Singapore is a great place to visit! Singapore is known for its food, culture, and of course- shopping. With the help of this Singapore travel guide, you will be able to enjoy all that Singapore has to offer.
The Lion City is modern yet traditional. Located in the Strait of Malacca, Singapore offers a great mix of cultures and history. This country is so diverse and interesting that people visit from all over the world just to see its beauty.
Can I Visit Singapore During Covid?
What are the Restrictions?
Singapore nationals and permanent residents are allowed to enter, but they must show documentation of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of leaving and spend up to 10 days in quarantine after receiving a stay-home notice (SHN) on arrival if they are not using the VTL system. This can be done in a dedicated SHN facility or at their home.
From May 2021, the city-state has stated that it would accept the IATA digital travel pass, also known as a vaccination passport.
This pass will contain information indicating that a traveler has received the Covid-19 vaccine from an approved laboratory.
Singapore has not revealed whether holders of the ticket will be able to bypass or shorten quarantine or receive other perks because the pass is still in the planning phases.
Those flying from countries that have signed an Air Travel Pass agreement must apply for entrance between seven and thirty days before departure and provide health information as well as any past travel movements using an SGArrivalCard.
They must also download the Trace Together app on their mobile device and pay SGD$196 (US $148) for an on-arrival PCR test. This applies to all passengers over the age of six.
Anyone arriving in Singapore for any reason will be subjected to a quick Covid-19 test at the airport. All tourists must also provide proof of travel insurance that covers at least $30,000 in expenses in the event of an emergency.
Passengers on layovers are only allowed in certain parts of the airport. They are not permitted to leave these restricted areas unless they have a confirmed reservation at one of Changi’s two airport hotels, and they must be accompanied by a member of the airport employees.
What’s the Covid Situation?
Singapore’s newest round of Covid-19 limitations is now being eased. The rise of the Omicron variety, on the other hand, has made the country more cautious.
Between December 23 and January 20, flights and bus trips in the vaccinated travel lanes (VTLs) were halted in an attempt to prevent more illnesses. These lanes will resume after January 20, albeit at a reduced capacity.
Singaporeans and residents returning from abroad visits have been advised to exercise greater caution than usual in the wake of the Omicron variant, which has been found in the majority of new cases in the country.
Even if they test negative for Covid, returning tourists are advised to avoid group meetings, visit crowded locations such as malls, or engage in mask-off classes in gyms and fitness facilities for at least one week after returning to Singapore.
The Singaporean government recommended residents obtain Covid booster shots on January 5. According to the new laws, unless the status is “reset” by receiving a booster, one’s “completely vaccinated” status will expire 270 days after receiving the second vaccine.
As of January 6, Singapore has 282,401 confirmed coronavirus cases and 834 confirmed deaths.
Foreign countries’ travel advisories and entry restrictions
Many countries have enforced entrance restrictions and border closures in response to the COVID-19 issue. When planning your trip itineraries, please use the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Centre website.
Because the measures taken may result in flight cancellations or a reduction in flight frequency, you should verify with your airline or travel agency before leaving for the airport to ensure that your flight routes are still operational.
More travel information about the destinations can be found on the MFA Travel Information webpage.
Incoming and Outgoing Traveler Information
The MOE website has an advisory for Singaporean students studying abroad, and the MOH website has a Travel Advisory. MOE has addressed some of the most common issues about the advice.
Information about study travel for students pursuing academic qualifications overseas is included in a MOH press release dated August 21, 2020. Students studying abroad can also find information in the MOH’s FAQs (under Border Measures).
The Safetravel website has the latest information on Singapore’s border control actions in response to COVID-19. The ICA website has information about the SG Arrival Card with Electronic Health Declaration.
To make travel easier, Singapore has made specific travel agreements with some countries/regions, such as China and Malaysia. For further information, see the ICA SafeTravel website.
An Air Travel Pass (ATP) is required for visitors from Brunei Darussalam and New Zealand to enter Singapore. The CAAS Press Release and the ICA SafeTravel website include more information about the ATP.
