360° View of Singapore from ION SKY

Singapore may be the most expensive city state in the world, but there are a lot of things that you can do there for free. The place itself is already a treat. You just have to enjoy the walks and discover that almost every angle is Instagram-worthy. 

Their government's tourism program is also intense that you can get discounts and free passes. Their malls, for example, have deals that are exclusive to tourists. You just need to go to the mall concierge and they will give you the information that you need, including that of GST refund privilege for tourists.

The iconic ION Orchard will most likely be on top of your list when you plan to take a walk down the Orchard Road. It is an 8-storey high-end shopping mall with high-rise condominiums. Yes, 'high' was mentioned twice, but that does not mean you cannot get in. Interestingly enough, they have this ION SKY, an observation deck on the 56th level, that is open to public for free from 3pm to 6pm daily (except when there are private functions). 

The place is swarmed by tourists and locals everyday. You will be glad to know that you can get private access through an exclusive tour in the morning. The ION Orchard Heritage and Food Trail is a privilege open to tourists. Locals and long-term pass holders may join the tour if they are accompanying tourists. You just need to send them an email ahead of time to reserve your slot as they can only cater to a maximum of 12 persons per day. Walk-ins are not allowed. 


The ION Orchard Heritage and Food Trail

The (approximately) 1-hour tour starts at 10am so you have to be at the concierge at least 15 minutes before to meet your tour guide for the day and the other tourists. You are first taken to the front side of the mall where a brief history of the Orchard Road will be shared by the tour guide. The architecture of their building will also be explained. I will leave the details to the tour guide.

There's our tour guide and new friends from Taiwan.

Next, you will be taken to the ION SKY where you pass through ION Art, an art exhibition and gallery. The view is fantastic from up there. You can spot Malaysia with your naked eye. They have tower viewers that you can use for free. We were lucky to be there on Valentine's Day. They had a special set up on the 56th floor. 

Resident tour guide took the pictures

The last stop of the trip is the food tour at Food Opera, ION Orchard's elegant food court. How elegant? Hmmm... Let us use Evian bottled water as leverage. They do not sell other brands. You will be introduced to the flavors of Singapore and get a little bit of taste of it. If that is not satisfying enough, you will be awarded with a SGD5 voucher (except if you are a local or long-term pass holder) that you can use at any stall to satisfy your taste buds and fill your tummy. 

(Photo from Google)

To reserve a slot for this tour, send an email to customercare@ionorchard.com.sg.