This recreation and sports club in Singapore has been welcoming members of all nationalities for over 74 years. American Club memberships are popular with expats for many reasons including the location in the heart of the lively Orchard district, the club’s restaurants plus an impressive new $65 million upgrade. We hear from a happy family about why they love The American Club Singapore!
Hi Sonja, tell us about your family!
We’re a multicultural family of five: I’m Serbian, my husband Mazen is American, and we have three gorgeous children, Laith (ten), Lana (seven), and Layla (four). Our love of travel has meant we’ve lived in the US, Paris and Dubai over the years. We’ve called Singapore home for the past six-and-a-half years, until recently in the Novena area. As our kids are at the International French School (Singapore), we’ve just relocated closer to reduce the commute.
Why did you decide to join a sports club in Singapore, and more particularly what stood out about The American Club?
We wanted to find a place where everyone in the family could relax and have a good time. When we got our American Club membership, our kids were still very little, and we found it was the most suited to families. The American Club restaurants are great, plus the activities, friendly atmosphere and diversity of members combined to make this our club of choice. Sealing the deal was the amazing staff – they’re helpful, well trained and, above all, caring.
How long have you had an American Club membership?
We joined in 2018, so it’s been nearly five years now. How time flies!
What are your six favourite spots at The American Club Singapore?
#1 We regularly eat at The American Club restaurants. Central is a great, relaxed American-style café to pick up a coffee or a bite to eat.
#2 Thinkspace has a business centre that really comes in handy as I work full-time – whether I need a meeting room, library or workspace.
#3 The Gym has just been fitted out with new cardio and weights equipment, so it’s the perfect place to work out.
#4 The Quad is a huge kids’ zone that spans over four levels including a bowling alley, a vertical climbing wall, a tree house, arcade games, gaming computers and a tinkering wall. My kids really love it!
#5 Sên Spa is a lovely calming space where I retreat to when I feel like some pampering.
#6 The Pool is a favourite location for everyone in the family to escape the Singapore heat.
Do you attend any classes or events on offer at The American Club?
Yes! Our kids all take swimming lessons at the Club, and we often have dinner by the pool afterwards. A big shout out to coaches Greg, Zack and Hariz. In my opinion, the swimming programme is the best in Singapore. Laith also attends taekwondo classes regularly, which he loves.
The Club is amazing at organising festivities to celebrate holidays like Halloween, Christmas and Lunar New Year. We’ve enjoyed lots of fun events over the years.
Tell us about a memorable experience at the Club.
In 2021, our children were featured in a Club photo shoot. It was a fun and interesting experience for the entire family, and their photos can be found on the Club website. It serves as a special memory of our time in Singapore.
What’s the social scene like – have you made new friends within the community?
The social scene is fantastic. I’m lucky to have met my closest friend in Singapore at The American Club. As a couple, we’ve mingled with many interesting people, and as a family we’ve made some lifelong friends here. I’d have to say that the members are very friendly, and the atmosphere is laid-back.
Walk us through your ideal day there.
I’d start my day with a coffee at Central with a friend, then do a Pilates or tennis session, and finish off with a treatment at Sên Spa. That’s what my dream day would look like if I didn’t have to work!
The American Club is at 10 Claymore Hill.
amclub.org.sg
Now you know all about one of the best sports clubs in Singapore, check out our international schools guide.
This article first appeared in the April 2023 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
