Singapore, a multicultural city located in Southeast Asia that boasts of a modern skyline and delicious food, has gradually emerged as a popular tourist destination. Although the legislation of the country is still evolving when it comes to the rights of the LGBTQ+ population, the local culture and many companies have made the country quite inclusive for queer tourists. I’ve put together this Singapore travel guide for gay couples and families hoping to find the best of what this Lion City has to offer.
LGBTQ+ Rights in Singapore
In 2022, Singapore was able to make a progressive move by abolishing Section 377A, which prohibited consensual homosexual activity between male persons. However, even today, same-sex marriages are not recognized legally, and some of the conservative attitudes are still there. However, Singapore’s gay community persists and improves, and now more and more Singaporeans are tolerant and understanding of others.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Neighborhoods
Chinatown
LGBTQ+ culture has always found a home in the country, especially in the Singaporean Chinatown area. With its vibrant hues of red and blues in the shophouses and the lively streets, this area has many establishments that are gay-friendly, including bars, cafes, and shops. During your walks, you will notice that there are some elements of traditional Chinese culture while, at the same time, there are various queer spaces, giving it a lively feel.
Tanjong Pagar
More recently, Tanjong Pagar has become another district that is popular with the LGTBQ+ community. This modern area has been experiencing an increase in the number of gay bars, clubs, and shops owned by members of this community. By virtue of its close location to the CBD, people, especially the working population and expats, frequent the place after work.
LGBTQ+ Singapore Attractions and Activities
Singapore has a lot to offer for every traveler, regardless of their preferences, and is rather tolerant towards the members of the LGBTQ+ community. Here are some must-visit spots for your itinerary:
Gardens by the Bay
Despite being an artificial environment, this is one of the most impressive horticultural creations and proves Singapore’s devotion to the concept of the garden city. LGBTQ+ couples will have no challenge in finding an excellent location to express their love among the trees and gardens with different themes. If you have a chance, do not miss the light and sound show at night; it sets the mood for a great romantic evening.
The National Museum of Singapore
Activists and academics are the best resource for those seeking to learn more about Singapore’s queer past, although the National Museum occasionally hosts queer-themed exhibitions related to Singapore’s LGBTQ movements. Although some of these exhibits are not centered around the subject of LGBTQ+ issues, it is helpful to see the historical background of the struggle in Singapore.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
This place is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites and is a perfect place to relax away from the noisy city. LGBTQ+ families will enjoy the large fields for picnicking and the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, which is specially designed for children and offers fun and educational features for children.
LGBTQ+ Family Activities in Singapore
Singapore is a perfect place for family vacations of the LGBTQ+ type, as the country is equipped with many fun activities suitable for children and accepted for all types of families. Here are some top picks:
Universal Studios Singapore
Universal Studio is in Sentosa, and it is fun for families to visit and spend a day in the park. Each of the zones and facilities can be associated with a certain age, and such a place allows the representatives of the queer community to have a good time with their children without getting the feeling of being surrounded by strangers.
Singapore Zoo and Night Safari
The Singapore Zoo and Night Safari are two special places that are quite popular amongst people of all ages who love animals. LGBTQ+ families could learn about orangutans, attend various presentations, and even have breakfast in the company of the apes. This way, the families are all accepted, and this makes everyone feel welcome.
Art Science Museum
This famous lotus-shaped museum contains many traveling and interactive exhibitions that combine art, science, and technology. Overall, it is a perfect pick for families with children of the LGBTQ+ orientation who are in search of something educational to do. One of the most famous exhibitions is the Future World which has interactive installations in digital art style preferred both by children and adults.
LGBTQ+ Nightlife and Entertainment
When the sun sets, Singapore’s LGBTQ+ nightlife comes alive. Here are some popular venues for a night out:
Tantric Bar
Tantric Bar is situated in the center of the Chinatown district and has been one of the gay hot spots in Singapore for quite a long time. It has a friendly environment, a drag show, and themed nights, which make it more suitable for couples of the same gender to interact with the locals and tourists.
Dorothy’s Bar
This bar in the Chinatown area is named after the phrase ‘friend of Dorothy’ in reference to the LGBTQ+ community and is adorned with paraphernalia of queer figures. It is perfect for either pre-dinner drinks or if you’re heading out for a night on the town.
Taboo Club
For people who want to party well into the night, the Taboo Club in Tanjong Pagar is the best destination. This popular nightclub features dance events, regular parties, and performances and is known to be frequented by the LGBTQ+ community.
Dining Out: LGBTQ+-Friendly Restaurants
Singapore’s food scene is legendary, and many establishments warmly welcome LGBTQ+ diners. Here are a few recommendations:
The Naked Finn
This is an exemplary seafood restaurant located in Gillman Barracks that offers the best seafood in town with simple preparations and friendly prices. LGBTQ+ couples who are planning to celebrate their special day will find this a perfect fit.
Open Farm Community
Situated in a green area close to the Botanic Gardens, Open Farm Community presents an interesting dining-out concept with an emphasis on local produce. It has a large outdoor dining space, which is perfect for LGBTQ+ families who would like to have lunch in nature.
Lau Pa Sat
For a more casual dining experience, head to Lau Pa Sat, a historic hawker center in the heart of the financial district. This food haven offers a wide array of local dishes in a bustling, inclusive environment where all are welcome.
Annual LGBTQ+ Events in Singapore
Pink Dot
Pink Dot is an annual event celebrated in Singapore for the promotion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transsexual, also known as LGBTQ+ rights, and is usually celebrated in June at Hong Lim Park. Although it is an official citizen and permanent resident of Singapore protest, visitors can express their solidarity at the Pink Fest events that take place around the demonstration in the form of talks, performances, and exhibitions.
IndigNation
This is a one-month-long festival that is held in August which includes a program of lectures, film screenings, art shows, and performances dedicated to the themes of Queer culture and identity.
Travel Tips for LGBTQ+ Visitors
Thus, although Singapore can be considered pretty safe and friendly to LGBTQ+ tourists, it is always crucial to pay attention to some specific rules and regulations. Affection between people, especially in the case of homosexuals, is not encouraged and is considered to be improper. Due to this, it is advisable to be careful, especially in areas that are more conservative.
It’s best to search for hotels that have clearly stated their policies concerning acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. There are several full-service hotels in Singapore that serve various global hotel chains and boutique accommodations that are LGBTQ+-friendly.
Conclusion: Embracing the Rainbow in the Lion City
Having visited Singapore myself, I can confidently say that the LGBTQ+ scene in this country is alive, diverse, and growing. Cultural landmarks, family-friendly places, beautiful dating spots, fun nightlife, and many more, there is so much that a couple or an entire family that is of the LGBTQ+ community can do and explore in this city-state. If there is one thing about gays, it is that they are very passionate about sharing their culture, and Singapore is no exception.
Whether you are clubbing in Tanjong Pagar, having a fun family day at Universal Studios, or marching for pink dot Singapore, a fulfilling and fun experience awaits every queer traveler. With the evolution in the recognition of and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community’s rights in Singapore, there is no better time to travel and be a member of Singapore’s queer community.
