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The best cities for first-time visitors to Asia

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Asia is huge and diverse, with so many attractive travel destinations. From Indonesia to China, Nepal to Cambodia, and Vietnam to Japan, there's so much to love about this fascinating and vibrant continent. But with almost 60% of the world's population (yes, you read that right) and some seriously crowded cities, all but the most experienced of travelers may feel daunted considering where to start for a first-time visit to the continent.

All visitors to Asia's major cities must come to terms with the fact that they are very crowded, with an almost endless amount to see and do. But that doesn't automatically mean that they're difficult to navigate or stressful places to spend time.

Certain East and Southeast Asian cities are best suited to first-time travelers to Asia, as they're highly organized, generally very safe for travelers and you don't need to know much (if any) of the local language to get around, while other South and Southeast Asian destinations (such as India or the Philippines) are probably better left until you have more travel experience in the region.

We've identified a few of the best cities for first-time travelers to Asia to check out. They're all worth a city-break vacation in their own right, or can be used as jumping-off points for exploring other parts of the country and region.

Tokyo, Japan

Major airports: Narita International Airport (NRT), Haneda International Airport (HND)

Related: Tokyo Narita vs. Haneda: Which airport should I fly to?

Who flies there: Many major international airlines fly to Tokyo's airports, including United, American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, ANA (All Nippon Airways), Japan Airlines , Qantas and Singapore Airlines. ( Both ANA and Japan Airlines have announced that many of their flights will move from Narita to Haneda. )

Related: 3 ways to do Tokyo on points

Why first-time travelers to Asia should visit Tokyo: Tokyo is the definition of a mega-city, with around 10 million inhabitants, but it's not intimidating. Everything from the public transit to the garbage disposal runs smoothly and efficiently, Japanese people are generally very polite and introverted in public spaces, the crime rate is very low and tourists are highly unlikely to be a target. There's an enormous amount to see and do, whatever your interests. And if crowds aren't your thing, there are many peaceful parks and temples to which you can retreat.

While Tokyo is generally an expensive destination to visit, there are many ways to keep spending in check. Lots of attractions in Japan are free, including some parks and temples. Transportation is not very expensive, and you can make it even more affordable by buying a pass corresponding to the length of your stay.

Language(s) spoken: Japanese. English is spoken and understood by many in the travel industry, and English signs can be found in most public transportation situations. In general, though, the use and comprehension of English is not high, and the average Japanese person on the street won't understand you if you stop them to ask for directions in English.

How to get around: Tokyo has an extremely extensive network of public transportation, so there's no need to rent a car or take taxis most of the time. Overland and subway trains are generally more useful and user-friendly to international visitors than buses. There are many train lines run by different companies, and while tickets are not always interchangeable between these networks, you can buy daily or weekly transport passes to reduce costs. The subway is handy for getting around the central city, as is the circular above-ground JR Yamanote line.

Top sites: Whatever your interests, Tokyo will satisfy you. The neighborhood of Asakusa is a great place to start your Tokyo exploration, as it has a more traditional feel than most other parts of the city. In July and August 2020, the Olympics will be held in Tokyo. To experience quintessential neon Tokyo, head to Shinjuku and Shibuya. For a glimpse into the future, check out the artificial island of Odaiba. For a peaceful temple experience, visit Hikawa Jinja. For high-end shopping (or browsing), don't miss Ginza.

Top points hotels: Tokyo is an expensive destination, but there are many points options to reduce the cost of your stay. Here are a few:

• Courtyard Tokyo Station (Category 5, 35k Marriott points on standard nights or use a 35k free night certificate )
• Hyatt Regency Tokyo (Category 3, standard rooms from 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night or 17k for a room with Club Lounge access. Or, use a Category 1–4 free night certificate .)
• ANA Intercontinental Tokyo (From 55k IHG Rewards Club points per night)
• Conrad Tokyo (95k Hilton Honors points per night or use a Free Weekend Night certificate )
• Park Hyatt Tokyo (Category 7, standard rooms from 30k points per night)
• Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho (Category 8, 85k Marriott points on standard nights)

Related: 3 of the best-value points hotels in Tokyo

If you're looking for a more affordable stay in Tokyo, look for business hotels. They are generally not spacious and lack character, but come with all the basics and are a decent place to lay your head for the night in a lower price point. You could also try a capsule hotel; here's what it's like to stay in a capsule hotel with kids .

Major airport: Changi International Airport (SIN)

Who flies there: Many major international airlines fly to Singapore, including United, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, Emirates and Qantas. East Coast-based travelers can even take what is currently the world's longest flight , from Newark to Changi.

Related: How to book Singapore Airlines awards using Alaska miles

Why first-time travelers to Asia should visit Singapore: The city-state is a major financial hub in the region, which is evident in its glitzy high-rises and waterfront developments, but you can also find pockets of older, more traditional Southeast Asian culture, as well as green spaces both within the city and just outside. It's a very safe city (the country's notoriously strict punishments play a major part in this), and English is one of its four languages, so you won't have trouble being understood. Plus, Singapore's reputation for orderliness and cleanliness is not a myth.

Singapore is also an excellent destination for first-time family travelers to Asia, as the mix of indoor, cultural, and nature-oriented attractions should appeal to all members of the family (not to mention the general cleanliness).

Related: 3 ways to do Singapore on points

Language(s) spoken: Malay is the official language of Singapore, and Mandarin Chinese, Tamil and English are also widely spoken. Most Singaporeans are either fluent or conversant in English, even if it's not their first language, as it's the language of instruction in schools. All public signs are in English as well as Malay, Chinese and Tamil.

How to get around: Singapore has a good network of trains (the MRT) and buses, plus taxis are very affordable.

Top sites: A bumboat cruise down the Singapore River is a good and relaxing way to get an overview of the central city area, as is a circuit on the Singapore Flyer, an enormous Ferris wheel. The futuristic Gardens by the Bay could entertain you for an hour or a day. Don't miss the famous Merlion Statue. The Singapore Zoo is highly respected. To get out of the concrete jungle, head to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve for a hot and steamy forest hike. Note that Singapore is a tropical country, so it's hot and humid year-round, which may affect your sightseeing plans depending on how you like your weather.

Top points hotels: Singapore is a major business hub, so there is a huge range of hotels catering to different types of traveler. Some great hotels where you can use and earn points include:

• JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach (Category 7, from 60k points per night on standard dates)
• The Westin Singapore (Category 6, from 50k Marriott points per night on standard dates, or use a 50k free night certificate )
• Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong (From 35k IHG Rewards Club points or use an Anniversary Night certificate from the IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card)
• Six Senses Duxton (Pay with a card like the Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card that allows you to "erase" travel purchases from your statement using your Capital One miles .)

Related: These are the best times to visit Singapore

Bangkok, Thailand

Major airports: Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK), Don Mueang International Airport (DMK, mainly for regional low-cost carriers).

Who flies there: A large number of international airlines fly to Bangkok, but travelers coming from the U.S. may need to stop elsewhere first, or board a code-share flight. Airlines that fly to Suvarnabhumi include Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Emirates and Cathay Pacific .

Related: The best ways to get to Thailand using points and miles

Why first-time travelers to Asia should visit Bangkok: Bangkok offers an enticing mix of glitzy modernity and traditional Thai culture. The spectacular, sparkling temples and palaces are unlike anything that most first-time visitors to Asia will have seen before, and the shopping experiences combine high-end glamor, outlet bargains and traditional markets. Plus, once you've had your fill of big-city Thai life, it's easy to get to the beautiful islands and beaches of Thailand from Bangkok. Although you should keep your wits about you, as you would in any large city, Bangkok is relatively safe.

A very, very important thing for first-time visitors (or, any visitors for that matter) to understand is Thailand's strict lese majeste laws. Saying or writing anything that could be understood as insulting the king is a highly punishable offense. If you have opinions on the monarchy, keep them to yourself while in Thailand. Read more in the following article: 11 Mistakes Tourists Make in Bangkok and Beyond

Language(s) spoken: Thai. English is not commonly understood, although it is used by people working in tourism and at restaurants frequented by tourists. Road and transport signs are also usually in English. You can't expect taxi drivers or other Thais not working in tourism to understand or read English: ask your hotel for a business card in Thai in case they have trouble understanding where you want to go. (Unfortunately, it's not uncommon to find taxi drivers who can't read Thai either, which is a good reason to opt for the Skytrain when you can).

How to get around: While taxis and tuk-tuks are abundant in Bangkok, the traffic is often gridlocked, so a better way of getting around is the elevated Skytrain system. While you can't get everywhere in the city on the Skytrain, it does criss-cross much of Bangkok, so if you combine it with shorter taxi or tuk-tuk rides you'll save yourself a lot of time. Water taxis are a convenient way of getting between parts of the city located along the river.

Top sites: Bangkok's temples and palaces should be a first port of call for first-time visitors to the city. The Grand Palace complex is absolutely dazzling -- literally and figuratively -- and contains many temples within its walls. Other unmissable temples include Wat Pho and Wat Arun. If you're in Bangkok at the weekend, head to the enormous Chatuchak Weekend Markets. If you're interested in Thai art and culture, head to the beautiful Jim Thompson's House. To get out of the city for a day, make a day trip to Ayutthaya, the old capital, dotted with ruined temples.

Top points hotels: Bangkok has a huge range of hotels to suit any budget, from backpacker to boutique to luxury. Here are a few of the best points hotels in the city:

• St. Regis Bangkok (Category 5, from 35k Marriott points per night on standard dates, or use a 35k free night certificate )
• Waldorf Astoria Bangkok (From 74k–80k Hilton Honors points per night or use a Free Weekend Night certificate )
• The Athenee Hotel (Category 5, from 35k Marriott points per night on standard dates, or use a 35k free night certificate)
• Park Hyatt Bangkok (Category 5, from 20k World of Hyatt points per night)

Taipei, Taiwan

Major airport(s): Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

Who flies there: Several international airlines fly to Taipei, including United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, All Nippon Airways (ANA), EVA Air , China Airlines , Emirates and Cathay Pacific.

Related: 8 things to know before you go to Taipei

Why first-time travelers to Asia should visit Taipei: Taiwan's capital is often overlooked by travelers in favor of other East Asian giants like Tokyo or Hong Kong, but that's all the more reason to visit. Infrastructure is well set up for tourists, without the city being "touristy." Plus, Taipei is more affordable than, say, Tokyo or Singapore. First-time travelers to Asia shouldn't just stick to Taipei, as the small island of Taiwan is underrated, with beautiful outdoor attractions like mountains, beaches, forests and interesting indigenous cultures within easy reach of the city.

Language(s) spoken: Mandarin Chinese, and other dialects of Chinese (Hokkien and Haka). While many Taiwanese people don't speak or understand English, traveling to Taipei without any knowledge of Chinese isn't a problem. Major signs usually have an English translation, and in many places you'll be able to find an English speaker if you really need one.

How to get around: The extensive Taipei Metro is the best way to get around the city. Most points of interest to travelers are reasonably close to a station, and it's fast and efficient. There are also buses if you want to go somewhere a little further afield that's not covered by the metro, but they can be harder to navigate if you don't read or understand Chinese.

Top sites: Night markets are a big deal in Taipei, and they're both a great way to try tasty local food on the cheap and experience local culture. For a literal overview of the city from what was, for a few years, the tallest building in the world, head on up to the 89th-floor observatory of Taipei 101.

Top points hotels: Taipei is an affordable city, so if you can't (or won't) use points to book a hotel, you can easily find a central-city room in a decent hotel for a very good price. But, here are a couple of points hotel suggestions:

• Grand Hyatt Taipei (Category 4, from 15k World of Hyatt points per night for a standard room or from 21k points for a room with Club access, or use a Category 1–4 free night certificate)
• Hotel Eclat Taipei (Category 3, from 12k Hyatt points per night, or use a Category 1–4 free night certificate)
• Le Meridien Taipei and W Taipei (Both are Category 6, from 50k points per night on standard dates, or use a 50k free night certificate)
• Holiday Inn Express Taoyuan (not actually in Taipei per se, but conveniently close to the airport)

Seoul, South Korea

Major airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN), Gimpo International Airport (GMP, mainly for short-haul flights to China and Japan).

Who flies there: Many international airports fly to Incheon, including United, Hawaiian Airlines, Korean Air , Qantas and Emirates.

Why first-time travelers to Asia should visit Seoul: Like Taipei, Seoul is not as well-known to international travelers as Tokyo, but it's just as big and vibrant. The capital city of South Korea is a great first-time-Asia travel destination if you're looking for somewhere a little different. Korean food is distinct from that of its neighbors and growing in popularity around the world. Seoul is a very modern city in many respects, but some of the most beautiful and fascinating attractions here are historic, including numerous palaces and temples. Plus, for a change of pace, Seoul's nightlife is fun.

Language(s) spoken: Korean. English is not widely spoken in Korea, although many people in Seoul will understand some, and transportation signs are usually in English as well as Korean. You will usually be able to find someone who can understand you in Seoul, although less so in other parts of Korea. Some restaurants have an English menu or one with pictures that you can point to. Hotel staff will likely speak and understand some English.

How to get around: The subway is the easiest way to get around Seoul. It's extensive, and most places of interest to travelers are within walking distance of a station.

Top sites: Seoul is heavy on history and culture, which to the uninitiated will appear as a mix of Chinese and Japanese elements, since Korea's two giant neighbors have had a lot of influence on the country over the centuries. Some top sites to check out include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Changdeokgung Palace and Gardens, and the National Folk Museum of Korea. If you're interested in 20th-century history and contemporary global politics, day trips to the DMZ, the border with North Korea, can be taken from Seoul. The city's markets and shopping districts are also fun, whether you're shopping or not; check out the Myeong-dong neighborhood, Insa-dong neighborhood, and Namdaemun Market.

Top points hotels: Because Seoul isn't as popular as neighboring Tokyo, fewer points will get you further in the South Korean capital. Here are some top picks:

• The Westin Seoul Chosun (Category 5, from 35k Marriott points per night, or use a 35k free night certificate)
• Grand Hyatt Seoul (Category 3, from 15k World of Hyatt points for a standard room, or from 21k points for Club access)
• Park Hyatt Seoul (Category 6, from 25k World of Hyatt points per night)
• Four Seasons Seoul (Book using Chase Ultimate Rewards points through the Chase travel portal)

Bottom line

We've included these top cities but, of course, there are many other destinations across Asia that would also suit first-time visitors to the region. There's no need to feel overwhelmed by planning a first trip to Asia, as there are experiences, sights and price points to suit all needs. Selecting one of these entry points and then exploring the country or region from there is a great way to start. Have fun!

Note: Hong Kong is not on this list but it's a fabulous city to visit. Just be aware that protests at the airport and throughout the city have been an issue for the past several months . Now might not be the best time for timid or nervous travelers to explore the city.

Singapore vs Malaysia: Which is Better To Visit In 2024?

Singapore and Malaysia are two incredible countries to visit in South East Asia.

But which one should you visit? Singapore vs Malaysia is one of the most difficult decisions to make when travelling. Choosing between the two is impossible.

Luckily for you, as a full-time traveller, I am here to provide a guide comparing these two beautiful countries to help you make your decision.

Singapore vs Malaysia: The Basics

As I said, this is a tricky decision and choosing between Singapore vs Malaysia is so tough. There is no obvious winner overall. So to help you make your decision, I have compared the two countries in a number of categories , starting with the basics which are Costs & Prices, Language & Culture, Weather and Food. 4 important things, right?

After assessing the pros and cons, I will declare a winner of each category!

Costs & prices, 🇸🇬 singapore.

Singapore is cheaper than most countries in the western world like the US and the UK, for example. But Singapore is the most expensive country to visit in Southeast Asia.

As the country and city are so modern, and a place known for their luxury lifestyle, it’s naturally more expensive than its surrounding countries.

That being said, backpacking Singapore is really popular, as it’s a common layover for those heading to Australia. So it is possible to visit Singapore on a budget.

