Charlene Fang

Bugis has gone through an overhaul over the years – transforming from a port for pirates and quarters for prostitution to the classy (and artsy) precinct it is today which includes new developments like Andaz, the National Design Centre and the modern National Library branch. Not to mention a smorgasbord of food options from all over the world – whether it's Michelin-star hawker fare, Malay cuisine or trendy cafés. While the area is evolving into a mini CBD, it hasn’t gone all business-like just yet. The colourful neighbourhood is a place of contrasts, with the historical monuments of Kampong Glam contrasting against state-of-the-art buildings like Parkview Square and Duo Tower. Bugis was also named one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world, according to a 2020 Time Out global survey. So check out all these venues that make the heritage enclave so great. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Kampong Glam and the ultimate guide to Tanjong Pagar

The name takes reference from the large swampy area that the town used to be – toa is the Hokkien word for big and payoh is the Malay word for swamp. The are was also notorious for squatters which were relocated to make way for Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats and estates. Toa Payoh then became one of the first towns designed entirely by the HDB, and even today, you can find the headquarters for HDB in this town. Not only is it close to bustling Orchard Road where everything happens, but Toa Payoh is also famous for the number of lesser-known gems you have to expend a bit of energy to uncover. RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to Singapore's neighbourhood

Named after Hugh Holland (a popular Dutch architect and actor) the leafy enclave that was once home to plantations and nurseries has evolved into a laidback neighbourhood popular with both locals and expats. Thanks to its curated selection of hip eateries, independent fashion labels, design and art studios, it’s often regarded as Singapore’s bohemian enclave. Best experienced on weekends, or in the evenings when part of the road is closed to vehicles, the pedestrian element adds to the area’s overall buzz and charm. RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to Singapore's neighbourhood

With a name that directly translates to “red-haired man’s bridge” (Google the name John Turnball Thomson for the backstory), Ang Mo Kio was once an area covered in secondary forest and rubber plantations. It’s since been transformed into one of Singapore’s most densely-packed heartlands. While the nerve centre gravitates around the bustling Ang Mo Kio Hub, a few of its hidden gems are found closer to its other treasure – the sprawling 62-hectare Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park. RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to Singapore's neighbourhoods