Singapore

Friday, midday

Hide away at the W Singapore – Sentosa Cove for that holiday with a city attached vibe (rooms from £211, www.marriott.com). This hip island hotel boasts a large outdoor pool and shuttle bus.

1pm

Head into central Clarke Quay where Jumbo Seafood Restaurant awaits with its live crab and lobster, served on the terrace overlooking the river.

2:30pm

Spot the Scot. Wander along the historic east banks and the information boards and names evoke both familiar Scottish surnames, but also the colourful stories of the men who built Singapore, economically and literally.

3:30pm

You have to see the iconic Merlion so get the disappointment over with. To be fair its viewing deck has great views of the skyline.

5pm

Console yourself on Boat Quay, where colonial era buildings on the waterfront are dwarfed by a forest of glass and steel.

7pm

The W is home to one of Singapore’s finest restaurants – SKIRT. Feast on Japanese Wagyu steak accompanied by a lobster and truffle mash.

Saturday, 9am

Get out on the river using the Water B ferry service. You can cherry pick any bits you want to go back to later.

Midday

Michelin-listed Tian Tian

Fisherman’s Pier Seafood won’t win any interior design awards, but their bamboo clams with garlic are delicious.

2pm

Singapore has a habit of knocking down the past. In Chinatown parts of it have been brilliantly preserved and brought back to their best.

5pm

Controversial here. Go to the atmospheric Long Bar at the recently revamped Raffles Hotel. By all means throw peanut shells over your shoulder, but eschew the sadly premixed Singapore Sling and go for a fresh cocktail.

7pm

Street food is quintessentially Singapore. Follow the smoky aromas and indulge in your fill of freshly grilled satay.

Sunday, 10am

The W’s spa has therapists from Bali, guaranteed to soothe your travelstrained limbs. ■