Top Tip: Singapore uses Singapore Dollars. As of January 2024, $1 USD is equal to 1.33 SGD.

A typical daily budget in Singapore would be approximately $125 USD each day. Of course, if you are backpacking Southeast Asia , your daily budget will be a lot smaller, around $50.

🇲🇾 Malaysia

Malaysia is also a lot cheaper than most countries in the west. It’s more of a typical Southeast Asian country when it comes to your budget, and you can get things for incredibly cheap.

Although it might not be as cheap as Vietnam or Cambodia, it’s still a really cheap country to visit. You can expect prices similar to that of the Philippines.

Top Tip: Malaysia uses Malaysian Ringgit. As of January 2024, $1 USD is equal to 4.61 MYR.

You can get by in Malaysia with a daily budget of around $85 USD a day. Again, if you are backpacking, you can go as low as $35 a day. So cheap!

Below is a table comparing the prices in Singapore vs Malaysia of common expenses during a trip to either of these countries.

It’s worth noting that alcohol is heavily taxed in both of these countries, which is why it is so out of line with the rest of the prices.

But as you can see, while Singapore is definitely cheaper than most countries, Malaysia is significantly cheaper.

Winner – Costs & Prices: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Language & culture.

Singapore has a pretty unique culture as it has been influenced by Chinese, Malay, Indian and other ethnicities. But this is what makes Singapore so unique. It’s a mix of all different ethnicitie s, religions, and languages. I would compare Singapore to Dubai, to an extent.

Top Tip: The Official Language of Singapore is Malay, funnily enough.

The most popular religions in Singapore are Buddhism and atheism actually. Singapore is a really modern country with a huge mix of religions and beliefs, which has resulted in a large number of atheists compared to other Asian countries. I’m not saying atheism is correct or incorrect, but it’s definitely become a more common belief in modern years.

As shown above, the official language is Malay, but a huge percentage of the country speaks English too. Again, as the city is so modern and luxurious, English is actually the most common language in the heart of the city of Singapore.

Fun Fact: 37% of the people who live in Singapore weren’t born in Singapore.

3 fun facts about Singapore’s language and culture: –> The laws and fines are very strict. For example, you can’t chew chewing gum anywhere you want, you have to make sure you are in an appropriate area. –> Singapore is an incredibly clean and safe city. It’s one of the safest places in the world; honesty is a big part of Singaporean culture which keeps the city spotless and crime-free. –> The people of Singapore are very polite. The government actually teaches manners in the education system, making Singaporeans some of the most polite and welcoming people in the world.

Similar to Singapore, Malaysia is also a multi-cultural country with large populations of native Malays, Chinese, Indians and other nationalities. This makes Malaysia fascinating to visit as all the different religious groups retain their beliefs and all practise their religion slightly differently.

Malaysia’s official religion is Islam , unlike many surrounding countries which mainly practice Buddhism. Religion plays a bigger role in Malaysia than in Singapore, with 63.5% Islam, 18.7% Buddhist and 9.1% Christian according to the 2020 census.

Top Tip: The Official Language of Malaysia is Malay.

Malaysia will provide more of a culture shock than Singapore which is more westernised as it is a modern and luxurious place, and while this is true about parts of Malaysia like Kuala Lumpur, there are more opportunities to go off the beaten path and see the real Malaysia.

English is not quite as widely spoken in Malaysia as it is in Singapore. It is still widely spoken, with about 50-60% of people speaking English , but compare this to nearly everyone in Singapore and it’s a bit less.

3 fun facts about Malaysia’s language and culture: –> Malaysians don’t consider themself to be Malaysian. Most Malaysians instead identify with their family’s origin country. Most likely China or India. –> It’s disrespectful to wear shoes indoors –> Eating with your hands is just as common as using cutlery.

Personally, I don’t think it’s right to say one country’s culture is better than another’s. So I’m calling the cultural comparison between Singapore vs Malaysia a draw, as I did between Taiwan and Thailand . Of course, you can make a personal judgement on which sounds more appealing to you.

Winner – Language & Culture: Both 🇸🇬 🇲🇾

The weather in Singapore is pretty warm all year round, and pretty consistent all year round too. With sunny days and warm weather, you can be sure to get a bit of a tan during a trip to Singapore.

As a country with a tropical climate, the summers are very warm, lasting almost all year. That being said, there are monsoon seasons in Singapore . A monsoon season is when there is great rainfall. The Northeast monsoon is from December to March and the Southwest is from June to September.

But the monsoon seasons provide more bearable temperatures, and sometimes cheaper prices too. There’s never really a “best” or “bad” time to visit Singapore, the country has pretty good weather regardless of when you visit.

Malaysia has a similar annual consistency when it comes to weather. In fact, Malaysia is almost the same temperature all year round. This is due to it’s location near the equator/

There are 2 main seasons in Malaysia: the dry and rainy seasons. But despite the change in precipitation, there is very limited variation in temperatures.

As with Singapore, the rainy season from September to February can provide cheaper prices as there will be fewer tourists in the country, but the temperatures are more or less the same.

Below is a table showing the average temperatures for Singapore and Malaysia throughout the year.

Although the temperatures are close and Malaysia is more consistent, Singapore has higher temperatures and is known for its good weather.

Winner – Weather: Singapore 🇸🇬

As an international shipping port since the 1800s, Singapore’s cuisine has been heavily influenced by cultures from all around the worl d, on top of the countries in and around Southeast Asia.

Having a large number of ethnicities and religions in Singapore reflects the country’s cuisine too.

The cuisine is actually quite similar to that of China , meaning that most dishes aren’t as spicy as elsewhere in Asia.

Some traditional dishes you may wish to try on a trip to Singapore include:

• Bak chor mee: Minced meat noodles with flat egg noodles with vinegar, lard, soy sauce, chilli, pork liver slices, fishcake and minced pork.
• Nasi padang: A steamed rice dish served with meat and vegetables cooked in sauces and curries
• Laksa: A spicy noodle dish served with seafood

Malaysia’s cuisine is a lot spicier than Singapore’s. The cuisine is rich in herbs and spices, resulting in the increased spiciness.

It’s particularly similar to the cuisine of Thailand, sharing many of the key ingredients like the mentioned herbs and spices.

But despite the similarities, Malaysian cuisine is extremely unique. Street food is also a much bigger thing in Malaysia than in Singapore. So you can get some really authentic and delicious food for really cheap prices!

Some traditional dishes to try on a trip to Malaysia include:

• Nasi Lemak: Boiled rice with coconut milk, pandan leaves, sambal, peanuts and more.
• Assam Laksa: Very thick noodle soup with a lot of sauce
• Curry Mee: Noodle soup with all the toppings: bean sprouts, shrimp, fish, chicken and more

A very close decision and completely down to personal preference, but I’m going to give this one to Malaysia as the food is more unique and traditionally spicy.

Winner – Food: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Singapore: top 5 things to do.

When choosing between Singapore vs Malaysia, you’re going to want to know what each of the countries has to offer in terms of things to see, things to do and activities. So here are 5 of the best and must-do things in Singapore. Of course, there are endless amazing things, but these are just 5.

1. Explore the Gardens by the Bay

The most iconic thing to see in Singapore is without a doubt the Gardens by the Bay. As a city filled with greenery and not only skyscrapers, there are lots of opportunities for peaceful walks. No more so than through the Gardens by the Bay where you can see the famous light show at night.

2. Have fun at Universal Studios Singapore

There are 6 Universal Studios theme parks around the world, probably most famously in Orlando, but there is also one in Singapore where you can have a day of fun. With rides, shows and more attraction s, you’re guaranteed to have some movie-themed excitement on your trip to Universal Studios Singapore.

3. Attend the Singapore Grand Prix

Each September, Formula One comes to Singapore for the Singapore Grand Prix. The track is a street track which runs through the heart of Singapore and past some of the most iconic sights in the city. If you visit Singapore in September, you definitely need to head to Marina Bay Street with your ticket to watch the F1!

4. Visit Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo is one of the biggest and best zoos in the world. The zoo is complimented on its spacious and open enclosures providing a good life for the animals. There are also some really unique animals to see such as white tigers. There are also excellent shows put on throughout the day by the zookeepers and some animals.

5. Get a view over Singapore from the Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer offers one of the best views for any observation wheel in the world. In my opinion, it’s miles better than the London Eye. Any trip to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without a trip up the wheel to get a breathtaking view over Singapore where you can see all of the most popular sights.

Malaysia: Top 5 Things To Do

Continuing with our comparison of Malaysia vs Singapore, it’s time to consider what there is to do in Malaysia. Again, this can help to give you an understanding of what sort of things there are to do in each of the countries and find something that catches your eye.

1. Go up Menara Kuala Lumpur

One of the best things to do in Malaysia is to go up Menara Kuala Lumpur. It is the world’s 7th tallest tower and similar to the Singapore Flyer, offers dream-worthy views over the city of Kuala Lumpur. The prices are very reasonable, as we have learnt Malaysia is cheap, it costs about $7 for this unforgettable view.

2. See the Batu Caves

If you have seen photos of Malaysia before, you have likely seen photos of the Batu Caves and the iconic rainbow steps , and of course, the giant golden statue of Murugan. It’s an absolute must-do. Entrance is also free to the main temple/cave and the price for the other caves is like $2, bargain!

✅ Interested in touring Batu Caves? It’s one of the must-do things during a trip to Malaysia! Book a tour today by clicking here!

3. Walk along the Langkawi Sky Bridge

The longest curved and free-span bridge in the world is found in Malaysia, Langkawi Sky Bridge. It’s a unique experience being suspended high above the jungle, with panoramic views miles upon miles into the Malaysian landscape. There are also parts with a glass, see-through floor which makes it a somewhat thrilling experience too.

✅ Interested in going to the Langkawi Sky Bridge? You can get a trip in the cable car included with your tour! Book a tour today by clicking here!

4. See the Petronas Towers

Kuala Lumpur’s Twin Towers, the Petronas Towers, attract millions of visitors from all around the world to see the iconic part of the Kuala Lumpur skyline. Seeing the towers is pretty cool, but going up the towers is an unforgettable moment. You are able to buy tickets to go up the towers and get another indescribable view of the city.

✅ Interested in going up the Petronas Towers? You can get tickets for your trip by clicking here!

5. Get a photo with the bicycle street art in Penang

One of the most famous things to see in Penang is the “Little children on a Bicycle” mural. It’s in the Georgetown area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with lots of street art, but this is definitely one of the most famous. If anyone posts photos on Instagram from their time in Penang, I would bet that a picture of this mural is included.

Singapore vs Malaysia: Which Is Better For Travelling?

Choosing between Singapore vs Malaysia requires a deep dive into the nitty gritty specifics of what each country offers. 5 main things which you might consider are: hiking, beaches, nightlife, budget and popularity. So whether you arrive at Singapore or Kuala Lumpur International Airport, I’ve put Singapore and Malaysia up against each other in each category to see who comes out on top.

Which Has Better Hiking: Singapore vs Malaysia

As a city-state, Singapore doesn’t offer too many hiking opportunities. Singapore is also a very small country, it takes just over 30 minutes to drive from opposite sides.

Singapore is known as The Garden City – you will see this as soon as you arrive at the airport. So while there are lots of opportunities for walking through state-of-the-art botanical gardens in Singapore, there are few proper hiking options.

There are some though, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, for example, provides the opportunity to go for a hike during a trip to Singapore to the highest nature peak in the state (163 metres).

Malaysia, as a much larger country made up of cities and countryside and everything in between, offers a significantly larger number of hiking opportunities, as you might imagine.

In fact, there are over 3200 recognised hiking trails in Malaysia . So if you are an outdoor lover and an avid hiker, you’ll find lots of options on a trip to Malaysia.

Some of the most popular hikes in the country include:

• Mt Kinabalu, Sabah
• Gunung Tahan, Taman Negara National Park
• Penang Hill, George Town
• Bukit Beruang, Melaka

Comparing a city-state and a country with incredible landscapes and countryside, I think there’s only going to be one winner when it comes to hiking, so Malaysia comes out on top for this one.

Winner – Hiking: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Which has better beaches: singapore vs malaysia.

As Singapore is an island, you would imagine that there are plenty of great beaches. And you would be correct. Singapore is home to some really popular beaches.

The tropical climate creates perfect conditions for beach life , with beautiful palm trees, golden sand and peaceful blue water.

Palawan Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches I have ever seen, it’s the model beach. Take a look for yourself…

Some other popular beaches in Singapore include:

• Changi Beach
• Tanjong Beach
• Pasir Ris Beach

Malaysia has just under 4000 kilometres of coastline along with 878 islands . Of course, this results in some picture-perfect beaches.

Like Singapore, Malaysia’s tropical climate creates ideal beach conditions. Who wants to be on the beach in the rain after all?

Some of Malaysia’s most popular beaches include Kapalai Island Beach, Pantai Cahaya Bulan and Batu Ferringhi. But for me, the best beaches in Malaysia are found on the Perhentian Islands.

As a protected area for marine life, the beaches here are spotless and offer some really nice beaches to relax and unwind, as well as explore the exotic marine life by snorkelling.

It’s really tough to choose between Singapore and Malaysia. There are some really quality beaches in each country. But there are more beaches in Malaysia as it’s a bigger country, so I guess this one goes to Malaysia once again.

Winner – Beaches: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Which has better nightlife: singapore vs malaysia.

Singapore has an extraordinary nightlife. The city never sleeps! There is an abundance of world-class bars and clubs where you can drink and dance the night away. The Singaporeans know how to party, that’s for sure.

Top Tip: The legal drinking age in Singapore is 18.

One thing that’s worth noting is the high price of alcohol as discussed earlier. Due to the high tax, your night out in Singapore can get pretty expensive quite quickly. So just remember to be sensible at all times.

Another thing worth noting is that public drinking is illegal in Singapore between 1:30 pm and 7 am. Of course, you are allowed to drink it in registered places like bars and clubs.

Singapore’s nightlife is 10/10 and up there with Bangkok and even Vegas!

Like most countries in Southeast Asia, the nightlife in Malaysia is also very good.

Any of the big cities or even some of the less popular places have a good number of options when it comes to clubs, bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a night out.

Top Tip: The legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21 as of 2017.

The street markets and stalls also make for a great night out where you can get really cheap food and drinks.

Again, as with Singapore, alcohol is highly taxed so make sure to keep track of how much you are spending.

Although nightlife in Malaysia is good, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, the nightlife in Singapore is next-level, so Singapore wins the Singapore vs Malaysia nightlife category.

Winner – Nightlife: Singapore 🇸🇬

Which destination is better on a budget.

This category is pretty similar to the costs category as it comes down to the price of things. But how easy are the two countries to do on a budget? Is it easy to find cheap accommodation, hostels etc.?

Singapore is definitely doable on a budget. You just have to be savvy about your budget throughout your trip.

It’s possible to find hostels for cheap (I recommend using Hostelworld ) and you can get them at the cheapest price if you book months in advance.

Food can be harder to find cheaply in Singapore as there aren’t as many street food markets as in Malaysia or other Asian countries.

But at the end of the day, you are only going to be spending a few days in Singapore , it’s not a place where you spend months and months, so you could “do” Singapore for a few hundred dollars, for sure.

Malaysia is extremely easy to visit on a tight budget. Although backpacking Malaysia isn’t as popular as backpacking Vietnam or backpacking Thailand , it’s rising in popularity and backpackers are beginning to realise how cheaply Malaysia can be explored.

Hostels are really easy to find, they’re a lot more common throughout Malaysia than in Singapore, Singapore’s hostels are also more expensive as they’re more modern and luxurious to fit in with the rest of the city.

And as stated throughout this article, street food is a big part of the culture in Malaysia so it’s super easy to find cheap but tasty food.

For this one, Malaysia is definitely easier to do on a budget.

Winner – Budget: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Which is better for avoiding tourists.

