Top 10 Singapore Travel Tips You Need to Know

About Singapore

Singapore is a dynamic and modern city-state located in Southeast Asia, south of Malaysia. It is a highly developed country that is known for its clean and green environment, efficient transportation system, and multicultural society. The resident population is diverse, consisting of Chinese (74.1%), Malay (13.6%), Indian (9.0%), and Others (3.3%)*. English is the official language of Singapore and is widely spoken, so communicating with the locals shouldn’t be a problem. Singlish is a colloquial form of English that is commonly spoken in Singapore. It’s a unique blend of English, Malay, Mandarin, Hokkien, and other local languages and dialects. While it’s not considered a standard form of English, it’s widely spoken and understood by locals in Singapore. However, it may be more difficult for non-native speakers to understand, as Singlish includes many local slang and idioms.

Singapore is a popular tourist destination due to its world-renowned attractions, such as the iconic Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay. Other popular attractions include the Merlion statue, which is Singapore’s iconic symbol, the Singapore Flyer, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the Sentosa Island resort, which offers a wide range of entertainment options.

In addition to being a tourist hub, Singapore is also a major business and financial center in Asia. It is home to numerous multinational corporations, and Singapore’s Changi Airport is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world.

*Source: Singapore Department of Statistics as of 2022.

Top 10 Singapore Travel Tips You Need to Know

1. Currency and payment methods used in Singapore

Singapore uses the Singapore Dollar (SGD) as its currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases at local markets or hawker centers.

2. Best time to visit Singapore

The best time to visit Singapore is between February and April or between July and September, when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, Singapore’s climate is hot and humid year-round, so be prepared for heat and humidity no matter when you visit. The wettest months in Singapore usually fall between November and January, and occasionally extend through the Chinese Lunar New Year in February. Despite the fact that the year-end season tends to be colder and wetter, locals still enjoy it greatly, as the country is beautifully decorated for Christmas and New Year. The Chinese Lunar New Year is also a significant celebration in Singapore, as 74% of the population is of Chinese origin.

3. Dress for Singapore's weather

While touring Singapore, it’s advisable to check the weather forecast as the climate can be hot and humid, with occasional rainfall. Wear lightweight and breathable clothing as well as comfortable shoes for walking. Remember to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Bring an umbrella or raincoat, as rain showers are common in Singapore, even during the dry season. Carry a water bottle and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. A light jacket or sweater may come in handy for air-conditioned places.

4. Where to stay in Singapore

Singapore has a variety of accommodation options available, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Popular areas for tourists to stay in Singapore include Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Chinatown, and Little India. For ease of access to many tourist attractions, shopping, dining, and entertainment options, it is recommended to choose a hotel located along the MRT Downtown Line.

5. Mobile SIM card

You can purchase a prepaid SIM card at Changi Airport or at local convenience stores. The major telecom providers in Singapore are Singtel, Starhub, and M1.

6. Public transportation in Singapore is convenient and affordable

One of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to travel around Singapore is by using the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) train system. It is recommended that travellers purchase an EZ-Link card, which can be used on the MRT as well as on public buses. Taxis in Singapore are all metered, and ride-sharing apps such as Grab are available, but Uber is not an option. However, be aware that fares may be higher during peak hours from 7am to 9am and 5pm to 8pm, and it may be more challenging to find a ride during bad weather conditions or these busy times.

Protip: You can use your contactless credit or debit card directly on the MRT and/or buses in Singapore without any extra charges. The fares charges are the same as EZ-Link card.

7. Consider purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass

The Singapore Tourist Pass is a convenient option for visitors who plan to use public transportation frequently during their stay in Singapore. It allows unlimited travel on Singapore’s public transport system, including the MRT trains and public buses.

The pass comes in three options – 1 day (SGD22), 2 days (SGD29), or 3 days (SGD34), and can be purchased at TransitLink ticket office of selected MRT stations. The pass is activated upon first use and is valid for consecutive days. One of the main advantages of the Singapore Tourist Pass is that it allows visitors to explore the city without worrying about the cost of public transportation adding up, and enjoy discounted admission to tourist admissions. However, it’s important to note that the pass does not include travel on premium services (Sentosa Express, RWS8, express buses as well as other premium and niche bus services). There is a refundable deposit of SGD10 upon purchase of the pass, which will be returned upon surrendering the pass.

Visit Singapore Tourist Pass website for more information.

8. Know the rules in Singapore

Singapore has a reputation for being a very clean and orderly city, and this is largely due to its strict laws and regulations. For example, chewing gum is prohibited in Singapore and it is not sold in the country.

Littering is also strictly prohibited, and there are heavy fines for those caught littering. The fines can be steep and range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the offense.

Other examples of strict laws in Singapore include the prohibition of smoking in public areas, such as parks and beaches, and the restriction of alcohol consumption in public places between the hours of 10:30pm and 7am. Visitors are advised to be aware of these laws and regulations to avoid any legal trouble or hefty fines. It is important to respect Singapore’s laws and regulations as they are in place to maintain the country’s high standards of cleanliness, safety, and orderliness.

9. Safe travels in Singapore

Singapore is known for being one of the safest countries in the world, making it an attractive destination for travellers. The crime rate is extremely low, and the streets are well-lit. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, just as you would in any other major city.

10. What to do if your phone overheats

The last tip is for serious photographers, videographers and instagrammers. Singapore is located near the equator and has a hot and humid climate year-round, which can cause your phone to overheat quickly, particularly if you are an iPhone user. It happens to me all the time as most of the photo shoots are held outdoors to fit the “sunny” theme. Overheating can cause the phone display to dim or go black, making it difficult to focus on the subject properly, or navigate around the city using the phone. If your phone overheats, the best course of action is to move it to a cool area, close all unused apps, remove the phone case, and avoid charging it until it cools down.

Continuous shooting and overheating can cause battery drain on your iPhone, so it is advisable to carry a power bank with you to charge your phone when its battery runs low.