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All you need to know before you go: Singapore entry requirements

Shell

Public Health Requirements

2b) post-arrival advisories, singapore: for full vaccinated travelers, checklist of the pre-departure to singapore:, singapore: for non-fully vaccinated travelers, singapore entry procedures, 2. universal studios singapore, 3. gardens by the bay, 4. s.e.a. aquarium, 5. singapore flyer, 6. singapore zoo, 7. skyline luge singapore, 8. night safari, 9. wings of time, 10. singapore river, 11. duck tours, 12. adventure cove waterpark, 13. merlion park, 14. river wonders, 15. national museum of singapore, 16. marina bay sands, 17. sands skypark, 18. clarke quay, 19. artscience museum, 20. chinatown, 1. marina bay sands singapore, 2. raffles singapore, 3. capella singapore, 4. resorts world sentosa - equarius hotel (sg clean), 5. the fullerton bay hotel singapore.

Show More 

0103712000a7yhewo1AB2.jpg

There are no longer any COVID-19 measures for travellers arriving in Singapore from 13 February 2023 , regardless of vaccination status or traveller profile.

😉 Read more:

Singapore Public holidays in the Year of the Rabbit 2023

5 best places to travel during your time in Sentosa Island, Singapore

Visiting Singapore zoo: A real treat for wildlife lovers

Singapore: Latest Singapore entry requirements

Singapore is open to all travellers without quarantine or testing requirements, regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status.

Travellers seeking to enter Singapore should comply with the prevailing Public Health as well as Entry Requirements listed below to ensure a smooth journey.

To avoid tests and quarantine, travellers must fulfil the public health requirements below. Travellers who cannot meet the public health requirements and refuse any test(s) and/or quarantine may be turned away from Singapore.

1) Yellow Fever Requirements:

Produce an International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever, if you have visited any country at risk of Yellow Fever transmission in the past six (6) days before arrival in Singapore.

Travellers must serve quarantine for up to six (6) days on arrival if they cannot meet the requirement. Quarantine also applies to those who are ineligible to receive the vaccination e.g., children aged one year and below and individuals with contraindications.

2) General Entry Requirements

2a) Immigration Requirements

To enter Singapore, travellers must meet the following immigration requirements:

Short Term Visitors

Singapore entry restrictions

Short term passengers who have been vaccinated do not need to apply for an "Air Travel Pass” (ATP) to enter Singapore. Passengers who have not completed COVID-19 vaccination are not allowed to enter the country temporarily.

Short-term passengers with special/humanitarian needs or Singaporean citizens/permanent residents and their relatives, or passengers who are not suitable for vaccination due to medical reasons, can apply for entry conditionally. However, for those tourists, they need to hold travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30000 Singapore dollars (SGD) when entering the country. And they need to cover medical and hospitalization expenses related to COVID-19; While they will be quarantined at home for 7 days and conducted PCR testing after the quarantine period.

1mj2c12000as73zng7304.jpg

- Complete at least two doses of designated vaccines two weeks before departure

- The designated vaccines are included in the emergency use list by the World Health Organization (WHO)

Fully vaccinated and non-fully vaccinated children aged 12 and below by year of birth will be allowed to enter Singapore

- Obtain proof of vaccination

- Secure tickets for any flight to Singapore

- 3 days before departure: Submit SG Arrival Card and e-health declaration via the official and free e-service on the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website

From 29 August, non-fully vaccinated visitors will no longer be required to undergo a 7-day Stay Home Notice (SHN) upon arrival or take an exit SHN Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test.

1. Fill in the Singapore electronic entry card online within 72 hours before boarding.

2. Passengers need to complete WHO-approved vaccination and provide an electronic vaccine certificate

3. Non-vaccinated passengers must have negative PCR test results 48 hours before departure

4. Install the TraceTogether application on your phone

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travel formalities in singapore

[Updated 24 August 2022]

Since its launch on 1 April 2022, the Vaccinated Travel Framework has allowed all fully vaccinated travellers to enter Singapore without serving a Stay-Home Notice (SHN) or applying for entry approvals.  All countries/regions are currently classified under the General Travel or the Restricted Category and accorded border measures by individual travellers’ vaccination status. All countries/regions are classified under General Travel Category with no countries under the Restricted Category. This will be adjusted according to any developments to the local and global COVID-19 situation.

Travellers who tested positive for COVID-19 should defer their travel plans to Singapore and not board commercial flights or ferries, as they may infect fellow passengers and crew. They should only resume their travel after testing negative, at least 72 hours from the time they first tested positive. 1

1  Or on Day 7 for vaccinated persons (and children below 12 years old) if they continue to test positive. Non-fully vaccinated persons aged 12 years and above should only resume travel on Day 14 if they continue to test positive.

Updates on Border Measures for General Travel Category

[Updated]  From  28 August 2022 2359 hours,  all non-fully vaccinated travellers are no longer required to undergo a 7-day SHN and take a Polymerase Chain Reaction COVID-19 test at the end of their SHN period. They are still required to take a PDT within  2 days before departure for Singapore 2  and test negative before departing for Singapore.

Removal of Pre-Departure Test (PDT) Requirements

Under the framework, fully vaccinated travellers and non-fully vaccinated children aged 12 and below are permitted to enter Singapore, without entry approvals or taking Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) transport. Meanwhile, those arriving via land checkpoints are not required to take pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 tests. 

From  26 April 2022 0001 hours , all fully vaccinated travellers and non-fully vaccinated children aged 12 and below arriving via air or sea checkpoints will no longer be required to take a PDT before departing for Singapore 1 . This means that fully vaccinated travellers and those who are well will not require any tests to enter Singapore.

Removal of entry approval requirements

[Updated]  From  28 August 2022 2359 hours, non-fully vaccinated Long-Term Pass Holders (LTPHs) and Short-Term Visitors (STVs) aged 13 and above are no longer required to apply for entry approval to enter Singapore.

LTPHs will continue to be required to meet all Vaccinated-Differentiated SMMs (VDS) requirements after their arrival in Singapore due to their longer length of stay. STVs are required to purchase COVID-19 travel insurance to cover the duration of their stay in Singapore.

In addition, from  1 May 2022 , fully vaccinated non-Malaysian Work Permit Holders no longer need to apply for entry approvals to enter Singapore. Non-Malaysian Work Permit Holders (WPHs) holding an In-Principle Approval (IPA) in the Construction, Marine Shipyard and Process (CMP) sectors no longer need to apply for entry approvals. Instead, they will need to book a slot at the Onboard centre to undergo onboarding upon arrival. Please refer to  MOM website  for details. 

A summary of the border measures for the General Travel Category and the Restricted Category under the Vaccination Travel Framework is found in the table below. Travellers are strongly advised to check the  SafeTravel website  for the latest border measures before entering Singapore.

1  From  1 May 2022, non-Malaysian WPHs holding an IPA will need to undergo a two-day Pre-Departure Preparatory Programme (PDPP), if PDPP is available in their source countries (currently Bangladesh, India and Myanmar), before entering Singapore. More details of the PDPP and the list of PDPP providers can be found here.  

2  The following PDTs are accepted: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test, professionally administered Antigen-Rapid Test (ART) or ARTs supervised by licensed Singapore providers (including remotely supervised ARTs). Please refer to https://go.gov.sg/remote-art-overseas-sg for a list of approved remotely supervised ART PDT providers.

3  Non-fully vaccinated LTPHs aged 13 – 17 years entering Singapore should complete the full vaccination regime after arriving in Singapore.

$  Non-fully vaccinated Long-Term Pass Holders (LTPHs) and Short-Term Visitors (STVs) aged 13 and above are now allowed to enter Singapore. LTPHs will continue to be required to fulfil vaccination requirements after their arrival in Singapore due to their longer length of stay.

%  Travellers are subjected to Restricted Category border measures regardless of vaccination status if their 7-day travel history includes Restricted Category countries/ regions. 

^ There may be administrative, health, and vaccination requirements that are in addition or differ from the measures above. Check  SafeTravel website  for details.

&  Refer to  go.gov.sg/remote-art-overseas-sg  for a list of approved remotely supervised ART PDT providers, and the travellers and countries/regions that this service applies to.

@  The charges for 7-day SHN at a dedicated SHN facility currently amount to $1,015.

+  Travellers will be notified of their test appointment closer to the date of their exit PCR test.

Updates to charging policies for vaccinated travellers

With the introduction of the Vaccinated Travel Framework, the charging policies will be streamlined for SCs/PRs/LTPH travellers, if they develop onset of symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 upon their return to Singapore.

Patients who are required to pay for their medical bills may continue to tap on their regular healthcare financing arrangements to help pay for their bills.

There is no change to the charging policy for all Short-Term Pass Holders– the individual remains responsible for any COVID-19 medical bill incurred, throughout their stay in Singapore. 

A summary of updated charging policies is as follows:

For more information, refer to MOH's latest  press release .

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All you need to know before you go: Singapore entry requirements

Shell

Public Health Requirements

2b) post-arrival advisories, singapore: for full vaccinated travelers, checklist of the pre-departure to singapore:, singapore: for non-fully vaccinated travelers, singapore entry procedures, 2. universal studios singapore, 3. gardens by the bay, 4. s.e.a. aquarium, 5. singapore flyer, 6. singapore zoo, 7. skyline luge singapore, 8. night safari, 9. wings of time, 10. singapore river, 11. duck tours, 12. adventure cove waterpark, 13. merlion park, 14. river wonders, 15. national museum of singapore, 16. marina bay sands, 17. sands skypark, 18. clarke quay, 19. artscience museum, 20. chinatown, 1. marina bay sands singapore, 2. raffles singapore, 3. capella singapore, 4. resorts world sentosa - equarius hotel (sg clean), 5. the fullerton bay hotel singapore.

Show More 

0103712000a7yhewo1AB2.jpg

There are no longer any COVID-19 measures for travellers arriving in Singapore from 13 February 2023 , regardless of vaccination status or traveller profile.

😉 Read more:

Singapore Public holidays in the Year of the Rabbit 2023

5 best places to travel during your time in Sentosa Island, Singapore

Visiting Singapore zoo: A real treat for wildlife lovers

Singapore: Latest Singapore entry requirements

Singapore is open to all travellers without quarantine or testing requirements, regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status.

