Sentosa Island

Lonely Planet review

Half a kilometre off the Singapore coast is this unfailingly popular resort. The Brits turned the island into a military fortress in the late 1800s. In 1967 it was returned to the government who developed it into a holiday resort. Like its imported sand and piped tin-drum renditions of Summer Holiday, Sentosa is almost entirely synthetic, but kids love the flashy rides and there are some substantial museums and activities for adults to chew on.

There's easily enough here for a full day's entertainment; if that's not enough you can stay overnight. The improving crop of restaurants and bars will keep you fed and watered.

Most attractions cost extra, which really adds up if you want to see them all. Ticket packages are a solid option, ranging from adult/child around S$26 /17.90 to around S$33 /22.50. The Sentosa Island Guide brochure from STB branches has all the details. Free stuff on the island includes the buses, beaches, and the nightly musical fountain and laser show.