Darren YeohThe modern traveller seeks to peel back the layers of a destination beyond the tourist trails. They yearn to understand its stories, its people, and its soul. Amara Hotels & Resorts is championing this desire with a thoughtful collection of new neighbourhood experiences across its properties in Singapore and Bangkok, designed to do just that.
This isn’t about ticking off landmarks; it’s about making meaningful connections. As Dawn Teo, Chief Operating Officer of Amara Holdings, explains, these experiences are “not just activities but meaningful connections that link our guests to the communities that make each destination unique.” Rooted in the brand’s philosophy of being “rooted in place,” these programmes offer a genuine, hands-on discovery of local traditions, food culture and heritage. Let’s check them out:
Singapore: Mapping stories through food and heritage
Nestled in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, a vibrant heritage precinct, Amara Singapore offers guests an intimate look into the neighbourhood’s colourful past. The hotel’s programs are a tribute to the rich tapestry of stories waiting to be unveiled in the area.
One of the most unique offerings is A Walk Through Time, a guided trail through Tanjong Pagar and Chinatown, led by reformed gang members who unveil the lesser-known narratives of Singapore’s past. On this daily tour from 10:30am to 12:30pm, participants will explore back alleys and historical corners linked to the secret societies that once shaped the area. It’s an oral history and cultural immersion that promises to be as gripping as it is educational. Take note that participants are required to reserve their spot a day in advance at S$80++ per person.
Meanwhile, for those whose hearts (and stomachs) guide their travels, the Jiak & Jalan Walking Food Tour is a culinary masterclass not to be missed. This three-hour gastronomic guided trail spotlights traditional local fare such as Hainanese chicken rice, kaya toast, and char kway teow, all of which are popular food items in the neighbourhood. The journey, which operates daily from 10am to 1pm, is priced at S120++per adult, S60++ per child (6 – 12 years old), and is free for children under 6. Reservations are required at least one day ahead.
Guests can also get hands-on with the Hands-On Culinary Experience at Amara Singapore’s Cafe Oriental. Here, participants will learn to prepare and roll their own popiah (fresh spring rolls) before a session on brewing the perfect cup of Singapore-style coffee or tea. This engaging workshop, which takes place daily from 4pm to 5.30pm, is priced at S$80++ per participant and also requires a reservation at least one day in advance.
Apart from the above-mentioned programmes, Amara Singapore, as a long-standing icon in Tanjong Pagar, draws on its deep community roots to help guests explore the area better. The hotel offers guests a complimentary self-guided digital map that features nearby landmarks, heritage eateries, independent shops, and cultural spots to help them explore the neighbourhood like a local. It’s truly one of the top choices for travellers looking to fully immerse themselves in the local atmosphere.
Sentosa: Exploring the echoes of the past
Just minutes from the city yet a world away, Amara Sanctuary Sentosa offers a serene escape amidst 3.8 hectares of lush tropical gardens. The resort invites guests to reconnect with nature and uncover the island’s rich history.
The Amara Heritage Trail traces the resort’s military past as a former British barracks. This walking tour, which runs daily from 4pm to 5pm, offers a glimpse into Singapore’s colonial past by treading historical grounds and the last two surviving World War II air raid shelters. The experience is complimentary for Suite and Villa guests, concluding with a complimentary handcrafted Gunner cocktail.
Guests can also explore the island at their own pace with a self-guided Cycle and Explore Sentosa experience. The island’s mostly flat terrain makes it suitable for riders of all ages, covering coastal paths, sandy beaches, rainforests and key landmarks. Bike rental prices start from S$12++per hour, with a full−day rental at S$50++.
Alternatively, for a dose of friendly competition, Padel Tennis at Ricochet Padel is available on the resort’s grounds. This fast-paced sport blends elements of tennis and squash, focusing on coordination and reflexes. Courts can be booked daily from 7am to 10pm for S$72 an hour for a group of up to four persons.
Bangkok: A taste of Thai culture
In the bustling Bang Rak district, Amara Bangkok has launched a trio of experiences that immerse guests in Thai daily life.
Step into a unique cultural theatre with the Guided Tour to Maeklong Railway Market (Talad Rom Hub). With the help of a local guide, you will witness the theatrical sight of vendors folding back their canopies within seconds to allow a passing train through. This tour runs daily from 9am to 2pm and is priced at THB 6,000++ (approximately S$240) for two adults, with a discounted price for children under nine years of age. The price includes a private round-trip guide and transportation, though it excludes shopping, food, and beverages.
Meanwhile, the Thai Cooking Class at Element Restaurant offers a delicious way to explore the fundamentals of Thai cooking. Under the guidance of the hotel’s Thai chef, participants will learn to prepare an authentic three-course meal featuring iconic dishes such as Pad Thai, Gaeng Kiew Wan (green curry), or Somtum Thai (papaya salad). This class, which takes place daily from 3pm to 5pm, is priced at THB 3,500++ (S$140) for two persons, with a THB 1,000++ (S$40) charge for each additional dish. Reservations must be made at least two to three days in advance.
Note: Guests can combine the Guided Tour to Maeklong Railway Market with the Thai Cooking Class experience for a combined price of THB 9,000++ (about S$360) for two adults, with reservations required at least one day in advance.
Finally, the Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise offers a scenic and cultural journey along Bangkok’s historical artery. This two-hour evening cruise is a serene alternative to land-based dining, with guests enjoying live music and Thai classical dance performances. The cruise, which boards daily between 5.30pm and 6.30pm and sails from 7.15pm to 9.15pm, is priced at THB 1,800 (S$72) for adults and THB 1,000 (S$40) for children aged five to 10. Infants and children under four board for free. Reservations should be made one to two days in advance.
Amara’s new collection of neighbourhood experiences goes beyond simply providing a place to stay. It’s a conscious effort to connect guests to the communities and stories that make a destination truly special. It’s a new kind of travel, where the destination isn’t just a place to visit, but a story to discover.
Information and images extracted from a press release by Amara Hotels & Resorts