The MOH website has health advice for those in Singapore who have been issued a Stay-Home Notice (SHN).
The MOH’s Vaccination website has information about Singapore’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program.
For selected travel itineraries, transit through Changi Airport is permitted. Passengers wishing to transit through Singapore should check with the airlines directly to see if their route is allowed. The CAAS Press Release and the Changi Airport website both have more information.
How to Stay Safe in Singapore?
It goes without saying that the past 12 months have not been good to us. Working from home is a dream come true for some of us, but for others, being cooped up indoors too much can have a negative impact on mental and physical health.
Time Out Singapore’s crew is a firm believer in taking care of yourself. There’s no better love than self-love, so here’s a reminder of how you may practice it to be calm, healthy, and your best self during these trying times.
Mask UpÂ
Remember to wear a mask while you’re out, or you’ll face a $300 fine. This helps to prevent a greater population transmission, which is especially important because we don’t know who is asymptomatic.
To properly protect yourself (and others) against COVID-19, use a high-filter mask, such as surgical masks or masks with a filtration insert. Here’s everything you need to know about face masks in Singapore, including the many types and where to get them.
Wash Your Hands
While we’re at it, let’s talk about another pandemic must-know: wash and sanitize your hands on a frequent basis. This was drilled into most Singaporeans at the outset of the pandemic, but as the situation has improved, we’ve all (understandably) relaxed.
Now that we’re back on high alert, let’s get back into the practice of carrying hand sanitizers and singing ‘Happy Birthday’ a few times when we wash our hands.
Sweat It Out
We know, we know – it’s been said a million times. Regular exercise, on the other hand, can help your immune system get through this season.
While most gyms are closed during the limitations, there are a number of local gyms that provide free online lessons through a range of digital platforms.
Stay in the zone at home with these online yoga sessions or the greatest online workouts from local gyms like Haus Athletics or CruCycle. All you need is 20 minutes a day to get started. Just remember to drink plenty of water and stretch after your workout.
Go Outdoors
If you’re having cabin fever from being cooped up at home, go for a jog or a trek at a nearby nature reserve — assuming you’re staying nearby.
After all, getting some fresh air and being surrounded by greenery is a great way to stay healthy. Spend your weekend exploring the city’s lush hiking trails or taking a spin on one of Singapore’s bike routes.
We also have a list of Singapore’s hidden parks and green areas. Just remember to keep the right social distance in mind.
Eat Your Greens
Eating properly is an age-old strategy for staying healthy. Stick to a low-fat, well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy grains. Fortunately, there are a plethora of healthy restaurants in Singapore that deliver.
Check out our list of the best vegetarian and vegan eateries in town if you’re considering a plant-based diet. Do you have a sweet tooth? Acai bowls have a slew of advantages as well.
Catch Some z’s
Sleeping for the recommended length of time each night – roughly seven to nine hours – aids the body’s ability to restore itself.
So put your binge on hold and curl up in your sheets instead. Do you need to upgrade your duvets or bedsheets? You might be able to locate them at one of these top home décor and furnishings retailers.
Keep in Contact
Strong social networks make us happy and healthy, so keep in touch with family and friends even if we isolate ourselves and become socially distant.
You may not be able to eat out for the time being, but you can still have up to two distinct visitors every day — securely and responsibly, of course.
Do you prefer to isolate yourself till things improve? To keep things new and fresh, there are a variety of digital platforms to help you stay in touch, such as Skype, Zoom, or even Houseparty.
Apps to Get You Through
There is a range of wellness and mindfulness apps to help you get through the ‘circuit breaker’ time now that we’re all basically in a relationship with technology.
Headspace and Calm will lead you along the path of zen if you’re new to meditation. Have some minor symptoms and want to check them out before going to the doctor? Sata CommHealth and Doctor World are two telemedicine apps available on the market.
If You Need Someone to Talk to
Many people are fatigued and worried after a difficult two years. Just because we’re in the midst of a “new normal” doesn’t mean you should expect to become accustomed to uncertainty.
