If it is your first time in Singapore, you’re going to enjoy a lot. The country is a popular tourist destination. There are so many things to do in so little time. The country is very diverse and has something for everyone. Here are some tips to keep in mind for your first visit to this country:
1. Take the Public Transport or Install Grab or Gojek App
With Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), it is very easy to travel across the island country. It is super-efficient and time saving. You can check out the Singapore Tourist Pass that offers you unlimited travel on Singapore’s train and bus services in 3 variations –
1 Day Pass – $20, 2 Day Pass – $26 & 3 Day Pass – $30 which in inclusive of $10 Refundable Rental Deposit.
Taxis are also convenient to find, though slightly pricey specially at night time. You can always download Grab or Gojek app on your phone. Uber is no longer a thing in Singapore.
It is not hard to figure out where you need to go anyway.
2. Eat at Hawker Food Courts like the Locals
The hawker food courts have many choices that are super cheap and delicious. Also, you will get to try what locals eat. It is definitely a great feeling to blend in with the locals. Try the famous Hainanese Chicken Rice and Laksa which is a meal made of rice noodles and chicken, prawn of fish curry feast accompanied by a spicy coconut broth.
Head over to Little India if you want to indulge in North or South Indian food.
3. Follow the Strict Laws
“The Fine City” is Singapore’s other name, thanks to all types of fines that are imposed. This is also the reason why this country is ridiculously clean. Some things that are harmless in other countries could turn out illegal in Singapore.
Here are a few things that are illegal and you could be fined or jailed for –
- Chewing Gum
- Smoking in Public Places
- Littering
- Drugs Use
- Possessing weapons
- Jaywalking
4. Visit Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay
One of the best views of Singapore is at Marina Bay Sands so a visit there is totally worth it. Therefore, be sure to fully charge your cameras. The light show at Gardens by the Bay is free and is totally worth a look. A water and light show, free to the public near the Marina Bay Sands Promenade area is worth watching.
The Gardens and Supertree Grove are free to enjoy all day, opening at 5 a.m., and you can explore the upper walkway between the trees for $8 SGD ($6 USD) per person.
5. Surf the Internet in Public
Most restaurants, hotels and cafes in Singapore offer free Wifi. Even Public places and most shopping malls offer free connectivity. Changi airport offers free wifi and you can choose top opt for tourist SIMs from Starhub or Singtel.
6. Healthcare is expensive
Singapore offers world class healthcare facilities but they are expensive. Carry some common medication and get a travel health insurance to protect you in case you need health care services while you are visiting Singapore. Despite the fact that Singapore is very clean, yet you never know!
7. Hot & Sultry Weather
Singapore is hot and humid with average temperatures being 27 to 30 degrees Celsius with humidity around 80%. Carry with you light and breathable fabric clothes. Do not forget to keep a water bottle handy at all times. Also the rain comes in any time, so carrying an umbrella is a wise idea.
8. Shopping in Singapore
Singapore is an island country full of Malls. Almost every MRT station has a mini mall linked to it. Orchard Road offers all the branded stuff with the latest trends. It is no secret each tourist wants some souvenirs. Haji Lane, Bugis and Lucky Plaza at Orchard are the best places to go for some souvenir shopping. Of course, you can also find things that you can use in your daily lives.
9. Languages Spoken in Singapore
The common languages in Singapore are English, Singlish (Singaporean English), Malay, Chinese and Tamil. As long as you understand or can speak English, you can survive the trip to Singapore.
10. World Class Airport
Singapore boasts about having one of the best airports of the world. With the new Jewel terminal, there are plenty of things to keep you busy and well fed. Changi airport is in itself a destination to be explored in itself. World class facilities, top entrainment, luxury accommodation, global & retail brands – you name it and its there in Changi Airport. The new indoor waterfall at Jewel Changi is something you must not miss if you are Singapore bound.
With these tips in mind, you’ll definitely enjoy your first stay in Singapore. You definitely need to make the most out of your stay. There is no doubt you’d want to come back to it in the future.