Personally, I would have thought that more people visit Singapore than Malaysia. Singapore is a popular layover when going from Europe to Australia, or vice versa, and many people choose to spend a few days there to adjust to the timezone.

It’s also appealing as you can see most of the main sights in just a few days.

But the statistics say otherwise. In 2019 (using stats from pre-COVID), 26.10 million people visited Malaysia . Whereas, fewer people, 19.12 million to be exact, visited Singapore in 2019.

There’s an argument to make that the density of tourists would be higher in Singapore as everyone is visiting the city, whereas tourists are visiting a number of different places across Malaysia.

But I’ll take the statistics for face value and declare that Singapore is better for avoiding tourists as few people visit the country on a yearly basis.

Winner – Avoiding Tourists: Singapore 🇸🇬

Singapore vs malaysia: faq.

Below are a number of questions related to Singapore vs Malaysia along with my answers.

It’s not right to say one country is “better” than another country. There are so many factors that affect someone’s opinion of a country. For example, if you love a night out, Singapore is better. If you love hiking, Malaysia is better. It depends on what you are interested in.

Singapore is different from Malaysia in many ways. Firstly, it’s a state-city so there is only Singapore whereas Malaysia is a country that has cities and towns across the city. Another main difference is the landscape, Singapore is all city (though has a lot of gardens) whereas Malaysia has jungles and countryside.

Yes, the official language of both Singapore and Malaysia is Malay. Both countries also have a large majority of their population who speak English.

Singapore and Malaysia are in Southeast Asia, which on a world map is easily identifiable as the islands north of Australia. Above Indonesia are Singapore and Malaysia.

Final Thoughts: Singapore vs Malaysia

And there you have it, a complete guide and comparison of Singapore vs Malaysia.

Winner – Overall: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Overall, Malaysia “wins” 6-4, so it was a pretty close comparison.

I encourage you to take these results with a pinch of salt , though. This is based entirely on my opinion, and even though the results say so, I wouldn’t say Malaysia is “better” than Singapore.

Both countries offer something different. So use this comparison to see what you want to get from each country. Are you looking for somewhere with good weather and nightlife? Singapore is for you. Are you looking for somewhere with good hiking and is cheap? Malaysia is for you.

It’s completely personal preference and comes down to what you want from your trip.

Hopefully, this comparison has laid everything out clearly and made it easy for you to make your decision between Singapore vs Malaysia.

Whichever country you choose, you are guaranteed to have the trip of a lifetime! 🙂

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

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Emirates vs. Singapore Airlines

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Whether you’re a frequent globetrotter or researching your first international trip, you’ve likely heard of Emirates and Singapore Airlines.

Both carriers are frequently rated as some of the best for customer satisfaction, and their premium cabins generate a lot of buzz. If you’re shopping for a flight and would like to become more familiar with these airlines, let’s compare Emirates versus Singapore to find out which is better for you.

Where they’re based and where they fly

Winner for the number of destinations served: emirates.

Emirates isn’t part of an airline alliance, but it has a larger global presence than Singapore Airlines. However, Singapore is a member of the Star Alliance , whose reach extends to nearly 1,250 destinations all over the world.

Still, on its own, Emirates serves more destinations and therefore takes a lead in this category.

Emirates is headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Its fleet of over 260 aircraft operates service to 134 destinations in 73 countries, including the following 12 U.S. cities:

Chicago-O’Hare.

Dallas-Fort Worth.

Houston-Intercontinental.

Los Angeles.

New York-John F. Kennedy.

San Francisco.

Washington-Dulles. 

Singapore Airlines

With a fleet size of nearly 160 aircraft, Singapore Airlines is the flag carrier of Singapore and flies to 75 destinations in 34 countries.

Singapore offers flights to the following six U.S. cities:

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

Airline loyalty programs

Winner for ease of earning and using miles: singapore krisflyer.

When you take a look at the loyalty programs of Emirates and Singapore airlines, one option has more advantages in terms of mileage earnings and redemptions.

The Emirates frequent flyer program is called Skywards . The number of miles you earn on an Emirates flight varies depending on the route, fare type and class of service. If you’re a Skywards member with elite status, you’ll earn a bonus on any flown miles at the following rates:

Blue: 0% bonus.

Silver: 30% bonus.

Gold: 75% bonus.

Platinum: 100% bonus.

So, if you’re flying a round-trip itinerary from San Francisco to Dubai, here’s how many Skywards miles you could earn as a Blue member versus as a Platinum member.

When booking award flights, keep in mind that redemption rates for Emirates-operated flights are rather high as a result of a recent devaluation.

For example, a round-trip business class flight from San Francisco to Dubai will cost you 256,500 Skywards miles plus an additional $1,700 in taxes, fees and carrier-imposed charges.

For U.S. travelers, getting your hands on Emirates Skywards miles can also be done by transferring the following flexible point currencies to Emirates:

American Express Membership Rewards: 1:1 ratio.

Chase Ultimate Rewards: 1:1 ratio.

Capital One Miles: 1:1 ratio.

Citi ThankYou Points: 1:1 ratio.

Bilt Rewards: 1:1 ratio.

Brex Rewards: 1:1 ratio.

Marriott Bonvoy: 3:1 ratio.

Terms apply.

» Learn more: Things to know about the Emirates Skywards credit cards

KrisFlyer is the name of Singapore Airlines’ loyalty program, and it has two elite tiers: KrisFlyer Elite Silver and KrisFlyer Elite Gold. Mileage accrual on paid flights varies by the operating carrier and the fare class booked. You can redeem KrisFlyer miles on Singapore Airlines flights as well as partner flights.

With Singapore KrisFlyer, a round-trip business class redemption from San Francisco to Singapore will set you back 214,000 KrisFlyer miles — as long as you can find a Saver-level award. The best part is taxes and fees shouldn’t exceed $70.

Additionally, you can book a Star Alliance Round The World Award on Singapore Airlines and its alliance partners with as few as 200,000 KrisFlyer miles in economy class, 280,000 KrisFlyer miles in business or 405,000 KrisFlyer miles in first class.

U.S.-based travelers can transfer the following points to Singapore KrisFlyer:

American Express Membership Rewards: 3:2 ratio.

» Learn more: Singapore KrisFlyer miles calculator

Classes of service

Winner for premium cabin classes: tie.

Emirates and Singapore Airlines offer premium cabins on their aircraft, including first and business classes, as well as economy seats. If you’re able to swing it, both of these airlines frequently receive high marks for the luxurious quality of their premium class experiences.

Emirates flights have four classes of service on international routes: economy, premium economy , business and first class.

When flying Emirates business class , you’ll find lie-flat leather seats and gourmet meals. If you’re flying in a premium cabin on the Airbus A380, feel free to quench your thirst at the onboard cocktail lounge.

First-class passengers have a fully-enclosed, private suite at their disposal. They also will experience an a la carte fine dining service, vintage champagne, a shower spa and a lounge bar. Complimentary chauffeur-driven transfers between your flights are also part of the Emirates first-class experience .

» Learn more: How to book Emirates first class with points

Singapore Airlines also offers seats in first, business, premium economy and economy classes.

First class is available on its Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 planes, with the latter featuring the carrier’s signature suites. In first class , you’ll experience fine dining, complimentary champagne, window blinds and leather-upholstered seats that convert into a fully flat bed. If you’re traveling as a couple, you can turn adjoining suites into a double bed with the option to slide the door shut for privacy.

Business class passengers won’t be disappointed, either. In-flight dining for premium cabins includes Book the Cook meal options, which lets you reserve your main course before the flight. Select lie-flat business class seats can be turned into a double bed on the A380 aircraft as well.

» Learn more: Singapore Airlines business class review — Dubai to Singapore

Winner for lowest fees: Tie

Many airlines charge fees for extras like seat selection and additional baggage. When comparing fees between Emirates and Singapore Airlines, seat selection fees are lower on Singapore while luggage fees are more favorable on Emirates.

Extra baggage allowance per every 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram): $15 to $50.

Additional piece of luggage: $100 to $250.  

Regular seat selection: $15 to $40.

Preferred seat selection: $25 to $100.

Twin seat selection: $35 to $135.

Extra legroom seat selection: $55 to $250.

Extra baggage allowance for 20 pounds (9 kilograms): $80 to $180.

Additional piece of luggage: $120 to $280.

Regular seat selection: $8 to $25.

Forward zone seat selection: $15 to $50.

Extra legroom seat selection: $25 to $120.

» Learn more: Common airline fees and how to avoid them

Emirates vs. Singapore Airlines, recapped

Although Emirates isn’t an alliance member, it flies to more destinations than Singapore Airlines. However, for loyalty members, Singapore KrisFlyer is a much better program than Emirates Skywards.

In terms of service, both Emirates and Singapore Airlines offer great premium products, especially in first class, and you can’t go wrong with either option.

At the end of the day, we recommend picking the airline that offers you the most affordable pricing, convenient departure times and fewer stops.

(Top photo courtesy of Singapore Airlines)

How to maximize your rewards

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On a similar note...

Malaysia vs Singapore: Which One is Better for Your Next Trip?

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: February 7, 2024

Embarking on a journey to Southeast Asia opens up a world of diverse cultures, rich histories, and vibrant landscapes. Still, travellers often face a dilemma – should they visit Malaysia or Singapore? Both places are incredible but cater to different travellers’ tastes and preferences.

Having visited and stayed in both countries several times, from a few days to one complete month, I am able to offer my insight and travel tips on Malaysia and Singapore.

In this post, I uncover the pros and cons of both destinations to help you decide which is best for your next trip. Find out what the weather is like, what to do in each country, how to get around, what kind of budget you need, and what outdoor activities you can experience.

Read on to explore the unique qualities of both countries, or jump straight to my:

Malaysia Travel Guides

Singapore Travel Guides

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Table of Contents

Malaysia vs. Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Next Adventure

Country: malaysia – capital city: kuala lumpur.

Malaysia is renowned for its lush rainforests, iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, and historic sites like Malacca and Ipoh. Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands, offers a haven for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. Meanwhile, the island of Borneo is one of the only places on the planet where you can see orangutans in the wild and learn about indigenous Malay tribes.

In Penang, the UNESCO-listed George Town boasts colonial architecture and vibrant street art, reflecting the country’s historical and artistic charm. While high in the Cameron Mountains, tea plantations unveil a distinctive topography, echoing the legacy of colonial rule in Malaysia.

Country: Republic of Singapore – Capital City: Singapore

Singapore is a global financial hub known for its modern skyline, futuristic architecture, and efficient public transport. The iconic Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the bustling Orchard Road showcase the city-state’s commitment to innovation and modernity.

Singapore’s dedication to green spaces is evident in attractions like the Singapore Botanic Gardens and Sentosa Island, balancing urban development and nature preservation. Its cultural neighbourhoods, such as Chinatown and Little India, showcase the diversity of Singapore’s community through street art, cuisine, and religion.

Annual Weather Temps and Rainfall – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Malaysia has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C throughout the year. The monsoon season varies by region, with the east coast experiencing heavy rainfall from November to March, while the west coast faces it from April to October. That said, I travelled around the west coast in June/July and only encountered light showers on two days.

Borneo is a tropical island with the same weather system as the east coast of Malaysia. The best time to visit Borneo is between March and October, when the island is hot, humid, and at its driest.

Singapore has a consistently tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. The island experiences rainfall throughout the year, with the wetter months occurring from November to January.

Which is the best country for great weather – Malaysia or Singapore?

Both Malaysia and Singapore have tropical climates with warm temperatures and high humidity. The weather experience may depend on specific regions within each country and the time of the year.

Travellers to both destinations should be prepared for warm and humid conditions and occasional rain showers. If planning outdoor activities, the impact of monsoon seasons needs to be considered.

Ultimately, the choice between Malaysia and Singapore for great weather will depend on the time of year a traveller intends to visit and the specific regions within each country.

Culture and Religion – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities. The harmonious coexistence of various ethnicities is evident in its festivals and traditions.

Religiously, Malaysia is predominantly Islamic, and mosques are scattered across the country, each a testament to the architectural beauty inspired by Islamic art. The beautiful pink Putra Mosque in Kuala Lumpur and the floating Masjid Bandaraya Mosque in Kota Kinabalu are two such examples.

Buddhism comes in a close second, and a wealth of Chinese temples can be seen across the entirety of Malaysia. Kek Lok Si in Penang is one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temples.

In contrast, Singapore’s culture is an eclectic blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. The city-state celebrates diversity through events like Thaipusam, Deepavali, and the iconic Chingay Parade, showcasing its multicultural tapestry.

Singapore’s religions are equally diverse, including Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity. Serene places of worship, like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Sultan Mosque, provide a glimpse into the country’s religious harmony.

Best For Traveller Safety – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Both Malaysia and Singapore are generally safe for travellers. Exercise common precautions, such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings. In Malaysia, it’s advisable to be cautious in certain urban areas, but overall, it’s a welcoming destination. The only place I have felt a little unsafe is in Kuala Lumpur at night, but that can be said for many city centres worldwide.

Singapore is known for its high level of safety and cleanliness. The city-state has strict laws, ensuring a secure environment for tourists. As with any destination, remain vigilant and adhere to local regulations. I felt safe at all times during my trips to Singapore.

Which is the best country for traveller safety – Malaysia or Singapore?

Singapore is often regarded as one of the safest destinations globally , with low crime rates and efficient public safety measures. While generally safe, Malaysia may have regional variations in safety levels, such as the threat of pirates in the seas around the east coast of Borneo.

Both countries, however, prioritize the safety and well-being of visitors. Travellers are advised to stay informed about local conditions, follow basic safety precautions, and adhere to local laws and regulations to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience in either Malaysia or Singapore.

Best Transportation – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Malaysia has a well-developed transportation infrastructure. Domestic flights, buses, and trains connect major cities and towns, offering budget-friendly options, and taxis (GRAB) are affordable. Ferries and speed boats run between the mainland and the islands in Malaysia. Transport companies like MyDaytrip allow visitors to stop and sightsee on long-distance journeys between destinations.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport is the country’s major air transportation hub. Flights to KL tend to be fractionally less expensive than flying into Singapore.

Singapore’s compact size makes walking a viable option in many areas. That said, public transportation, including buses and the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), is efficient and relatively inexpensive. However, taxis (GRAB) are more expensive than in Malaysia.

Changi Airport is an attraction in its own right and a major international hub for air transportation to Singapore and the rest of the southern hemisphere. Singapore Air, as voted by Skytrax, holds the award as the world’s best airline.

Which country has the best transport network – Malaysia or Singapore?

While both Malaysia and Singapore have well-developed transportation systems, Singapore’s system is often regarded as more efficient and user-friendly, particularly for urban travel.

Singapore’s compact nature contributes to a seamless and reliable transportation experience. However, the suitability of each system depends on the traveller’s specific needs and the journey’s context, as Singapore’s is city-based, while Malaysia’s spans a huge landmass.

Best Accommodation – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Accommodation options range from budget hostels to luxury hotels, with prices varying significantly between regions. Larger cities, tourist hotspots, and island stays may have higher accommodation costs.

Homestays and guesthouses can provide affordable alternatives, although I cannot comment on using these myself.

Places to stay in mainland Malaysia I can personally recommend:

Penang: Blue Mansion ( Cheung Fatt Tze) and Shangri-La Rasa Sayang are both amazing properties. One is in George Town, and the other is on Batu Ferringhi Beach.

Pricing and Availability for Blue Mansion (Cheung Fatt Tze)

Please read my Blue Mansion Review for more details.

Penang (Batu Ferringhi Beach): Shangri-La Rasa Sayang is a prestigious beachfront property nestled amongst ancient rainforest trees, offering comfort and service at the highest level.

Pricing and Availability for Shangri La Rasa Sayang

Please read my Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Review for more details.

Kuala Lumpur: Face Suites and Ascott Star Suites are both self-contained apartment blocks with access to a gym, rooftop swimming pools, and other great amenities.