Travellers seeking to enter Singapore should comply with the prevailing Public Health as well as Entry Requirements listed below to ensure a smooth journey.

To avoid tests and quarantine, travellers must fulfil the public health requirements below. Travellers who cannot meet the public health requirements and refuse any test(s) and/or quarantine may be turned away from Singapore.

1) Yellow Fever Requirements:

Produce an International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever, if you have visited any country at risk of Yellow Fever transmission in the past six (6) days before arrival in Singapore.

Travellers must serve quarantine for up to six (6) days on arrival if they cannot meet the requirement. Quarantine also applies to those who are ineligible to receive the vaccination e.g., children aged one year and below and individuals with contraindications.

2) General Entry Requirements

2a) Immigration Requirements

To enter Singapore, travellers must meet the following immigration requirements:

Short Term Visitors

Singapore entry restrictions

Short term passengers who have been vaccinated do not need to apply for an "Air Travel Pass” (ATP) to enter Singapore. Passengers who have not completed COVID-19 vaccination are not allowed to enter the country temporarily.

Short-term passengers with special/humanitarian needs or Singaporean citizens/permanent residents and their relatives, or passengers who are not suitable for vaccination due to medical reasons, can apply for entry conditionally. However, for those tourists, they need to hold travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30000 Singapore dollars (SGD) when entering the country. And they need to cover medical and hospitalization expenses related to COVID-19; While they will be quarantined at home for 7 days and conducted PCR testing after the quarantine period.

1mj2c12000as73zng7304.jpg

- Complete at least two doses of designated vaccines two weeks before departure

- The designated vaccines are included in the emergency use list by the World Health Organization (WHO)

Fully vaccinated and non-fully vaccinated children aged 12 and below by year of birth will be allowed to enter Singapore

- Obtain proof of vaccination

- Secure tickets for any flight to Singapore

- 3 days before departure: Submit SG Arrival Card and e-health declaration via the official and free e-service on the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website

From 29 August, non-fully vaccinated visitors will no longer be required to undergo a 7-day Stay Home Notice (SHN) upon arrival or take an exit SHN Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test.

1. Fill in the Singapore electronic entry card online within 72 hours before boarding.

2. Passengers need to complete WHO-approved vaccination and provide an electronic vaccine certificate

3. Non-vaccinated passengers must have negative PCR test results 48 hours before departure

4. Install the TraceTogether application on your phone

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Before I Travel

Travellers are reminded to check the COVID-19 entry requirements of the countries that you intend to visit.

Please refer to ICA’s website for more information on the Health-Related Border Measures and general entry requirements for returning Singaporeans and other travellers. 

eRegister  with MFA so that we can better help you during an emergency or crisis. 

Apply for an  Exit Permit (for National Service-liable male Singaporean citizens and Permanent Residents).

Check the  visa requirements of countries you intend to enter or transit in. As visa requirements can change at short notice, we advise you to check with your travel agencies or the relevant foreign embassies to ensure that you have the most updated visa information. Please note that visa requirements may also differ for holders of Singapore Temporary Travel Document.

Why do I need a visa?

Every country has the right to deny you entry if a visa is required and you are unable to present one. If you do not possess an appropriate visa, you may be denied entry to the country you are visiting or transiting in, ending your trip before it has even begun. We are unable to assist you in such a situation as we cannot intervene in another state’s immigration policies, just as how they cannot interfere in Singapore’s. Visas are issued for different purposes such as study, tourism, or business. Please ensure that you obtain the appropriate visa for your travel purpose, or you may be refused entry into the country.

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance  with COVID-19 coverage, and including medical evacuation in case you encounter any unexpected emergencies. Be familiar with the terms and coverage of your policy.

Why do I need insurance?

Possessing the right travel insurance can save you a great deal of trouble should adverse situations occur.

A healthy Singaporean visiting China suffered a sudden brain  hemorrhage and had to be hospitalised. Given his critical condition, the Singaporean remained hospitalised for two weeks and chalked up a daily bill of S$1,000. When he was eventually cleared by the hospital for medical evacuation back to Singapore, the flight evacuation cost almost S$60,000. Unfortunately, the Singaporean had not purchased any travel insurance and his family had to foot the entire hospital bill as well as the cost of medical evacuation amounting to S$74,000. 

If you do not have suitable insurance, you or your family and friends will be required to bear the burden of these expenses, which can be extremely costly. We therefore strongly advise you to purchase a suitable insurance policy and know the terms and conditions of your policy, before travelling abroad.

Check the health and vaccination requirements of your destination(s).

Bring your doctor’s prescription if you have to carry any medication, as you may need to show this at the customs checkpoint(s).

Check the customs regulations concerning import and export of items for the countries you are visiting. Some countries require travellers to declare items that are under their quarantine restrictions at the entry checkpoint.

Check  MFA travel information for your destination(s).

Read up on your destination’s local news and regulations. Get information from experienced travellers, travel agents, tourist information offices and airlines.

Ensure that your passport has at least 6 months’ validity.

Make or save copies of your important documents (e.g. identity card, passport data page, credit cards, and travellers’ cheques) in case you lose any of them. Leave copies with your family and friends as a contingency.

Tell your friends and family where you are going and how to contact you.

Find out where the nearest  Singapore Overseas Mission   is to you.

Apply for an  International Driving Permit   if you plan to drive overseas.

Have valid tickets to return home.

Bring adequate funds for your stay.

I Am Already Abroad 

We hope you are enjoying your travels abroad, but we encourage you to take note of the following points to ensure your trip remains a happy and productive one.

Always take care of your personal safety.

Obey the laws and respect the local customs of the countries you are visiting.

Keep abreast of the local news.

Keep your passport and identity card separate to minimise the risk of you losing both your ID documents.

Never carry too much cash and valuables.

Never leave your valuables unattended.

Never carry packages through customs on behalf of other people.

Make sure you know the local traffic rules should you intend to drive.

Ensure that you, your passengers and the vehicle are covered by insurance.

Keep your family and friends informed of your whereabouts and activities.

Take a few minutes to  eRegister   with MFA if you have not done so.

Find out where the nearest   Singapore Overseas Mission is to you.

To keep updated on travel advisories while you travel, follow @MFAsgConsular on Twitter.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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travel formalities in singapore

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Singapore set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Singapore High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Singapore.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Singapore, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ 6 months after the date you arrive.

If you are a resident in Singapore there is no minimum passport validity required. Apply for a renewal before your passport expires.

Singapore does not recognise dual nationality beyond the age of 21. A citizen of Singapore is required by Singapore law to renounce any other nationalities they hold before the age of 22 in order to retain their Singaporean citizenship.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

All arrivals in Singapore must complete an electronic SG Arrival Card in the 3 days before they enter Singapore. This online form asks for travel details and a health declaration. It is illegal to submit a false declaration. Biometric information is also recorded and scanned when you enter and depart Singapore (iris, facial and fingerprints).

Screening for drugs

You can be screened for drugs in your system on arrival in Singapore, including if you’re travelling through. You can be charged with drug consumption even if the drugs were taken in another country, including countries where the use of that particular drug is legal.

You could be detained without trial and, if convicted, you could be imprisoned, caned or executed .

Ship’s crew

There are different entry requirements if you are crew working on ships, small vessels, or pleasure crafts arriving at one of Singapore’s ports or marinas.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to enter Singapore. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority decides who can enter Singapore and how long they can stay.

Penalties for overstaying

Penalties for overstaying the time allowed include fines, imprisonment, caning and deportation depending on how long you have overstayed. When you leave Singapore, officials can take your fingerprints if they suspect you are involved in any crime.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Singapore guide .

If you are arriving from certain countries in Africa and Latin America,  you will need to show a yellow fever certificate to enter Singapore . Failure to do so may result in mandatory quarantine or being refused entry to Singapore.

Accommodation 

There are strict laws preventing accommodation being let out for short term rental, such as for tourists.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Singapore. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

It’s illegal to import controlled drugs into Singapore. If convicted, you could be imprisoned, caned or executed .

The following items are also illegal to bring into Singapore:

  • vaporisers and e-cigarettes
  • tobacco products that are chewed or injected
  • chewing gum to sell
  • weapons and ammunition (including empty cartridge cases and air guns)
  • replica guns, including lighters shaped like a pistol or revolver
  • radio communications equipment

See the complete list of prohibited items on the Singapore Customs website.

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Will Fly for Food

The First-Timer’s Singapore Travel Guide

Posted on Last updated: February 12, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE: Please be advised that this Singapore travel guide hasn’t been updated to reflect 2024 prices and travel guidelines. We’ll update it as soon as we can. Thanks for your patience.

On a previous trip to Singapore, we were on the MRT en route to Little India from Changi, when I overheard this conversation between two young travelers:

“Singapore is a lot like Japan” , one friend said to the other, “but you can talk to people here.”

They sounded European and from that, it was clear that the guy talking had been to Singapore before while his friend was here on his first-ever visit.

I get what he was trying to say. He meant that Singapore is similar to Japan in its hyper modern-ness. They’re both clean with citizens known for being disciplined and orderly, but more Singaporeans are proficient in English so there’s less of a language barrier here.

I agree with him on both points, but the more I visit Singapore, the more I realize that there’s so much more to this city than what you see on the surface.

Most first-time visitors will notice its cutting-edge architecture. How can you not? Iconic structures like Marina Bay Sands, the Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay, the Durian, and the ArtScience Museum were designed to grab your attention. But the more often you come, the more you get used to them, and then a funny thing happens. They start fading into the background to reveal what makes this tiny island nation truly special in my opinion – its diversity.

Singapore is called the “melting pot of Asia” for a reason. You may be too blinded by Marina Bay to appreciate that at first, but stay here long enough, and you may soon realize that Singapore’s unique blend of ethnicities, culture, and food is what makes this country truly shiok.

VISIT SINGAPORE QUICK LINKS

This travel guide to Singapore is long. For your convenience, I’ve compiled links to hotels, tours, and other services here.

