Where to stay in Singapore over Chinese New Year

by Rohan
(Sydey, NSW, Australia)

I will be in Singapore between 25 January and 28 January 2009 for the start of the Chinese New Year festival.

Is this a good time to stay in Chinatown for the festivities or will it be the case that most of it is closed and I would be better off staying elsewhere?

If not Chinatown, where is the best spot to stay to enjoy Chinese New Year?

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Where to stay in Singapore over Chinese New Year

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Dec 05, 2008

Consider the Marina Bay hotels for your Chinese New Year Trip
by: Gabriel Tan

Hi Rohan

indeed you've asked a very pertinent question! ;-)

Question: Is this a good time to stay in Chinatown for the festivities or will it be the case that most of it is closed and I would be better off staying elsewhere?

A Chinatown hotel would have been great if you were visiting in the 2-3 weeks leading up to Chinese New Year's Day on 26 January 2009. Because there'll be a lot going in Chinatown during that time - night markets and street performances.

But the Chinatown shops close on Chinese New Year's Eve 25 January 09, the day of your arrival. And the action shifts to the Marina Bay / Esplanade area, where the River Hong Bao Carnival becomes the focus.

Marina Bay has been the location of the fireworks launch in the past few years. And likely will be again in 2009.

In 2008, the fireworks went off on the eve and Days 1-3 of the Chinese New Year. The 2009 CNY fireworks schedule is not out yet. But you'll likely be in for a similar treat for the duration of your stay.

Question: If not Chinatown, where is the best spot to stay to enjoy Chinese New Year?

Hence, I recommend you try one of the Marina Bay hotels. Ensure that you book a harbour-facing room.

I've written a page describing the best spots, restaurants and hotels to watch the fireworks displays. One of our readers also shared a great tip - her family enjoyed the fireworks from her 54th-floor hotel room!

Be sure to check these pages out. And have a great holiday in Singapore.

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