Pricing and Availability for The Face Suites.

Pricing and Availability for Ascott Star Suites.

Ipoh: Weil Hotel is a modern hotel adjacent to Ipoh’s shopping mall. It has a rooftop pool, restaurant and comfortable rooms. It’s perfect for spending a few days sightseeing in Ipoh.

Pricing and Availability for Weil Hotel.

Cameron Highlands: The Cameron Highlands Resort is a luxury colonial property with four poster beds, a piano bar, a restaurant, and a golf course. It is one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Pricing and Availability for Cameron Highlands Resort.

Pangkor: Pangkor Laut Resort is on a tropical island with beautifully appointed villas set high amidst the hills, nestled within lush gardens or resting on stilts above the island’s turquoise waters. It is also one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Pricing and Availability for Pangkor Laut Resort.

Places to stay in Borneo I can personally recommend:

Sandakan: Sepilok Nature Resort is a beautiful, relaxing, and idyllic jungle retreat. Wooden chalets nestled in dense foliage and lily ponds are fully air-conditioned and have fabulous amenities. The resort is also next door to Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary!

Pricing and Availability for Sepilok Nature Resort

Kota Kinabalu: The Jesselton Hotel is dated but ideal and economical for a few nights’ stay. In comparison, The Luma Hotel is modern, has comfortable rooms, and is a member of Design Hotels.

Pricing and Availability for The Jesselton Hotel.

Pricing and Availability for The Luma Hotel.

Gaya Island: Bungaraya Resort is a paradise getaway, only a short boat ride from Kota Kinabalu. Stay in a beautifully appointed villa by the beach or on the hillside, and swim in the clear turquoise waters of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park.

Pricing and Availability for Bungaraya Resort.

The city-state offers a range of high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, although accommodation in Singapore is substantially more expensive than in many parts of Malaysia.

Budget options like hostels are available, but even they might be relatively pricier than in Malaysia.

Places to stay in Singapore I can personally recommend:

Marina Bay Sands: The most famous hotel in Singapore is known for its rooftop pool and price tag!

Pricing and Availability for Marina Bay Sands.

Please read my Marina Bay Sands Review for more details.

Citadines Raffles Place: An ultra-modern self-contained apartment with a pool, concierge, rooftop restaurant and garden.

Pricing and Availability for Citadines Raffles Place.

Dusit Thani Laguna: Like other Dusit Thani properties worldwide, this one in Singapore didn’t disappoint. It is modern and comfortable, with all the in-room mod cons you could want. There is a great pool and an on-site golf course.

Pricing and Availability for Dusit Thani Laguna.

Ibis Singapore On Bencoolen: An economy hotel well placed for Singpore’s metro. It’s clean, comfortable and affordable.

Pricing and Availability for Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen.

Country Economy – Malaysia vs. Singapore

As one of the world’s largest palm oil and rubber producers, Malaysia has a diverse economy focusing on natural resources, manufacturing, and services.

Singapore has a highly developed and globalized economy that emphasises finance, trade, and technology. It is one of the leading financial hubs in Asia, with a strong emphasis on innovation and education.

Which country is more economical to visit – Malaysia or Singapore?

Malaysia is generally perceived as a more budget-friendly destination, although it’s important to note that both countries offer a range of options catering to different budgets. Travellers seeking a more economical experience may find Malaysia to be a cost-effective choice.

Singapore is expensive to visit, with hotels, dining out and entertainment at a premium. That said, for the budget-conscious who are willing to do some research, there are ways of visiting Singapore without having to spend a hefty amount of travel funds, such as staying in hostels and eating street food.

Languages Spoken – Malaysia vs. Singapore

• Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) is the official language.
• English is widely spoken, and various ethnic groups use their languages, including Mandarin, Tamil, and indigenous languages.
• Four official languages: English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil.
• English is the primary language used in government, education, and business.

Best Beaches – Malaysia vs. Singapore

For pristine beaches, look no further than Langkawi’s Tanjung Rhu Beach, offering crystal-clear waters and stunning limestone formations. Perhentian Islands, with their white sandy beaches, are perfect for snorkelling and diving.

Tioman Island, surrounded by coral reefs, is another gem, boasting secluded beaches like Juara and Tekek. Gaya Island in Borneo offers a slice of paradise, and Batu Ferringhi in Penang offers a beautiful beach escape from the hustle of George Town.

While Singapore may not be renowned for its beaches, Sentosa Island offers a picturesque coastline. With its soft sands and palm trees, Palawan Beach provides a tranquil escape within the city-state.

Which is the best country for beautiful beaches – Malaysia or Singapore?

Malaysia wins hands-down in this category, boasting an extensive coastline with various stunning mainland and island beaches, each offering unique experiences. Singapore has only a handful of beaches, and while they are attractive, they are often artificial or enhanced due to the limited natural coastlines.

Best Snorkelling and Diving – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Malaysia boasts some of the world’s best snorkelling and dive sites, offering diverse underwater landscapes and unique marine encounters. The crystal-clear waters around Malaysia host various marine species, including reef sharks, turtles, and numerous fish species.

Popular destinations include:

Perhentian Islands: Known for coral reefs, diverse marine species, and clear visibility.

Tioman Island: A haven for divers featuring colourful coral gardens and abundant marine life.

Sipadan: Renowned worldwide for its rich biodiversity, including schools of barracudas, turtles, and hammerhead sharks.

Urban development heavily influences the coastal areas of Singapore, impacting the overall underwater ecosystem and visibility.

There are limited natural dive sites, and they do not compare to the diversity and richness found in Malaysia. Visibility is poor due to the silt in Singapore’s sea.

Which is the best country for snorkelling and diving – Malaysia or Singapore?

Malaysia is the winner for unparalleled snorkelling and diving experiences. The country’s vast coastline, diverse marine ecosystems, and world-renowned dive sites make it a haven for underwater enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned diver or a snorkelling enthusiast, Malaysia offers many options to explore the mesmerizing beauty beneath the surface.

Best Nightlife – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Kuala Lumpur comes alive at night with a diverse nightlife scene. Changkat Bukit Bintang offers many bars and clubs, while Petaling Street transforms into a bustling night market. Nightlife in Penang is based around restaurants and a few backpacker bars, but nothing is very rowdy.

There are plenty of things to do in Singapore at night, with Clarke Quay being a hotspot for bars and riverside dining. The vibrant Orchard Road houses numerous bars and nightclubs, and for a more sophisticated experience, head to the rooftop bar in Marina Bay Sands and enjoy DJ sets with a view.

Which is the best country for nightlife – Malaysia or Singapore?

If you’re looking for a more diverse and culturally influenced nightlife, Malaysia is the place for you.

Singapore will be your preferred choice if you prefer a cosmopolitan and well-regulated environment with a mix of local and international flavours.

Best Food and Cuisine – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Malaysia’s diverse culinary scene is a true gastronomic adventure. Indulge in Nasi Lemak, Laksa, and Roti Canai.

Malaysia’s multicultural society presents a fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous flavours. Some Malaysian favourites include Nasi Lemak (fragrant coconut rice with anchovies, peanuts, boiled eggs, and sambal).

Penang is a street food paradise, offering Char Kway Teow (stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, eggs, and Chinese sausage) and Laksa (spicy noodle soup with coconut milk, prawns, and herbs), while Malacca is famed for its Nyonya cuisine.

Singapore’s cuisine is heavily influenced by Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan cultures, creating a vibrant food scene. Hainanese Chicken Rice (poached chicken served with fragrant rice and chilli sauce), Chili Crab (crab in a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce), and Hokkien Mee (stir-fried noodles with seafood and a savoury broth) are among Singapore’s popular dishes.

Hawker centres like Maxwell Food Centre and Newton Food Centre are must-visit spots for an authentic taste of Singapore.

Which is the best country for cuisine – Malaysia or Singapore?

Ultimately, the “best” country for cuisine depends on individual preferences. Malaysia’s diverse street food and rich flavours might appeal to those who enjoy a variety of spices. At the same time, Singapore’s refined hawker fare and culinary finesse may attract those who prefer well-balanced flavours. Both countries offer a delightful culinary experience, making it worthwhile to explore and savour the unique tastes each has to offer.

Best Outdoor Activities – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Nature lovers will revel in Malaysia’s outdoor offerings. Taman Negara National Park provides a jungle adventure, while Cameron Highlands offers trekking amidst tea plantations. Water activities abound on the Perhentian Islands for diving enthusiasts to explore the vibrant marine life.

Malaysia’s rivers, particularly in the states of Sabah and Pahang, provide excellent whitewater rafting experiences. For caving enthusiasts, the limestone hills of Malaysia offer extensive cave systems, such as those in Gua Tempurung and Batu Caves.

Despite its urban landscape, Singapore offers outdoor escapes. The Southern Ridges provide scenic walking trails, and East Coast Park offers cycling and beach activities. Several nature reserves, including Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and MacRitchie Reservoir, provide opportunities for hiking and bird-watching. And the Singapore Botanic Gardens and Gardens by the Bay are ideal for strolls amid lush greenery. Kusu Island and Pulau Ubin offer nature walks and biking trails for day-trippers.

Which country has the best activities for outdoor enthusiasts – Malaysia or Singapore?

While Singapore does offer some outdoor activities, Malaysia stands out as a destination with a richer array of options for outdoor enthusiasts.

The country’s natural diversity, national parks, and adventurous landscapes make it an ideal choice for those seeking a wide range of outdoor experiences. Whether it’s exploring dense rainforests, scaling peaks, or diving in vibrant coral reefs, Malaysia provides an extensive playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Wildlife Experiences – Malaysia vs. Singapore

Malaysia and Singapore offer distinct wildlife experiences. Whether you seek the thrill of a jungle trek or the tranquillity of a bird-watching expedition, both countries cater to wildlife enthusiasts with unique offerings shaped by their commitment to preserving biodiversity.

Its vast and varied landscapes present unparalleled opportunities to explore pristine ecosystems and encounter iconic species.

Taman Negara National Park

One of the world’s oldest rainforests, Taman Negara, is home to diverse flora and fauna, including Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, and exotic birds. Activities such as canopy walks, jungle trekking, and river cruises provide immersive experiences in the heart of the rainforest.

Borneo – Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre:

Borneo is famous for its orangutans. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah allows visitors to witness these incredible primates up close. Daily feeding sessions and guided tours offer insights into orangutan conservation efforts.

Kinabatangan River Safari

Navigate the Kinabatangan River to spot pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans and a plethora of bird species. River safaris and wildlife cruises provide a unique perspective of Borneo’s rich biodiversity.

Langkawi Mangrove Tour

Langkawi’s mangroves teem with wildlife, including eagles, macaques, and otters. Boat tours explore the mangroves, offering a chance to witness the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems.

While urbanized, Singapore is committed to conservation with well-curated zoos, parks, and nature reserves. Whether you seek the thrill of a jungle trek or the tranquillity of a bird-watching expedition, both countries cater to wildlife enthusiasts with unique offerings shaped by their commitment to preserving biodiversity.

Singapore Zoo and Night Safari

The Singapore Zoo is renowned for its open-concept enclosures, allowing close encounters with diverse animals. Night safaris, guided walks, and animal shows offer varied experiences for visitors of all ages.

A short boat ride from Singapore, Pulau Ubin is a rustic island offering glimpses of wild boars, monitor lizards, and various bird species. Cycling and hiking trails provide opportunities to explore the island’s natural beauty.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a haven for migratory birds, a serene escape showcasing the importance of wetland ecosystems. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, guided walks, and photography opportunities.

Which country offers the best animal experiences – Malaysia or Singapore?

For those seeking authentic wildlife experiences in natural habitats, Malaysia offers a more diverse and extensive range of opportunities. Whether it’s witnessing orangutans in the rainforest, encountering marine life in pristine waters, or exploring national parks, Malaysia provides a richer tapestry of animal experiences. While excelling in zoo and aquarium attractions, Singapore does not offer the same level of diversity in terms of wildlife in its natural settings.

Which is Best for a Quick Visit – Malaysia vs. Singapore?

Malaysia is vast and so not primarily known as a stopover destination. Nevertheless, it can and has been done by many, myself included. A few nights in Kuala Lumpur will allow you to see most of its tourist attractions like the Petronas Towers, KL Tower, Chinatown and the Batu Caves.

Alternatively, fly into Penang and spend three nights in George Town , where you can discover its street art, street food, heritage mansions , and Hindu and Buddhist temples.

Obviously, you won’t be able to see much of Malaysia on a quick visit. Still, it will undoubtedly inspire you to return and explore more of mainland Malaysia and add on a trip to Borneo for an unforgettable orangutan experience.

After Dubai, Singapore is the country most travellers transit through on their way to other destinations in Southeast Asia and Oceania. It’s so popular that Changi Airport is a tourist attraction in its own right. By spending two days in Singapore , you will have the chance to really get to know the city. It is walkable and compact, so you can easily and quickly get from one place to another using Singapore’s efficient transport system.

See the famed Gardens by the Bay, visit the Cloud Forest beneath its impressive bio-dome, head to the top of Marina Bay Sands to look out over Singapore and pop into Raffles for an obligatory Singapore Sling.

For urban art fans, street art in Singapore is incredible and can be found mainly in Chinatown and Kampong Glam. For night owls, there are plenty of things to see in Singapore at night, including the laser light show over Marina Bay Sands Lake and boat rides on the Singapore River.

Which country is best for a quick visit – Malaysia or Singapore?

Singapore is the preferred choice for a quick visit due to its compact size. This allows visitors to cover key attractions quickly, so it is ideal for those on a tight schedule or looking to maximize their time during a brief visit.

Conclusion: Which country is best for you – Malaysia or Singapore?

Is malaysia the right destination for your next trip.

Firstly, having visited both countries several times, I have to say I love them both and will happily return to them again in the future, but for different reasons. They are both truly fabulous travel destinations.

Penang was the first place I visited in Malaysia, and it won my heart. It felt raw, which I liked. There were no shiny high-rise buildings, no huge shopping malls and no feeling of it being anything other than authentic to its rich heritage.

Away from the cities and towns, Malaysia’s countryside didn’t disappoint. The lush and often wet Cameron Highlands felt they belonged somewhere in Europe, while the islands of Gaya and Pangkor gave me a taste of paradisical living for a few days. But for me, Malaysia’s crowning glory was its wildlife and natural habitats. My bucket list dream of seeing an orangutan in the wild was accomplished in Borneo, and it was more magical than I could ever have imagined.

So if you want to uncover rich history, temples and shrines, marvellous landscapes, magical caves, abundant wildlife, jungle treks, beautiful islands, cultural diversity and some of the humblest and happiest people around, Malaysia will be your perfect destination.

Is Singapore the right destination for your next trip?

If you are looking for luxury hotels, modern, clean, and technically advanced city amenities, and plenty of amazing man-made attractions, Singapore is going to be perfect for you.

I love the elaborate water shows put on in the city each night, the modern and luxurious properties, and having access to whatever I need at my fingertips. That said, I miss seeing wildlife (in fact, I don’t think I have ever seen any in Singapore, not even stray cats!). There is the world-famous Singapore Zoo, but I prefer to see animals in their natural environments, so it’s not for me.

Singapore is a global financial hub that attracts an international workforce, making it feel very cosmopolitan and efficient. However, it also has plenty of history and culture, so if that’s what you are looking for, Singapore has it in bucketloads.

Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum in Chinatown to glimpse into the life of the Chinese community in Singapore and learn about past trades and lifestyles through thoughtful and creative street art. Then, head to Kampong Glam to see the Sultan Mosque and Heritage Centre and to Little India to see the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. These local communities are a great way of understanding the flip side of Singapore’s modernity.

So if you love the fast pace of city life, cocktail bars and next-gen technology interspersed with pockets of culturally diverse attractions, Singapore will be perfect for your next trip.

Whichever country you choose to visit, you will have the time of your life!

