Remember the time when we welcomed the cast of Crazy Rich Asians to our sunny shores? Well, now we get to retrace the steps they took as characters of the film and see our beloved Singapore in a whole new light. Take a trip down a cinematic memory lane as we re-introduce you to familiar locations that are now a part of movie history.
#1 Raffles Hotel
Having housed many notable personalities from Queen Bey to Queen Elizabeth II, it’s no wonder the Raffles Hotel (specifically the gorgeous Presidential Suite) was chosen as Rachel and Nick’s home away from home during their stay in Singapore. Opened in 1887, this heritage hotel in the heart of our city continues to be an icon for Singapore; giving tourists and locals the most luxurious experience.
Good to know: Raffles Hotel is home to the Singapore Sling. As the hotel is currently undergoing a makeover, guests are invited to the pop-up Long Bar to enjoy a cup of its signature drink. Raffles Hotel will re-open its doors in 2019 with a more modern concept, complete with improved facilities and new dining establishments.
The Raffles Hotel is located at 1 Beach Road, Singapore 189673.
#2 Marina Bay Sands SkyPark – Infinity Pool
Yet another iconic attraction in Singapore, the infinity pool at Marina Bay Sands plays host to the Crazy Rich Asians cast for a late-night aqua aerobics session. As the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool, it is helmed as the most Instagrammable spot in Singapore and was once Katy Perry’s press conference venue during her visit in 2010.
Good to know: Entry to the infinity pool is restricted to only registered hotel guests. However, the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark does have an observation deck which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Marina Bay. Entry ticket is priced at $23 for adults.
The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark & Infinity Pool is located on level 57 of the hotel. Entrance to the SkyPark Observation Deck is at the exterior of Hotel Tower 3 at 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956.
#3 Newton Food Centre
As much as the Crazy Rich Asians enjoy dining in fancy restaurants, not even the most expensive of meals can beat our good ol’ laksa and nasi lemak. The newly-renovated Newton Food Centre gets special mention as the supper venue for Nick, Rachel, Araminta and Colin, which offers an eclectic mix of local delicacies at wallet-friendly prices.
Good to know: Newton Food Centre is also home to two Michelin Bib Gourmand 2018 recipients, Alliance Seafood and Heng Fried Carrot Cake. Be sure to avoid the usual eating hours if you want to try them out!
Newton Food Centre is located at 500 Clemenceau Avenue North, Singapore 229495.
#4 Where the Gohs Live
Does that sprawling mansion where Goh Peik Lin runs to embrace Rachel actually exist in Singapore? Why, yes, it does – sans the gilded look it’s given in the film. This now-famous property is currently up for sale so if you’re a secret Crazy Rich Asian, you might want to consider this your spanking new home!
Good to know: If you’re not in the market for a new home, not to worry. As the gates are sometimes unlocked, you can still pop in for a quick look or that must-have Instagram snap (#crazyrichlikepeiklin).
The mansion is located at Cluny Park; nearest MRT station is Botanic Gardens.
#5 Ann Siang Hill
Featured in the film as the backdrop to Eleanor Young and her power suit, Ann Siang Hill is a heritage district where the old and new collide. Though widely known for its cool and trendy cafes, Ann Siang Hill is also home to historical landmarks like the Al-Abrar Mosque, which has been at the same spot since the mid-1850s.
Good to know: Craving for a local bite at this culturally charged location? The recent recipient of the 2018 Michelin Bib Gourmand, The Coconut Club, is the place to visit for its traditional nasi lemak and chendol. As it’s highly popular during lunchtime, head down early to beat the crowd!
Ann Siang Hill is located next to Club Street. To get there, take the Downtown Line to Telok Ayer Station and take a 7-minute walk in from the main street. The Coconut Club is located at No.6 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069787.
#6 Humpback at Bukit Pasoh Road
Located amongst the quaint shophouses on Bukit Pasoh Road is the famous seafood restaurant, Humpback. The alfresco bar table facing the road was the setting for Rachel and Peik Lin’s heart-to-heart, and also where Peik Lin delivered her iconic line, “Bawk, Bawk, B***h”. Surrounded by good food and good company, Humpback’s a great spot to unwind on a weekend or for a night out with the gals!
Good to know: If you’re a huge seafood fan, be sure to order a serving of their signature fresh oysters. Keep an eye out for their happy hour oysters where you’ll get to enjoy four different types of oysters at $3++ or $2++ each!
Humpback is located at 20 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089834. To get here, take the North East Line and stop at Outram Park station. Head to Exit H and walk along the shophouses till you reach the restaurant.
#7 CHIJMES Hall
Known as the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus back then, CHIJMES has since evolved into a heritage building that houses many dining options. The Gothic-style chapel has also been repurposed into a function hall where weddings are a common sight – including Colin and Araminta’s lavish wedding scene!
Good to know: Due to the popularity of the location, CHIJMES Hall always seem to be undergoing event prep and is mostly never opened to the public. But not to fret, you can still view the intricately designed architecture from the front entrance of the chapel.
CHIJMES Hall is located at 30 Victoria Street, Singapore 187996.
#8 Gardens by the Bay
As another one of Singapore’s go-to tourist attractions, Gardens by the Bay was what the National Parks Board envisioned for a City in a Garden. The futuristic-looking enclave is home to gigantic artificial supertrees as well as two domed conservatories, namely the Flower and Cloud dome. This visual spectacle was chosen as the venue for Colin and Araminta’s wedding reception.
Good to know: With exceptions to the domed conservatories, entry to the Supertree Grove is free and visitors can enjoy Garden Rhapsody, a light and music show that takes place every evening. Alternatively, if you’re in for a more spectacular view, you might want to consider getting an $8 ticket up to the OCBC Skyway where you’ll get to walk the 128-metre-long aerial walkway and find the perfect spot to ‘gram your experience.
Gardens by the Bay is located at 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953. If you’re taking the MRT, alight at Bayfront station (for Circle and Downtown Line). Take Exit B and follow the underground linkway till you reach the exit. Once you’ve exited the linkway, cross either the Dragonfly Bridge or Meadow Bridge to enter Gardens by the Bay.
Image credits: Warner Bros Pictures
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