you ever wonder how Singapore looked during her time as a British colony? Back then, the Istana had an unparalleled view of Singapore. Today, it offers a magnificent view of the skyscrapers in Marina Bay and Central Business District. It may not be a sea view, but it's a splendid view. Enjoy this calming view from the terrace in front of the Istana Main Building. 

#4 Look for All the Benches from the Old National Stadium

These benches aren't your typical park benches – they are made from the wood of the old Kallang National Stadium. The benches were specially made to commemorate this national icon that many locals hold close to their hearts. Upcycling the benches is a way of letting the old stadium live its legacy up to this day. 

#5 Have a Picnic at The Grove

After a long day, have a picnic at The Grove – a vast green lawn that occupies most of the Istana estate. It's a great place to unwind, especially under the shade of the famous centenarian tree, Grand Old Tembusu. This tree is a remnant of the dense jungle that once inhabited the whole area. 

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5 Recreations For A Lifetime Of Memories At Mount Faber Park

Mount Faber Park is home to Singapore's second-highest hill. The park is also one of the oldest in Singapore and is a popular destination among locals and tourists. There is a wealth of unforgettable activities to experience in Mount Faber Park, such as these.

 Ride A Cable Car 

 The cable car system links Sentosa Island to Mount Faber. It is a great way to experience the sights as well as reach the top of the park, where several dining and entertainment establishments are available. If you don't want to ride in one but want to brag about it on social media, then there are two unmoving cable car displays at the base of the Cable Car Station at Mount Faber Park. Take a photo to commemorate your visit.

 Ring The Bell Of Happiness 

When at Faber Peak, you can ring a bell, known as the Bell of Happiness. The bell was originally from a Polish ship named Dar Pomoza, which was a famous sailing ship. It was presented as a gift to Sentosa in 1992 and was moved to Faber Park in 2012. Today, it is situated in what is called the Garden of Happiness. The bell is called as such because the people believe that when couples ring this bell together, they would be blessed with eternal harmony, peace, and happiness.

Make Wishes Through Wishing Bells

A short walk from the Bell of Happiness is a fence chock-full of bells with handwritten messages. This works with the same concept as 'love-locks' in places like Korea and Paris. The bells bear romantic, commemorative, or wishful messages. A nearby shop sells a pair of "Wishing Bells" and pens to write your wishes with. Afterwards, you attach them to the fence for future visitors to see. 

Take Simple Hilltop Walks

Sometimes, simplicity is key, and there is nothing simpler than enjoying a nice relaxing walk with your loved one. Mount Faber Park has several lovely trails and pathways for you to enjoy. The Marang Trail connects the base of Mount Faber to Faber point, where the cable cars are. Henderson Waves, the 247-meter long pedestrian bridge connecting Mount Faber to Telok Blangah Hill Park, is an excellent piece of architecture. While walking around the park, keep an eye out for the Golden Bell Mansion. Hilltop walks are a pleasure that Mount Faber Park affords.

See Singapore Sights

Embrace the beauty of Singapore through Faber Point. You can take in the views of Keppel Harbor, and on a good day, you may even see the southern tip of the Malaysia peninsula and Indonesia's Riau Islands.

And while the sea view is excellent, don't forget to look in the other direction. Singapore's urban landscape is an equally appealing treat. Look for arrows on the ground around the park, pointing to the direction where places like the Bird's Park and Southern Islands can be seen.

Mount Faber Park is a popular spot for tourists, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy here, either with family, friends, or a loved one. Head on over to Mount Faber Park to experience what the place has in store for you.

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