Please PIN for Future Travel to Asia

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  travel resources page  to help you plan your trip.

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Thursday 8th of February 2024

hey i'm from Singapore and i love this! a great and extremely well-measured take! ☀️

WhereAngieWanders

Friday 9th of February 2024

That's great to hear - thank you for your kind words.

This was a well-thought-out article, it's very good that you compared the two to assist in deciding and it's exactly what I wanted because I'm planning to visit Asia this year. Thank you so much.

Thank you for your kind words and it is great to hear that you are heading to Asia this year. It's my favourite part of the world so I know you will have a great time. Check out my other Asia articles - they might give you some more ideas of places to visit.

Home / destinations / Thailand / Singapore Vs Thailand: Where Should You Be Going Next?

Singapore Vs Thailand: Where Should You Be Going Next?

• GOPAL VENKATARAMAN
• July 27, 2022
• GUIDES AND ITINERARIES , Thailand , Travel Inspiration

Singapore or Thailand? If you have been pondering over which place to choose for your next trip, then you have come to the right place.

We understand that it can be difficult to choose when the comparison is between apples and oranges. Fret not, we are going to make the choice easy for you.

So, read this detailed comparison and you should be ready to pack your bags.

Singapore Versus Thailand: The Vibe

Singapore is one of the most modern cities in the world. Planned to perfection, it has a very commercial feel to it, with everybody getting to experience the same thing.

Thailand, on the other hand, feels more authentic. It’s a perfect cocktail of modern and local. And even in the most commercial of places, you can find unique experiences.

Singapore Versus Thailand: Best Time To Visit

Singapore is generally humid all year round, with November to early March experiencing showers. April to July would be the driest months to visit Singapore. But do ensure you are well hydrated while you hit the streets.

Thailand is best visited from November to March. This time is best if you are planning to visit places in the southwest region of Thailand. If you are planning anything around the Southeast of Thailand, then it’s better to visit from January to August.

Singapore Versus Thailand: Ease Of Getting There

Being two of the most popular destinations in the world, both Thailand and Singapore are well connected by flights. Singapore city and Bangkok are both busy airports, and in most cases, you can get a direct flight to either of these countries.

Singapore Versus Thailand: Resorts & Villas

Singapore is one of the most expensive places to stay in Asia. So even a hostel or a modest hotel will set you back by a substantial amount.

On the other hand, Thailand is a budget-friendly destination with a wide variety of stay options. You will get hostels, hotels, resorts and even pool villas and beach bungalows at a budget price.

Singapore Versus Thailand: Adventure Activities

Singapore has tons of adventures, but all are indoor. In fact, they even have a wind tunnel which simulates a skydiving experience.

There are adventure parks where you can bungee jumping, surf, scuba dive and zipline. While they are good for a thrill, the natural element would obviously be missing.

Thailand is a paradise for thrill seekers out there. You can plunge down into the ocean, jump from crazy heights or even jump from the skies. Whatever gives you a kick, you will find it in Thailand.

The most popular adventure sport is of course scuba diving, with some of the most beautiful and cheapest dive spots in the world. Not to mention the opportunity to swim with Giant Whalesharks, the largest fish in the world.

For those who want something milder, there is ziplining, snorkelling and tons of fun watersports.

Singapore Versus Thailand: The Nightlife

Singapore has a pretty lively nightlife, although the craziness levels are a little toned down. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t let your hair down.

There are tons of thumping bars, beach clubs and pubs where you can dance the night away. For the more sophisticated folk, there are stylish rooftop bars.

For families travelling to Singapore, there are plenty of things to do. From watching laser and fountain shows to night safaris to comedy clubs and outdoor night shows, there are lots of entertainment options.

Thailand’s nightlife has the reputation of being among the world’s craziest. Beach parties with random strangers, pub crawls, street dancing define the electric nightlife here.

There are whole streets dedicated to nightlife. Some of them have almost attained a cult status among the party animals. For the more sophisticated ones, there are swanky clubs, glamorous rooftop bars and beer bars by the bay.

So, whether you are a twenty something backpacker who wants to let loose or a couple looking for an elegant and chilled out drinking joint, Thailand will have something for you.

Singapore Versus Thailand: Island-Hopping

Singapore has barely a few islands around it. The most popular one is Sentosa island, which is just a 10-minute ride away. But beyond that, there aren’t many options.

One of the main reasons Thailand is a such a popular destination are its close island getaways. Its long shoreline is dotted with thousands of islands, so you are literally spoilt for choice.

There are islands catering to all kinds of travellers, be it a honeymooning couple, a group of friends, solo travellers seeking a secluded getaway or those looking for beautiful waters to dive in.

So, if you love exploring new islands, then Thailand is your best bet.

Singapore Versus Thailand: Beaches

This is again a no contest. If beach hopping is important in your scheme of things, then Thailand is the clear winner.

Singapore has a few beaches, but all of them are man-made. They have been made by importing sand from other countries.

In Thailand, especially when you travel to the South, you are never far away from the beach, no matter where you are.

But it’s not just the volume. Some of these beaches are often featured among the most beautiful ones on the planet.

Singapore Versus Thailand: Things To Do/ Places To See

Singapore has relatively fewer options for sightseeing. The Singapore Zoo and the sea aquarium are some of the largest in the world, letting you come to face to face with almost every animal on the planet.

There are plenty of other urban attractions, including museums, bird parks, river cruises and mega malls. And let’s not forget Universal studios, the super popular theme park.

Thailand is one of the most diverse countries in South-East Asia, and that means the opportunity to explore is endless. Be it buzzing cities like Bangkok and Phuket or the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi, every place has lots of unique things to experience

From temples, floating markets, museums, bicycle tours, island tours, national parks, animal safaris, underwater aquariums to mega malls, the sheer number and variety of things to do here will boggle you.

The Verdict

Choosing between Thailand and Singapore depends on what kind of a trip you are looking for.

Singapore is good for a relaxed vacation  like a family holiday or a honeymoon. It is comfortable to travel, has plenty of attractions suitable for every member of the family. But it has nothing unique to offer.

Thailand is more of a roller coaster ride with an opportunity to experience something unique every day. So if you are one of those looking to embrace new experiences on your trip, then Thailand is the way to go.

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A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Singapore for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Bangkok or Singapore?
• Which is Cheaper, Bangkok or Singapore? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Singapore?

Should you visit bangkok or singapore, which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Singapore can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangkok is a vibrant, high energy, and cultural capital city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Singapore is a global, diverse, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Bangkok and Singapore: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Active nightlife
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Big city activities
• Impressive beauty
• Home to the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
• Public transit not as usable
• Less walkable
• Good music scene
• Nice resorts
• Popular beach
• Good for students
• Good public transit
• Very walkable
• Less popular for nightlife

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Singapore?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Singapore than Bangkok. While Bangkok is larger than Singapore, Singapore has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Singapore is better known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Bangkok is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Bangkok is well known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Singapore is well known for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. Also, Singapore is famous for Merlion Park Waterfront.

How is Bangkok different from Singapore?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Singapore and Bangkok. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangkok or Singapore?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Bangkok on the map. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

Many visitors head to Singapore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The mix of cultures and unique history have led to museums and landmarks that mix historic and modern. The Merlion statue in Merlion Park has become a symbol of the city. For an educational experience, head to the Asian Civilizations Museum, and to see colonial architecture check out Fort Canning Park.

Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Singapore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Bangkok and Singapore both to be terrific destinations.

Many restaurants in Bangkok have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

Eat your way through Singapore, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. From local dives to five star restaurants, the city's food scene is all about diversity. Make sure you try Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Hokkien prawn mee.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Bangkok is a world class party destination. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Singapore. It's all about the glitzy nightclubs and exclusive cocktail bars. Head to Clarke Quay, Marina Bay Sands, or one of the many rooftop bars to experience the best of Singapore's nightlife. Do keep in mind that the city has a high alcohol tax, and strict rules around drinking in public places during certain hours.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Music?

Singapore is a world-class destination for live music. However, Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Singapore is a world class music destination. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Singapore is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Bangkok is not a resort destination.

Singapore is a world class resort vacation destination. From sleek high rises with rooftop pools to family-friendly resorts with kid oriented activities, this city has it all. Popular resorts include Oasia Resort Sentosa, Dusit Thani Laguna, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Bangkok is not a resort destination.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore is not so good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bangkok is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Singapore isn't the best spot for snorkeling. The best place to snorkel in the area is Pulau Hantu.

Bangkok is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Singapore is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Singapore. You'll find most of the area's best beaches on Sentosa Island. There's a 2 kilometer long artificial beach that is split into Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Singapore?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Singapore and Bangkok.

Bangkok is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Known for shopping, Singapore draws large crowds to its stores. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Families?

Singapore is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Singapore is an extremely popular city to visit for families. With places like Sentosa and Universal Studios, there really is no shortage of activities for kids. There's also a zoo, an aquarium, and bird park, and many kid-friendly museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bangkok is very family-friendly. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Couples?

Both Bangkok and Singapore are terrific destinations for a couple's getaway.

Bangkok is a great capital city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

Singapore is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok and Singapore are terrific places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bangkok is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Singapore is extremely popular for backpackers. Many backpackers use this city as a starting or ending point for their Southeast Asian backpacking trip. It's modern and glamourous, but still has plenty of backpacker-friendly and budget-friendly options.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Students?

Singapore is a world-class destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Singapore is a very popular city for students. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Singapore is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Singapore can get you around easily. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

While Bangkok offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Is Bangkok or Singapore a more walkable city?

Singapore is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Singapore on foot is easy. It's possible to walk in most areas in the city center. There are also park connectors that are nice for taking a stroll or going for a run.

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

For even more information, also check out Is Bangkok Worth Visiting? and Is Singapore Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Bangkok?

How long in bangkok or singapore.

Both Bangkok and Singapore have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Singapore has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Singapore than Bangkok . However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Bangkok. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Singapore, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Singapore than Bangkok. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Singapore that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore than Bangkok if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Singapore.

• How many days in Bangkok or Singapore? Ideal Length of Stay Bangkok 2-7   Singapore   2-7

One day in Bangkok or Singapore?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Singapore, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Bangkok or Singapore?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Singapore, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Singapore has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Singapore?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this capital city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer.

Singapore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Singapore has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bangkok or Singapore?

Bangkok is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Singapore. In Singapore, you'll find live music and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand , The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand , The Best Budget Tours to Singapore , and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore .

Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Bangkok?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Bangkok Prices Thailand Prices Singapore Prices Singapore Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Bangkok $ 76 Singapore $ 151

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $76, while the average daily cost in Singapore is $151. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bangkok and Singapore in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Bangkok $ 41 Singapore $ 98
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Bangkok $ 82 Singapore $ 196

Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Singapore

Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Singapore? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bangkok

Hotels in Singapore

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Bangkok $ 5.77 Singapore $ 10

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:

• Tuk Tuk to bus station $ 2.18
• Skytrain Ticket $ 4.36
• Chao Phraya River Express Ticket $ 0.87
• Ferry Ride $ 0.71
• Taxi From Airport $ 6.82
• Short Taxi Ride $ 2.45
• Boat Taxi $ 1.36
• Trains to airport $ 4.36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport Bus transfer to/from Bangkok: $4.06
• Bus transfer from/to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $4.99
• Ayothaya Floating Market Admission Ticket with Transfer(Optional): $8.31
• Airport BKK||DMK : Private car Transfer to downtowns Bangkok: $12
• Bangkok Airport Arrival – Shared Transfer: $14
• Bangkok International Airport - Departure Transfer: $15
• Bangkok International Airport - Arrival Transfer: $17
• Private Bangkok Airport Transfer: $17
• Departure Private Transfer Bangkok City to Bangkok Airport BKK or DMK by Sedan: $17
• Arrival Private Transfer Bangkok Airport BKK or DMK to Bangkok City by Sedan Car: $17
• Bangkok Don Muang Airport Shared Transfer : $18
• Arrival Private Transfer Bangkok Airport BKK or DMK to Bangkok City Business MPV: $19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Singapore

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Singapore:

• Taxi to Airport $ 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Singapore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Singapore:

• Changi International Airport Private MPV Transfer: $149
• City Experience + Roundtrip Transfers: $36
• City Experience with National Orchid Garden + Roundtrip Transfers: $60
• Downtown to Singapore Airport (SIN) - Departure Private Transfer: $36
• Free Wifi Rental | Two - Way Airport Transfer Minivan (4pax): $185
• Garden by the Bay with two domes (Shared transfer): $60
• Glittering Singapore Night Out + Roundtrip Transfers: $75
• HarbourFront Centre Singapore Transfer: $34
• MBCC & HFCC - Cruise Terminal to City Hotel Transfer: $29
• Morning at the Zoo with Transfer : $65
• Night Safari Tour with Transfer: $108
• Private Airport Transfer in Singapore: $25

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Singapore?

Prices for flights to both Singapore and Bangkok change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Bangkok $ 18 Singapore $ 27

Typical Food Prices in Bangkok

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bangkok:

• Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (for Two) $ 25
• Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two) $ 5.46
• 2 Rotis (Bread) $ 1.23
• Mango & Sticky Rice $ 0.82
• Lunch at KFC (for Two) $ 5.46
• Pad Thai $ 1.91
• Airport Lunch for 2 $ 15
• Lunch for 2 $ 20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bangkok.

• White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $19
• Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $20
• Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $21
• River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $23
• Calypso Cabaret Show with Thai Set Dinner: $24
• Chao Phraya Buffet Dinner Viva Alangka Cruise: $27
• Alangka Luxury Buffet Dinner Cruise With Live Music: $27
• Viva Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $27
• Riverside Dinner Buffet Cruise On Chao Phraya: $27
• Nopparat Thai Dinner with Classical Dance: $28
• Chao Phraya River Serenade: VIVA Alangka Dinner Cruise, Bangkok: $28
• Bangkok Riverside Dinner Buffet Cruised Tour On Chao Phraya: $28

Typical Food Prices in Singapore

Some typical examples of dining costs in Singapore are as follows:

• Breakfast $ 4.48
• Sugarcane Juice $ 1.47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Singapore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Singapore.

• Singapore : Traditional Snacks Cooking Class: $34
• Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $46
• Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $47
• Guided Hawker Culture & Street Food Tour at Night: $65
• Local Hawker Food Tour with Tastings: $65
• Eat and Snap in Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $72
• Small Group: Michelin and Local Hawker Food Tour: $72
• Private Korean Cooking Class in Balmoral Road: $74
• Katong Food Tour of Singapore with Local Foodie: $75
• Singapore Bike and Bites Food Tour: $75
• Zebra Urban Safari Bicycle Tour with Local Dinner and Drinks: $75
• Local Food Tour: $80

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Bangkok $ 16 Singapore $ 32

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangkok

Here are a few typical costs in Bangkok for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:

• Movie Ticket $ 4.36
• Grand Palace Entrance Ticket $ 9.55
• Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket $ 1.36
• Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two) $ 5.46
• Club Cover Charge $ 10
• Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two) $ 65
• Fish Pedicure $ 4.09
• Wat Pho entrance ticket $ 2.73
• Siriraj Museum (2) $ 11

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• Thailand's Road to Democracy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $1.99
• Skip the Line: Ayutthaya Floating Market Admission Ticket: $5.33
• Skip the Line Admission Ticket: Ayutthaya Floating Market: $5.33
• Chinatown and Wat Traimit Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.00
• Skip the Line Admission Ticket of Ayothaya Floating Market: $8.31
• Pororo Aqua Park Entry Ticket: $9.46
• Skip the Line: Patpong Museum Guided Tour : $9.70
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Audio Guide: $10
• Wat Pho Reclining Buddha Self-Guided Audio Tour (entry not incl.): $10
• Grand Palace Self-Guided Walking Tour: $10
• Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Self-Guided Audio Tour: $10
• Hua Hin Featured Day Tour (Sunday) by akGO! Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Singapore

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Singapore are as follows:

• The Civic District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.99
• Kampong Glam: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
• Singapore Street Art Hunting in Kampong Glam: A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.20
• Big Little India: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
• Singapore's History of Trade: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
• Kampong Glam: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Singapore's Malay Culture: $5.20
• The Civic District: Hear stories about Singapore's past on an audio tour: $5.20
• Indian Heritage Centre Admission Ticket: $5.32
• Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall Entry Ticket: $5.87
• Indian Heritage Centre Entrance Ticket: $5.87
• Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall Admission Ticket: $6.03
• Science Center E-Ticket: $7.04
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Bangkok $ 5.97 Singapore $ 27

Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:

• Beer $ 1.09

Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:

• Pub Crawl and Club Night With Shots & VIP Entrance: $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Singapore:

• Tour of Tiger Brewery in Singapore: $21
• Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl:Wildest Nightlife Clubbing: $25
• Singapore Pub Crawl - Party like a Local: $26
• Little India Pub Crawl: $26
• Halloween Horror Nightlife PartySingapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $37
• Enjoy Gin Distillery Tour with Tasting Flight and Singapore Sling Masterclass: $55
• LeVeL33 Rooftop Brewery Tour and Craft Beer Tasting: $73

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Singapore, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bangkok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangkok and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Singapore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Singapore than you might in Bangkok.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bangkok Expensive? and Is Singapore Expensive? .