Top-rated hotels in Orchard, one of the best areas to stay for first-time visitors to Singapore.

  • Luxury: The St Regis Singapore
  • Midrange: YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road (SG Clean, Staycation Approved)
  • Budget: Hotel Supreme
  • Sightseeing Tour: Singapore City Sightseeing Bus Tour
  • Gardens by the Bay: Gardens by the Bay and OCBC Skyway Tickets
  • Food Tour: Private Guided Food Tour with Tastings
  • Theme Parks: Universal Studios Singapore Tickets

OTHER SERVICES

  • Visa Services
  • Travel Insurance with COVID cover (WFFF readers get 5% off )
  • Airport Transfers
  • Go City Pass (tourist discount card)

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GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS

Singapore travel restrictions.

Because of the current global situation, Singapore travel guidelines change regularly. Our friends at Booking.com created a website that lists detailed information on travel restrictions around the globe.

Before doing any serious trip planning, be sure to check Booking.com for information on travel restrictions to Singapore. If you do decide to visit Singapore, then you may want to seriously consider getting travel insurance with COVID coverage.

SINGAPORE VISA

You may need a visa and other travel documents to visit Singapore depending on your passport. Check out iVisa.com to learn about the requirements and to apply for a visa (if necessary).

SINGAPORE AT A GLANCE

Singapore is a tiny island nation in Southeast Asia that’s become one of the world’s most prosperous countries. Walk around for a day and you’ll see all the features of an ultramodern society with its impressive skyline, contemporary architecture, high-end shopping malls, and highly efficient subway system.

But in spite of its facade of steel and glass, Singapore retains much of the ethnic and cultural diversity that earned it its nickname – “the melting pot of Asia”. Iconic structures like Marina Bay Sands and Supertree Grove are impressive but equally of note are the ethnic pockets within the city that preserve each culture’s unique heritage and traditions.

Hop on a city sightseeing bus and you’ll be treated to colorful neighborhoods like Little India, Chinatown, Arab Street, and Kampong Glam, all within the span of half an hour. This balance of modernity and cultural preservation is what makes Singapore so fascinating.

Another thing I found surprising about Singapore is that it’s apparently the second most densely populated country in the world , behind only Monaco. It certainly doesn’t feel crowded when you’re there, perhaps due to the efforts they’ve made into making it a pleasant and liveable green city.

In spite of being a city-state with 100% of its population urbanized, over 50% of Singapore’s area is covered by greenery. It boasts over 50 major parks and 4 nature reserves, all within a 720 sq km area.

If there existed a utopic city in the world today, then that city would be Singapore.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SINGAPORE

Singapore is hot and humid year-round so there isn’t a perfect time to visit weather-wise. The average temperature is 26-27°C and the humidity is always above 80% no matter what time of year.

The only thing you probably need to know regarding Singapore’s weather is that the wettest months are from November to January. That’s the monsoon season so you may want to avoid those months if you don’t want a greater chance of rain.

NOV-JAN: As described, this is monsoon season so it’ll be the wettest time of the year in Singapore. However, it’s also the coolest, which may be appealing to travelers unaccustomed to the brutal Southeast Asian heat. I’ve read that it generally rains in spurts in Singapore even during the wettest months so it may not matter as much. Locals advise just ducking into a mall until the rain stops.

FEB-OCT: June till August is the driest time of the year in Singapore. We went in late June once and it would get overcast and drizzle a bit on a couple of days but that was it. It was hot and sunny the rest of the time and still very humid. If you enjoy shopping and food, then around July may be an ideal time for you to visit. Both the Great Singapore Sale and the Singapore Food Festival are held at that time.

Climate: Annual Monthly Weather in Singapore

To help you better understand the climate in Singapore , I’ve put together the average temperature and annual rainfall graphs below. Suggested months to visit are indicated in orange.

Average Temperature

Annual Rainfall in Singapore

Annual Rainfall

Annual Rainfall in Singapore

TRAVELING TO SINGAPORE

The majority of visitors to Singapore will be arriving by plane at Changi Airport. There are several ways to get to downtown Singapore from Changi .

BY SUBWAY (SMRT): The SMRT is the fastest and cheapest way to get to downtown Singapore from the airport. It took us around 45 minutes to get to Little India MRT Station. Since mid-2022, ticketing machines have been phased out in Singapore so you’ll need to have a stored value card to use the metro system. You can refer to the Visit Singapore site for more information. You can also use this SMRT fare calculator to figure out the fare to your destination.

BY PUBLIC BUS: This is another inexpensive option and should get you into the city in a little over an hour. Unlike the metro, you can pay in cash but the fare will be higher. Also, you’ll need to prepare the exact amount since no change is given. You can catch bus 36 from the basement bays of Changi Airport Terminals 2 and 4 into the city. You can check the Changi Airport guide for more information on taking public buses from the airport to the downtown area.

BY AIRPORT SHUTTLE: If you’re arriving at odd hours, then you can take an airport shuttle bus for around SGD 10 for adults and SGD 7 for kids (under 12). These shuttle buses run 24 hours and will take you directly to your hotel. You can refer to this list to check if your hotel is one of their serviced hotels. If it is, then you can follow this link to book tickets on Klook.

BY TAXI: This is the easiest but most expensive way. It’ll cost you anywhere between SGD 20-40 to get into the city by taxi. Bigger groups can take these large taxis called Maxi Cabs. They can accommodate up to 7 people for a flat fee of SGD 60. You can check the Changi website for more information.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: If you’d rather book a private transfer in advance, then you can do so through Klook .

We flew to Singapore but there are other ways to get there depending on where you are. I suggest checking Bookaway to find route options available to you. You can click on the link or use the widget below.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY

The unit of currency in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD) .

Finding good places to exchange your currency is less of a concern in Singapore. Most (if not all) places give fair rates. Even the currency exchange booths at Changi Airport aren’t bad.

But if you want the best exchange rate, then Mustafa Foreign Exchange at Mustafa Centre in Little India is an excellent choice. Aside from offering some of the best rates in the city, they’re also open 24/7. If it’s too far from where you are, then you can check this website for a list of the 5 best money changers in Singapore . They’re in different parts of the city so you can find the one that’s closest to you.

Another option is to withdraw SGD from an ATM. The rates are competitive, some say even better. If you do decide to withdraw SGD from an ATM, be sure to let your bank know as they may have to activate it for overseas use. That’s what I do before every trip. In my experience, my ATM card works in some machines but not in others.

NOTE: Some ATM machines may ask you if you’d like to proceed “with or without conversion”. NEVER proceed “with conversion” because that would authorize the foreign bank operating the ATM to do the conversion instead of your local bank, which often results in terrible exchange rates. I’ve made this mistake before. According to this article on Medium, the difference between rates can be as high as 10% or more .

BEST AREAS TO STAY IN SINGAPORE

Singapore isn’t that big but it’s such a diverse, multiracial city that you’ll find many interesting neighborhoods within its 720 sq km area. This is by no means a definitive list but here are five popular neighborhoods where you can stay in Singapore.

For your convenience, I created the color-coded map below to help you see where all these recommended areas are. Click on the link for a live version of the map. (Please note that marked areas are approximations only)

RED – Little India BLUE – Chinatown GREEN – Marina Bay LAVENDER – Orchard ORANGE – Sentosa

Singapore area map

LITTLE INDIA

We’ve stayed in Little India a few times. We never intend to, but our search for affordable accommodations always seems to lead us there. I guess the area is known for having a good range of budget to mid-range hotels.

As its name suggests, Little India is home to Singapore’s Indian community. It’s a lively area with lots of Indian restaurants, colorful shophouses, and a few MRT stations.

On my most recent visit, I stayed at Atlantis Pods which is one of those modern capsule hotels. The pods are surprisingly roomy and a great choice for solo travelers on a budget.

Atlantis Pods has a few branches in Singapore but if you want to book a pod at the outlet in Little India, then you can do so through Booking.com or Agoda .

If you don’t think that Atlantis Pods is the right place for you, then you can check these links for alternate listings in Little India: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in the area:

  • Luxury: Wanderlust, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood (SG Clean)
  • Midrange: Citadines Rochor (SG Clean)
  • Budget: Snooze Inn @Dickson Road

As is the case with most Chinatowns in the world, if you travel for food, then this is an excellent place to stay in Singapore. Here you’ll find plenty of food options from cheap hawker centers to trendier bars and restaurants. Budget travelers will find a good selection of hostels and boutique hotels here as well. Check these sites for a list of accommodations in Chinatown: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in the area:

  • Luxury: PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering SGClean and Staycation Approved
  • Midrange: KēSa House, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood
  • Budget: Beary Best! Chinatown by a beary good hostel (SG Clean)

Home to the iconic Marina Bay Sands, this is one of the best areas to stay for luxury travelers. Hotels here are amongst the most luxurious and offer the best views in Singapore. Marina Bay is home to many upscale restaurants, bars, and shopping malls as well as popular attractions like the Merlion, Gardens by the Bay , and the Singapore Flyer.

Check these sites for a list of accommodations in Marina Bay: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are some of the top-rated hotels in the area:

  • 1st Choice: Marina Bay Sands (SG Clean)
  • 2nd Choice: SO/ Sofitel Singapore (SG Clean)
  • 3rd Choice: Oakwood Premier AMTD Singapore (SG Clean, Staycation Approved)

If you’re traveling to Singapore to shop, then this is probably where you’ll want to be. Orchard Road is Singapore’s premier shopping district. It stretches for two kilometers and is home to more shopping malls than anywhere else in Singapore. Want a break from shopping? Head to nearby Botanic Gardens which is Singapore’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Check these sites for a list of accommodations around Orchard Road: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in the area:

Sentosa is Singapore’s resort island. It’s home to manmade beaches and theme parks like Universal Studios and Resorts World Sentosa . Staying here would put you farther away from the attractions in central Singapore, but if you’re traveling with kids, then this a good place to consider. Check these sites for a list of accommodations in and around Sentosa Island: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in the area:

  • 1st Choice: The Barracks Hotel Sentosa by Far East Hospitality (SG Clean)
  • 2nd Choice: ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove Singapore (SG Clean)
  • 3rd Choice: Resorts World Sentosa – Hotel Michael (SG Clean)

You can also book hotels and homestays in Singapore using the handy map below.

ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT IN SINGAPORE

1. gardens by the bay.

Gardens by the Bay is the most popular attraction on TripAdvisor and it isn’t hard to understand why. This place is mind-blowing and unlike anything we’ve ever seen. It’s home to the iconic Supertrees and two amazing conservatories — Cloud Forest and Flower Dome . If you have time for just one attraction in Singapore, then this should be it.

You can buy tickets to both conservatories at the gate but you can get a discount if you purchase them in advance through Klook or Get Your Guide .

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

Estimated Time Needed: Half a day Admission: SGD 30 (adults), SGD 18 (kids)

2. Singapore Zoo

I love animals but I’ve stopped going to zoos because most of them are shit. They don’t put enough stock in the welfare of the animals but Singapore Zoo, which was voted by TripAdvisor users as the 5th best zoo in the world , is an exception. It’s an impressive facility that sets the standard for captive animal conservation.

Check out my post on Singapore Zoo for more pictures and information. You can buy entrance tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook or Get Your Guide .

Pretty much everything in Singapore is world-class and that includes all its animal parks. Aside from Singapore Zoo, we’ve visited three others and they’re all pretty awesome.

Check out my post on 5 places to enjoy animals in Singapore for more pictures and information. If you’d like to visit any of them, then you can sometimes get discounts on admission through Klook or Get Your Guide .

Singapore Zoo, Singapore

Estimated Time Needed: At least half a day Admission: SGD 48 (adults), SGD 33 (kids)

3. Universal Studios and Sentosa Island

Universal Studios needs no introduction. Located on Sentosa Island, this popular theme park is home to exhilarating rides like Jurassic Park and Transformers. If you’re traveling to Singapore with kids, then you’ll probably want to allocate a day here. Otherwise, you’ll never hear the end of it. You can buy tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook .

As popular as Universal Studios is, it’s hardly the only attraction at Sentosa. Sentosa is an entire island dedicated to fun so it’s home to many other attractions as well like 4D theaters, the Trick Eye Museum , action parks, S.E.A. Aquarium , watersport facilities, golf courses, and beaches. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants on the island as well.

Universal Studios will take up an entire day so you may want to reserve another day to explore the rest of the island. You can purchase cable car tickets to Sentosa on Get Your Guide . Check out my post on Sentosa Island for more pictures and information.

Castle at Universal Studios, Singapore

Photo by JinjoPhoto via Shutterstock

Estimated Time Needed: At least one and a half days Universal Studios Admission: SGD 82 (adults), SGD 61 (kids)

4. Marina Bay Sands Skypark

Marina Bay Sands is the most iconic hotel in Singapore. I’m sure you’ve seen pictures of its infinity pool on social media. It’s absolutely incredible but unfortunately, it’s only open to guests of the hotel. (Boo!)

If you aren’t checked in at Marina Bay Sands, then the next best thing would be to head up to the Skypark observation deck on the 57th level to get some of the most stunning views of Singapore.

You can buy tickets at the gate but you may get a discount if you purchase them in advance through Klook .

Evening view of Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Photo by thipjang via Shutterstock

Estimated Time Needed: 1-2 hrs Admission: SGD 26

5. ArtScience Museum

There are many interesting museums to visit in Singapore. Among the most notable are the National Museum of Singapore , National Gallery Singapore , Singapore Art Museum (SAM), and the ArtScience Museum .

Known for the building’s hand- or lotus-flower-like shape, I visited the ArtScience Museum on my most recent trip and was blown away by its exhibits, particularly Future World which featured trippy interactive light displays. It’s a permanent exhibit but some – like the Minimalism exhibition below – are temporary so be sure to check the ArtScience Museum website to see what’s on before you go.

I purchased tickets at the gate but you can get them in advance through Klook or Get Your Guide .

ArtScience Museum, Singapore

Estimated Time Needed: 2-3 hrs Admission: Varies per exhibit

6. Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. It offers fantastic views of the city from Asia’s largest observation wheel.

You can go on a standard flight but if you want something a little more memorable, then how about going on one that offers drinks like Singapore Slings or champagne? For couples, they even offer flights with a romantic four-course dinner for two.

You can buy tickets to the Singapore Flyer at the gate or in advance through Klook . You can get vouchers for beverage flights and sky dining as well.

Singapore Flyer, Singapore

Photo by Joshua Davenport via Shutterstock

Estimated Time Needed: 30 mins Cost: SGD 40 (adults), SGD 25 (kids)

7. Singapore Botanic Gardens

One of the most striking things about Singapore is how green it is. It’s the greenest city in Asia and one of the greenest in the world, which is surprising for a small city with 100% of its population urbanized.

Gardens by the Bay is a fantastic place to appreciate Singapore’s greenery, but if you want to enjoy it in a more natural setting, then head on over to Singapore Botanic Gardens. It’s a 158-year-old tropical garden and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Singapore.

Entrance to the gardens is free but you’ll need to pay SGD 15 fee to enter the National Orchid Garden. It’s a must so don’t miss it.

Check out my post on Singapore Botanic Gardens for more pictures and information. We went to the botanic gardens on our own but you can also go on a guided tour .

Botanic Gardens, Singapore

Estimated Time Needed: 2-3 hrs Admission: FREE

THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE

1. get to know singapore on a sightseeing bus tour.

Barring any serious traffic or pollution problems, these sightseeing bus tours are among the easiest and most convenient ways to explore a new city. All you need to do is hop on the bus and the driver and audio guide will do the rest.

In Singapore, it’ll take you to key attractions like the Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion, Botanic Gardens, and Orchard Road, just to name a few. You can buy tickets for the sightseeing bus tour on Klook .

There are many fun and interesting tours you can do so check out Klook and Get Your Guide for a list of city sightseeing tours in Singapore.

DUCK & HiPPO Hop On Hop Off Tour, Singapore

2. Try the Iconic Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel

Think of this as your welcome drink to Singapore. The Singapore Sling is a gin-based cocktail developed over a hundred years ago by Ngiam Tong Boon, a Hainanese bartender at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel , which is still often cited as Singapore’s finest hotel. It’s become synonymous with Raffles and a must-try for first-time visitors to Singapore.

Be prepared for the hefty price tag though since a Singapore Sling at Long Bar will run you at least SGD 37. Hey, at least you can freely scatter your peanut shells all over the bar’s floor.

Singapore Sling, Long Bar, Raffles Hotel, Singapore

Photo by katushOK via Shutterstock

3. Experience the Best of Singaporean Cuisine on a Food Tour

There is so much good food to be had in Singapore. In fact, it’s one of a handful of cities we could visit again and again just for the food.

If you have plenty of time in Singapore, then you can check out our Singapore Food Guide for restaurant recommendations. But if you’re pressed for time, then you may want to go on a food tour. It’s an easy way of sampling the local cuisine without having to find these restaurants and stalls yourself.

There are plenty of food tours to choose from, but some of the best we’ve been on are from A Chef’s Tour . They’re a tour provider that offers these really interesting food-focused tours in Asia and Latin America.

You can check out my article on this Singapore food tour with A Chef’s Tour for more pictures and information. It features the most divine plate of char siew rice (pictured below) I’ve ever had in my life.

If you don’t think this is the right tour for you, then there are other Singapore food tours you can choose from on Get Your Guide .

A Chef's Tour, Singapore

Length of Tour: 3 hrs

4. Take a Cooking Class

Ren loves to cook so we often take cooking classes we travel. For us, it’s the best way to really get to know an unfamiliar cuisine. It’s one thing to eat it, but it’s quite another to learn exactly what goes into making each dish.

We haven’t taken a cooking class in Singapore, but if you’re interested, then you can search for one on Cookly. Cookly is an online booking platform that offers cooking classes in many cities around the world. They’re basically an online tour provider that focuses just on cooking classes. For me, there’s no better place to look for one-day cooking classes than Cookly. Follow the link to search through their list of cooking classes in Singapore .

Popiah

Photo by Ariyani Tedjo via Shutterstock

5. Arrive Early at Changi Airport

Singapore is probably the only country in the world with an airport that’s a legitimate tourist attraction. Changi was already our favorite airport in the world by a mile, but even more so now with the opening of the Jewel complex.

Jewel Changi Airport is a nature-themed entertainment and retail complex. It’s linked to the airport’s three passenger terminals and features over 300 retail and dining facilities, not to mention indoor gardens, mazes, bridges, and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall (pictured below) .

We haven’t been back to Singapore since Jewel’s unveiling but this incredible complex is reason enough to go back. Check out Get Your Guide for a list of attraction deals at Jewel Changi. With an airport like this, you can never arrive too early for a flight.

Waterfall inside Canopy Park

“ Jewel Rain Vortex at Changi Airport ” by Terrazzo , used under CC BY 2.0 / Cropped, processed in Photoshop and Lightroom

SINGAPORE FOOD GUIDE

Singapore is synonymous with food. They take their food seriously here so a hawker stall that’s been serving the same iconic dish for decades is every bit as important to us as Gardens by the Bay.

To make sure we ate at the best, I consulted with locals and trusted Singaporean food blogs to find out exactly what we should eat in Singapore. The result is this Singapore food guide listing 35 of the best dishes to eat in Singapore.

Plate of Hainanese chicken rice

WHERE TO EAT IN SINGAPORE

Our Singapore food guide shows you what dishes to eat in Singapore, but if you want to know where you should try them, then be sure to check out our restaurant guide. It lists 25 of the best restaurants in Singapore .

Bowl of laksa

Not everyone can go to all 25 restaurants listed in our restaurant guide so I’ve narrowed it down to our favorites. All the eateries we mentioned are worthy of a visit but if you’re pressed for time, then these are the six you shouldn’t miss (listed in no particular order).

1. Red House Seafood Restaurant

What better way to start this list than with Singapore’s most iconic dish, chili crabs? Often referred to as Singapore’s national dish, chili crabs are prepared by stir-frying crabs — commonly mud crabs — in a rich, tomato- and chili-based sauce. Despite its name, it’s more sweet and tangy with just a hint of spiciness.

