SINGAPORE will add the River Safari to its latest collection of attractions come April 3, a development that some DMCs here said would further boost the city’s appeal in the eyes of incentive clients.
Hailed as Asia’s first river-themed wildlife park, the River Safari was built between the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari at a cost of S$160 million (US$128 million). The 12-hectare park features over 150 plant species and 300 animal species in eight river habitats including the Mississippi, Nile and Amazon rivers. It also contains the world’s largest freshwater aquarium.
It will join other new attractions in the city-state such as the Marine Life Park in Resorts World Sentosa, Gardens by the Bay and the Giant Panda Forest.
Pacific World’s regional director, Singapore and Malaysia, Selina Grocott, told TTGmice e-Weekly: “Singapore may be small but it certainly commands an enormous presence in Asia’s incentive industry. (The) ever-changing tourism landscape and constant opening of new and exciting developments continue to position Singapore as a preferred destination in this region.”
Daniel Chua, managing director of Singapore-based conference organiser, Aonia, said the River Safari would add to the country’s dense collection of attractions, an attribute that appeals to time-starved business event travellers.
“Clients need to minimise the travel time between destinations and attractions, and Singapore’s density of attractions means event participants can pack their days here with a variety of things to do and places to see,” Chua said.
Dennis Law, managing director of Star Holiday Mart, a travel company that specialises in both leisure tours and business events, pointed out that Singapore’s “new nature-based spots will enhance (the country’s) image as an eco-friendly place and not just a city destination”.
“Singapore in itself is already attractive for both business and leisure travellers…and new options such as the River Safari will complement all our existing attractions,” Law added.
Entrance fees during the soft opening phase, beginning April 3, are S$25 (US$20) for adults and S$16 for children aged three to 12.
Additional reporting by Karen Yue
