Singapore Travel Tips

Singapore is a fantastic gem located in South Asia that is waiting to be explored by travellers from across the world. Although small in size, the country packs a punch when it comes to local culture, food, nightlife, and even infrastructure. The country ranks among the safest countries for travel and with its focus on cleanliness, it is a haven for travellers. There is so much to do in Singapore that it is hard to decide where to begin. If you are travelling to this country for the first time, here is a list of Singapore travel tips you must keep in mind before booking your stay or heading out on your trip.

1. Use public transportation - The best way to get around Singapore is via public transportation. Taxis can get a little expensive as they have a base fare and then the cost increases as you travel a certain distance.

The train system (MRT) is well-connected and so is the bus. Make sure you get a transportation card (EZ-Link card) and load it with money (possible even at a local 7 Eleven store). Every time you use public transportation, the fee will get deducted from the card.

2. Get travel insurance - Something that travellers to Singapore often neglect is getting good, comprehensive travel insurance. Although most of us are fit and healthy, you never know when an emergency arises. Travel insurance is not only useful during medical emergencies but can also help tremendously in case of losing your luggage or even your wallet.

3. Try local food - One thing you should know about Singapore is that it is extremely expensive. Fine dining can cost you quite a bit. There is no harm in checking out local Singapore street food vendors, and you will probably have a delightful experience sampling local cuisine and watching the local culture up close at a hawker center. Local food is also quite delicious and diverse, so make sure you try everything you see. Fear not, there are plenty of vegetarian options available.

4. Book tours with locals - Travelers who like exploring Singapore points of interest with guided tours should consider booking tours. Many companies offer walking tours or bus tours and even private tours for excursions in the city or the surrounding areas. Such tours will help you understand Singapore’s history and culture as well as make the most of your time there. Apart from the tours your package with Holxo includes, we suggest you take up other optional tours during your free time.

5. Pack essential medication - Going to a foreign country means that you never know where you will be able to find essential medicines. Always have a first aid kit with you with all the necessary medicines while travelling. It might also be difficult to find medicines without a doctor’s prescription in a new country, so having your medicines with you is the best bet.

6. Pack according to the weather - Singapore’s weather is hot and humid. It is important to pack your bag accordingly. It is better to check the temperatures and then pack to ensure you have light, comfortable clothes that make sightseeing fun.

While out exploring, carry sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and other items to protect you from the harsh sun. The weather is hot and humid practically throughout the year, so have a scarf handy to protect yourself from the heat.

7. Plan your Singapore itinerary keeping your fellow travellers in mind - The first thing to decide before you create an itinerary is: Who are you traveling with. For those travelling with their better halves, you might want to consider adding fun and romantic activities in Singapore. For those travelling with kids and families, make sure to include popular Singapure attractions so that everyone on the trip can have fun.

Holxo offers a range of itineraries for different groups, so you can pick and choose accordingly. 

8. Apply for your visa before time - It is important to apply for the visa well ahead of time. You should have the visa in hand at least a month before you depart, so it is safe to say that if you have the trip planned in advance, you should apply for Singapore visa in advance as well.

9. Important documents - Always have all your important documents handy before the trip. Make sure your passport’s expiry date is not in the coming six months, because that can be grounds for rejecting your visa. When you are travelling, always make sure you are carrying your passport and other documents on you. Don’t leave such important documents unattended.

10. Choose accommodation carefully - Singapore is quite spread out, so all the popular Singapore tourist attractions are not located in one area. This is why it is important to pick out your accommodation after thorough research. You should check out the area and if you plan on using public transportation, check the nearest bus stop or train stop. This will help you determine what is the best possible area to find a hotel or apartment in.

When you pick a package with Holxo, we ensure accommodation is in the Singapore city center and easily accessible. 

11. Research local SIM cards - Most countries have local SIM cards you can purchase at the airport to stay connected. However, it is important to compare the different plans to ensure that you get the best deal. SingTel, StarHub, and M1 - all offer prepaid plans for tourists.

12. Read up on the culture - Each country has its own set of customs and regulations, and it is important to know them beforehand. You don’t want to offend someone unknowingly or break a rule you didn’t know about. Singapore is quite strict when it comes to following laws, so research, read and prepare yourself before you visit the country.

13. Book excursions in advance - Popular attractions like Universal Studios, Singapore Flyer, etc., are always crowded, no matter what time of the year you visit. Therefore, it is important to book these tickets ahead of time to reduce your wait time at the actual location. Most Singapore attractions allow visitors to book tickets online, so you can do it even before you reach Singapore.

With Holxo, our packages come with tickets to popular attractions in Singapore, so you have no worry in the world.

14. Foreign currency exchange - It is important to have the local currency in hand before you leave the airport. This is because you might need it for small purchases or for paying the taxi fare. Therefore, you can always utilize the foreign exchange counter at the airport for exchanging a part of the cash you are carrying and the rest can be done at popular places such as Mustafa Centre in Little India and Lucky Plaza on Orchard Road.

15. Take note of your electronics – No one travels without their phone, portable battery, iPad or laptop, camera, iPod, etc. Therefore, it is important to take care of your electronics while travelling. Always have all your wires together, and make sure you have a converter for electrical outlets in Singapore. Keep your electronics with you at all times and make sure you charge them to have a fun day exploring the city.

16. Tax refund at the airport - Singapore has a Goods & Services Tax. As a traveller, you can claim a refund on purchases made at the airport. Make sure to check the categories that the refund applies to, and to obtain the necessary documents and paperwork for claiming the refund.

17. Safety for tourists - Singapore is an extremely safe county to visit. Be it day or night, travellers can walk the streets without a sense of fear. Few areas like Geylang, Lorongs, etc. are not particularly safe, especially for single women. You can visit, but it is preferable to venture out there during the day.

However, minor crimes like pickpocketing are common especially in areas with many tourists. In a crowded area, do not let your guard down just because you feel safe. Keep your valuables close at all times and always keep an eye for anything suspicious.  

18. Tipping - Tipping is not customary in Singapore. You do not need to pay for any service you avail; however, you can tip when you feel a particular person has provided exceptional service.

Restaurants and bars - A place with tables, where you sit down warrants a 10% service charge which is automatically added to the bill.

Singapore Hotels - Hotels also add a 10% service charge to the bill.

Taxi - Tipping taxi drivers is not necessary.

Singapore is truly a beautiful place to explore. Once you visit, you might never want to leave, so prepare to fall in love with this place. Make sure you keep all these tips and tricks in mind before traveling to Singapore to have an amazing trip. Happy travelling.