DESTINATION GUIDE: SINGAPORE

Singapore

Nestled at the crossroads of Southeast Asia, Singapore is a dynamic city-state that offers a fusion of cultures, nature, and innovation. Positioned just off the southern tip of Malaysia, it’s where the old world meets the new, with soaring skyscrapers blending seamlessly with historic temples and lush tropical parks. Whether you’re losing yourself in the futuristic marvels of Gardens by the Bay or tasting the diverse flavours at a hawker centre, every corner of Singapore feels like an adventure.

Whether you’re visiting Singapore for the first time, or just want to learn more about what this city-state offers, read more below.

 

POPULATION: 5.8 million

PRIMARY LANGUAGE: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil and English

PRIMARY CURRENCY: Dollar (SGD)

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Visit Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or speak to your Travel Agent.

Climate

Located right on the equator, Singapore’s climate is relatively uniform all year round, offering a humid climate with regular rainfall right throughout the year. The country experiences two distinct monsoon seasons – One between December to March, and the second between June to September. During this time the weather is wetter, storms are more likely, but flights and accommodation are also cheaper as it’s tourism low season. If you’re wanting to enjoy a more affordable trip to Singapore, this is the time to do it.

Capital Cities

Singapore’s capital city is, well, Singapore! As a city-state, the entire country is its own capital. This compact metropolis is known for being one of the cleanest and greenest cities in the world, blending sleek, futuristic architecture with beautiful parks and heritage districts. From the iconic Marina Bay Sands to the vibrant streets of Chinatown, the city is packed with cultural and culinary experiences. Plus, with its efficient public transport, getting around to explore everything this vibrant city has to offer is a breeze!

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LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

From knowing the best hawker centres for authentic eats to catching the coolest hidden spots around the city, knowing the best local spots to visit add a whole other dimension to your visit to Singapore. Plus, being aware of when and where to visit top attractions can help you beat the crowds and make the most of your time!

  • Swap Restaurants for Hawker Centres – If you’re wanting to delve into authentic Singaporean cuisine and save some money on food, swap Singapore’s expensive restaurants or classy cafes for local Hawker Centres. The best way to tell where you’ll find good-quality food is to look for the places that have long queues – Alternatively, look for the coloured placards that display the level of hygiene (with A being the best and D being the worst).
  • Send your Visa Application One Month in Advance – While the Singapore Government is fairly efficient at processing Visa Applications, you mustn’t do this one at the last minute. Visa Applications must be submitted at minimum one month in advance if you’re looking to visit the country.
  • Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Unlike many other Asian nations, drinking the water in Singapore is quite safe, with no need to purchase single-use plastic water bottles. There are ample water refill stations around the country to use while you’re out and about, making it easy to access water at all times, plus Singapore has strict rules and regulations around littering of any kind, so best to avoid buying waste in the first place and sticking to reusable instead!
  • Book Tickets in Advance – Despite its size, Singapore is a busy island nation – If you’re planning to visit for more than a stopover and you want to experience some of the key attractions, make sure your purchase tickets or book in advance!
  • Take Your Time in Changi Airport – Singapore Airport is one of the busiest and most famous airports in the world, and for good reason. The gateway to the rest of the world, millions of international flights connect through Singapore each year, with hundreds of restaurants, bars and places to explore located within the Airport itself (to keep travellers entertained while waiting for connecting flights).

FAQ’s

When is the best season to visit Singapore?

The best time to visit Singapore is during the dry season, which typically runs from February to April, when the weather is relatively less humid and rainfall is lower. However, Singapore’s tropical climate means it can be visited year-round, with plenty of indoor attractions and events to enjoy, regardless of the season.

Where are the best places to visit in Singapore?

Outside of its Airport, Singapore has some pretty spectacular tourism opportunities! Some of the best places to visit in Singapore include the iconic Marina Bay Sands, where you can enjoy stunning views from the SkyPark, and Gardens by the Bay, known for its futuristic Supertree Grove and lush gardens. Other must-see attractions are Sentosa Island for its beaches and theme parks, Chinatown for its rich cultural heritage, and the vibrant neighbourhoods of Little India and Kampong Glam. Our experienced Leisure Travel Team can help advise you on the best places to visit based on your time there.

What documents do I need to enter Singapore?

To enter Singapore, most travellers need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. Depending on your nationality, you may also require a visa, so it’s important to check the specific entry requirements for your country. You can find more information on the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or speak to your Travel Agent.

Is Singapore safe to visit?

Singapore is generally a safe place to visit, welcoming millions of travellers each year either for tourism or to simply change flights. However, always visit the Australian Government Smart Traveller website as a precaution for everything you need to know before travelling. 

Is English spoken in Singapore?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Singapore and is one of the country’s official languages. It serves as the primary language of communication in business, education, and government, making it easy for visitors to navigate and interact with locals throughout the city.

Is Singapore expensive?

While Singapore is one of Australia’s closer travel destinations, it can be considered a more expensive holiday destination due to the number of pricey restaurants, hotels and tourism opportunities. However, if you want to travel to Singapore on a lower budget our friendly Travel Agents can assist you – just get in touch via 1300 131 885.

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