Five Reasons to Visit the Singapore Sevens

With just over two months to go until the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series kicks off, we thought we’d whet your appetite with a list of reasons to visit the Singapore Sevens.

Singapore will welcome the World Sevens Series to its National Stadium in April 2017 for the eighth tournament of the competition.

The series promises a non-stop thrill ride of exhilarating action and breathtaking athleticism in some of the world’s most exciting destinations.

So why choose the Singapore leg of the series? Here are our top five reasons to visit the Singapore Sevens:

Singapore is a city like no other

Also known as the ‘Lion City’ and the ‘Garden City’, Singapore is the world’s only island city-state.

Consisting of one main island and 62 islets at the southernmost tip of peninsular Malaysia, the city-state celebrated 50 years of independence last year.

It’s one of the most influential cities in the world, and a global frontrunner in commerce, finance and social policy.

But what makes Singapore so exciting is that, unlike any other in the world, it’s a city of contrasts.

The phrase ‘melting pot’ was never so apt. With a multitude of different cultures influencing everything from architecture to cuisine, Singapore is a truly unique city.

Futuristic skyscrapers rub shoulders with smoky temples; luxurious shopping malls give way to rainforests teeming with wildlife; cool cocktail bars sit beside vibrant street food markets.

Singapore is a feast of culture, colour and contemporary luxury, and no matter how long you stay there’s always more to discover.

Singapore is a global shopping destination

Singapore is world famous as a shopping destination, and with good reason.

Its legendary shopping centres are consumer paradises packed with couture fashion, trendy high street brands and cutting-edge electronics.

If you’re after a more adventurous shopping experience, check out the streetside flea markets, hunt for antiques in heritage Chinatown shophouses or bag a bargain in the buzzing Mustafa centre in Little India.

Singapore’s food scene is second-to-none

From upmarket dining in Michelin-starred restaurants to vibrant street food from buzzing markets, a trip to Singapore is always a gloriously diverse gastronomic adventure.

Singaporeans love food – and it shows. Whether it’s the city’s signature seafood dish, chilli crab, or the mouthwatering flavours of Malay, Indian or Chinese cuisine, you’ll find food almost everywhere you look.

Drawing on the city’s rich multicultural heritage and global status, Singapore’s booming restaurant scene has something to suit every taste and budget.

There’s something for everyone

As well as hosting exciting sporting events like the World Rugby Sevens, Singapore is home to countless attractions of every kind.

The city’s many museums and galleries offer everything from local history to daring contemporary art. Don’t miss the iconic lotus flower-shaped ArtScience Museum.

Try spending an afternoon in the placid and beautiful botanical gardens, or discover Singapore’s hidden corners on a bumboat river tour.

If all that sightseeing tires you out, head to one of the city’s picturesque beaches for the ultimate in relaxation.

The rugby looks set to be better than ever

Whilst Singapore is undoubtedly a fascinating city, the most important of our reasons to visit the Singapore Sevens has to be – of course – the rugby itself.

Following a scintillating Olympic debut this summer, rugby sevens has seen a surge in global popularity.

Fiji, the 2015-16 World Sevens Series champions, won their country’s first ever Olympic gold medal in a thrilling tournament.

No doubt they’ll be looking to defend their status as a sevens superpower with their inimitable brand of flamboyant rugby in this year’s World Series.

But with contenders like New Zealand, Australia and South Africa all eager to make their mark, the World Rugby Sevens is set to be an electrifying rugby extravaganza.

The 2016 Singapore Sevens saw heart-stopping action, dazzling feats of agility and a non-stop festival atmosphere take the city by storm.

2017 looks set to be even better – so don’t miss out!