There are countless places where you can enjoy chili crabs in Singapore but my local friend recommended Red House at Robertson Quay. It was absolutely delicious with loads of crab roe in its shell. Chili crabs are considered Singapore’s greatest culinary creation so you can’t visit this country without trying this dish.

Red House Seafood Restaurant, Singapore

2. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice

Like chili crab, Hainanese chicken rice is one of Singapore’s core dishes and something you need to try as well. It’s prepared by poaching whole chickens at sub-boiling temperatures then using the stock to cook the rice. The result is an oily, flavorful rice sometimes known as “oily rice”.

It’s such an important dish that many restaurants and stalls vie for the title of Singapore’s best chicken rice. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, once featured by the late great Anthony Bourdain and having bested Chef Gordon Ramsay in a chicken rice showdown in 2013, is a serious contender. I’ve had Hainanese chicken rice many times but this was easily one of the best.

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, Singapore

3. Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle

Hawker Chan gets all the attention but this place is every bit as deserving. Like Hawker Chan, Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle is one of the first two hawker stalls ever to receive an esteemed Michelin Star.

I had to wait over an hour in line to get one bowl of their famous bak chor mee — a vinegar and spicy sambal pork noodle dish made with lard — and that was BEFORE they received their star. I can only imagine how long you’d have to wait now. If there’s one dish worth queuing up for in Singapore, then this is it.

Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle, Singapore

4. The Banana Leaf Apolo

Three words — fish head curry. This restaurant in Little India has been serving this delicious curry dish for over 40 years now.

Made with a secret blend of 18 spices, it’s prepared by stewing a whole sea bream’s head in a Kerala-style curry with assorted vegetables like okra and eggplant. It’s served on banana leaves and best eaten with rice or naan bread . It’s really, really good.

The Banana Leaf Apolo, Singapore

5. Candlenut

Candlenut is a one-star Michelin restaurant that serves modern interpretations of Peranakan cuisine. If you’ve never tried Peranakan food before, it’s a deeply flavorful cuisine that blends Chinese ingredients with distinct spices and cooking techniques used by the Malay/Indonesian community. If you enjoy food that isn’t shy on flavor, then you’ll love Peranakan cuisine.

For the best experience, I suggest going for dinner and trying Chef Malcolm Lee’s “ahma-kase” set menu. I believe Candlenut is the only Peranakan restaurant in the world to be awarded a Michelin star. Check out my post on Candlenut in Singapore for more pictures and information.

Candlenut, Singapore

6. MA Deen Biasa

Sup tulang is without a doubt the messiest and most sinful dish on this list. But it’s also one of the most delicious. Sup tulang is a bone marrow dish made with tomato paste and a slew of spices. It’s served with a basket of bread to mop up the sauce and straws to suck out the marrow. Seriously.

Ren had been wanting to try this devilish dish for the longest time so when KF Seetoh described MA Deen Biasa’s sup tulang as “the most desperately delicious”, I knew we found the right place. WARNING: Do not wear white when you eat here because you WILL get dirty.

MA Deen Biasa, Singapore

INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES IN SINGAPORE

Singapore is one of the most Instagrammable cities we’ve visited so far. Everywhere you look there seems to be a mural or interesting piece of architecture to make your #ootd pop! Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands are obvious choices, but here are a few you may not have heard of.

1. Haji Lane

Haji Lane is an alley stretching for about two blocks in the trendy Kampong Glam neighborhood. It’s characterized by traditional shophouses on either side that are home to funky boutiques and interesting cafes. There are plenty of murals here to serve as colorful backdrops for your Singapore selfies.

Haji Lane, Singapore

Closest MRT Station: Bugis

2. Helix Bridge

Helix Bridge is a twisting vortex of steel and glass that links Marina Centre with Marina South in the Marina Bay area. There are plenty of Instagrammable spots in this area like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, ArtScience Museum, and the Esplanade. You could spend the whole day here taking Instagram photos.

Helix Bridge, Singapore

Closest MRT Station: Bayfront or Promenade

3. Future World

As described, Future World is a permanent exhibition at the ArtScience Museum. It was done in collaboration with teamLab, a renowned art collective that created teamLab Borderless , a similar multi-sensory experience in Tokyo. It’s an interactive digital art experience the likes of which I had never seen before. Very cool.

Future World, ArtScience Museum, Singapore

Closest MRT Station: Bayfront

4. LASALLE College of the Arts

LASALLE College of the Arts is a private art school with a campus in the Rochor area. It’s comprised of six geometrically-designed buildings around a central courtyard covered by a single roof. The courtyard is open to the public and walking through it feels like you’re going through a canyon made of steel and glass.

LASALLE College of the Arts, Singapore

Closest MRT Station: Rochor

5. People’s Park Complex

People’s Park Complex is a residential high-rise on Eu Tong Sen Street in Chinatown. The first few floors of the complex houses a shopping center, at the top of which is this roofdeck where you can take this picture.

NOTE: I didn’t notice it at first but there’s a (not so prominent) sign on a wall that says this is private property. Apparently, you need permission to take pictures up here, a consequence perhaps of too many Instagrammers taking selfies. I even asked a security guard how to get up here and he didn’t advise me it was prohibited, so I don’t know how strictly they enforce that rule. Nonetheless, proceed at your own risk. This is Singapore after all.

People's Park Complex, Singapore

Closest MRT Station: Chinatown

POINTS OF INTEREST IN SINGAPORE

I put together the map below to help you understand where everything is. Click on the link for a live version of the map. Most of the places recommended in this guide are pinned on this map.

Singapore attractions map

HOW TO GET AROUND IN SINGAPORE

Singapore’s MRT system is very efficient. We used it to go pretty much everywhere. We only needed to take a bus once, to go to Singapore Zoo, but I’ve read the bus system is very efficient as well.

If you need to travel by bus often, then I suggest using the Google Maps app ( iOS | Android ) to help you navigate. I’ve always found bus systems to be more confusing than trains but this free app makes it so much easier. It’ll tell you exactly how to get from one place to the next using any city’s public transportation system.

If you’re too lazy to take public transportation, then you can always hop into a taxi or use Grab. We did a couple of times to get to harder to find restaurants.

If you plan on using public transportation often, then there are few transport cards you can get to make it cheaper and more convenient:

Singapore Tourist Pass

If you’re staying in Singapore for a maximum of three days and plan on using the trains often like we did, then you can invest in a Singapore Tourist Pass. It’ll give you unlimited access to the MRT and public bus system, plus it’ll save you the hassle of having to buy tickets before each ride.

The Singapore Tourist Pass is available in 1-day, 2-day, or 3-day passes for SGD 10, SGD 16, and SGD 20 respectively. 2- and 3-day passes need to be used on consecutive days. You’ll need to pay a SGD 10 deposit per card which you can refund within 5 days after the date of purchase. Check the Singapore Tourist Pass website for more information.

EZ-Link / NETS FlashPay Card

These are two different cards issued by two different companies, but they basically do the same thing. If you’re staying in Singapore for longer than three days and don’t need unlimited daily rides, then an EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay Card may be better options than the Singapore Tourist Pass.

Unlike the Singapore Tourist Pass, you don’t have to use the EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay Card on consecutive days. Plus, you can use them to pay for taxis and make purchases at participating shops and convenience stores. They’re very similar to Hong Kong’s Octopus Card in that regard.

Follow the link to learn more about the EZ-Link Card and where to buy it. If you’re visiting Thailand before Singapore, then you can get the NETS FlashPay Card through Klook.

HOW MANY DAYS TO STAY / SINGAPORE ITINERARY

Singapore isn’t that big but it’s packed with fun and interesting things to do. It’s got a lot of good restaurants and hawker stalls too.

If you’re in a rush, then you can probably do everything in this guide in 4 full days. That will give you enough time to see the major sights. But if you want to have a more relaxed stay, then stay at least 5.

Food was a big reason why we were here so we stayed for 6 days to visit as many eateries as possible. Here’s a 5-day Singapore itinerary to help you plan your trip.

SINGAPORE TRAVEL TIPS

1. plan your trip with sygic travel.

I’ve been using the free trip planning app for several years now and I don’t see myself stopping soon. It just makes the process of creating an itinerary faster and easier.

With Sygic Travel, I can see where everything is on a map so I can group attractions and restaurants by day to come up with the most efficient itinerary. If you find trip planning daunting or tedious, then you may want to give it a try. Check out my full post on the Sygic Travel app for more information.

DOWNLOAD: iOS / Android

Check out our 6-day Singapore eat-inerary on Sygic Travel . You can also download it in editable Word format from our EAT-ineraries page. If Singapore’s hawker stalls are a priority, then this will be very useful to you.

2. Save on Attraction Costs with a Go City Pass

There are SO many fun things to do in Singapore. However, it isn’t the cheapest city in the world which is why having a tourist discount card like the Go City Pass can be a worthwhile investment.

We used the Go City Explorer Pass in Barcelona and saved over 21% on admission and tour costs. Check out the Go City website for more details.

3. Rent a Pocket Wifi Device

It goes without saying that a reliable connection to the internet is a must these days. We need it to do research, check email, and post on social media. It becomes even more important when you’re trying to find your way in an unfamiliar country. Personally, we never go anywhere now without renting a pocket wifi device first. It just makes the trip less stressful and more fun.

You can stay connected in Singapore by renting a pocket wifi device or getting a sim card. We prefer pocket wifi devices but either way is fine. Between the two, sim cards are cheaper. You can arrange for both through Klook . If you live in Asia, then be sure to go through the list as it may be cheaper to pick it up from your home country.

4. Check for Singapore Travel Deals

Before every trip, I go through several e-commerce travel websites to see what deals I can find. I’ve purchased vouchers from different sites but my favorites are Klook and Get Your Guide. They almost always have the widest selection at the best prices.

If you’re looking for deals on attractions and services, then check out these links for a complete list of Sinagpore deals on Klook and Get Your Guide . Even if I don’t wind up buying anything, I often find interesting activities that I wouldn’t normally think of yourself so it’s always fun to look.

5. Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may seem like a frivolous expense to some but for others, it’s a necessity. For us, it depends on where we’re going and what we’ll be doing.