Don’t keep it to yourself if you don’t have somebody to talk to about it. Consider going to a location like Talk Your Heart Out or the Singapore Counselling Centre for professional support.
Calm Down
Last but not least, do not be concerned. There is a well-established link between prolonged mental stress and physical sickness. To practice mindfulness, try doing a short meditation session.
Do something you enjoy while you’re at home, such as learning new arts and crafts, stargazing out your window, or reading a book.\
What is the Best Time to Visit Singapore?
Singapore is hot and humid all year, making it a pleasure to come no matter what you have planned. Even so, it’s a good idea to keep a tiny, portable umbrella with you at all times for those unexpected tropical downpours, especially during the monsoon season (November to January).
Apart from a few high-profile events like Formula One, where you’ll be fighting for a room, hotel prices change as much as the weather, so you should be able to stay wherever you wish. The school holidays begin in June and July, the warmest (and haziest) months of the year.
This is our guide to determining the best time to visit Singapore.
High season: June-July and February
On a sunny, blue-sky day in Singapore, a swarm of people walks down Orchard Road, with a big glass skyscraper rising in the background.
Orchard Road in Singapore allows you to shop until you drop. Start sharpening your elbows now that school is out and the shopping sale season has begun.
In February, many of the local markets and stores will shut for at least a week over the Chinese New Year, although the major malls and tourist areas will remain open. The entertainment attractions, on the other hand, will be packed to the gills.
Shoulder season: December-January & March-May
Diners sat on yellow plastic chairs and tables outside restaurants in Singapore’s Chinatown neighborhood at night, with lanterns strung across the street lighting up.
Although December and January are hardly frigid, they are (at least on paper) the coolest months of the year in Singapore, with temperatures plummeting to a barely-below-freezing 75°F (24°C), making things a little more comfortable for wanderers and walkers.
The northeast monsoon begins to fade in March, and temperatures gradually rise until May, when the sun shines brightly. Both of these shoulder seasons provide visitors the opportunity to enjoy the finest of Singapore while avoiding the throng.
Low season: August-November
At dusk, lights from Singapore’s Gardens By The Bay natural park twinkle surrounding a variety of Marina Bay attractions and hotels.
Even in the off-season, Marina Bay can be stunning. Apart from the Formula One bunfight in September, these are the months when Singapore prepares for the monsoon season in November with intermittent, but drenching showers.
It’s also when the country’s biggest cultural events, such as Singapore National Day, the Hungry Ghost Festival, and the Mid-Autumn Festival, take place, all of which provide a unique perspective on this intriguing country.
What is the Best Location to Stay in Singapore?
Singapore, despite its small size, is one of Asia’s and the world’s wealthiest countries. It was once just a stopover for travelers, but it has since grown into an extraordinary island complex brimming with technology. We’ve compiled a list of the top places to stay in Singapore in this article.
Singapore is Southeast Asia’s tiniest country, sandwiched between Malaysia and Indonesia.
Due to its mix of old temples, casinos, markets, multicultural neighborhoods (such as Chinatown or Little India), and the balmy beaches of Sentosa Island, Singapore is a varied vacation.
The city boasts a tropical climate reminiscent to the Caribbean. Heatwaves are widespread practically all year, with temperatures rising in April and May before the arrival of November, when Singapore’s rainy season begins.
Singapore, regarded as the “hub of Asia” for its superb aviation connectivity, also has an effective urban transportation system, with the light rail system (MRT) being a wonderful way to get around the city.
Bus lines connect places that are not served by the MRT. Taxis are another good, albeit pricey, way to move about this island-city.
The top places to stay in Singapore are listed here.
1. Recommended Area: Around Orchard Road
Starting at the intersection of Tanglin Road and Orange Grove Road, Orchard is Singapore’s most bustling avenue.
This region has a variety of shopping complexes, the city’s most opulent hotels, and some of the city’s greatest shops.
The Istana Presidential Palace, the house of Singapore’s president, is located at the end of this commercial boulevard, and Istana Park, a recreational and shopping area, is located in front of it.
