Explore Pulau Ubin

Take a trip to a rustic village retreat
Word to the wise: While tap water is safe to drink in Singapore city, it's not the case on this island.

Noteworthy for: Pulau Ubin was once used as a dumping ground for old cars, so don't be surprised if you see locals tinkering with a 1960s relic.
Considered the last kampung (village) in Singapore, Pulau Ubin is a welcome retreat for those who find the city's streets a little on the sterile side. Reached via a 10-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, the small, boomerang-shaped island is home to around 100 villagers eking out a simple existence in traditional kelongs (fishing huts built on stilts).

Stop by the National Parks Information Kiosk near the Ubin jetty for a free map and explore the walking trails amongst this ecologically diverse landscape, or hire a bicycle and make for the Chek Jawa Wetlands, which feature a 1 km nature boardwalk. A smattering of restaurants offer standard Singaporean fare along with local specialties including wild boar and coconut prawns farmed on-site. Resist feeding the monkeys.

To get to the ferry terminal, take the MRT to Tanah Merah Station, then bus number 2 to Changi Village Bus Interchange. From here, stroll to the jetty.