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Singapore. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Singapore, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

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So, it’s a choice between Singapore or Malaysia ? Not a bad one to have if you ask us. These two countries in the heart of Southeast Asia have stacks and stacks of draws for the would-be traveler. They share a lot when it comes to culture and history since they are so darn close to each other. But they also have oodles of differences…

On the one hand, there’s Singapore, a city state that’s topped out by the great rises of Marina Bay Sands. That’s home to enthralling ethic quarters – Chinatown, Little India – and boasts big draws like Singapore Zoo and Sentosa. On the other, there’s Malaysia, a vast nation of islands and beaches, primeval rainforests and colonial cities that burst with culture.

You might have guessed that it’s not going to be an easy decision. But this guide is on it. It will run through a whole host of categories to see where comes out on top in each. You’ll learn where’s best for beaches, for culture, for food, and a whole load more. So, without further ado, will it be Singapore or Malaysia?

Table of Contents

Singapore or Malaysia: Ease of Travel

Traveling around Singapore is easy for two reasons. First off, you have easy access to several forms of public and private transport, including, buses, trains, and taxis. Second, it’s a very small country. A round trip around the whole of Singapore would only take approximately four hours. Yep, that’s it!

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Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system has stations all around the island. There are stops that serve almost all of the most popular destinations. There is also a huge public bus system that covers the majority of the island – it’s slower than the train but still comfortable and air-conditioned. Make sure to pick up a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) so you’re not always fumbling with your cash or credit card. They’re cheap and generally easy to purchase at a station. Any places you can’t reach by bus or MRT can be reached easily via taxi. And if you want to take a more leisurely route, you can always rent a bicycle and navigate the city using Singapore’s extensive network of cycling paths. 

Malaysia, on the other hand, is much bigger. More than 300 times bigger, in fact. So it’s no surprise that one of the most common methods of transport for travelers here is by plane. Domestic flights are a relatively cheap and easy way to get to different parts of the country, including the mainland, smaller islands, and East Malaysia (on or near the Malaysian territory of Borneo). Trains are also a good way to travel, both in cities and around the peninsula (though there is no train system in Borneo). Taxis and rental cars are also available and very convenient, though much more expensive. 

Buses are also available in and around the cities, but they are not always recommended for long-distance travel – in more remote areas it is not uncommon for roads to be partially washed away in heavy rains and storms, so keep an eye on weather forecasts if you’re thinking of traveling between cities and towns by bus.

Winner: Singapore.

Singapore or Malaysia: Culture

Often, people who haven’t visited Malaysia will forget that the country is split in two halves: The Malaysian peninsula that borders Thailand and Singapore, and Malaysian Borneo on the other side of the Riau Archipelago. Sabah and Sarawak, the two states of Malaysian Borneo, have a much smaller population than the mainland (mostly made up of Malaysian Chinese) and are still home to the indigenous peoples of Borneo .

Malaysian society has been influenced by many different cultures over the years – most notably Indian, Chinese, Malay, and Indigenous Austronesians, all of which make up the majority of the population. However, more than 60% of the population are ethnic Malay or indigenous, and Islam is the national religion.

Like many Asian countries, Malaysia was subject to colonial rule for centuries, before becoming an independent sovereign nation in 1963. Today it is a thriving, vibrant country, with mouthwatering cuisine and some of the most colorful cultural and religious festivals in southeast Asia, including the Mooncake Festival and Malaysian Water Festival. Malaysians are widely considered to be friendly and honest people, so you should find the country very safe to travel in and around.

Considering that it was part of Malaysia for many years, it’s easy to dismiss Singapore as simply an off-shoot of Malaysia, with largely the same culture. And while these two places certainly have strong similarities, they aren’t the same (and don’t let any Singaporeans catch you saying otherwise!)

Singapore is a unique country for many reasons, the most notable being that it is both an island nation and a city, the only place in the world with that descriptor. Like Malaysia, it is also a unique blend of many influences, particularly due to its long history as a trading port. But add the widespread cosmopolitan sensibility of contemporary Singaporean and a rather eccentric culture emerges – one that can be difficult to quantify.

This only becomes more obvious when you hear the string of languages spoken by the locals: English, Mandarin, Tamil, and Malay, and of course, the famous hybrid language ‘Singlish,’ which is unique to Singapore.

Perhaps one of the best-known aspects of Singaporean culture is their seemingly severe rules – most infamously, the public ban on both littering and chewing gum. Whether you agree with them or not, it’s best to take note of and respect these laws while you are visiting. One attractive cultural consequence of these laws is that Singapore is one of the cleanest countries in the world. Another consequence, however, is that Singapore does not have much of a drinking or partying culture due to the country’s strict liquor legislation.

Winner: Malaysia.

Singapore or Malaysia: Food

When traveling in Southeast Asia, you have to take the local food culture into account. Not only because this region has some of the greatest cuisines in the world, but also due to the strong flavor profiles that may not always be to your liking.

Unsurprisingly. given their extreme proximity and shared cultural influences, there are a lot of similarities between Malaysian and Singaporean cuisine. Both food cultures are highly informed by a blend of Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Peranakan, but they express these influences in varying degrees. For example, their Chinese influence – Hokkien and Teochew cuisines are more present in Singapore, compared to the strong Cantonese influence in Malaysia. One thing you will notice in both of these countries is that they share many, many dishes, but there is usually a notable difference between the two varieties. Consider the famous dish Laksa, which is a thick, coconut curry in Singapore, compared to its Malaysian counterpart which is a sour soup made of tamarind and fish stock.

Generally speaking, Singaporean food is simpler and uses less spice and seasoning. Malaysian cuisine tends to be richer and more flavorful , and due to the size of the country and its population, there is more variety of dishes, ingredients, and flavor profiles. Malaysia also has several famous food destinations – Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Malacca. 

Keep in mind that the debate around which cuisine is better in these two countries is rather fierce – it’s sometimes even referred to as a ‘food war’ and the origins of such dishes as rendang and chili crab are hotly debated.

Singapore or Malaysia: Things To Do

Expect to see at least one festival if you’re visiting Malaysia for longer than a month, as there are many loud and vibrant events to partake in from Diwali to the Malaysia Water Festival to the Lunar New Year. 

For outdoor activities, join a day trip to Batu Caves from Kuala Lumpur and explore the limestone caverns and Hindu shrines within. Take a loved one or a friend to go swimming and snorkeling on the pristine Perhentian Islands, and don’t forget to block out several days to visit East Malaysia (Borneo) to hike through remote rainforests, observe the exotic wildlife and even stay overnight in an indigenous ‘longhouse.’

Georgetown in Penang is also a must-visit, with its fantastic street art and reputation as one of the best places in the country for foodies, with countless food markets, hawker stalls, and top-market restaurants. The historic port-town Melaka, further down the coast, is another great choice due to its intense and fascinating history.

Keep in mind that many of Singapore’s best activities and attractions are centered around city activities, due to its densely populated urban environment – don’t forget that Singapore is a ‘city-state’. But there are some notable exceptions.

Of course, you must stop by Marina Bay, Singapore’s tourist mecca. Beautiful views, live performances, and unique modern architecture make it a fantastic place to spend an afternoon. With museums, galleries, and occasional concerts, you’re sure to find something you like.

The Gardens by the Bay is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attractions and an absolute must-see. It’s a fantastically well-designed modern green space also found in Marina Bay, and its forests and gardens are a perfect example of horticultural excellence. Don’t miss the aerial walkways that let you look across the gardens from 400-feet above! The extensive Singapore Botanic Gardens are also well worth a visit.

Another great thing to do on your first visit to Singapore is to take a “bumboat” (water taxi) around the city waterways. It’s a cheap and delightful way of seeing some of the best attractions in downtown Singapore. You can even go in the evening to catch the sunset.

Winner: Malaysia. Due to the significant size difference between the two countries, there is much more to do in Malaysia in terms of cultural sights, outdoor activities, recreation, and entertainment.

Singapore or Malaysia: Nightlife

Looking out over the Singaporean skyline, it should be no surprise that this city-state offers a vibrant and exciting nightlife experience . But one thing to remember about Singapore is its strict alcohol laws. So if you’re looking for the kind of all-night raving you might find in Thailand, you’ll be disappointed. 

Fortunately, there are plenty of nocturnal delights here, from the glamorous award-winning cocktail bars and flashy nightclubs in Clarke Quay to the hipster craft beer bars in Haji Lane. For some of the best views in the city, head to one of Marina Bay’s popular rooftop bars to watch the Marina Bay Sands light up while you sip your drink. And if you’re looking for something a little more laidback, you can always stop by Chinatown for a meal and a few drinks, or Holland Village for ex-pat pubs and bars.

The dress code in certain places (particularly in the Central Business District) can be strict, so be sure to don smart-casual attire when you head out on the town. 

Malaysia is well-known as one of the most socially conservative countries in Asia. If you’re visiting from a western country don’t expect the same level of uninhibited fun and raucousness that you’ll find at night in major cities back home. While visiting you’ll find that much of the best nightlife is, unsurprisingly, found in the commercial hub Kuala Lumpur. Here you can find your fair share of rooftop bars and classy cocktail lounges.

KL is often lauded as a melting pot of cultures, but you might be disappointed to find that there isn’t much “melting” of cultures when it comes to the nightlife here. People tend to stay in their communities, so you’ll often find bars and clubs that are attended almost exclusively by Chinese, Indian, Arabic, etc. 

Tourist towns like Malacca and Penang, also have their own late-night cafes and bars that should keep you occupied during your evenings, and offer plenty of chances to meet and mingle with locals and fellow tourists.

Winner: Singapore. There is night-time fun to be had in both countries, but you may be more impressed by the cosmopolitan offerings of downtown Singapore.

Singapore or Malaysia: Families

Singapore is just about perfect for introducing the little ones to Asia. The reason? It’s got the wild energy of a big Southeast Asian metropolis, only comes without the stresses and worries of other parts of the region. For one, it’s considered extremely safe, boasting some of the lowest crime rates in the world. For two, it’s exceptionally clean. You’ll be able to travel from A to B with ease, and can rest assured that there’s the infrastructure and support needed to bring the whole fam. There are also some top draws for the kiddos, including Singapore Zoo – the most celebrated zoo in Asia!

There’s no reason not to take the kids across to Malaysia but be warned that it’s going to be a whole different kettle of fish to traveling in Singapore. The country is much larger and has some regions that are exceptionally difficult to get to (Perhentians and Taman Negara, we’re looking at you). It’s sure to be cheaper, but it’s also sure to be a lot more planning work when the whole crew are coming across!

Winner: Singapore wins this one.

Singapore or Malaysia: Beaches

You don’t go to Singapore for a beach holiday. That’s not to say that there aren’t any beaches in these parts. There actually are. It’s just that the city state lies right by some of the most iconic Southeast Asian beach destinations that it would be follow to pick it over next-door neighbors, Malaysia included.

However, if you want to find a beach for a dip between urban explorations in the big city, then you can head over to the holiday park of Sentosa. That’s got a couple of lovely manmade sands that are well-kept and protected from the pollution of the downtown core. The best of them are probably Tanjong Beach and Palawan Beach.

Malaysia, on the other hand, is a beach mecca. Start on the northerly island of Langkawi. That’s only a stone’s throw from the uber-famous beach destination of Koh Lipe in Thailand, so you can imagine the sorts of white-powder runs and palm trees you get. Other the other side of the peninsula is the Perhentian archipelago. They’re trickier to get to but have perfect shorelines and the clearest blue seas.

From there, you can head out to seek the remoter sands of Kota Kinabalu on Borneo, or travel the Riau isles by boat. The latter are incredible for snorkelers and divers, touting coral gardens and luxury dive hotels that you’ll never want to leave. Yep, Malaysia has to win this one.

Singapore or Malaysia: Prices

Singapore is famously expensive – it is by far the most expensive place to live in Southeast Asia, and is actually one of the most expensive cities in the world! This is mostly due to high rent prices, but even traveling in Singapore can be costly.

A mid-budget trip to Singapore will set you back around $120USD per day, including food & drink, transport, attractions, and sightseeing. The average accommodation for one person is $75, whereas the average price of a hotel room for a couple will be $150. 

It is definitely possible to make travel in Singapore more affordable, by staying in capsule hotels and hostel dorms and eating at hawker centers and food courts rather than restaurants. Taking part in free activities will also save you quite a bit. 

Malaysia, on the other hand, is much more affordable as a travel destination. It is close to what many travelers would expect to spend in most Southeast Asian countries.

Average daily costs for traveling in Malaysia will set you back approximately $70 USD for a mid-range holiday, including transport, food & drink, and tourist activities. The average accommodation for one person is around $40, although the average price for a couple’s hotel room is $80. Accommodation prices can vary widely depending on where you’re staying.

Similar to Singapore, you can significantly reduce the cost of your trip by changing where you stay, what you eat, and what kind of activities you do.

Winner: Malaysia. It is much more accessible for all travelers, particularly those traveling on a backpacker’s budget.

Singapore or Malaysia: Which Country Should You Choose?

Both Singapore and Malaysia offer their own distinct and unique attractions, and both are great travel destinations if you want to get a taste of life in Southeast Asia. But if you’re visiting either for the first time, we have to recommend Malaysia first. 

The reasons are simple – Malaysia is far larger than Singapore. There’s just more to see, do, and experience both on the peninsula and in Malaysian Borneo. Singapore is a very clean and green city-state, but it’s difficult to compare its green urban spaces to the vast equatorial rainforests, countless beaches, rivers, and extraordinarily diverse wildlife you’ll encounter in Malaysia. Not to mention it’s much more affordable – if you have to keep a close eye on your wallet while you’re traveling, then there’s no question that your dollar will go further, giving you the chance to experience more over a longer period than you would in Singapore.

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Thailand or Singapore: Which Asian Country To Visit?

If you’re stuck deciding between Thailand or Singapore for your next adventure abroad, then you’ve certainly got a whole lot to think about. Both of these Southeast Asian countries are mainstays on the backpacker trail, but their cultures and landscapes are strikingly divergent, and whichever you choose promises a very different experience.

Singapore is a tropical island nation off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. A city, country, and state all in one, it’s famed as a big-business, banking hub with plenty of style and class. At the same time, Thailand is a rustic backpacking haven and one of the jewels of Southeast Asian budget travel. Beaches, parties, and scenery are just some of the reasons millions of travelers flock to the shores and jungled hills of the Land of Smiles each year.

