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According to data from Booking.com, 37% of Gen X travelers, 42% of Millennials, and 47% of Gen Z prefer participating in activities or tours that allow them to learn about and interact with the local community. This shows that a trip is no longer just about taking photos or checking in at popular spots, but also an opportunity to learn more about the stories, people, and historical landmarks that have shaped the identity of the destination.
In this context, as one of the Southeast Asian countries proactively offering experiences that align with this trend, history is not only preserved in museums but is also present in accessible spaces where tourists can both visit, relax, and utilize many modern amenities.
The Fullerton Hotel - Experience a relaxing getaway right in the heart of a National Monument.
Before becoming one of Singapore's iconic hotels, The Fullerton Hotel was the Singapore Post Office and was considered the "Mile Zero"—a landmark used to measure distances to other areas of the island nation. Today, the building has been renovated into a luxurious and renowned hotel in the region, yet it still retains many architectural features and historical values.
The Fullerton Hotel - an iconic neoclassical hotel on the Singapore River - Photo: The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
Located on the Singapore River, The Fullerton Hotel offers guests the opportunity to stay within a National Monument (recognized by Singapore in 2015), while also providing easy access to the historic city center, home to numerous landmarks and structures reflecting Singapore's history and development.
Enjoy culinary delights amidst the lush greenery of Seletar Aerospace Park, a heritage site.
Once a Royal Air Force base from the 1920s, Seletar Aerospace Park today retains the distinctive black and white bungalows of the colonial era. Instead of being a separate historical site, many of the buildings are repurposed as cafes and restaurants, integrating the heritage space into everyday life. Amidst the expansive green spaces, the old architectural details remain present, naturally blending with the rhythm of modern life.
The quaint bungalows nestled amidst the greenery create a peaceful and secluded Seletar Aerospace Park - Photo: Heritage SG Memories
Many restaurants, eateries, and cafes in the area also prioritize using ingredients sourced from Singaporean and Malaysian producers, along with locally grown and cultivated vegetables and spices, to perfect their dishes and serve tourists. For many tourists who have visited Singapore, Seletar Aerospace Park offers a gentle and relaxing experience, showing them a quieter, slower-paced side of Singapore.
Discover "Made in Singapore" brands at an old school.
Once a school decades ago, New Bahru has now become a modern and innovative complex, attracting many young visitors. Many familiar areas of the old school, such as classrooms, hallways, and common areas, have been transformed into craft shops, cafes, and showrooms for local brands.
Repurposed school spaces infused with creativity in New Bahru - Photo: The Time Out
Preserving many historical details helps New Bahru maintain the image of a school from the previous century, attracting visitors seeking to relive the old stories associated with the place. At the same time, the fresh, creative vibe of the modern shops and cafes located here brings new life to the space.
For travelers wishing to explore local culture and acquire items bearing the "Made in Singapore" label, New Bahru is a worthwhile destination to consider alongside the island nation's familiar shopping districts.
Gillman Barracks - a space where contemporary art and history intersect.
Few would have imagined that Gillman Barracks, once a British army barracks from the 1930s, would today become a hub for contemporary art. The low-rise buildings, bearing the hallmarks of its historical architecture, have been preserved and now house art galleries showcasing works by both local and international artists.
The exterior of Gillman Barracks, where historical architectural landmarks blend with contemporary art spaces - Photo: Once in a Lifetime Journey
In addition to themed exhibitions, the area regularly hosts artist talks, community activities, and cultural events for the public. Amidst the remnants of a former military camp, the presence of art provides a fresh perspective, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the connection between heritage and modern cultural life.
From accommodation and cuisine to art and shopping, each of these locations reflects a slice of Singapore's history and culture in an accessible and relatable way. This is why heritage-related experiences are increasingly attractive to tourists, especially since each trip is not only an opportunity to discover a new destination but also a chance to learn more about the local history, culture, and identity.
