Miss the glamping life in Bintan and Bali? While taking a ferry ride or booking a flight to the next island is currently off the cards, you can instead go camping in Singapore without actually having to rough it. From December 15 to 24, the lush grounds of the Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) is turning into a glamping spot where you can immerse in the rich Malay cultural atmosphere and discover treasures of Kampong Gelam while spending a night under the stars.
Aptly named Kampong G(e)lamping @ MHC, the two-day, one-night experience takes you on a guided tour around the cultural enclave, where you'll discover the lesser-known stories of iconic landmarks like Sultan Mosque, and new perspectives from local bakers and tea-makers behind the area's specialty shops. You'll also get a sneak peek of MHC's upcoming special exhibition titled Urang Banjar: Heritage and Culture of the Banjar in Singapore.
Then prepare to be treated like one of the royalties that used to call Kampong Gelam home as you'll be served an indulgent Malay dinner of specialties such as Nasi Kerabu and sambal tempeh, all freshly prepared in the flesh.
Come nighttime, expect none of those tent poles or snoozing on the world's thinnest ground mat. Instead, look forward to two cosy tents – one furnished with two queen-sized beds and a hammock, and the other with a projector screen, speaker, and bean bags for a nighttime movie screening. Both tents are also equipped with a portable air-conditioner and fan, fresh linens, and quilt for extra comfort.
The experience is open to a group of up to five each day – that's nine slots in total, one per day. Each slot is priced at $450, and can accommodate both adults and children aged two years old and above. Registration is available on MHC's Facebook and Instagram pages on October 23 at noon on a first-come-first-serve basis, so fastest fingers first.
In addition, MHC will be conducting a giveaway for one lucky group to win a slot on October 30 to November 6 on MHC's Facebook page. More details of the giveaway will be posted closed to the dates, so watch its space (or follow them). For more information including the full lineup of programmes and safety measures, visit malayheritage.gov.sg.