This guide will peer deep to see what it is that makes Thailand and Singapore unique. It will outline the differences in food, climate, customs, and more, all to help you pick the place that’s right for you and your travel crew in the coming seasons. Let’s get started…

Table of Contents

Thailand vs Singapore: Ease of travel

Thailand and Singapore are only two hours apart by plane, so the process of getting to either country shouldn’t be too different. However, Singapore’s Changi airport is a popular layover destination from most western international airports to Thailand. So wherever you’re coming from, you’ll be more likely to find a direct flight to Singapore than the Land of Smiles.

When we talk about traveling, it’s easy to get carried away with the end goal, but it’s just as much about the journey as the destination. If you’re not convinced, you’ve clearly never been to Singapore airport. With gardens, innovative services, retail, dining, and the world’s largest indoor waterfall, you’ll be endlessly entertained. There’s even a swimming pool at Changi Airport, and there’s genuinely nowhere like it in the world. 

Although Singapore won’t give you a taste of authentic Southeast Asian travel like Thailand, being over 700 times smaller than the Land of Smiles, getting around will be just as exciting. Singapore is famed for its Mass Rapid Transit subway system, which is as impressive as it sounds. The underground network stretches across the entirety of the city. Still, with clean air and magnificent greenery among the modern cityscapes, walking in Singapore is as much of a joy. 

Thailand’s travel is defined by its rustic buses and ferries, which are an experience in themselves, but nothing compared to the modern luxuries of Singapore’s transport systems. Bangkok International Airport is impressive, but the polluted city makes walking and taking tuk-tuks largely unpleasant. 

Getting around by scooter is popular in the southern isles of Thailand and is a great way to see the country at your own pace. But scooter culture is not unique to Thailand, and you can experience this anywhere in southeast Asia. Compared to Singapore’s convenient, sustainable, and affordable railway, deemed the best-in-class public transport in Asia, how can Thailand beat that?

Winner: Singapore

Thailand vs Singapore: Beaches

Although Singapore might be better known for its magnificent skylines, modern appeal, and efficient transport, the beaches are certainly something to talk about. Although most of them are artificial, the white sands and towering palms are usually enough to fill a few days with no-holes-barred relaxation.

Formed at the edges of reclaimed land, the East Coast Park Beach is the longest stretch of sand on the island and is a treasured urban beach getaway. Palawan Beach, meanwhile, takes its name from the picturesque region of the Philippines and is the best swimming beach in Singapore. Then there’s Sentosa. This is a whole island resort complex and it’s home to the cleanest beaches in the territory. You’ll need to pay for access but they are very well maintained. The only downside is that they aren’t natural. All of the sands on Sentosa are manmade.

Singapore is all about entertainment. Although the beaches lack a certain rustic charm of Thailand’s untouched island paradises, no pebble has been left unturned when it comes to keeping visitors busy. Palawan Beach boasts a pirate-themed water park, Cabana-style beach bars, restaurants, and shops, and all this is just minutes away from the city.

Even so, there’s no doubt in our mind that Thailand wins this category. Visions of white-sand coves, palm-threaded islands, and paradise coves abound in the Land of Smiles. It’s hard not to be impressed by the sheer diversity of the coastline that’s on the menu. It’s hard to know where to begin, but here goes…

Many will be drawn to Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi . It was used as the set for Danny Boyle’s 2000 blockbuster The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. That sits right next to the amazing beaches of the rugged Andaman region, which is known for its big karst cliffs. Islands like Koh Mook, Koh Lanta, and Koh Jum beckon there, as do coves in Railay and Tonsai. Over in eastern Thailand, you get even more famous isles in the form of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui, which have white-sand beaches 10 to the penny – Haad Salad (on Koh Phangan) and Mae Nam (on Samui) are two of our favorites.

Winner: Thailand. There’s simply no doubt about that.

Thailand vs Singapore: Food 

Food plays a massive role in the cultural traditions of both Thailand and Singapore. With strong oriental influences, the cuisines are aromatic and hearty, and local customs are centered around feeding and sharing in both nations. 

Thailand and Singapore are alike in that they’re both known for their seafood. Still, Singapore’s gastronomy is more unique, inspired by surrounding nations but with a Singaporean spin on every dish. Some quintessential meals include chili crab, black pepper crab, sambal stingray, and steamed fish. Their local chicken rice from the Hainan province is also a popular staple, bursting with flavor and steamed with thick soy sauce. 

While Singapore and Thailand share a street food culture, Singapore’s cuisine is defined by Hawker culture, a practice where people from all walks of life gather at Hawker centers, or community dining rooms, to eat, share, and bond over food. They remain integral in most Singaporeans’ way of life. Although comparable to Thailand’s night bazaars and street food restaurants, Hawker culture has adapted to Singapore’s modern demographic and shows no signs of dying out.

Thai gastronomy needs no introduction and is one of the most globalized cuisines in the world. Although local Thai food varies by region and sees a heavy focus on seafood, you would likely have tried the staples of Pad Thai and Green Curry well before ever venturing to the Land of the Smiles. Fragrant, mild, and infused with Thai basil, the food is less spicy than other Asian cuisines but beloved worldwide. Eating out is an equally social affair in Thailand, but the rustic street food traditions define the culture.

Still, the variety and originality in Singaporean cuisine, with its untainted customs unfamiliar to the rest of Asia, make a journey through the local dishes much more exciting for a Western visitor. 

Thailand vs Singapore: Things to Do 

No matter which country you visit, you won’t be bored. There is variety around every turn in Thailand. Each corner of the country promises something different, and it’s a nation where adventure and culture intermingle no matter where you go. 

Despite Singapore’s smaller size, it’s an entertainment hub, and the island has been built from the ground up to appeal to the masses. Singapore will never fail to impress with its modern technological advancements and spectacular architecture. 

From the SuperTree Grove Light Show , the Helix Bridge , and the Cloud Forest to the Botanical Gardens and Har Par Villa , Singapore’s attractions are all about man-made spectacle. A journey through Singapore is a lesson in how far technology has come and what this has meant for the nation.

On the other hand, Thailand’s rich history and religious culture are often at the heart of the things to do. The ancient temples are a huge pull factor, and the majestic statues of Buddha all over the country are more spectacular than any modern feet of engineering. But Thailand is also about thrill-seeking. From zip wires and quad-biking to jungle trekking and shooting ranges, the most popular attractions make the most of the vast landscape and appeal to the adventurous backpacker in all of us. 

Although Thailand has much more variety, Singapore is like nowhere else in the world, and the skyline is just as much of a bucket list vision as Thailand’s temples.

Winner: Draw

Thailand or Singapore: Towns and cities

Thailand has stacks of intriguing towns and cities. They vary a lot in character from north to south, as you move between different regional cultures and peoples. Naturally, Bangkok is the place to begin. We think it’s one of the most enthralling cities in the world, let alone just Asia. You can spend whole weeks exploring, but most will make do with a few days, partying on Khaosan Road, shopping in Sukhumvit, and wondering at the priceless treasures of the Grand Palace (the official home of the Thai King).

Chiang Mai is also special. That’s the second city of Thailand. It’s located far in the north on the cusp of the mountains. The Old Town areas there is a showcasing of traditional Lanna architecture built from wood, interspersed now and then with golden temples. Close by is the highland station of Pai, which we’d recommend for chill-out time and trekking.

Singapore, for its part, is one big city. However, you can break it down into various neighborhoods, each of which have their own unique feel. Chinatown is probably the most famous of the ethnic districts. It’s one of the largest of its kind in the world. Delve in and you can hop between dim sum dumpling houses and Canton noodle houses.

We also think all first-time visitors to Singapore should pay a visit to Little India. It channels the frantic atmosphere of Mumbai or Delhi with its spice-scented curry houses (we ate the best curry we’ve ever had outside of India here). Then there’s Marina Bay, which is the area to go for your compulsory selfie below the famous Singapore skyscraper hotels.

Winner: Draw. Thailand has more varied towns and cities but Singapore IS a city with oodles of amazing neighborhoods.

Thailand vs Singapore: Price

When it comes to economics, Singapore and Thailand are extremely different. Let’s look at some basic states: The GDP per capita in Singapore is around $62,400. In Thailand, it sits at just $9,900. Average wages in the Land of Smiles sit at about 14,000 THB (just over $430 USD) per month. In Singapore, they are more to the tune of $4,000 per month.

Still predominantly an agricultural economy, Thailand relies on crops and tourism and remains underdeveloped for the most part, even despite the modern capital in Bangkok. Singapore, meanwhile, has soaring skyscrapers and developed suburbs from the moment you cross the border to the moment you step into stylish Marina Bay. It’s a hub for glitzy shopping malls and big businesses. All that has a knock-on effect on the prices… 

A budget meal in Thailand’s capital will set you back less than $3 on average, compared to $14 in Singapore. At the same time, a trip to the mid-range restaurant should cost less than $20 per person in Thailand, but closer to $40 in Singapore. Rent can cost over three times as much in Singapore, with endless facilities and first-world luxuries on the menu in some condos. And while an apartment in Bangkok could cost just $6,000 per square meter to purchase, you’d need closer to $25,000 for the same space in Singapore!

Winner: Thailand will be A LOT cheaper to travel than Singapore. It’s definitely the pick for budget travelers here.

Thailand or Singapore: The general vibe

Truth is, Thailand and Singapore are very different places. In fact, they are so different that they aren’t really comparable. One – Thailand – is a whole nation with various towns and cities, beach-fringed islets, and cloud-shattering mountain ranges. The other – Singapore – is really just a city on its own, though it’s officially recognized around the world as an independent state.

That has implications for the would-be traveler. For one, you could spend weeks and weeks exploring Thailand and still not get to see everything that the country has to offer. A comprehensive travel itinerary here would include the misty mountain towns on the Burmese border, the bazaars of Chiang Mai, a few days in Bangkok, and then endless explorations through the islands of the south.

Meanwhile, Singapore’s main draws and attractions can all be seen in less than a week. Hit the famous Marina Bay to take your selfies, head to Singapore Zoo for encounters with white tigers, and then cross to Sentosa for a relaxing day on the beach, all before a meal in Chinatown or Little India. You’ll only want to stay longer if you’re a dedicated slow traveler and love getting into the rhythm of urban life.

We should also mention that Singapore is probably just a touch less welcoming to the first-time traveler than Thailand. Hey, it’s called the Land of Smiles for a reason, folks! People in Thailand are generally extremely welcoming, almost always happy, and very used to tourism. That’s not really the case in Singapore, where it’s all a bit more business-like in proceedings.

Winner: Thailand for real adventures and good vibes.

Thailand or Singapore – The Verdict

Our guide puts Thailand and Singapore neck and neck. Still, it’s only their vast differences that create this outcome. Thailand might win on the beachfront , but Singapore’s dazzling cityscapes are not to miss. Singapore’s food culture might be more unique, but Pad Thai is famous worldwide for a good reason. Whichever you choose, you won’t be disappointed, and you certainly won’t be stumped for things to keep you busy.

If it’s an authentic taste of traveling you’re after, there’s nowhere in the world that can compete with Thailand. But for a futuristic city break, a few days in Singapore promises plentiful once-in-a-lifetime experiences. So which will it be?

For more than 11 years, Joe has worked as a freelance travel writer. His writing and explorations have brought him to various locations, including the colonial towns of Mexico, the bustling chowks of Mumbai, and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand. When he's not crafting his next epic blog post on the top Greek islands or French ski resorts, he can often be found engaging in his top two hobbies of surfing and hiking.

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Kuala Lumpur vs Singapore – Which is the Better City Break?

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Comprehensive travel guide: Is Kuala Lumpur or Singapore better for you?

Kuala Lumpur and Singapore are two major stopover destinations in Asia.

We visited both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur in 2023. Both cities have their pros and cons which we will outline in this blogpost.

How is Kuala Lumpur Different from Singapore?

Singapore is a city-state. It is a melting pot of cultures as can be seen in the official languages English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. It used to be a British colony and is hence pretty westernised.

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of the country Malaysia. Malaysia is a Muslim-majority country which might be interesting e.g. if you plan to travel during Ramadan.

Should You Visit Kuala Lumpur or Singapore?

Our verdict: which is better kuala lumpur or singapore.

Personally, we would go back to Singapore in a heartbeat. We loved the combination of quaint historical buildings with high rises and the different cultural areas like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam.

We were also huge fans of the free light shows Spectra and Garden Rhapsody.

And of course, we loved the food. When we make it back – and we will – we will go to even more Hawker centres to try even more (Michelin star) street food.

Singapore vs Malaysia

Is Malaysia or Singapore better is a whole other question. Singapore is a city-state and while there are different islands, you’re working with a very limited area.

Malaysia on the other hand is a large country with

• Mountains (Cameron Highlands).
• Islands (Penang, Langkawi, Perhentian Islands).
• Borneo, the third largest island in the world.
• Cities (Malakka, Ipoh).

So if you have more time and you do want to experience a lot of different things, Malaysia should be your country of choice.

Visit Kuala Lumpur AND Singapore

You can easily combine the two South East Asian metropolises. The bus from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur and vice versa only takes 5 hours and is pretty convenient.

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Dubai Or Singapore: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]

W hen it comes to exciting city breaks, Dubai and Singapore are two that should be near the top of everyone’s bucket list. That’s because both of these lively cities can offer unique experiences and unforgettable vacations.

However choosing whether to visit Dubai or Singapore for that once-in-a-lifetime holiday can be exceptionally difficult.

That said, in general if you’re looking for adventurous excursions and great shopping, then Dubai may be a better choice than Singapore. Whereas Singapore may be the better choice if you’re looking for a relaxed city break with a varied nightlife, good food, and cultural experiences.

Yet in truth that’s just scratching the surface when it comes to which city could suit you best.

Thankfully we know both cities well, so are here to help you decide which one is right for you. We’ll look at the excursions on offer, their nightlife, which is cheaper, safer and lots more.

So let’s dive in!

• Which Is The Better Cultural Experience
• Which Has The Better Nightlife
• Which Has The Better Excursions
• Which Has The Better Shopping
• Which Is Cheaper

Where To Stay According To Your Budget

• Which Is Safer
• What About The Weather
• Which Is The Better Choice

Which Is The Better Cultural Experience?

Singapore is probably the most modern city in South East Asia, and with that has come an interesting mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Western influences and culture.

Globalization has driven Singapore’s recent development and it has a very ‘Western’ feel to it – that’s taken its toll on Singaporean culture. That said the ‘Little India’, and ‘Chinatown’ areas of the city have their own cultural charm.

You won’t find a plethora of street sellers here like in other Southeast Asian destinations, and this city is far more ordered and calm – which actually makes it a pretty good destination for a relaxed vacation.

Still, remnants of the Singapore of old still exist if you know where to look – for example the bustling late-night food market, Newton Market .

While Singapore’s global and modern feel has grown organically, Dubai has created skyscrapers, malls, and even artificial islands in an attempt to become one of the world’s most sought-after vacation spots. It’s worked.

The oil money that has driven this change has transformed Dubai, but Islam remains at the heart of the city, and the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque is worth visiting.

There’s plenty of local food in Dubai to try out in restaurants too, but you’ll struggle to find street markets like in other big cities around the world.

For those reasons, we think Singapore has the edge when it comes to cultural experiences.

Winner: Singapore

Which Has The Better Nightlife?

Despite being part of the Muslim majority UAE, there are many clubs and bars that serve alcohol in Dubai, and the city has an exciting nightlife scene.

However only certain establishments can sell alcohol – like hotels, clubs and restaurants – so most of Dubai’s drinking spots are quite exclusive and sometimes expensive as they are mainly located inside hotels. These nightlife spots are fun and energetic though.

In Singapore there’s plenty of cocktail lounges, budget beer places, and nightclubs to dance until the early morning.

The nightlife in Singapore is focused around the city center, and for classy cocktails with a view head to Marina Bay where Singapore’s best dressed congregate in the early evening.

If you’re wanting a more lively time then Clarke Quay is the place to be – packed with bars and nightclubs, this is Singapore’s late night spot.

