Cultural highlights of the itinerary range from taking an art trail walk through Little India, where murals tell the story of the neighbourhood’s proud heritage including parrot astrologers, dhobi (washermen) and other labourers, to touring the National Gallery of Singapore, which has the world’s largest collection of Southeast Asian art. And don’t miss the Victoria Theatre & Victoria Concert Hall, Singapore’s oldest performing arts venue and home to the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) – performances here are unique for their mix of Western and Chinese compositions.

For working up an appetite, there’s zip-lining, bungee, luge and indoor climbing and bouldering. A great place to head for is MacRitchie Reservoir Park for some safari-style exploring of its lush rainforest, home to long-tailed macaques and flying lemurs. There’s also the Southern Ridges 10km trail through three parks and a nature reserve, with the Henderson Waves Bridge a prime illustration of how Singapore integrates contemporary architecture with unspoilt nature.

Alternatively you’ll burn up plenty of energy shopping on Orchard Road with its luxury, cult and high-street brands. Alternatively, the Kampong Gelam neighbourhood stands out for its eclectic combination of Muslim shops, hip boutiques, old-school sundries shops and long-established textile stores where you can have a sari or baju kurung – the traditional garb of Indians and Malays – tailor made for a truly unique souvenir of your time here.

Iconic Chinatown is also worth some serious time in its own right, whether you’re feasting on a weekend brunch or watching elderly locals gathered around tables of play games of chess, Chinese chess and checkers.