Orchard Road is Singapore’s best-connected district, with fast public transportation and proximity to the city’s major attractions.
Despite the abundance of hotels on Orchard Road, it remains Singapore’s most exclusive neighborhood. If saving money is a top issue, consider staying in a budget hotel or visiting Singapore during the off-season.
Orchard Street is without a doubt the nicest neighborhood in Singapore to stay.
2. Marina Bay
Marina Bay is located on the outskirts of the city.
It is known for being Singapore’s most opulent and lavish district.
Marina Bay is Singapore’s primary tourist attraction. It features a retail mall, a museum of art and science, opulent restaurants, and a popular casino with 500 tables and a wide range of slot machines.
Marina Bay also features a number of prominent hotel chains, making it a destination in and of itself.
The Marina Bay Sands, for example, is Singapore’s most expensive and opulent hotel. It has a world-famous pool and spa. A typical room might cost around US$330 per night, but the hotel’s prestige justifies the price.
The Circle Line and Downtown Line of Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) rail system connect Marina Bay to CE1/DT16 Bayfront Station.
3. Outram & Chinatown
Outram is a district in Singapore that is bounded by the Singapore River.
Singapore’s famous Chinatown is also located in this region.
There are many things to see and do in Outram, including the Chinatown Heritage Center, a museum dedicated to Chinese culture in Singapore.
The Al Abrar and Jamae Mosques, as well as the Sri Mariamman Temple, are all located in this area.
Because of the diversity of Chinese food restaurants nearby, Chinatown’s culinary scene attracts a large number of visitors each year.
You can travel the light rail without a ticket to other parts of the city from the Outram Park and Chinatown stations.
When it comes to lodging, it is one of the more affordable central neighborhoods, particularly if you are looking for a hotel in or near Chinatown.
4. Lavender
In Singapore, Lavender is an excellent place to stay.
It includes streets such as Tessensohn Road, Balestier Road, Lavender Street, and a section of the Rocho River, and is one of the city’s busiest core neighborhoods.
It, like most major areas, has a thriving commercial scene.
The Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Mustafa Center, and the New World Amusement Park are among the city’s tourist attractions.
Multiple bus stops and two metro stations, Lavender Station and Farrer Park Station are among the options forgotten about.
As is customary in central Singapore, lodging in this region is typically opulent, yet there are some bargains to be had at cheap and cheerful 3-star hotels.
5. Bugis Street
Bugis Street, in the eastern portion of Downtown Singapore, is only a half-hour walk from Orchard Rd.
It is home to the city’s most lively street market, where you can discover a wide variety of clothing, shoes, souvenirs, and colorful accessories.
Bugis was once known as the city’s red-light district, but it is now one of the busiest retail areas.
The region around Bugis is relatively central, with public transportation terminals only a few meters away.
The lodging alternatives are far more diverse and cost-effective than those on Orchard Road.
From four-star hotels to inexpensive hostels may be found in this region.
What Should I Avoid in Singapore?
Singapore dubbed the “Fine City,” is known for its stringent laws and regulations, which contribute to the city’s pristine streets.
But don’t be put off by the Singaporean government’s love for order; the city-state is a fantastic location to visit as long as you’re courteous and avoid doing these things.
Dropping Litter
While you should carry this basic courtesy with you on all of your journeys, dropping garbage in Singapore can become a pricey habit.
Littering and spitting are considered significant offenses by the government, and if you are detected, you will be fined or sentenced to hours of community service.
Importing Chewing Gum
In Singapore, chewing gum is prohibited | Valeriya Potapova / Alamy Stock Photo
In Singapore, chewing gum is generally prohibited.
It can be used for medical purposes (for example, nicotine gum), and pharmacists are permitted to offer it to customers who provide their identity and identification.
If you’re coming from a neighboring country like Malaysia or Thailand, make sure you check your bags for any stray gum before you arrive.
Ordering Food Without Agreeing With a Price
The dynamic food scene in Singapore may entice you to visit (many people stop at Chomp Chomp Food Centre or Gluttons Bay), but make sure you agree on a price for your lunch first. Visitors face overcharge for foods like seasonal chili crab or even durian fruit in the past.
