A bustling metropolis with visitors jetting in from all across the globe, Singapore is a hub of world cultures, and a great place to meet like-minded explorers. Here are four boutique hostels for globetrotters looking to explore The Lion City's vibrant cultural districts, delve into the unknown and expand their horizons with novel encounters.
Beat. Sports Hostel
If you're a gym bunny or an adrenaline junkie who simply must have an endorphin rush while travelling, Beat. Sports Hostel is your best bet.
Located just a short walk away from the scent of spices and multi-hued sights of Little India, this charming accommodation boasts an in-house gym, an Olympic-sized swimming pool in the backyard and even an arcade-style basketball machine.
Besides its fitness-themed amenities, this hostel is within walking distance of a diverse selection of delicious grub—we recommend digging into a hearty plate of carbs at Beach Road Scissor Cut Curry Rice, grabbing brunch and a steaming cup of joe from Chye Seng Huat, or dropping by Swee Choon for dim sum.
Don’t fret about the calories—you'll be sure to work it off with all the sightseeing you'll do in Singapore. We recommend shopping for souvenirs at Little India Arcade, paying a visit to the gorgeous Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and feeding your Instagram at the multi-coloured Tan Teng Niah House.
Beat. Sports Hostel. 290A Jalan Besar Road, Singapore 208953. +65 6291 5238.
Galaxy Pod Hostel
For an out-of-this world (pun intended) experience, book yourself a stay at the space-themed Galaxy Pod Hostel, which offers up a futuristic spin conventional pod beds.
Memory foam mattresses will ensure that you'll be getting a restful night's sleep, allowing you to be up bright and early to discover all that Singapore has to offer. The accommodation also has a family room for up to 3 occupants, which makes it ideal for young couples travelling with their child.
Travellers booking a stay at this hostel will find themselves conveniently located a short walk away from the Civic District—a neighbourhood filled history, nature and architecture.
Take a stroll to Fort Canning Park for a picnic and explore a world of flavours at the park's spice gardens, or delve into Asian history and religious beliefs at the Asian Civilisations Museum. If you're in the mood for inspiration, we suggest spending an afternoon at the National Gallery Singapore, home to world's largest display of modern Southeast Asian art.
Galaxy Pod Hostel. 12 Circular Road , Singapore 049368. +65 6904 2495.
The Bohemian Chic Hostel
Located just a stone's throw away from the heritage of Chinatown and the hip vibes of Clarke Quay, this vibrant hostel is a popular haunt for intrepid backpackers looking for affordable accommodation amid the buzz and bustle of the Lion City.
Besides comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi and friendly staff members, this accommodation provides ample opportunity to make friends with fellow travellers. We suggest opting for the dormitories to mingle with fellow guests, and socialising with them in the hostel's dedicated lounge and game room.
If you're looking to explore Singapore's heritage and culture, the lantern-festooned streets of Chinatown are just around the corner. Discover the rich history of the district at the Chinatown Heritage Centre, before grabbing a meal at the Chinatown Complex and Food Centre. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring beautiful architecture at Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, hunting for street art and souvenir shopping at Pagoda Street.
Alternatively, let your hair down and enjoy a tipple in the nightlife district of Clarke Quay—you'll find an array of nightlife locales in this bustling district, from bespoke cocktail bars like 28 Hong Kong Street to legendary nightclubs like Zouk.
The Bohemian Chic Hostel. 40 Mosque Road, Singapore 059518. +65 8380 0500.
The Pod
Visitors looking for a twist on conventional accommodation should consider The Pod, a boutique capsule hotel located on the outskirts of Singapore's Central Business District.
This modern establishment has over 100 cosy capsules and suites, inspired by modern and minimalistic aesthetics. Guests hoping to swap travel tales should opt for the front entry single pods in the communal dormitory, while those who prefer privacy should consider the hotel's range of suites. The Pod also offers complimentary laptop use for globetrotting entrepreneurial types.
To get keyed in with Singapore's nightlife and indie music scene, take a five-minute stroll to Haji Lane in Kampong Gelam. This buzzing street is home to live music bars, indie fashion boutiques and a mix of people from all walks of life.
We recommend checking out Blu Jaz Café at Bali Lane—a vibrant bar that features live music, DJ sets and comedy gigs. If you're in the mood for a movie instead, mosey on by The Projector at Beach Road—this indie cinema boasts a range of foreign films, old-school blockbusters and Oscar-worthy films.
The Pod. 289 Beach Road Level 3, Singapore 199552. +65 6298 8505.