With its futuristic image, vibrant innovation ecosystem, and uniquely syncretic culture, Singapore attracts millions of tourists and business travellers each year. If you’re planning your first trip to Singapore, you’ll want to throw out all your assumptions about the country. As small as it is, Singapore’s culture is truly unique, with few real comparisons to be made with its neighbours or other highly developed nations. To ensure that your stay is pleasant and memorable for all the right reasons, be sure to follow these useful pieces of advice:
Bring an Unlocked Phone
Ensure you have an unlocked phone so that you can easily purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Having a local number will give you access to affordable data plans and make it convenient to stay connected during your trip. Check out local metasearch engines to find the best SIM-only plan Singapore‘s stores have for international travellers.
Familiarise Yourself with Local Laws and Customs
Respect the locals and take the time to learn about everyday Singaporean customs, such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home, covering your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites, and not staring directly at people. Importantly, be sure to also look up local laws governing public conduct, as Singapore is often called a “fine” city for good reason.
Dress for the Climate
Singapore technically has two seasons: a ‘dry’ season that lasts from March to August and a ‘wet’ season that lasts from September to February. However, despite the names of these seasons, it can rain at any time and can likewise be hot and humid throughout the whole year. Leave your winter boots and leather jacket at home and opt for breathable clothing and practical shoes to stay comfortable while exploring the city. Don’t forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen as well.
Purchase an EZ-Link Card
Invest in an EZ-Link card, a reloadable contactless smart card that can be used to pay for rides throughout Singapore’s excellent public transportation system. Interestingly, you can even use the card to pay for items at some retail outlets. If you’re moving around the city by yourself, the EZ-Link card will save you time and money compared to purchasing single-trip tickets.
Explore Singapore’s Hawker Centres
Don’t forget to visit a few of the country’s world-famous hawker centres. These food centres house multiple food stalls, most of which are serving signature dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. Be sure to keep an eye out for stalls serving Peranakan dishes to partake in less-touristy and truly authentic Straits cuisine.
Embrace the Diverse Food Scene
While Singapore’s culinary soul lies in its homes and hawker centres, it is also a haven for international and fusion cuisine. The country lives for culinary thrills, so be sure to do some research and hit up restaurants, cafes, and hole-in-the-wall eateries that appeal to you.
Stay Hydrated
Between Singapore’s tropical climate and all the walking that you’re bound to do when exploring the country, it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle and make use of the many water coolers available throughout the city to refill it. Fortunately, most tap water in Singapore is also safe to drink, so you can refill your bottles at most taps unless there’s a sign that says otherwise.
Be Mindful of the Chewing Gum Ban
You might have thought that it was a joke but it’s true. The sale of chewing gum is mostly prohibited in Singapore except for therapeutic or dental purposes. While you can bring small amounts into the country for personal use, it’s hardly worth the trouble. As Lee Kwan Yew, the country’s first prime minister and the originator of the ban quipped, “If you can’t think because you can’t chew, try a banana.”
Carry Cash with You
While cashless payment methods are becoming more popular in Singapore, it’s still a good idea to carry some local currency for small vendors and the many establishments that are still strictly cash-only. In particular, many food stalls at hawker centres will only accept cash payments.
Visit Only the Attractions That Interest You
Even though it’s as small as it is, Singapore offers hundreds of unique attractions, catering to all tastes and interests. There’s so much to do that many locals have not fully explored their own country themselves. If you’re only going to be in the country for a week or so, avoid visiting popular places for the sake of visiting them; instead, choose places that are more likely to be more meaningful to you.
Take Advantage of Free Attractions
While Singapore is admittedly quite an expensive country to visit, it also offers several free attractions that are worth exploring. Places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Merlion Park, Fort Canning Park, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, and the various ethnic enclaves are an excellent way to experience the city without breaking the bank.
Don’t Forget to Flush
Singapore is known for its strict regulations when it comes to cleanliness, and this extends to public restrooms as well. One notable requirement is the legal obligation to flush any toilet that you use. If you think you can get away with not flushing, think again. Undercover police have been known to check stalls and issue fines to offenders.
Singapore is a melting pot like no other. With its modern attractions, rich mix of cultures, and innovative spirit, the city-state has more than enough to offer. By following the tips above, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your first—and probably not your last—visit to Singapore.