Vandalism (even if it’s meant to be art)
Vandalism has been the focus of a number of high-profile government punishments directed at tourists in Singapore, and it should be avoided at all costs.
In 2015, two German tourists were condemned to the caning after spray-painting public train carriages. There are lots of trendy neighborhoods, such as Telok Ayer and Tiong Bahru, that are covered in outstanding pieces of art if you appreciate street art and murals.
Smoking Outside the Designated Areas
Smoking regulations in Singapore have tightened, with a ban on smoking in Orchard Road, the country’s major shopping district, taking effect in 2018. You can only smoke in authorized areas now. Otherwise, penalize you.
How do you spot these smoking hotspots? They’re frequently marked with yellow paint and placed in out-of-the-way locations.
Being Insensitive to the Multicultural Society
Visiting Singapore, which has a plethora of temples, mosques, and hallowed sites of worship may be a rewarding experience. If you do decide to visit attractions like the Sultan Mosque or Thian Hock Keng Temple, exercise caution and consideration.
This entails covering your shoulders with long sleeves and a long skirt or trousers, as well as lowering your voice and refraining from shooting photos for social media.
Instead, pay attention to your surroundings and give yourself to their serenity and spirituality.
Eating on Trains and Buses
Singapore has one of the world’s most advanced transportation systems, making travel across the country relatively simple.
If you’re using the train, avoid eating or drinking because you’ll face a large pro. It’s fine to pop a mint or take a sip of water if you’re feeling claustrophobic – just don’t go too far and drink a bottle of beer while commuting.
How Much Should I Budget for a Trip to Singapore?
When it comes to Southeast Asian travel, Singapore is always at the top of the list. In this corner of the world, this small country stands out.
While there are still many temples and cultural attractions, it is quite modern and, in some areas, even futuristic. Singapore is, of course, pricey in relation to its neighbors. So, how much does a trip to Singapore cost? Continue reading to find out.
For the purposes of this post, I’ll recommend a four-day, four-night schedule. While traveling to this region of the world in such a short amount of time may appear to be impossible, Singapore is actually relatively small. Four days will give you enough time to see the sights and get a feel for the place.
I propose visiting Singapore in conjunction with a few other Southeast Asian countries, such as Laos, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, because it is so close. Your overall airfare prices will be lower if you combine your trip with other areas.
Airfare
One of the primary advantages of flying into Singapore is that it is one of Southeast Asia’s main hubs. This implies that flying to Singapore is very simple and frequently entails shorter flight times (due to fewer stopovers).
And that you can obtain cheaper tickets to Singapore from North America than to other destinations in this region, such as Malaysia.
Return flights from North America to Singapore will cost around $700, while flights from the west coast will be less expensive than flights from the east coast.
Make sure to browse around because several airlines fly here and you might be able to find a good deal if you start shopping early.
Insider tip: Singapore Airport is routinely recognize as one of the best airports in the world, with amenities such as butterfly gardens, a movie theater, and more. When it’s time to depart Singapore, arrive early at the airport to take advantage of some of these attractions.
Accommodations
Singapore has a wide range of housing prices, but even the cheapest options are more expensive than what you’d pay elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
If you’re on a budget, I recommend staying in a hostel (either a dorm or a private room). If you can afford to indulge, though, Singapore is undoubtedly the place to do it.
For the purposes of this article, I’ve assumed that nightly lodging is $125. This is based on a mid-range hotel’s costs. However, if you’re seeking a place to stay in Singapore, I propose the following:
Budget: The Atlas Station or The Bohemian
Mid-range: Hotel G Singapore or M social Singapore
Luxury: Marina Bay Sands (with the iconic infinity pool) or Mandarin Orchard Singapore
You may save a lot of money on hotels if you have the correct credit card. As a welcome bonus, you can earn up to 75,000 Marriott Bonvoy points and $200 back at U.S. restaurants if you apply for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card.