If all we’ll be doing is eating and shopping for a couple of days, then we may not bother with it. Our credit cards give us free (but limited) travel insurance anyway. But if we plan on doing anything remotely dangerous, like skiing or competitive eating, basically anything that could land us in the hospital, then we’ll definitely get it.

When we do feel the need for it, we buy insurance from SafetyWing or Heymondo. They’re travel insurance providers often used by many long-term travelers. Follow the links to get a free quote from SafetyWing or Heymondo . Will Fly for Food readers get 5% off on Heymondo when purchasing a policy through our link.

6. Know the Laws

Singapore is a “fine city”. It’s a fine city not just because it’s lovely, but because it’s possible for you to get fined for something you’d normally do in your own country.

Things like spitting, connecting to someone else’s wifi, and jaywalking can carry hefty fines. There’s even a law that requires you to flush public toilets! If you don’t want to be on the wrong end of a fine, then you’ll need to familiarize yourself with Singapore’s laws .

7. Bring the Right Power Adapter

Singapore has Type G electrical outlets so be sure to bring the right power adapters for your devices. Electrical voltage is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

By no means am I an expert on Singapore but I do hope that you find this guide useful. I’m only sharing some of the things I learned from our trip. If you have any questions or comments, then please let us know in the comment section below. You’re welcome to join our Facebook Travel Group as well.

Thanks for stopping by and have a shiok time in Singapore lah!

These are some of the things we brought with us to Singapore. See what’s in our backpack for more on our travel gear. (NOTE: The following links are Amazon and other affiliate links.)

Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III

This Singapore travel guide contains affiliate links, meaning we’ll earn a small commission if you make a booking at no added expense to you. We only recommend products and services that we use ourselves and firmly believe in. We really appreciate your support as this helps us make more of these free travel guides. Thank you!

Found this article useful? Help us help other travelers by sharing it!

Nathan James

Wednesday 10th of May 2023

Absolutely loved reading this post. This is so extensive. I am sure it will help anyone planning to visit Singapore immensely.

JB & Renée

Sunday 21st of May 2023

Happy you found it useful Nathan!

Thursday 12th of January 2023

Thank you for sharing this excellent article. The information you provided here is very insightful. I am sure it will be of great help to many people.

Friday 13th of January 2023

Happy you found it useful Neil!

Lily Nguyen

Saturday 8th of October 2022

Thank you so much. This is a very helpful detailed guide. Really appreciate it.

Thursday 13th of October 2022

Happy to help Lily! Enjoy Singapore.

Wednesday 18th of August 2021

Awesome amount of kit man!

Wednesday 25th of November 2020

Everytime when I go to Singapore I eat the hunan chicken rice - it's my favourite dish in SG! Great guide!

Saturday 28th of November 2020

Chicken rice is one of our favorites too Kiki! It's soooo good. :)

11 things to know before visiting Singapore

Jaclynn Seah

Sep 22, 2023 • 6 min read

travel formalities in singapore

Plan for your trip to Singapore with these things you should know and insider tips © DoctorEgg / Getty Images

Singapore has a well-cultivated image of being a safe country.

Too safe perhaps for some, who balk at its infamously strict rules and fines for flouting them, and find the gleaming modern city too sanitized for their liking. Others appreciate the clean streets and manicured gardens amidst the tall buildings along with the intriguing mix of people that make up Singapore’s multifaceted culture.

As a Singaporean who’s lived here all her life and has always had to explain the country to fellow travelers in foreign hostel common rooms, here’s what you need to know about Singapore. Here's our guide to its cultural landscape and its local customs and quirks to help you plan your trip to the Little Red Dot.

1. Singapore is a small place with lots to see

Compact Singapore takes less than an hour to drive from end to end but there’s a lot packed into this small country. For a first-time visitor, 3–4 days is usually sufficient to see the main highlights and get a feel of the top things to do in Singapore . 

If you’re really short on time, plan a layover with at least 5.5 hours and you can join one of three free transit tours organized by the excellent Changi Airport for a quick taster of what the country has to offer.

Tourists milling around the street of Chinatown in Singapore as the sun beats down; some carry umbrellas to give them shade

2. Pack for the tropics

Practically located on the equator, expect hot tropical weather ranging from 25–35ºC (77–95ºF) every single day in Singapore. A small umbrella is essential in case of scorching rays or sudden downpours.

What can be tough for those used to temperate climates is Singapore’s high humidity – 60–90% on average throughout the year, be prepared to sweat it out. Pack light materials or bring a small fan or hankie around with you. Anyone basking under the afternoon sun who’s not on the beach is definitely a tourist – be sure to slap on the sunblock!

Funnily enough, it tends to be a lot colder indoors than outdoors because shopping malls and central cooling overcompensate for the heat. A scarf or a light jacket will keep you warm, offer extra sun protection and are the perfect cover-up if you plan to visit religious buildings.

3. Prebook attractions to avoid waiting in line

There’s a joke that a Singaporean’s favorite pastime is to queue for things, but that’s not something you want to waste time on. If there is an option to prebook tickets online or make a reservation, just do it. This is key on busy weekends and peak vacation periods like the mid- and year-end school holidays.

The attraction’s official website is usually the best place to get tickets, but browse other booking platforms before you check out as these sites may offer seasonal discounts or bundle prices. You can also check the Visit Singapore website occasionally – for example, currently there is an incentive program called SingapoRewards  that allows tourists to redeem a free experience of their choice. 

Asian lady and a mature man enjoy their meal. The lady is laughing at something, while the man is concentrating on his food.

4. Carry both cash and credit cards

How many Singapore Dollars you change before your trip largely depends on where you plan to go . Most major tourist attractions and shops in shopping malls will accept credit cards, and other cashless options like contactless payments and smart wallets are also common.

Those planning to take public transport in Singapore can use their credit cards on the public buses and MRT card readers for convenience, but purchasing a local EZ-Link card or transport pass may be more worthwhile depending on how much travel you plan to do.

However, do carry some cash around with you as it remains the prevalent method of payment for most small businesses, eating at hawker center stalls, or taking a taxi. Try to break notes of larger denominations ($50/$100) into smaller ones ($2/$5/$10) if possible.

5. Tipping is not expected

Tipping is not expected in Singapore. If you’re eating out in a restaurant or cafe, there is usually a 10% service charge included in the bill. Some places may have a tip box but otherwise, additional tips are not mandatory or expected, though they are appreciated in the service line.

6. Understand the art of "chope-ing"

If you are eating at food centers or working at co-working spaces, particularly within the central business district, you may notice empty tables with strategically placed items like umbrellas, tissue packets or lanyards on the seats. This is a local practice to "chope" or reserve a seat while everyone is queuing up at the stalls. Most people honor this informal reservation system and will look elsewhere for available seats.

7. Save money by drinking tap water

Skip buying bottled water in Singapore. There’s really no need when the tap water here is treated and perfectly safe to drink. Most attractions have a water cooler you can use to refill bottles. 

In restaurants, ask for tap water instead of still or sparkling water – some eateries may still charge you for a glass of tap water, but it’s still cheaper than purchasing fancy bottled water from the menu.

A street of low-rise colorful buildings contrasting with the glass-and-steel skyscrapers nearby

8. Singapore is an independent country 

With a majority Chinese population, some people mistakenly assume that Singapore is a part of China, which is not the case. Most Chinese Singaporeans are descendants of southeastern Chinese immigrants who sailed across the seas decades ago. 

Singapore may be hard to spot on a map, but you’ll find it just south of the Malaysian peninsula in Southeast Asia, four hours away from China by plane. On that note, despite its proximity and commonalities in shared culture and history, Singapore is also not a part of Malaysia, though it was very briefly back in 1963 before Singapore became fully independent in 1965.

9. Most Singaporeans can speak English

Singapore is an easy place for Western tourists to explore on their own because of the widespread use of English here. Fun fact: Singapore actually has four official languages: Mandarin, Bahasa Melayu and Tamil represent the three major ethnic groups found here (Chinese, Malay and Indian respectively), and English is the main language used in schools and for business, which also allows for conversation across the ethnicities.

10. Natural disasters are unlikely in Singapore 

Singapore may not have scenic mountain ranges or awe-inspiring topography, but it’s also out of the path of any major tectonic movement. You are unlikely to face any major natural disasters – no earthquakes, volcanos, typhoons or sandstorms here. In the worst case, there may be flash floods during particularly rainy periods or haze blanketing the island from forest fires around the region, but these are usually temporary and minor inconveniences.

11. Singapore is a safe and stable place to visit 

Singapore is also well-known for its generally stable political and business climate, often ranked as one of the least corrupt countries in the world. Strikes that can disrupt travel plans are practically nonexistent here.

The crime rate in Singapore is also relatively low with lots of surveillance and a police force that people trust in. As a single woman, I’ve never been too worried about wandering around Singapore on my own even at night, but do maintain some common sense for your own safety as one of our popular slogans here goes: low crime doesn’t mean no crime.

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15 Useful Things to Know Before Visiting Singapore

Pedestrian zone Pagoda street, Singapore

Singapore has a reputation for rules and social conduct, so prepare yourself with this insider knowledge before visiting the country.

Travelling to Singapore can be both an exciting and unnerving experience, as there are a number of laws and customs to memorise. If you are visiting soon, here are 15 useful things to know before visiting Singapore. You’ll be blending in with the locals in no time.

Flip flops are the footwear of choice

Flip flops might not be high fashion – but with Singapore’s tropical (and unpredictable) climate, they have become an obvious choice for many. Like many other countries in Southeast Asia, Singapore doesn’t observe four seasons but experiences weather patterns that depend on the monsoon seasons (i.e dry weather for the beginning of the year and wet towards the end). That said, passing showers are common in Singapore, even if it is blistering hot (so carrying an umbrella wouldn’t hurt too).

travel formalities in singapore

One of the biggest pet peeves of Singaporeans? Being stereotyped by tourists. The last thing you should do is walk up to a local and assume he or she can’t speak English. Despite the varying cultural makeup of Singaporeans, English has always been taught in schools as a primary language, followed by a student’s mother tongue, which is likely to be either Malay, Mandarin or Tamil. However, Culture Trip recommends brushing up on your Singlish if you want to really earn brownie points with locals.

people cheering on a mountain

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travel formalities in singapore

Taxis in Singapore are metered and regulated

Taxi drivers in Asia have got quite a bad reputation for inflating fares for tourists. This practice is almost impossible in Singapore, where taxis are regulated and distances are fairly calculated through the meter. In fact, with the introduction of cheaper services like Grab and Uber in Singapore, hailing a taxi is no longer a painstaking process as locals generally avoid them due to the high price.

