As someone who grew up in Singapore with a Thai mother and an Irish father, I've always found travel to be a big part of my life.
Whether visiting relatives around the world or exploring new places as a family, my favorite memories always involve touching down in a new city.
I've been lucky enough to visit 38 countries so far, and when people ask for my travel recommendations, three cities always top my list.
Dubrovnik has everything I look for in a European summer destination: a fascinating history, traditional restaurants and bars, and rocky beaches in secluded coves.
Bordering the sparkling blue Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik feels majestic yet quaint: Visitors can easily get their bearings around the city in a day or two.
I recommend exploring the historic Fort Lovrijenac, a centuries-old fortress that was also used as a filming location for "Game of Thrones."
A lap of the city walls is also a must for the most incredible panoramic views of the sea.
Bergen is a charming city in southwestern Norway with museums and colorful wooden houses on its old wharf. I really enjoyed stopping by the fish market near the waterfront for fresh sushi.
Make sure you also dedicate a day to taking the funicular, or cable train, up Mount Fløyen for challenging hiking with stunning views.
The real treat of visiting, though, is the opportunity to take a day trip into the fjords and beyond. I traveled to Flåm, where I boarded a boat to Nærøyfjord, one of the narrowest fjords in the world.
I may be biased since I grew up in this Asian city-state, but I consider Singapore a must-visit destination for all travelers.
Growing up there, I didn't appreciate how much it had to offer, but now I make the most of every trip home to see my parents.
For example, I love exploring the open-air food courts called hawker centers and checking out the new local bars and cafés. I also enjoy exploring the stunning Singapore Botanic Gardens, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
If you're looking to work up a sweat, I recommend climbing Fort Canning Hill. Once at the top, stop to explore a historic World War II bunker called the Battlebox.
Whether you're a history buff or a foodie, there's truly something for everyone in Singapore.
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2025-05-11T12:13:14Z