Singapore has long been acclaimed for its legendary street food, swanky shopping centers, copious gardens, and intriguing blend of modern affluence and age-old cultures.
But the island city-state’s reputation more recently was catapulted to ultra-stardom thanks to the blockbuster 2018 hit “Crazy Rich Asians,” a screen adaptation of author Kevin Kwan’s 2013 best-selling novel of the same name.
Following in the Footsteps of Rachel Chu
The film is a triumph in many ways, including that it is the first Hollywood film with an all-Asian cast since 1993’s “Joy Luck Club.” Raking in $34 million within five days of its opening night, it also proves that diversity sells at the box office.
Last but certainly not least, “Crazy Rich Asians” directly shines the spotlight on Singapore, along with several other filming locations across Southeast Asia. Fans of the uplifting rom-com are itching to pack their bags and follow in protagonist Rachel Chu’s footsteps to discover the good life in the tropical and diverse destination.
Singapore Changi Airport: A Worthy Destination
Source: Pexels
In the film, Rachel and her hunky beau, Nick Young, arrive in Singapore via this remarkable airport. In real life, Singapore Changi Airport is a worthy destination in and of itself. Not only does it pride itself in high-quality service and efficiency, but it’s also extremely aesthetically pleasing.
Visitors can marvel at a tropical butterfly habitat, which is home to 1,000-plus butterflies belonging to 40 species, lush foliage, and a nearly 20-foot-tall waterfall. They can also walk through a sunflower garden, dip in the rooftop pool, or catch a free flick at a 24-hour movie theater.
@irislifediaries Skytrain Ride #singapore #changi ♬ Home – Matthew Hall
Rachel And Young Explores Newton Food Center
Rachel and Nick join their soon-to-be-married friends, Colin Khoo and Araminta Lee, on a joyful eating spree through one of Singapore’s celebrated hawker centers. In real life, a trip to Singapore is incomplete without paying a visit (or several) to Singapore’s lively culinary hubs of delicious and affordable food.
Visitors will find a wide assortment of cuisines — including Chinese, Malaysian, Indian, Peranakan (locally born Chinese), and more — which also underlines just how multicultural the city-state truly is. Author Kwan has mentioned in interviews that his favorite street food destination is Newton Food Center, which is also where the mouthwatering “Crazy Rich Asians” scene takes place.
Escaping to Langkawi, Malaysia
Nick and Colin escape an over-the-top, cringe-inducing bachelor party onboard a container ship in favor of sweet solitude, a cooler full of beers, and the gorgeous scenery of “Rawa Island.” Though Rawa Island is indeed an island in Malaysia, both scenes were actually filmed in Langkawi, an archipelago made up of about 99 islands in Malaysia.
As for the lavish hotel where Araminta’s friends run amok during an all-expenses-paid shopping spree? It’s the luxe Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Malaysia, a five-star hotel that’s tucked into Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO Geopark.
Exploring Gardens by the Bay
After the elaborate affair that is Araminta and Colin’s wedding ceremony, it makes complete sense that they would host their reception at a venue with otherworldly tree-like structures soaring up to 160 feet.
In real life, an initiative led by Singapore’s National Parks Board, the award-winning, fantastical urban oasis of Gardens by the Bay is a must-stop for any itinerary to Singapore.
Roughly 250 acres of reclaimed land were transformed into waterfront gardens, which include the abovementioned solar-powered “Supertrees” that are also 18 innovative, vertical gardens.
Funfact: This Filipino couple held ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ Themed Wedding At Gardens By The Bay
@rosettedesignsco Behind the scene of the Real Life Crazy Rich Asian Inspired Wedding 😍 Despite the rain, we managed to get everything up and ready before the wedding started! Do contact us at 80638340 if you need help with your wedding! #crazyrichasians #wedding #weddingtiktok #themewedding #weddingcoordinator #weddingdecor #singapore #destinationwedding #gardenbythebay ♬ original sound – Nhà đẹp không khó
Luxury at Marina Bay Sands
Source: Pexels
During the magnificent final scene of “Crazy Rich Asians,” tidy rows of synchronized swimmers dance in the fabulous infinity pool of this Singapore luxury hotel. Nearby, also on the hotel’s observation deck, Rachel, Nick, and the rest of the cast are celebrating an incredibly romantic gesture, and moviegoers are treated to glitz, glamour, and a superb view of Singapore’s skyline.
In real life, more than 2,500 rooms and suites make up the iconic Marina Bay Sands— the biggest and perhaps most recognizable hotel in town.
Uncovering Singapore’s Hidden Gems
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of “Crazy Rich Asians” or just looking for a taste of the good life, Singapore has something for everyone. From its stunning street food to its luxurious hotels, Singapore is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity.
So, pack your bags, grab your cameras, and get ready to follow in Rachel Chu’s footsteps to discover the good life in this tropical and diverse destination.
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