Things to know before going to Singapore 🇸🇬
1. Bring an umbrella ☂️
Singapore's weather is very unpredictable. Sunny mornings can turn into rainy afternoons in an instant. Make sure to always carry an umbrella or even a raincoat with you.
2. Download Wireless@SGx app
In order for you to access Singapore's free public wifi, you have to download the Wireless@SGx app. This allows you to gain access in places such as train platforms, select bus stations and public establishments.
3. Get a tourist pass
If you're a tourist and plan on going to so many places that require a lot of MRT, LRT, or bus rides in a short amount of time, then getting a tourist pass is the way to go! This pass allows you to ride the aforementioned transportations as many times as you want for 1, 2, or 3 days depending on which card you purchase.
(This also helps you not spend as much extra money if ever you get lost 🫣)
Note: this is only applicable if you plan to take multiple rides per day. If you think it will eventually be cheaper not to get the pass, then you may skip this. Prices of tourist passes are as follows:
1 day pass - 22 SGD
2 day pass - 29 SGD
3 day pass - 34 SGD
* 10 SGD will be refunded to you IF you return the pass to the ticket office. If you wish to keep it, then you pay the full price
4. Bring a water bottle and stay hydrated
Singapore is a very humid country and walking outside for a short amount of time can make you extremely thirsty. Make sure to stay hydrated so you can enjoy your trip more.
Tip: Tap water in Singapore is clean. If you are hesitant, there are some vending machines that sells cold water ranging from 1SGD to 2SGD. You could also ask your accommodation if they provide free water for guests.
5. It doesn't have to be expensive
Singapore is known to be very expensive. However, it doesn't always have to be. Take advantage of the free activites, sites, and attractions that the country has to offer.
A few tips to save a few dollars in Singapore:
1. Go to parks and gardens and stroll around
2. Eat at food centers! A lot of Michelin rated dishes found at food centers won't even cost 10 SGD per food item. (my meal, pictured above, is 10 pieces of Xiaolongbao and a bowl of beef noodles and costed a total of 13.50 SGD. This is from Zhong Guo La Mian in Chinatown Complex, a stall awarded with a Michelin Star in 2018 and included in the Michelin Guide in 2019.)
★ When eating out, make sure to return your trays, plates, utensils, and cups (along with your trash) at designated return stations
3. Book affordable accommodation that suits your needs.
6. Bring comfortable footwear
You'll most likely do a lot of walking so make sure that you have a few pairs of comfortable footwear to accompany you in your adventures. Do note that some activities require close-toed shoes so you may want to check on establishment/activity rules before picking out your shoe of choice for the day :))
7. Bring cash (and coins)
Even though Singapore accepts various methods of contactless payments, it is still ideal to carry cash with you as some places only accepts cash. This is especially needed if you plan on eating at Hawker or Food Centers.
8. Google maps work
If you're planning on taking a bus in Singapore, you need to know that they are numbered. Additionally, bus stations show which bus numbers stop at that specific station. If you don't know what bus to ride and at what station to get off, you could use Google maps. (Used it for my trip and didn't get lost at all) Just input your location along with where you want to go and it will show you the possible bus numbers that you can ride!
Reminder: If you're riding a bus to go around the city, remember to tap out/tap off before stepping off the bus.
9. Bring a universal charger
Pretty self explanatory, you're home outlets are probably not the same as outlets in Singapore. Make sure to bring a universal charger with you to keep your devices charged!
Tip: I like bringing an extension cord so that I can charge multiple devices at once even if I only have one universal charger
10. Be respectful
Singapore is a country with such a diverse culture. From the locals to the tourist, each one's culture should be respected. It is important that you learn the do's and don'ts when it comes to speaking and interacting with others (most especially if you're visiting the heritage towns such as Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam).
Note: In an escalator in Singapore, stand on your left and walk on the right side.
~ ~ ~ BEFORE YOU GO TO SINGAPORE, PLEASE LEARN SOME OF THEIR LAWS ~ ~ ~
This includes the following among others:
NO LITTERING
NO CHEWING OF GUM
NO DRUGS
NO JAYWALKING
NO SMOKING IN PUBLIC PLACES
11. Don't be afraid
Don't be afraid to try new things, make new friends, learn something new, and discover a new interest. Singapore offers a lot of things that can help one grow as an individual and see a new perspective in life and about the world. Don't let fear hinder you from going on an adventure and making yourself feel fulfilled!
The home for unique & authentic travel
