Singapore Travel guide

This guide contains:

– General information

– Good to know before travelling

– Telephones, mobile broadband & electric sockets

– Where to stay

– Transportation

– What to eat

– What to see & do

– Videos from Singapore

– More information

General information

Singapore is a small island country in South East Asia. The population is estimated to 5,6 million and covers an area of 723 square kilometres. The country is a growing economy and known for transforming from third world- to first world country in only one single generation. In the second century the very first settlers arrived in Singapore and in 1819 Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles of the British East India Trading company bought the island and converted it into an important trading port. In 1963 Singapore separated from Great Britain and became an independent country in 1965. Singapore has several official languages including: English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil.

Good to know before travelling

  • English is widely spoken and there is no problem with getting by with English.
  • The local currency is Singapore Dollars (SGD)
  • Do not litter, jaywalk, eat or drink on the streets as these things have huge fines.
  • Do not eat or drink on public transportation or at the metro stations.
  • There are drinking fountains in many places where you can fill up your reusable water bottle.
  • Always carry on umbrella, you can never rely on the weather in South East Asia.
  • All metro stations have public toilets which also are clean. This is good to know when you are out and about.
  • You will find public Wi-fi everywhere.
  • Most places accept cards, but always good to carry some cash.
  • 230V type G electric socket
  • Visa is generally not required for most nationalities if you are intending to stay no longer than 90 days.
  • Singapore is one of the safest places in Asia.
  • Check if you need any vaccinations for visiting the country.
  • Have your address to the place you are staying in Singapore easy accessible upon arrival at the airport. When you fill in your disembarkation form you will have to write it down.
  • Don´t forget the sunscreen!

Telephones, mobile broadband and electric sockets

You can buy a SIM-card upon arrival at the airport. But personally I decided not to buy a SIM-card during my stay. I was very pleasantly surprised by the public WI-FI that could be found in most public places.

The electric socket used in Singapore is the G-type which originally comes from England. The voltage is also 230V.

Where to stay

Singapore is one of the most expensive places in Asia and that is also reflected in the price for accommodation. I recommend staying in the centre close to Clarke Quay, preferably Boat Quay. From this locations most of the major attractions are within walking distance.

One commendation for a hostel located in Boat Quay is BEAT capsules. This place was affordable, clean and had a perfect location. It´s better than a normal hostel as you get a small capsule and also plenty of storage space for luggage. 

Transportation

Public transporation is very convenient in Singapore. As many of the major attractions are located close to each other I wouldn’t recommend buying a day-pass for the public transport if you are living in the centre.. It would be smarter to buy one-way tickets instead.

What to eat

Here are a few vegan places to try when visiting Singapore. Make sure to try a vegan Laksa, which is a traditional Singapore dish. 

  • The Wholefood Kitchen (Bishan Cafeteria, 514 Bishan Street 13 Second Floor, Singapore 570514)
  • nomVnom (Central Clarke Quay, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, #B1-44, Singapore 059817)
  • The Boneless Kitchen (The Commerze@Irving, 1 Irving Place, #01-31, Singapore 369546)
  • Brownice, vegan ice cream ( Sin Ming Centre, 8 Sin Ming Road, #01-03, Singapore 575628)
  • Genesis Vegan Restaurant (115 Owen Road, Singapore 218922)
  • Loving Hut (229 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427489)
  • Yi Xin Vegan Food in Chinatown
  • Veg Cafe (Boat quay)

What to see and do

  • Marina Bay

  • Clarke Quay

  • Gardens by the bay: The cloud forest & The flower dome 

  • Raffles Hotel

  • China-Town

  • Little India & Arab street

  • Orchard Road

  • Singapore Flyer

  • Sentosa Island: Universal Studios &  tropical beaches just a 20 minute ride from down-town. You can also take a cable car to the island. There is loads of fun activities on the island and something for everyone.

  • Botanic Garden

  • Granite Island (Pulau Ubin)

  • Ce La Vie Rooftop bar: If you want to see Singapore from above definetly go to the Ce La Vie Rooftop bar in Marina Bay Sands. It´s cheaper to buy a drink pass than a ticket to the observation deck. Pay 20 dollars for view and drinks instead of 23 dollars just for the view.

Videos from Singapore

More information

More information about Singapore can be found here.