SINGAPORE: AN ECLECTIC MIX OF CULTURES
Singapore may not be as cheap to visit as its Asian counterparts, but it is definitely a destination worthy of more than a “stopover” visit. Lying at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, it is a thriving city-state and renowned financial business leader. Singapore marries a colonial past with a sleek, progressive future, and is constantly reinventing itself, in a manner which is both engaging and alluring for its visitors.
Peel back its shiny exterior layer however and you will discover a fascinating multi-cultural country brimming with iconic architecture, interactive museums, charming neighbourhoods and experiences that will lure you back for a second and third visit. We have visited 5 times and always find new and different things to do and never tire of the cleanliness, fantastic metro system, food, people and beautiful open green spaces. Singapore is one of our favourite countries to visit.
This Singapore Travel Guide is packed with all the information you need, to plan your unforgettable Singapore trip!
What You’ll Find in This Guide:
- SINGAPORE: AN ECLECTIC MIX OF CULTURES
- SINGAPORE ARTICLES TO HELP WITH YOUR PLANNING
- WHY VISIT SINGAPORE?
- SINGAPORE WEATHER & BEST TIME TO VISIT
- HOW TO GET AROUND SINGAPORE
- WHERE TO GO IN SINGAPORE
- THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE
- RECOMMENDED TOURS IN SINGAPORE
- RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY IN SINGAPORE
- SINGAPORE FACTS
- THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO SINGAPORE
- PRACTICAL TIPS
SINGAPORE ARTICLES TO HELP WITH YOUR PLANNING
HOW TO VISIT SINGAPORE ON A BUDGET (2024)
ULTIMATE SINGAPORE TRAVEL GUIDE FOR FIRST TIMERS
AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE AT NIGHT FOR FUN
HOW TO DRESS IN SINGAPORE AND LOOK GREAT
WHERE TO STAY IN SINGAPORE TO MAXIMIZE YOUR TIME
ASTONISHING DO’S AND DON’TS IN SINGAPORE YOU NEED TO KNOW
WHY VISIT SINGAPORE IN 2024? For These Reasons And Incredible Attractions!
REMARKABLY EASY 5 DAY SINGAPORE ITINERARY YOU’LL LOVE
VISIT KUSU ISLAND, ONE OF SINGAPORE’S SOUTHERN ISLANDS
UNCOVER SINGAPORE HIDDEN GEMS & UNIQUE THINGS TO DO
CHINATOWN SINGAPORE : BEST THINGS TO DO IN A DAY
52 FREE THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE TO SAVE MONEY
- The Civic District – Boasting a wide array of exquisitely restored colonial architecture including the impressive National Gallery, beautiful Victoria Theatre and famed Raffles Hotel, the Civic District is the birthplace of modern Singapore. The Civic District is the birthplace of modern Singapore. Wander around and you will be rewarded with an array of beautifully restored colonial architecture. From famous Raffles Hotel and the impressive National Gallery to the stunning Victoria Theatre.
- Chinatown – Atmospheric Chinatown is packed with restored heritage shop-houses, amazing street food stalls and is a great neighbourhood to wander around. See all the things to do in Chinatown here. Singapore’s rich, multi-ethnic culture can be seen in its many places of worship, located in the heart of Chinatown. From Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum and Sri Mariamman Temple to Masjid Jamae.
- Marina Bay – Home to some of Singapore’s most luxurious hotels, Marina Bay is modern, futuristic, stylish and dazzling. With a vast array of shops and restaurants, its home to the spectacular Gardens by the Bay. The incredible “supertrees” are a sight not to be missed!
- Little India & Bugis – Serangoon Road and its neighbouring streets are a vibrant mix of colour, sounds and sights especially during the festival of Deepavali. Explore their mix of Hindu and Chinese temples, mosques and churches.
- Kampong Glam – Rich in Malay history and the golden domed Sultan Mosque, the area offers street art and hip boutiques during the day and live music bars and hip restaurants at night.
- Orchard Road – Shopaholics will be in heaven. Singapore’s most famous shopping street is a wide, tree shaded avenue lined with high-end shopping malls, opulent fashion houses, luxury hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs.
- Clarke & Robertson Quays – Take a bumboat along the iconic Singapore River and explore the city’s heritage and modern history. In the evening the bright lights along the jetties highlight the numerous bars, restaurants and thriving night life.
- Tiong Bahru – One of Singapore’s oldest housing estates with art-deco buildings is now a trendy treasure trove of independent coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants and boutiques.
- Sentosa Island – This former British military fortress has been transformed into pristine beaches, exciting attractions and tropical landscapes. Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium and more ensure you have an enthralling experience!
- Stroll around Gardens by The Bay – Bio-domes, supertrees, skyway and even an amazing evening light show at these ultra-modern gardens.
- View the iconic skyline – View the Singapore Skyline at day and night from Marina Bay or along the River.
- Visit the outer islands – Take a short ferry ride and discover peace and calm at the outer islands of Kusu and St John.
- Explore the world-famous Zoo – A wonderful first class zoo spread over 26 hectares which also features a night safari.
- Relax in Singapore Botanic Gardens – Famous for their orchids and symphony orchestra concerts, this is a divine place to wander.
- Eat like a local – Enjoy cheap street food in the numerous hawker centres. Try a multitude of excellent cuisines.
- Visit the wonderful museums – The National Gallery is just one of several intriguing museums to learn about Singapore’s colonial history.
- Wander around the different neighbourhoods – Really get under the skin of modern Singapore and explore conserved shophouses, places of worship and local haunts.
- Language Spoken: English (primary), Mandarin, Bahasa Malay and Tamil
- Time Zone: GMT plus 8 hours
- Currency: Singapore Dollar (100 cents) Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1 Dollar. Notes come in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $25, $50, $100, $500, $1000, and $10,000. For up to date currency exchange rates check here.
- Electrical Current: Electrical supply is 230V / 50 Hz and you can use power plugs with three square prongs.
- Culture: Singapore is a multi-ethnic society where Chinese, Malay, Indian and British traditions coexist together.
- Visas: 90 day entry is granted on arrival to citizens of most countries apart from those of India, Myanmar, the Commonwealth of Independent States and most Middle Eastern countries, who must obtain a visa before arriving in Singapore.
- Customs: You are not allowed to bring tobacco into Singapore unless you pay duty and failure to do so will result in a hefty fine. It is also illegal to bring chewing gum, firecrackers, obscene or seditious material, gun-shaped cigarette lighters, endangered species or their by-products and pirated recordings or publications with you. Check out the dos and donts in Singapore here, before you go!
- Health: Singapore has first rate medical care and high levels of hygiene, hence no health concerns. Vaccination for Hepatitis A required if you come from a yellow-fever area. Tap water is safe to drink.
- Arriving: International flights arrive into Singapore Changi Airport which currently has 4 terminals . Singapore has extensive regional connections and is regularly voted the world’s best airport year after year for good reason.
- Internet Access: Wireless@SG is a free public Wi-Fi service across Singapore, with hotspots available at many locations, including malls, museums, public libraries, community centres, MRT stations, Changi Airport and Sentosa island. The country’s main telecommunications Companies are M1, Singtel and Starhub.
- Tipping: Not customary or necessary.
- Daily Costs: Mid-range accommodation, restaurant and transport – S$200-S$350
- Useful Numbers: Country Code 65 | Police 999, Ambulance 995
- Useful Websites: Singapore Tourism Board | MRT
- Local Quirks: Locals address older people on the street as “aunty” or “uncle” as a sign of respect. Queueing up in line is a way of life for Singaporeans.
