The shopping hub of Southeast Asia, plucky Singapore is a tiny island state with an enormous sense of achievement. Comprising of four main ethnic groups, it boasts grand colonial architecture, a Chinese work ethic, Malay cultural influences and a Tamil character, all blended as finely as a steaming laksa curry.
While Singapore is mainly known as an upmarket destination full of luxurious hotels and modern shopping malls, budget travelers will be able to sustain themselves during a short trip. Cheap and tasty bites are available in food courts all over Singapore, and places such as the large and lovely Botanical Gardens are ideal for relaxing.
Sensible planning and efficient determination has created a great value-for-money tourist destination with plenty of family attractions, great shopping and good infrastructure. And it’s not all high-rises either, but Singapore is hardly backpacker budget-friendly. Sentosa is a great escape from the concrete jungle with its pretty beaches that sit in contrast to Orchard Road’s megamalls.
Gastronomes will find themselves in heaven in the ethnic pockets of Little India and Chinatown while brain boxes can amuse themselves in Singapore’s top museums. Real nature is few and far between today, but not to worry as Singapore has re-created wild habitats at the city’s night safari and zoo. Yet the real draw to this tiny city-state is its shopping, and it is easy for keen shoppers to spend a small fortune here in a mere matter of minutes.
Nature lovers will want to escape from the concrete and mall-covered center of Singapore to explore the picturesque Bukit Timah Reserve. This area of tropical jungle is a popular weekend playground with the people of Singapore and features nature and mountain biking trails, and reservoirs. The northern region of Singapore is also covered with unspoiled jungle and woodland, and attracts intrepid explorers who want to discover the wilder side of Singapore.
Orchard Road is Singapore’s shopping mecca and sales are often held here, making it the perfect place to indulge. Recent redevelopments of colonial precincts in the city have seen the addition of many entertainment options in Singapore where eating, drinking and clubbing are provided in a number of excellent venues.
The Colonial District is situated along the east bank of the Singapore River and is an interesting place to wander. This district features a large number of historically significant landmarks such as the original Parliament Buildings, while sports fans will want to check out Singapore Cricket Club. Visitors can also relax and unwind in the bar of the legendary Raffles Hotel, which is where the cocktail known as the Singapore Sling was first created.
Sentosa Island is one of Singapore’s main attractions. This gigantic amusement park features a whole host of hi-tech rides and other attractions. However, Sentosa Island also features pretty sandy beaches to soak up the sun on and nature trails, while the island’s museums offer visitors an insight into the history and culture of this diverse nation.
Strolling along the Riverside and Marina Bay sections of Singapore is an uplifting experience, and visitors can also explore the area by taking a brightly painted bumboat along the Singapore River. Lined by upmarket bars and restaurants as well as prominent landmarks such as Fullerton Hotel, the mighty Merlion, Raffles Statue and Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, this is the perfect place to simply wander and soak up the atmosphere.
Walking tours are a popular pastime here and lead visitors through the country’s various districts, including Chinatown and Little India. While special guided tours are readily available, independent travelers with a sense of adventure can simply grab a map and set out alone to discover Singapore’s treasures.
What’s Cool
The symbolic Merlion statue, wining and dining along the Singapore River, taking the family to sentosa-island or the Night Safari, shopping on Orchard road, cultures of four different ethnic groups that make up the population of organised and friendly locals.
What’s Not
Hot and humid weather, expensive hospitality, Singapore’s infamous petty fines obsession.
Where to Go
Highlights
Colonial district: monuments left over from the colonial days, Raffles Hotel, modern shopping malls and the popular Esplanade make this a popular district with tourists.
Chinatown: a great place to look for hawker food and enjoy a stroll through this more traditional part of the city. Don’t forget to take a break at a teahouse and learn to drink tea the Chinese way.
sentosa-island: situated just off the south coast, this island offers a welcome retreat from the urban jungle, with beaches, museums, an aquarium and plenty of space for indulging in outdoor pursuits.
Riverfront and Fort Canning: these areas offer the Battle Box, the city’s WWII underground military complex; museums, temples and trendy quays that are packed with bars and restaurants.
Little India: home to the city’s Indian community, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in India once you set foot on Serangoon road. Take in the sights and smells while you shop for Bollywood DVDs and incense.
When to Go
Resting on the equator, this is a city that you can rely on to be hot year-round. Along with the heat is the high level of humidity and even rainfall throughout the year. November to January sees the most rainfall, making this a less than ideal time to visit. May to July are the driest months and therefore this is a more suitable time to make a trip here.
Festivals & Events
The diverse ethnic mix of the population here ensures some lively festivals, and the Singaporeans niche for great organisation makes each occasion special.
January: Chinese New Year kicks of in Chinatown (Eu Tong Sen street) with colourful and noisy celebrations that include dragon dances.
February: Chingay is Singapore’s biggest street festival, held along Orchard road. Expect to see cultural performances, floats and flag bearers.
May: the Dragon Boat Festival’s boat races are held at East Coast Park in commemoration of a Chinese saint.
June: Singapore Arts Festival is organized by the National Arts Council every two years, with an interesting music, dance and art events programme.
July: Singapore National Day is a celebration of independence, with parades and fireworks livening things up.
July: the Great Singapore Sale attracts shopaholics from around the globe, who come to snap up the bargains, best found along Orchard road.
Things to Do
Highlights
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Colonial district: A legacy of centuries of british rule, the area north of the singapore river is a jolly civilised suburb of grand old buildings centred around the padang, a former cricket field.
