Discover all the travel tips in Singapore you might need

Singapore is a modern Asian paradise. Different from any other country in the continent, it’s a place associated with luxury and technology.

Here you will know everything you need to prepare for your journey. Get into the essential Singapore travel tips with this thorough guide. 

Do I need any vaccines to travel to Singapore?

The Yellow Fever vaccine is mandatory if you come from a country where the disease is present. There is no other mandatory vaccine, although in some cases it may be advisable to get vaccinated against Tetanus, Triple Virus, Hepatitis A and Typhoid Fever.

Staying connected in Singapore travel tips

Since it’s a very modernized place, having internet access isn’t an issue in Singapore.

You can get a prepaid SIM card to stay connected at all times. However, if you’re on holiday for a short period of time, you might not want to go through the hassle of buying a SIM card and having to look after your previous one. 

If that’s the case, don’t worry: there are many spots with free WIFI available throughout Singapore. For example, at the airport there’s a free WIFI network. But that’s not all: you can also connect for free in places such as museums, shopping malls, public libraries, public transport stations and more.

What is the currency of Singapore?

Singapore’s official currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD), which is divided into 100 cents and usually abbreviated with the dollar symbol, adding the letter S in front of the symbol (S$) to differentiate it from other dollars.

Money can be exchanged at any bank in the country or through specialized currency exchange companies. If you exchange your money at a bank in Singapore, you may be asked for your passport or airline tickets.

It is best to keep all receipts for currency exchange so that you can check them in your country when you return. Paying by credit card is a good solution, and they are accepted in most places.

Do you tip in Singapore?

No. Contrary to most tourist places in the world, tipping is not customary in Singapore. This goes for tour guides, hotel staff (unless someone helps carry your bags, tipping is expected in that situation), taxi drivers and even restaurants.

To expand on the restaurant situation, a 10% surcharge is usually made, but that goes straight to the restaurant, and the same will happen if you leave your tip money on the table. If your server was good and you want to leave them a tip, give it to them directly.

How to travel around Singapore

It’s easy to know how to get around Singapore. It’s a modern city with a fast and reliable public transport system. Singapore's MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and bus networks were mapped out to make it easy for travellers and locals to travel around the city. 

For instance, most of the city’s landmarks are close to an MRT station, making trains an efficient way to explore Singapore. Note that you can also get around by taxi, ridesharing apps or bicycle with an extensive network of cycling paths. 

Packing for Singapore travel tips

Luckily, you can buy everything you need in Singapore, so all the essentials will be covered. 

Bring loose and light clothing to escape the heat, as well as comfortable walking shoes for getting around. Stay protected against the sun with hats, sunscreen and sunglasses. Also, having insect repellent is a good idea.

Singapore uses Class G sockets so, unless your plugs are of that same kind, you will probably need a universal adapter.

Useful tips in Singapore include having a portable charger, so try to buy one before traveling. 

Singapore travel tips: is haggling necessary?

Haggling is not common in Singapore, contrary to other Asian destinations. Most products already have a set price. However, asking for a discount is not as bad, so you can give it a try if you find something you really like.

When is the best time to travel to Singapore?

Singapore time is reliable, pleasant and stable, making it a year-round destination. Weather-wise, the best time to visit is between December and June, especially during April, May and June. That’s because it’s the dry season with the lowest amount of rainfall. Another good time to travel is in February, as it is the Chinese New Year with colorful parties and events.

However, during the low season (August to November), while heavy rainfalls can happen in the evenings, the city hosts incredible cultural gatherings such as Ghost Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival.

Is it safe to travel to Singapore?

If you’re looking for a safe country to travel to, look no further. Singapore consistently ranks at the top of the safest country indexes. For instance, the country ranked number one on the Safety Perception Index and in the top ten on the Global Peace Index. 

However, like in any big city in the world, you could still be targeted by pickpockets. They typically operate around tourist spots and in crowded areas, so keep your eyes wide open and avoid displaying your valuables.  

The biggest threat you can find in Singapore is thunderstorms or floods. 

Other useful travel tips in Singapore

• Remember that you need to apply for a SG Arrival Card before traveling. Read our guide about all the mandatory Singapore travel requirements everyone must meet.
• Tap water is safe to drink in Singapore so bring a reusable water bottle to fill up on the go.
• The best view in town is, without a doubt, the one that can be enjoyed on top of the famous Marina Bay Sand, one of the main things to do in Singapore. While the infinity pool is reserved for hotel guests, you can still access the observation deck located on the 56th floor. You’ll find tickets here.
• Singapore is an expensive city, and one of the best ways to save money is to eat at your local hawker centers (large food courts offering authentic local dishes and cuisines from all around the world).
• Singapore is known for its strict laws and regulations, hence its low crime rate. So, as a traveler, you need to familiarize yourself with the country’s rules. For instance, throwing a cigarette butt on the street or sticking chewing gum on public property may result in a fine. Crossing a street when you should not or consuming drinks or food on public transport are usually fined as well. These fines are paid at a kind of kiosk with ATMs located throughout the city.
• Possession and use of drugs are punishable by death in Singapore. Checks at border posts, nightclubs, entertainment venues, etc. are very thorough.
• Singapore is promoting nature and the beauty of its parks. Be sure to visit the Botanical Gardens, including the National Orchid Garden, and the Gardens by the Bay where you shouldn’t miss the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest.
• There are plenty of backpacker's places to stay if you do not want to pay high prices in hotels. Singapore is notoriously expensive for hotel accommodation. Backpacker options are affordable and clean.