Tips for Your First Trip to Singapore

Trip to Singapore

As one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia, Singapore is a diverse island country that has something of interest for every traveler. Whether you only have 24 hours or 3 days in Singapore, it's time to pack your bags and visit this high-tech city.

Located off the south coast of Malaysia, Singapore is a futuristic urban center rich in experiences on every street corner. Ready to fall in love with this unique destination?

Here are 10 tips for your first trip to Singapore!

Use Public Transportation or Grab App

Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is a traveller's dream! The country has an impressive public transport network that will take you wherever you want to go.

To save money and time, I recommend that you check the Singapore Tourist Pass. It gives you unlimited travel for as long as you want. One day pass costs $ 10 SGD ($ 7.50 USD), two day pass is $ 16 SGD ($ 12 USD) or you can get three day pass for $ 20 SGD ($ 15 USD).

Although the MRT is great, it can sometimes be more convenient to jump in a car. However, taxis are expensive in Singapore, and Uber is no longer a thing.

So download the app, Grab, before you go. It works just like Uber, and it's a must-have local app!

Get Travel Insurance

I've heard so many horror stories from other travelers detailing the dangers of traveling without insurance! Whether it is lost wallets or serious injuries, it is so comforting to know that you are covered if something goes wrong while traveling.

I have always used yugo insurance and they have saved me money. From helping with my lost and delayed luggage to covering my damaged motorhome in Iceland, I found that the insurance was worth it.

Eat Like the Locals

I loved cooking in Singapore! You don't have to go to a Michelin star restaurant to get a delicious meal (although Singapore has the cheapest Michelin star meal).

My best places are food centers and street vendors around China Town and Marina Bay. Be sure to try Singaporean specialties like chicken rice, chili crab and Laksa (a spicy noodle soup).

Singaporeans are crazy for Prawn Mee, too. Head there for more tasty noodles!

Get to Gardens by the Bay Early

Being one of the most popular attractions in the city, Gardens by the Bay is very popular. The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest open at 9 a.m., so I recommend you get there about 15 minutes early so you're among the first to buy tickets, which cost $ 28 SGD (about $ 21 USD) per no one.

The gardens and Supertree Grove are free for the whole day, opening at 5 a.m., and you can explore the upper walkway between the trees for $ 8 SGD ($ 6 USD) per person.

Drink the Tap Water

The water is absolutely safe to drink here. Bring a refillable water bottle, so you can reduce the amount of plastic you use.

Stick to Happy Hour

Alcohol is very expensive in Singapore. You'll find cocktails for $ 22 USD ($ 16.50 USD) in trendy downtown locations and beers in neighborhood bars for $ 10 SGD ($ 7.50 USD).

Happy hour is the perfect time in Singapore. Around 5 pm to 9 pm in the bars of the city, you can find bargains on drinks of all kinds.

Stay Connected

Although you will find many restaurants and cafes in Singapore with Wi-Fi, the cost (in time and money) of buying a coffee every time you want to connect increases rapidly.

To get around this problem, I use the Skyroam Solis when I'm abroad.

It allows me to connect my phone and my laptop (up to five devices) to WiFi all day with unlimited use. It can be difficult to get a SIM card in some countries and the roaming charges are extremely high. This is where Skyroam comes in. It's such a simple and affordable solution.

Get the Best View in Town

I stayed in the iconic Marina Bay Sands and was fortunate enough to enjoy the view from the infinity pool. The skyline of the city was absolutely magnificent from up there.

To discover the famous swimming pool, you must be a hotel guest. You can, however, enjoy the breathtaking view from the observation deck on the 57th floor.

You Don’t Always Have to Tip

Tipping is not really part of Singapore culture. Staff don't expect tips, so don't feel pressured. However, if you are really satisfied with the service, the advice is most certainly appreciated.

Pack Accordingly

Singapore is hot and humid all year round, with temperatures often reaching over 90 degrees (F). Even in the middle of winter, you will rarely see night lows plunge below 75 degrees (F).

Wear light clothing and be sure to pack a rain jacket. Rain can fall abundantly and without warning.

Although it can be refreshing on a hot day, you will want to prepare for unexpected showers.

Related Article:

Singapore Travels and Tours 

Easy tips for saving up money BEFORE your next vacation 

9 Switzerland Travel Tips 

Tips for planning an affordable family vacation