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Chinatown: Chinatown is a colourful district that hides in the shadows of the modern highrises, where the clack of mah-jongh tiles continues to epitomise the unchanged lifestyle in this area of bargain electronics shopping and cantonese cuisine.
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sentosa-island: Sentosa island is the jewel in singapore’s tourist crown, a leisure island east of the city that is packed with amusement parks, manmade beaches, golf courses and family attractions.
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Riverfront and Fort Canning: Dividing the city centre in two is the stout singapore river. it’s a wonderful stroll from the iconic merlion statue at the river mouth, past the trendy restaurants of boat quay and onto the after-work bars of clark quay, before climbing fort canning on a hill nearby for a view of the city.
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Little India: Little india is a calamity of sights, smells and shopping as migrant hindu workers flock to the suburb on their days off for cheap curries, bollywood movies and the pungent scent of home. a heady and altogether different singapore experience.
Getting Around
Train
Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is one of the most efficient and convenient ways to navigate the city-state. The MRT network covers most parts of Singapore, including key tourist destinations, shopping districts, and residential areas. Trains are frequent, clean, and air-conditioned, making travel comfortable even during peak hours. The MRT operates from around 5:30 AM to midnight, with extended hours during special events and holidays. Tickets can be purchased at stations, but the most convenient option is the EZ-Link card, a reloadable card that can be used on trains and buses. The MRT is ideal for both short commutes and longer journeys across the island.
Bus
Singapore’s bus system is extensive and complements the MRT network, reaching areas that are not accessible by train. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel, with air-conditioned vehicles providing a comfortable ride. Services are frequent, and routes are well-marked in English, making navigation easy for tourists. Like the MRT, buses also accept the EZ-Link card for convenient payment. Popular routes include those that pass through Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and Sentosa. Bus stops are equipped with route maps and information, ensuring a smooth travel experience.
Car Rental
While driving in Singapore is straightforward due to well-maintained roads and clear signage, it is generally not necessary given the efficiency of public transport. However, renting a car can be a good option for those planning to explore at their own pace or visit less accessible areas. Car rentals are available from major companies at Changi Airport and various locations across the city. Singapore drives on the left side of the road, and traffic laws are strictly enforced. Parking can be expensive, especially in central areas. Rental costs range from $50 to $100 per day, depending on the vehicle type.
Ferries
Ferries in Singapore primarily serve the purpose of connecting the mainland to its offshore islands. Regular ferry services operate to popular destinations like Sentosa Island, St. John’s Island, and Pulau Ubin. Sentosa can be accessed via a short ferry ride from the Marina South Pier, while Changi Point Ferry Terminal provides services to Pulau Ubin. These ferries offer scenic routes and are a pleasant way to reach leisure destinations. Tickets can be purchased at ferry terminals, and it’s advisable to check the schedules in advance.
Air
Singapore’s Changi Airport is a major international hub, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide. For domestic travel within the region, budget airlines like Scoot and Jetstar Asia operate from Changi Airport, providing affordable options for short-haul flights to neighboring countries. While air travel is not commonly used for getting around Singapore itself due to the city-state’s small size, the airport’s excellent connectivity makes it easy to plan trips to other parts of Southeast Asia.
Ride Share
Ride-sharing services such as Grab and Gojek are widely used in Singapore and offer a convenient and often cost-effective alternative to taxis. These services can be booked via mobile apps, providing estimated fares, driver details, and real-time tracking. Ride-sharing is especially useful for traveling during peak hours or when public transport options are limited. Payment can be made through the app using a credit card or e-wallet, making transactions seamless and secure.
Other Forms of Transportation
- Taxis: Taxis are plentiful and can be hailed on the street, at taxi stands, or booked via phone and apps. Fares are metered, with additional charges for peak hours, tolls, and advanced bookings. Taxi services are generally reliable, and all drivers are required to speak English.
- Bicycles: Bike-sharing services like SG Bike and Anywheel are available for short trips around the city. Designated cycling paths and park connectors make biking a pleasant way to explore scenic areas like East Coast Park and Marina Bay.
- Trishaws: For a unique and nostalgic experience, trishaws (three-wheeled pedal taxis) are available in tourist areas like Chinatown and Little India. These rides are more about the experience and less about practicality, often used for short, leisurely tours.
Getting There
The island’s extensive and uncongested highway system is managed by a complex automatic vehicle toll fee radar technology that’s set up for local commuters. It’s too small to think about hiring a car really and the Mass Rapid Transportation (MRT) rail system reaches all urban areas, backed up by efficient buses. Getting around is no problem and Changi International Airport is one of the world’s most efficient as well
as being a hub for Asia. Taxis are surprisingly affordable too.
Changi International Airport has repeatedly been voted as one of the world’s best airports, and offers a smooth entry point for visitors. Local commuters make use if the island’s automatic vehicle toll fee radar technology, which ensures the highways keep moving. However, a car is of little use here in a city that boasts a shiny, clean Mass Rapid Transportation (MRT) rail system that reaches all urban areas. Where the trains don’t go, buses do; and if you’re looking for convenience, taxis are surprisingly affordable.
Health & Safety
Harsh penalties for crimes, including fines for jaywalking, littering and smoking in public areas, ensure the island is kept safe and clean, with little in the way of pickpockets or car thieves to spoil your holiday. The heat can be intense, and tourists are recommended to drink plenty of water and slap on the sun cream. The food shouldn’t present you with any problems, with upset stomachs generally being the cause of overindulgence rather than poor hygiene.