3 Best Sights in Singapore

The oldest building in this walled complex is the Coleman-designed Caldwell House, a private mansion built in 1840. In 1852, it became the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus, where nuns housed and schooled abandoned children. The church was added in 1903. After World War II, both the convent and the church fell into disrepair. In 1996, the complex was renovated and reopened as a shopping and entertainment complex. The lovingly restored church is also rented out for private functions (it stood in for the First Methodist Church in the film Crazy Rich Asians).

The building on the corner of Orchard and Emerald Hill roads is a masterpiece—albeit a somewhat diluted one—of Peranakan architecture. This style, a blend of Chinese and Malay aesthetics, emerged in the 19th century, when Chinese people born in what was then called the Straits Settlements (including Singapore) adopted, and often adapted, Malay fashion, cuisine, and design. The surrounding area is now a mix of upscale residences, with renovated shophouses doubling as bars and restaurants. Parts of Emerald Hill, from Orchard Road through the Ice Cold Beer bar, are for pedestrians only; there are several outdoor cafés and restaurants along the stretch. Stroll the arcaded street, and check out fretted woodwork, pastel washes, ornate wall tiles, and other typical Peranakan touches.

Also known as Hong Lim Park, this spot was declared a "free speech zone" by the government in 2001. It looks like nothing more than a small patch of grass, but from 7 am to 7 pm on some days, you may be able to catch carefully crafted words and speeches from people with an opinion to share. Those who wish to speak need to register with the police at the park station or online. This was intended as a place for people to express their opinions freely, but it hasn't been very successful: you can't address religious or racial issues, and having to register means that your presence has been noted.