Music and innovation lovers rejoice. Discover hidden secrets of Esplanade Theatres On-the-bay; why its crown jewel - the Esplanade Concert hall stands out. Take in both an aerial view and a waterfront view of the Marina Bay. We’ll wander the halls of the Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, the Arts House at Old Parliament- peeling away layers of stories untold from colonial days to Present arts spaces. We'll marvel at the unique architectures and stories behind the National Gallery of Singapore.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Esplanade Theatres On-The-Bay Entrance (Next to Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf)
- We'll meet at the street-facing entrance of Esplanade Mall, Raffles Boulevard (across from Marina Square)
Toast Box at Esplanade Theatres On-The-Bay
We'll enjoy a traditional Singaporean Breakfast- with Kaya Toast and Kopi, paired with soft-boiled eggs with a dash of soya sauce and pepper. There's actually a rich heritage and history behind the iconic break and drink in Singapore.
Did you know? This typical Singaporean breakfast was conceived by the Hainanese, a subgroup of Chinese from the Southern Provinces of China who worked as sailors aboard British Ships?
Esplanade Mall - Esplanade Rooftop
Curious about what makes the Concert Hall Esplanade's crown jewel? I'll share simple facts about the design and acoustics of the space, and where you might be able to find the best seats in the house! I'll be happy to recommend some *performances that you may catch during your stay in Singapore. *Tickets not included.
Following which, we'll discuss the heritage shops found around the mall and how they serve the community arts in Singapore. Hear stories around how Esplanade came to be designed for the community, and the many community performances which run free throughout the year.
We'll also take in the sights of the city skyline from the Esplanade Rooftop. Picture perfect opportunities of iconic sights- Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion and more await!
Victoria Concert Hall
We'll take a walk to the historic Victoria Theatre and Memorial Hall along Empress place. Hear stories of early Singapore, where the British used to gather in front of the Building for picnics and recreation. Who else were there and what were their lives like? Find out during this tour.
The Victoria Theatre and Memorial Hall has witnessed changes over different periods of Singapore History. Instead of scratching the surface of the building, we're going to hear the stories of its' transformations as we walk through its hallways and galleries.
The Arts House at Old Parliament
Visit the oldest building in Singapore- once built as a private house for a Scottish Merchant, but never used. It was later transferred to the British government as a courtroom with holding cells, and then as an office. The existing building was expanded towards the river. The building was then used as our Parliament House up till 1999, and it was converted into a space for arts performances.
We'll head upstairs to where the Old Parliament used to sit. Feel free to take any seat, or perhaps the seat of our founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Be serenaded by a song or two from your host with the sublime acoustics of the space.
National Gallery
As we cross the road, we'll take in the building façade of the National Gallery, which previously was the Old Supreme Court and the Former City Hall. Entering the building, we will discuss its distinctive architecture. Experience what it was like to be held in a holding cell while awaiting trial. Following which, we will meander through the majestic hallways of the National Gallery and catch a glimpse of some of the artworks* on its upper levels.
*Separate admission tickets are required into the art galleries.
To end of the tour on a sweet note, I'll take you to a rooftop bar* where you get a fresh tropical breeze while admiring panoramic views over the Padang and the Marina Bay.
*Snacks/ drinks are not included.
Ending Point
National Gallery
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guide fee,
Kaya Toast and Coffee set at Toastbox (alternatives are customisable upon request)
Transportation
Beer and alcohol,
Souvenir photos,
Concert tickets- Depending on performance, this can range
from $18 - $128
Optional tours
This is a walking tour, that will proceed under rain or shine conditions. Customers are advised to carry at least 750ml of water with them, sunblock and an umbrella or poncho in case of inclement weather.
As we have food and drinks included in this tour, please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
Hello!
I'm Stefan (pronounced 'Stare-fun') who's proud to be a Singaporean with lived experiences in Norway and Australia. Sometimes, I'm eager to bring you on a journey to uncover a side of Singapore that's vibrant and creative with arts, heritage and design. Other times, I take visitors for a walk on the wild side with nature to be discovered and stories of wildlife to be told.
As a licensed STB tourist guide, I design tours that engage and delight the senses of my guests. I guide with passion, enthusiasm, knowledge and a punny sense of humour! You'll never 'panda' off too far! As an advocate for sustainability and personal wellbeing, I may share tips and minor life hacks that you can consider incorporating into your daily lives and routines for self-care and for the environment.
Just a little bit more about me- I have facilitated visitor experiences at the ArtScience Museum, and am a Docent Volunteer at the Southeast Asia Aquarium at Resorts World Sentosa Singapore. I am actively involved in Citizen-Science programs like intertidal and nature walks that builds awareness of biodiversity and conservation.
I am also a classically trained singer and avid musical theatre enthusiast. So we'll have lots to talk/ sing about if you're into music too. Maybe I'll even share a tune or two when we're at opportune performing sites. I look forward to sharing my passion for music, design, nature and wellbeing with friends all over the world.
$62/ per person