Blue & yellow taxis in Singapore

Singapore’s train network gets you virtually anywhere

Due to the small size of the city, getting from one point to another in Singapore is not time-consuming. Major landmarks are also well-connected through a comprehensive train network, which gets you from suburban parts of Singapore to the heart of the city under 30 minutes. Read up on how to navigate transport in Singapore .

Sentosa Island monorail train, Singapore

Wi-Fi hotspots are almost everywhere

If the thought of exploring a city without a data connection scares you, then this is good news. While the majority of cafes and restaurants provide a free Wi-Fi connection, public spaces like libraries and shopping malls are powered by “Wireless@SG” – a free connection for anyone, including tourists! All you have to do is input your mobile number for an OTP (one-time password) and you’re all set.

Using the Wifi at at the ION Orchard Shopping Mall, Singapore

Reserve your seat with packets of tissues

Should you decide to have a meal at one of the many hawker centers , look out for tables with packets of tissues scattered on them. In a local context, this indicates that the table has been “choped”, or reserved. Probably one of Singapore’s quirkiest habits, many locals are still doing it (though they may get creative and use umbrellas instead), so keep this in mind while you hunt for a spot!

Singapore’s “Chope-ing” Culture

You are not required to tip

Unlike many western countries, it is not compulsory for diners to tip service staff in Singapore. This is because most restaurants or cafes will impose a 10% service charge on top of your final bill. Does that count as an indirect tip? Maybe, but individual staff usually do not receive a cut from it. That said, the act of tipping itself isn’t illegal, and you can still make someone’s day with a tip should you feel like it!

Going up the escalator? Keep to the left

An unspoken rule that many abide, it is a common sight to see people forming a single line on the left side of the escalator. You might be scratching your head if you are seeing this for the first time, but this orderly behaviour is part of an old campaign in Singapore to help promote the act of courtesy. The rationale? Keeping the right side empty allows people who are rushing to quickly climb their way through without interruptions.

Escalators in Singapore

The only local coffee with more than 10 variations

Ordering a coffee in Singapore is an artform – the traditional local brew consists of black brewed coffee, condensed milk and evaporated milk. Over the years, locals have been customising their own morning cuppas, introducing new names like “ Kopi-O ” (black coffee), “ Kopi-C ” (black coffee with evaporated milk), “ Kopi Gao ” (thicker coffee) and “ Kopi Siew-dai ” (a less sweet variant of the regular coffee). While the list of names goes on, take comfort in the fact that a cup of aromatic and robust coffee is only a coffee shop away.

travel formalities in singapore

Watch out for priority seats on the bus and trains

All trains and buses in Singapore include reserved seating allocated for pregnant women, the elderly and physically handicapped. They are mostly located at the two corners in a row of seats (as it is closer to the exit) and the front of the bus. These seats aren’t only for specific groups of people – passengers are encouraged to give up their seat to anyone who needs it more.

KKB59X Inside the Singapore metro train. Focus on a handrail.

Never go hungry with 24 hour restaurants

It’s a known fact that Singaporeans are passionate about their food . Which is why you can find countless places in Singapore that stay open all day and night to feed the city that never sleeps! Whether you are in the mood for some comforting dim sum, hearty Indian curry or some chilli crab, your destination for some midnight grub is just around the corner.

Hawker food at the night market in Singapore

You can’t buy alcohol or drink in public after 10.30 pm

If you’ve ever romanticised about enjoying the enchanting views of Singapore’s skyline at night with a beer in hand, do it in a licensed bar or risk getting a fine! Since the infamous riot that took place on Race Course Road in 2013, local authorities have banned the purchase and consumption of alcohol in public between 10. 30 pm and seven am. This isn’t entirely bad news – you can still enjoy a tipple or two while overlooking Singapore’s skyline at the many rooftop bars like Ce La Vi or 1-Altitude .

Ce La Vi, 1 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018971

1-Altitude, 1 Raffles Place, Singapore 048616

Arab Quarter Singapore Kampong Glam terrace pavement restaurant bar cafe

Smoking is only allowed in designated areas

Smoking in Singapore isn’t illegal , but there are strict regulations in place. For example, you cannot smoke indoors, at public bus stops or even under sheltered walkways. There are designated smoking points in most areas, but if you are new to the area they might require some hunting. So what happens if you are caught? You can be fined as much as $1,000 if you are convicted in court!

Explore Singapore from new heights

If you are constantly on the lookout for outdoor experiences, try exploring the various nature trails in Singapore , which range from beginner to intermediate levels. From the deep mangroves of Sungei Buloh to the gorgeous view atop Mount Faber, spending a day on any of Singapore’s nature trails will expose you to its rich wildlife and provide a unique urban escape in one of Asia’s greenest cities.

travel formalities in singapore

Try out countless boutique gyms

The fitness craze in Singapore has boomed over the last few years, giving birth to a plethora of boutique gyms in the city that range from yoga, pilates, boxing, muay thai and even indoor cycling. With useful apps like GuavaPass and new start-up Broc and Bells , you can now discover countless boutique gyms in Singapore and meet like-minded people from all walks of life. Who says you can’t work out on a holiday?

Tai Chi in the Botanic Gardens in Singapore

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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  • Ministry of Health
  • COVID-19 Vaccination
  • FAQs on Overseas Vaccination Records & Travel

FAQs on Overseas Vaccination Records & Travel

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Table of Contents

  • Who will need to have their overseas vaccination records recognised in Singapore?
  • What vaccines are accepted for ingestion in the NIR?
  • How can I get my overseas vaccination records ingested?
  • What should I bring to the clinic to ingest my overseas vaccination records?
  • What do I need to do after visiting the clinic to ingest my overseas vaccination records?
  • How can I check my vaccination records?
  • Have I achieved minimum protection against COVID-19?
  • Are the vaccine doses I have received valid?
  • I received a combination of different WHO EUL vaccine doses for my vaccination, and I have not contracted COVID-19 before. Is the combination valid?
  • I have previously contracted COVID-19. What combinations of doses are considered valid?
  • Do I need to restart my vaccination if I am late for any of my vaccine doses?
  • What combinations of vaccine doses do I need to fulfil the vaccination requirements for Long Term Pass Holders?
  • How can I receive more doses if I need to or wish to?
  • I have issues with my vaccination records. Who can I contact for assistance?

Overseas Vaccination Records

For the purpose of ingesting the vaccination records into the NIR, all vaccination doses can be accepted, regardless of how long ago they were taken. Combinations of different WHO EUL vaccines can also be accepted.

If you have a vaccination document (may be in a hardcopy or digital format) You may visit any of the following locations to have your records verified and ingested:

a) Selected Joint Testing and Vaccination Centres (JTVCs) on Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 6.30pm

  • JTVC Kaki Bukit
  • JTVC Bukit Merah
  • JTVC Ang Mo Kio
  • JTVC Jurong West

b) Any clinic that offers this as a service.

  • A non-exhaustive list of such clinics can be found by using this link . Please call ahead to check if your preferred clinic offers this service and to book an appointment if needed. Please note that polyclinics do not provide this service.
  • Clinics will charge a fee for the time and manpower needed to provide this service and handle the ingestion of records. 

Persons aged 5 years and above should ensure that they achieve minimum protection by receiving a complete primary vaccination series and a booster dose (e.g. 3 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty, Moderna/Spikevax or Novavax/Nuvaxovid, or 4 doses of Sinovac-CoronaVac doses) After achieving minimum protection:  An additional dose of the updated vaccine at 1 year after the last dose is  recommended  in the following persons. They can start to receive it from five months after their last dose. 

  • All persons aged 60 years and above;
  • Medically vulnerable persons; and
  • Residents of aged care facilities

An additional dose of the updated vaccine is  encouraged  for individuals aged 6 months and above, in particular, healthcare workers, as well as household members and caregivers of medically vulnerable individuals. The Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty and Moderna/Spikevax vaccines are recommended for this. Those who are medically ineligible for mRNA vaccines may receive Novavax/Nuvaxovid or Sinovac-CoronaVac as an alternative. 

In addition to the combinations listed above, they should receive one further dose of a WHO EUL vaccine at least 150 days after the last dose to achieve minimum protection. For those who received Sinovac/Sinopharm, they should receive one further dose of a WHO EUL vaccine at least 90 days after the last dose.

W refers to any of the following vaccines:

  • [Pfizer/BioNTech] BNT162b2/COMIRNATY®
  • [Moderna] mRNA-1273/Spikevax
  • [Astrazeneca] Vaxzeveria AB/AZD1222 (ChAdOx1-S)
  • [Serum Institute of India] Covishield TM (ChAdOx1_nCov-19-S), NVX-CoV2373/Covovax)
  • [Bharat Biotech] BBV152/Covaxin®
  • [Novavax] NVX-CoV2373/Nuvaxovid

S refers to any of the following vaccines:

  • [Sinopharm] SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine (VeroCell), Inactivated (lnCoV)
  • [Sinovac] COVID-19 Vaccine (Vero Cell), Inactivated/Coronavac

I refers to an infection episode

# Based on national recommendations by the Expert Committee on COVID-19 Vaccination

You will need to have received:

  • Minimum protection (i.e. a complete COVID-19 primary vaccination series and at least one booster dose received on or beyond 90 days after the last dose of a complete COVID-19 primary vaccination series); OR
  • A complete COVID-19 primary vaccination series, with the last dose received less than 270 days ago (around 9 months); OR
  • Two doses of Sinovac or Sinopharm, with the last dose received less than 120 days ago (around 4 months)

For more information on vaccination requirements for passes issued by MOM, refer to this page  for more information.

