What are the best things to do during a stopover in Singapore?

What's your advice on where to stay and what to do on a 3-day stopover in singapore in may for a family with two children, 9 and 7 years? We'll be on a stopover before a 12-month stint in india and aiming to reduce jet lag, enjoy some luxury to celebrate my wife's birthday and have a memorable, fun experience with the children. We are thinking high tea at Raffles and staying at one of Sentosa's resort hotels.

J. Choat, Vincentia

Sentosa Island is the obvious choice and since you're looking for luxury it would be hard to beat the glossy W Singapore Sentosa Cove, although it might install great expectations in the minds of those kids forever after.

The Singapore Resort and Spa Sentosa is another great option, offering fabulous accommodation at a slightly lower price.

The island has heaps of things to do tailored for families, including the S.E.A. Aquarium, Nature Discovery, Adventure Cove Waterpark and the Universal Studios entertainment complex.

The island gets crowded on weekends with families from Singapore and Malaysia so keep this in mind when planning your daily activities.

High Tea in the Tiffin Room at Raffles is a swanky experience with plenty of colonial-era trimmings.

As well as the three-tiered stand of sandwiches and cakes, there's a buffet full of Asian finger-food treats and the bread and butter pudding is a standout.

You need to dress for the occasion – no shorts – although it's probably okay for the kids.