Singapore Travel Guide
Singapore
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an island country located in Southeast Asia. It is a fairly new country, since the independence was only achieved in 1965. The estimated population in 2016 was of 5,6 million people, mainly Chinese. The official languages are English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil. The currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD) and 1€=1,60 SGD as of January 3rd 2018.
General considerations
Singapore is a very small country, so it can be visited in a short period of time. From our experience we recommend three days in the city. There is no need to apply for a visa if you are staying for a couple of days.
Regarding weather conditions, Singapore is tropical and humid year-round. The hottest (and haziest) time falls in June and July.
If you find it useful to have a pre-paid SIM card, Singtel provides a tourist SIM with 100GB local data valid for 7 days for only 15 SGD/9,38€.
In what concerns transportation, the metro of Singapore works pretty well and covers the main areas of the city. For shorter distances the taxi might also be an option, according to European standards.
What to visit
Being a small country, with less than 100 history years, we suggest a 3-day plan in order to visit the main attractions not rushing.
Day 1 - Merlion I Civic District I Chinatown I Little India
YELLOW PINS ON THE MAP
Start the day near Marina Bay, having a walk around the Marina and stop for the cliche photo in the Merlion, the famous Lion’s statue.
Follow after to Civic District, passing by the Padang, Cricket Club, historic Parliament House, Supreme Court and The National Gallery of Singapore.
In Chinatown there are interesting temples that you should not miss. Thian Hock King Temple, the oldest Chinese Taoist Temple in Singapore, which won UNESCO heritage award for its restoration in 2011. After, you should head to Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu Temple in Singapore.
Last but not the least, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum is a beautiful place with its stunning ornate interiors.
After the temples, enjoy the street food of China Town and have a look in the China Town Complex. The first floor offers plenty food stands and a general area to sit while eating. On the underground floor there is a wet market, where you can find fish, seafood, crocodile meat or even frogs!
Finally, Little India, with its beautiful temples, exotic markets and delicious food, should not be missed. Try to have dinner in one of the local restaurants. Also the 24-hour shopping mall Mustafa Centre, offers everything from electronics to groceries.
Day 2 - Gardens by the Bay I Sands SkyPark Observation Deck I Spectra - Light and Water Show
GREEN PINS ON THE MAP
Gardens by the Bay are probably the most interesting attraction in Singapore. This natural park plays a key role in the Singapore's Government to transform Singapore from a "Garden City" to a "City in a Garden".
Supertree-like structures dominate the Gardens' landscape.
The conservatory complex at Gardens by the Bay comprises two cooled conservatories: the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest.
The Flower Dome is the lower but larger of the two, that replicates a mild, dry climate and features plants found in the Mediterranean, parts of Australia, South America and South Africa.
The Cloud Forest is higher but slightly smaller and it replicates the cool conditions found in tropical mountain regions (Southeast Asia, Middle and South America).
The entrance fee for the two conservatories is of 28 SGD/17,50€.
At sunset time we suggest a visit to the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck. If you do not have the chance to spend a night in this amazing hotel and try the infinity pool with a view for the city skyline, you still have the possibility to go visit the 56th floor and enjoy the view from the top. It costs 23 SGD/14,38€ per person.
The Spectra - Light and Water Show is also a must see to end the day. It happens everyday in Marina Bays Sands shoppes at 8 pm and 9 pm and it lasts for 15 minutes. Friday and Saturday there is an additional session at 10 pm. The entrance is free.
Day 3 - Shopping in Orchard Road I Clarke Quay
ORANGE PINS ON THE MAP
If you like shopping the Orchard Road is the best place. There are plenty of malls along the street and for different kind of tastes and wallets. Also for food experiences, some of the malls offer different grounds full of restaurants. The Marina Bay Sands shoppes are also a good option for shopping lovers.
Finish the day in the area of Clarke Quay, a pleasant riverside quay with restaurants and bars.
In case you have more time
In case you have more time, there is also a night zoo, which a bit far from the city center. On our previous trip to Singapore we took a bus to visit the zoo at night time. It was a nice experience, but we only recommend in case you have extra time in the country or if you are very fond of animals. The entrance fee for the night safari is about 32 SGD/20€.
Hope you enjoy this guide we created based on our experience in Singapore. In case you have any questions, please contact us by email (gomeetshare@gmail.com).