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The ties between India and Singapore go back further than we realise — etched in its very name. The English name 'Singapore' is derived from the Malay name Singapura, which has its roots in Sanskrit, meaning 'Lion City'. This is evidence of an ancient connection that’s evolved into something much deeper over centuries.
Now, as Singapore and India celebrate 60 years of formal diplomatic ties, that connection is being honoured. Stories, hidden gems, and experiences will remind you why Singapore feels as familiar as it does fresh. Here’s why this year is the perfect excuse to explore the Lion City like never before:
Ditch your Lonely Planet guidebook because Singapore Tourism Board is rolling out 60 Insiders, a handpicked squad of tastemakers, from Apoorva Mehta to chef Manjunath Mural. Their job? To show you their favourite corners of Singapore.
If that’s not enough, The Gamechangers Studio dives deep into the lives of Indians who’ve built bridges between the two nations. The first episode kicks off with Subko’s Rahul Reddy.
Ever thought of a city as a soundtrack? This year, Singapore gets groovy with Hidden Gems, a musical project fronted by an unnamed Indian artist (the suspense is killing us, too).
If your IG grid is begging for fresh content, the Friends of Singapore programme has you covered. Think sunset yacht sails off Sentosa, secret art hunts in the Jewel Changi maze, and Reel-worthy food tours.
“As we celebrate 60 years of friendship between India and Singapore, it is truly heartwarming to reflect on the ever-strengthening bonds that have flourished between our nations. This milestone offers a wonderful opportunity to honour the deep cultural connections and common experiences that we have built throughout our shared histories, and that will continue to draw our peoples ever closer together in the years to come.”
Cheong Ming Foong, Consul-General for the Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore High Commission in Mumbai
When one of India’s coolest coffee roasters, Subko, teams up with Singapore Tourism, you know it’s going to be good. If your idea of a good day involves a flat white and fine cacao, this is your moment.
But let’s not forget the cherry on top — exclusive privileges for Indian travellers. Whether it’s shopping sprees at ION Orchard or grabbing a surprise gift, flashing your Indian passport comes with perks.
What’s refreshing about this year-long extravaganza is how it shifts focus from the transactional (see this, buy that) to the transformational. It’s about feeling Singapore, living Singapore, and finding connections in its stories. And if that isn’t the point of travel, what is?
If you enjoyed reading this, here's more from Homegrown:
AM To PM — Jezreel Nathan's Guide To Art Galleries In Singapore
A Guide To The Unexpected Hidden Gems Of Singapore
The Street Art & Beats of Singapore — A Fusion Of Urban Culture
