Many people consider a city to be defined by its architecture and a lot of the landmarks we travel the world to see or even leave the beaten path for, were built by humans. But while the Pyramids of Giza or Machu Picchu are steeped in history and ancient mystery, the modern feats of architecture that create the cityscapes and skylines that surround us have their own grandeur and majesty, contributing towards a contemporary mythology as much as those building of old once did. While Singapore is home to soaring skyscrapers and impressive architecture, there are buildings out there in the world that are so recognisable that they define the very cities they inhabit. With those of us in mind who are looking at the now and indeed, the future, we choose our top three destinations to which the entire family can go and marvel at feats of modern engineering.
| Top 3 destinations with the most eye-catching architectures | |
| Destination | Average round-trip flight in SGD |
| Tokyo, Japan | 626 |
| Sydney, Australia | 644 |
| London, the UK | 998 |
London, England
London is a city of contrasts, where the centuries-old landmarks share space with incredible, modern structures. London has five bridges, but the most famous is Tower Bridge. Although it was built opened almost 125 years ago it is still a modern icon and really encapsulates what London city is. Tower Bridge is a beautifully modernist span of concrete and metal straddling the Thames, topped with two towers that look like they could be straight out of a fairytale. A stunning clash of old and new. For those of you who marvel at the Marina Bay Sands building should head to The Lloyd’s Building – headquarters to London’s oldest insurance company. When it was opened in 1986, the architecture was fresh and new, with the unique placing of amenities on the external facade of the structure, allowing architects to maximise the central floor space. Looking at the structure today it looks as ahead of its time today as the day it was opened.
How to get there: fly Singapore to London from S$998*
Where to Stay: for views of London Bridge stay at the Cheval Three Quays from S$504*
Sydney, Australia
The undisputed ambassador of Australian architecture, the Sydney Opera House is considered to be one of the most distinctive buildings of the 20th century. Unfortunately, the light shows the Opera House periodically puts on don’t have a fixed schedule, meaning you and your family need a wee bit of luck when it comes to catching these spectacular displays. Don’t worry though, even without the extra glamour of the light show; the fan-shaped building will not fail to impress and leave a lifelong impression.
If your kids are fans of the Harry Potter series, make a trip to the Queen Victoria Building and get their imagination firing as they pretend to be their favourite characters, inspired by this building, which looks like it comes straight out of Diagon Alley. Designed in the late nineteenth century, this stunner will appeal to us parents as well with the impressive variety of retail outlets located in the four-storey building.
How to get there: fly Singapore to Sydney from S$998*
Where to Stay: for views of the Queen Victoria Building stay at the Hilton Sydney from S$504*
Tokyo, Japan
If you love the sci-fi skylines, bright lights and the futuristic feeling of neon skyscrapers, head to Tokyo and visit Shibuya Crossing, famous as the inspiration for the future depicted in the film ‘Blade Runner’, it’s guaranteed to dazzle the children and leave all of you in awe. Stop by the famous Hachiko bronze statue commemorating the story of an Akita dog who waited nine years for his dead master to return and captivated the hearts of the Japanese with his spirit and loyalty.
If you are keen on combining architecture and education, take a train down to the city of Odaiba, originally built as the future of city planning in Japan – this city now houses world-famous feats of architecture like the Fuji TV Building and the Rainbow Bridge. On top of that, the city features museums and ‘shopping parks’ that will entertain everyone in your family.
How to get there: fly Singapore to Tokyo from S$626*
Where to Stay: for views of the Shibuya Crossing stay at the Shibuya Tokyu Rei Hotel from S$212*
NOTE TO THE EDITOR:
Data is based on searches and clicks made on KAYAK.sg between 1 January 2016 and 30 September 2016, for travel between 1 October and 30 November 2016. Average flight prices, are quoted in Singapore dollars and are based on a return economy flight for one person, excluding baggage and payment fees. Average hotel prices are quoted in Singapore dollars are for a double occupancy room. Prices quoted may be subject to change and may no longer be available.