Beyond meeting the vaccination requirements for Long Term Pass Holders, MOH may recommend that you receive additional doses to enhance your protection. Please refer to this page  for details.

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Singapore rules for visitors — 9 things to know when traveling to Singapore

Gardens-by-the-Bay

Singapore Island is known as the cleanest country in the world and is a paradise for tourists, with dedicated customer service, amusement park, shopping system facilities. Singapore government has always tried its best to help the country more and more developed. They find that the sense of legal organization is one of the most important factors contributing to the development of a civilized country. However, there are laws in this country are very strict and strange; the people also feel a bit difficult to understand. Let’s discover some Singapore rules for visitors — 9 things to know when traveling to Singapore.

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singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (6)

If you are thinking about planning a holiday in this country, to not be offended by the laws of exotic and be fined money, remember the following nine things absolutely should not do in Singapore

1. Draw Graffiti on the street

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (2)

The sabotage of public things in Singapore is considered a serious offense and offenders often face with heavy fines. You may be fined up to 2000 SGD, jailed for 3 years or beaten 3 times. According to Singapore law, draw graffiti is a form of the destruction.

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (10) things to know when traveling to singapore singapore rules for visitors

In 2015, there was a case of German tourist Andreas Von Knorre – 22 years old, and Elton Hinz 21 years old – entered and draw on the subway by Singapore SMRT Corp. An international search took place on a large scale and the police discovered that two tourists had arrived in Malaysia. Finally, they were forced to come back to Singapore and attend court.

2. Eating on public transport

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (11)

Public transportation such as bus and subway are considered “non-food areas”. If you step into a car or board of a bus, you will see the signboard is very clear. In particular, this ban does not allow bringing a kind of food that many Vietnamese people love the train, it is durian.

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (7) things to know when traveling to singapore singapore rules for visitors

In fact, Singaporean occasionally drink a little water, but with the condition of the boat is stopped and careful not to spill water on the floor. If you are arrested, you must be fined pay 500 SGD.

3. Smoking in the wrong place

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (4) Credit: Singapore travel tips blog.

The Singapore government is particular concern about the health of the people here. So in public places, they deliberately design separate areas for smokers, often without shelter. This is to minimize the harms of tobacco to the surrounding community.

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (1) Photo by: things to know before visiting Singapore blog.

If you extra to smoke a cigarette, whether it is rainy or sunny, you will have to go far away and get to the right place to smoke. If you try to circumvent the law, Singaporeans will not hesitate to remind you to obey the law. Otherwise, you will be fined from 300 SGD to 2000 SGD and go to court.

When traveling, you only carry up to 2 packs of cigarettes into this country: one whole and one open. In addition, electronic cigarettes are also prohibited, if you want to quit smoking, you have to buy specialty gum for drug users and patients with oral diseases by the doctor sold.

4. Drink alcohol

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (8) things to know when traveling to singapore singapore rules for visitors

It can be said, for the people of Vietnam, this country is a nightmare. Supermarkets in Singapore are only allowed to sell liquors from 7 am to 10:30 pm. After this time, you are forced to go to restaurants, nightclubs or licensed beers to buy. Alcoholic beverages on the island are also “luxury”. A can of beer with brand similar to in Vietnam, but the price is 3 to 4 times more than normal.

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (13) Image by: Things to know when traveling to Singapore blog.

In addition, you are not allowed to drink alcohol in public areas after 10.30pm. If you bring alcoholic beverages out in public and are caught, they will be punished. First Time: Fine 1,000 SGD. Second time: double the first time, the third time: go to jail.

5. Spitting, litter

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (12) Photo by: things to know before visiting Singapore blog.

In the island nation known as the cleanest country in the world, keeping public sanitation is also strictly regulated. It’s not hard to find trash in public areas: shopping areas, tourist areas, streets, even near your home. The government is always willing to invest in keeping the country clean and civilized in every way.

If you are found littering in public and accused, you may be required to pay a fine of 500 SGD to 5000 SGD. In addition, you will receive additional public service punishment: sweep, clean up public areas, even “invited” to join an event with interviewed media outlets. The Singapore government believes that this is a severe punishment that makes people feel shameless without recourse.

6. Sell chewing gum

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (9) things to know when traveling to singapore singapore rules for visitors

Gum was banned to buy in Singapore since 1992 by former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. The problem of eating chewing gum and rubbing everywhere was a very serious thing at this lion island nation. It used to cause tremendous damage to the tram system when the inductive door cannot be closed because someone accidentally “scatters” the candy into the door.

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (3) Picture: Singapore rules for foreigners blog.

In fact, this law does not prohibit people from possessing chewing gum, but it focuses on thoroughly demolishing the supply. You can own, but not eat them. The fine for eating chewing gum in public is 500 SGD (about 8 million VND).

7. Wifi hacking

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (1) Image: Singapore rules for visitors blog.

Under Singaporean law, hack other wifi is considered a crime, the equivalent of hacking into proprietary rights. In case of arrest, you will be fined 10,000 SGD or 3 years, or both.

8. Feed the pigeons

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (5) things to know when traveling to singapore singapore rules for visitors

It sounds funny, but it is a valid rule in this country. You will be fined 500 SGD because you throw bread pieces for the cute pigeons are nodding around the house.

In recent years, the number of species has increased extremely rapidly, especially when there are regular feeders. Pigeons are harmless, but their stools dirty for buildings and cars, which can be a source of disease outbreaks, in addition to the remains of food that will attract insects which harmful to people’s health.

9. Nudity in the home

singapore-things are not allowed to do in singapore (14) Image by: Things to know when traveling to Singapore blog.

The house is a private place, but in Singapore, you are not allowed to be nude when you stay in your home (unless bathing or you close the door, pull out the curtains). If you are found and reported to the police, you can be charged with pornography and fined 2,000 SGD.

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Singapore Etiquette: 8 Dos and Don’ts to Keep in Mind

Etiquette-in-Singapore

Singapore is home to a very diverse society comprising of three major ethnic groups: Chinese, Indian, and Malay – with the Chinese population being the major force among these. Due to the diversity of its population, there are rich customs and traditions which you can term it as Etiquette that are pertaining to both culture and religion. The State Department does not permit exemption from foreign law to citizens of other countries. Being aware of the local laws is always an advantage as they are strictly enforced and if you are found running across the horizon, then you could land in serious trouble. We have handpicked some of the travel etiquette which you can keep in mind to enjoy a hassle-free holiday in Singapore.

1.Introduction and Greetings

There is special emphasis on the hierarchy with respect to age and community status. Elders and people in power are to be treated with uttermost respect. When in a group, acknowledging the eldest and senior most statesman while addressing would be considered as a good etiquette. Handshaking is a common greeting used in Singapore, but many people follow the traditional greeting of Salaam, where they place the right hand over their respective hearts. The Chinese population shakes hands only with the opposite sex whereas ethnic Indians do not. A good idea would be to wait for the female to offer her hand first before greeting them if you are really unsure of what to do. A simple bow will also do the trick.

While you are in a crowd, we would recommend you to wait for your counterpart to introduce themselves before you use the correct titles and names to address them. If you are still unsure of how to address them, you can ask them politely how they like to be addressed.

2.Respect and Harmony

Singaporeans maintain a peaceful and respectable relationship with their family, peers, and the community. You would probably be looked down if you try to raise your voice and talk rudely to people. It is considered inappropriate here in Singapore as they are peace-loving and harmonious people. You can lose your dignity and honor even if you are trying to demean someone else. Maintain a calm vocal expression and sound while dealing with people. Respecting the other party is important no matter what position or age they are.

3.Body Language and Communication

Gestures, verbal communication, and your body language play a significant role here in Singapore. Touching your head and resting hands on your hips fall under the category of bad etiquettes. Silence in Singapore is not a cardinal sin here unlike in some Western countries, silence is often considered to allow the other party to contemplate the proceedings and developments. So do make sure that your communication is delicate, considered, and subtle. While communicating, be calm and not make direct or hasty statements. The soles of your feet should always be facing downwards and not point towards any person. People feel offended as feet is considered dirty here in Singapore.

4.Food and Dining

Your food and dining etiquettes would depend on the cultural heritage of the host or hostess. It is recommended that you are well aware of the proper dining etiquette of the host or hostess well in advance be to be comfortable with their local customs.

Muslims use only halal meat in their dishes. Pork and alcohol are strictly prohibited. They eat their food with utensils or with the right hard.  Ethnic Indians most follow Hinduism or Sikhism. Beef is not served here and vegetarianism is extensively used in their menu. Food is eaten only with the right hand and can be eaten with fingers.

The Chinese and Singaporeans prefer eating with chopsticks. Alcohol is not prohibited in their menu but wait for the host or other guests to start their drink before you start. If you are in their company, it would be advisable to start practicing to eat using chopsticks. Also, never leave your chopsticks upside down in your food, it is considered very rude.

5.Law and regulations

Being a very organized and controlled country, Singapore has strict laws against the law breakers. Spitting, littering, not flushing the toilet, smoking in public, and jaywalking can cost you a fine up to SG$ 1000 as a first offense. Chewing gum is banned in Singapore and not even allowed while boarding a flight to Singapore.

Additional points to note:

  • Residents of Singapore are very formal and love their own private space
  • Avoid eating while traveling in public transport. It could cost you as much as SG$500
  • Avoid going topless on view even in your hotel room
  • Do not forget to flush the toilet after using the washroom even on public lavatories. You could be fined up to SG$ 150
  • Do not carry pornographic content. There are heavy fines or even imprisonment in some cases
  • Using or connecting to an unauthorized Wi-Fi network is considered a crime in Singapore
  • Avoid discussing topics on religion or politics. Keep your vocal ability at a calm and composed level.
  • Tipping is not a cultural practice in Singapore even though many restaurants do not include a service charge.
  • You should have only prescribed drugs in your control. Carrying drugs without prescription could lead you to a considerable time in jail

Considering the small population, lack of natural resources, and limited land space, Singapore has risen from a developing country in last two decades to the most high-tech nations in Asia. Following and obeying the local laws, customs, and regulations is the key if you want to witness a wonderful time in this beautiful country.

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