The Marriott Bonvoy American Express is a good option for Canadians because it offers up to 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
That’s enough points to get up to five free nights at some hotels, which could be worth more than $500. There’s also the BMO World EliteTM* Mastercard®*, which offers a sign-up bonus of more than $200 and waives the annual cost for the first year.
Local Transportation
Even though Singapore isn’t particularly large, you’ll need to use public transportation to go around. Public buses are the best mode of transportation for getting to the city.
They can be difficult to master, but the drivers are always happy to assist (and most do speak English).
The front desk at your hotel can assist you in determining which bus to take. The price choice is reasonable, though costs vary depending on the distance traveled.
The MRT, or train, is a more convenient mode of transportation. The MRT connects the city’s important locations and provides a quick and convenient method to travel around.
You can purchase tickets for each ride, but if you plan on using it frequently, a day pass is the best option (or 2 or 3 day passes).
They’re reasonably priced, with a one-day admission costing around $7.50 and a three-day pass costing around $15.00. Because these passes are also can on the bus, I strongly advise you to get one for your vacation.
If using public transportation intimidates you, consider taking a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus that will take you to all of Singapore’s major attractions.
These have more rigid schedules than public transportation, but they offer a convenient method to explore Singapore’s sights. You may get your tickets right here.
Attractions
There are lots to see and do in Singapore when it comes to attractions. There are plenty of free sightseeing opportunities in Singapore, but you’ll want to set aside some money for the city’s attractions, which are rather impressive.
Singapore has numerous fantastic museums, lovely gardens, and even some theme park attractions.
I recommend purchasing your attraction tickets online before leaving Klook, as you may be able to obtain a little discount and avoid waits when you arrive. The following are some of Singapore’s most popular attractions:
- Gardens by the Bay
- National Museum of Singapore
- Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck
- Universal Studios
- Singapore river cruise
- Singapore Cable Car Sky Pass
Consider acquiring the Singapore Pass for a portion of your stay if you end up with a lot of paid attractions on your list of things to see and do. It is inexpensive for what it provides and simple to use.
Food and drink
Food and drink are one of the areas in Singapore where you may really save or splurge. Throughout the city, there are numerous elegant restaurants and bars. There are, however, lots of fantastic street food finds where you can dine like a king for only a few bucks a day.
You must go to a hawker stall center at least once while in Singapore. These establishments are large, noisy, and crowded, resembling a mall food court rather than a gourmet dining establishment.
However, some of Singapore’s best meals can found here. Each vendor is an expert at something specific, and they excel at it. So take a look around, see what looks appealing, and give a couple of things a try.
The Chinatown hawker center is a good place to start. There are about 250 vendors here, and most dishes cost between $2 and $5.
If you eat at hawker stalls for breakfast and lunch and dine at a finer restaurant for supper, your daily food and drink spending will look like this.
$5 for breakfast
$5 for lunch
$50 for dinner
That works up to $60 per day, which may sound excessive, but you’ll almost certainly want to partake in some of Singapore’s nightlife.
The country has some stunning rooftop bars that are well worth a visit. It make sure you pack enough cash because cocktails may easily cost $20 or more each.
Random spending
Singapore is Asia’s shopping mecca, with massive malls stocked with top designer labels and brands.
Even if you aren’t a huge shopper, you will most likely find yourself in a mall at some point just to look around and enjoy the pleasant air conditioning.
If you’re seeking one-of-a-kind souvenirs, head to Chinatown or Little India, where you’ll find a plethora of one-of-a-kind keepsakes to take home or give as gifts.
Even if you don’t intend to buy, I recommend setting aside an extra $100 for unplanned expenses. If nothing else, it’ll come in handy for ice cream or cold beverage breaks. It’s possible to overheat while exploring Singapore!
Conclusion
There are many ways to experience Singapore. This Singapore travel guide is intended to help you get started, ensuring the best possible experience of the country.
For those looking for a more relaxing time in Singapore, consider visiting one of the gardens or malls. Traveling with children? The Singapore Zoo is a great educational experience for kids! Many people love exploring the nightlife here as well.