Because Singapore’s nightlife is more diverse than Dubai, and the fact this is a city which is more relaxed about dress code and showing romantic intentions, we actually think it’s a better nightlife spot. If you want exclusive clubs and high-end bars, Dubai may suit you better though.

Which Has The Better Excursions?

Dubai is a city that has risen out of the desert, and it’s styled itself as the ultimate vacation destination.

It’s been successful in doing so thanks to the wide range of excursions and things to do in Dubai. That includes surprising options like skiing indoors on actual snow, huge water parks, and swimming in the world’s highest pool.

Visiting the highest building in the world – the Burj Khalifa – is a must, as is Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo .

Outside of the city are more adventurous options, like dune buggy racing in the desert, sky diving and camel riding. There’s no real scenic beauty here – unlike Singapore which is lush and tropical – but Dubai is a place for adventure rather than scenery.

The city-state of Singapore has a wealth of things to do as well, and excels when it comes to family friendly excursions. Singapore has theme parks, a zoo, aquariums, opportunities to spot dolphins, and spectacular birds like endangered parrots at Jurong Bird Park.

It’s also a city with many green spaces, making it perfect for picnics, romantic walks and more. One of those spaces is Mount Faber , which is a rainforest-clad hill with some lovely trails, and even a cable car so you can enjoy lovely views across Singapore.

You can also visit the nearby Sentosa Island which has gorgeous golden beaches.

When it comes to excursions both of these destinations have great choices. But in our opinion, Dubai probably just edges it due to the variety of excursions on offer.

Winner: Dubai

Which Has The Better Shopping?

B oth of these cities have fam ous sh opping streets and mega ma l ls, s o y ou’re unlikely t o be disapp ointed if y ou have ambiti ons of a sh opping spree.

Singapore is a great sh opping destinati on when y ou’re on the hunt f or high-end brands. In particular Orchard Road is famous for its luxury retail outlets and world-class cuisine options.

Dubai has several massive malls selling luxury goods and brands from around the world, and may be one of the best shopping cities on the planet.

However in the old town you can still find more traditional markets like Bur   Dubai and Souk Madinat Jumeirah where it’s possible to pick up a bargain, antiques, and more.

Which Is Cheaper?

In terms of expenses we’ve found Dubai to be a cheaper destinati on than Singapore in regards t o acc omm odati on, f o od, and m ore.

There isn’t a huge difference in price, and in places like Newton Market in Singapore you can find cheap food, but overall Dubai is less expensive.

Budget: The four-star Radisson Beach Resort Palm Jumeirah comes with its on private beach, wonderful swimming pool, and gorgeous skyline views, yet it’s still at a budget that most can afford. See photos and rates here!

Luxury: For world class service, food and facilities that will will take your breath away, head to One&Only Royal Mirage Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach . This beachside resort is one of the most luxurious in the world and the perfect way to vacation like a celebrity. See photos and rates here!

Budget: If you’re looking for fantastic facilities in an unbeatable location at a price that’s affordable, then The Clan Hotel is a great choice. The rooms are done up brilliantly, but it’s the swimming pool with Singapore skyline views that really pulls in guests. See photos and rates here!

Luxury: Singapore isn’t short of luxury hotels, but one of the best and most iconic is Raffles . This gorgeous hotel is picture-perfect at every turn, and has such lavish facilities that it even has 24 hour butler service. See photos and rates here!

Which Is Safer?

Both are safe destinations, which is why tourists visit in huge numbers every year.

However, as always when on holiday you should avoid confrontations with locals, avoid walking in unlit areas at night, and keep an eye on your drinks when at clubs and bars.

The reality is that both Dubai and Singapore are two of the safest cities in the world, and crime against foreigners – even petty theft – is incredibly rare.

Winner: Draw

What About The Weather?

It’s worth mentioning the weather, as Dubai can get extremely warm during the summer months – upwards of 40 Celcius (104 Fahrenheit).

Between November – February, the temperatures are far more pleasant (25C/77F), which is worth factoring into your decision about where and when to go on holiday.

Singapore is more humid than Dubai, and rainfall can be common during the two monsoon seasons (December to March, and June to September).

However daytime temperatures in Singapore typically float around 30 Celsius or 86 Fahrenheit throughout the year.

Dubai vs Singapore : Which Is The Better Choice?

B oth cities are definitely w orth visiting at s ome p oint, and each has its own unique charm and quirks.

If you’re looking for adventurous excursions and great shopping, then Dubai may be a better choice than Singapore. However it’s best to visit in winter when temperatures are cooler.

A Singapore vacation has some great excursion options too, and may be a better choice if you’re looking for a relaxed city break with a varied nightlife, good food, and cultural experiences.

Recommended For Your Trip To Dubai Or Singapore

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Bangkok vs Singapore: The Honest Comparison You Need!

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Singapore vs. Hong Kong

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Go onto any forum and you’ll find mixed reviews of Singapore being better than Hong Kong or vice versa. But it really depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation.

Hong Kong is more dynamic, offering a wider range of experiences for all travelers. Singapore, in contrast, offers pleasant surroundings and more culinary variety. It’s a close match between Hong Kong and Singapore. But altogether, which city has the edge?

From its food and cultural hotspots to the ever-popular Marina Bay Sands, Singapore is a must-visit.

Cultural diversity stands out in Singapore. It’s evident in its cuisine, but even more so in its vibrant neighborhoods. Chinatown, Kampong Glam, Little India, and Joo Chiat are havens showcasing art, history, and culture.

Around Singapore, there’s plenty to do, starting with Orchard Road followed by a quiet evening at Gardens by the Bay. For families, Singapore Zoo is a beloved treat for the little ones.

As for the adults? Nightlife isn’t hard to come by at all in Singapore. In fact, many of its bars rank among the World’s Best 50 Bars list every year.

But if your main purpose is to relax, Haw Par Villa and the Supertree Grove are places you don’t want to miss.

Hailed as the Garden City of Asia, Singapore ranks high on the list of Asia’s premiere destinations. Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, with friends, or alongside family, Singapore is worth a trip.

What Makes Singapore Unique?

A culinary treat for all.

If you love food, you’ll love Singapore. Sprawling with modern eateries, Michelin-star restaurants, and hawker centers, it’s a foodie’s paradise indeed.

For the foodie’s ultimate bucket list of budget eats, hawker centers are the best place to dine at. Hawker centers are open-air food courts serving delectable cuisines designed to fit within anyone’s budget.

In other words, if you want great bang for your buck without sacrificing taste and quality, go to a hawker center.

Now there are dozens of hawker centers around Singapore worth trying. But a few of the best you shouldn’t miss include:

• Tiong Bahru Market
• Newton Food Centre
• Maxwell Food Centre
• Old Airport Road Food Center
• Kim San Leng Food Center Bishan

Want Conde Nast Traveler recommendations? Visit Chinatown Complex Food Centre and East Coast Lagoon Food Village.

Moving past budget eats, Singapore is also home to Michelin-star restaurants, don’t forget. Yarana, Oumi, Rubato, Odette, and The Feather Blade are all noteworthy picks.

Plus, there are countless modern eateries that won’t break your wallet. Tanuki Raw is perfect if you’re looking for a sashimi fix. Not to mention, their price tags are under 20.31 SGD (USD 15 at 1.35 SGD a dollar).

There’s also Two Men Bagel House if you’re craving a decadent breakfast fix. Looking for Korean cuisine? Kim Dae Mun Korean Food serves excellent Korean dishes with an average price of 13.54 SGD (USD 10).

You can easily find Italian, Chinese, Malay, Indian, and even vegan cuisines in Singapore. Altogether, there’s no shortage of delicious cuisines to be found here.

And while Singapore prides itself in culinary diversity, the city’s local cuisine still takes the number one spot. There’s something about Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and chili crab you just can’t beat.

Beautiful Green Spaces

Bearing the nickname Garden City , Singapore is also a great place to visit for nature seekers. Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens are the most popular.

Gardens by the Bay features three waterfront gardens, full of rare flowers. However, the main highlight of visiting Gardens by the Bay is the Supertree Grove. This is in fact what made it so popular, to begin with.

The Supertree Grove is a giant metal vertical garden enveloped by thousands of fauna and flora. Around the Grove are also 12 Supertrees, which become colorful displays of light at night.

Standing in just as impressive stature as Gardens by the Bay is the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Also, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this pocket of peace is 150 years old.

Not only is it the perfect green space to spend a day in solitude, but it’s also home to the National Orchid Garden. Imagine a green wonderland home to a breathtaking swan lake surrounded by heaps of trees and flowers. Sounds like the best nature escape for you? Sure, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is undoubtedly a pocket of peace.

However, if you wanted to add some cardio, head to MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Here, you can go on a nature hike and spot tons of wildlife along the trail. These include flying lemurs and long-tailed macaques.

For families and all travelers, Punggol Waterway has it all. The entire area is divided into four areas:

• Nature Cove
• Green Gallery
• Heritage Zone
• Recreation Zone

You can rent a bicycle and tour the park while the little ones spend their time at the water playground. Around Punggol Waterway, there are also a lot of spots for bird-watching and opportunities to snap awe-inspiring photos. But most of all, Punggol Waterway is an absolute paradise for solitude and serenity seekers.

All in all, Singapore scores high when it comes to scenic places to unwind. For more places to visit and spend a day in solitude or relax, don’t miss these spots:

• Mount Faber
• Jurong Lake Gardens
• Seletar Reservoir Park
• Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Marina Bay Sands

A trip to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without visiting the iconic Marina Bay Sands. Easily recognizable even from miles away, it’s a good place to hit during the day and after dark.

Up for sunset viewing? Perhaps a chill bar to unwind while enjoying the skyline view? Or how about both? The Sands SkyPark Observation Deck precisely offers that. You get a bird’s-eye view of the entire city and of course, the entire Marina Bay.

Whether you’re at Sands SkyPark for the drinks, the view, or simply to relax, it’s the perfect spot for any occasion.

In Marina Bay Sands, you can also visit the ArtScience Museum. Here, you’ll find an endless collection of futuristic art. Not to mention, it makes for a peaceful spot away from bustling crowds.

Don’t miss the Singapore Flyer either, an observation wheel with breathtaking marina views. Here, you’ll also find plenty of alfresco dining experiences for all to enjoy.

What else is there to do in Marina Bay Sands?

At night, you can stroll the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade or simply relax at any of the bed loungers here and take in the views. As a matter of fact, the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade is a popular spot for runners and yogis. There’s also the Helix Pedestrian Bridge, which offers a similar experience as the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade.

Now if you’d rather spend your night partying, head to Ce La Vie Bar, located on the 57 th floor of Marina Bay Sands. Alternatively, you can shop till you drop at the Shoppes. This posh mall sells everything luxury and high-end retail.

A few brands worth mentioning include Gucci, Dior, Tiffany & Co., Piaget, Bulgari, and Bottega Veneta. All in all, there are several activities you can do in just a day at the Marina Bay Sands. Shopping, nightlife, entertainment, dining, and relaxing, take your pick.

Orchard Road

Like Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road is a hub for shopping, dining, entertainment, and drinking. However, the shopping opportunities here don’t end in just high-end retail offerings. You’ll find more budget to mid-priced deals and steals here, along with local shopping boutiques.

A few great shopping stores include the following:

• Love Bonito
• Bynd Artisan
• TANGS at Tang Plaza

Shopping aside, one of the best activities you can do in Orchard Road is to explore its food scene. There are rooftop lounges, trendy cafes, fancy eateries, and classic restaurant chains like Shake Shack.

For cafes, be sure to check out Greyhound Café, Café&Meal MUJI, and The Coffee Academics. If you’re craving authentic Singaporean cuisine, dine at Chatterbox. Their most popular dish? Hainanese chicken rice.

There’s also Salt Grill & Sky Bar, an indoor rooftop lounge that boasts incredible Australian cuisine. If you’re feeling steak and yakitori barbecue, Mezza9 is a fantastic choice.

Finally, there’s also Hai Di Lao and Halcyon & Crane, offering delectable cuisine and aesthetic vibes.

What about the nightlife on Orchard Road? There aren’t many bars here, but all serve outstanding drinks. So even if your options are limited, any bar you walk into will not leave you feeling disappointed.

On that note, these are the best bars to visit on Orchard Road:

• Horse’s Mouth
• 5 Emerald Hill

In a nutshell, Hong Kong is a city full of vibrant energy. From its street markets and bazaars to towering skyscrapers and lush parklands, Hong Kong is worth your dime and attention.

The city also boasts a plethora of attractions, catering to families, couples, and solo travelers. Speaking of solo travelers, the city’s nightlife is surely not to be missed. So much so that it’s also home to the number one bar in Asia.

What’s more, families traveling with the little ones can spend an entire day in Hong Kong Disneyland. Even better, you can stay at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel for a fun-filled trip the whole way.

As one of Asia’s most visited destinations, what also attracts so many to the city are its shopping opportunities.

That’s right, Hong Kong is famed for being a shopper’s paradise. Safe to say, you won’t leave Hong Kong without a few shopping bags.

There is, however, much more to see and do in Hong Kong than just nightlife and shopping. The city also has beaches, parklands, cultural attractions, and a ton of dining options.

The best part of it all? Getting around Hong Kong is easy. Their MRT system is easy to understand, and traveling from one district to another is hardly a problem.

Still not sure if Hong Kong is worth your attention? Here are a couple of reasons why you can’t go wrong with visiting this vibrant city.

What Makes Hong Kong Unique?

Full of family-friendly attractions.

Having access to a ton of family adventures is one of the many reasons Hong Kong is worth visiting. Whether you’re traveling with the little ones or older kids, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

And without a doubt, ranking in first place for family-friendly attractions is Hong Kong Disneyland. Even for teenagers, Disneyland still bags the number one spot. In fact, families can opt to stay in Hong Kong Disneyland when visiting to maximize their experience.

Disneyland aside, another fun-filled family adventure worth visiting is Ocean Park. The amusement park offers tons of roller-coaster rides and it’s also home to an oceanarium and a panda village.

Disneyland and Ocean Park aren’t your only options though.

There’s also the Hong Kong Space Museum where 70% of its collections are interactive designs. Not to mention, a Space Theater which features the first OMINMAX film projector. Imagine a realistic journey through space so real it’s as if you were traveling the galaxies.

Now, what if you plan to visit Hong Kong with older kids? Well, nightlife is always an option which you’ll learn more about later in this guide.

But even if your older kids are tagging along, there’s still plenty to discover together, such as:

• Lantau Island
• Sai Kung Country Park
• Victoria Peak and Victoria Harbour

All three showcase Hong Kong’s impressive natural beauty. And in the event you want a quick cardio session, Victoria Peak offers a scenic hiking trail to the summit. Or, you can head to Sai Kung Country Park which offers more scenic hiking trails and idyllic beaches.

Dining Capital of Asia

Hong Kong has over 15,000 restaurants spread throughout the city. It’s no culinary slouch either when it comes to Michelin-star restaurants.

As a matter of fact, Hong Kong is home to the world’s most affordable Michelin-star meal. The esteemed dim sum emporium, Tim Ho Wan, offers an unforgettable dim sum dining experience.

Then again, you don’t visit Hong Kong solely for its local cuisine. Allow yourself two to three days of exploring local Hong Kong dishes. But after that? It’s worth diving into the international gastronomic landscape this city has to offer.

That includes humble street food stalls that serve some of the most addicting street food you’ll ever get to try.

Must-Try Local Food

So, what dishes are worth sampling? For something more familiar, sample some chicken feet. But if you’re looking for something more unique, you can opt for snake soup or Typhoon-shelter crab.

And for those that truly want a foodie adventure, go grab some stinky tofu. The stench might be overpowering, but it tastes oh-so-amazing.

If you’re looking for sweet, savory, soft, and crispy all at the same time, grab a Hong Kong-style French toast.

There’s also roasted goose, roasted pigeon, beef brisket, and five-layer roast pork. All four are excellent choices you’ll never regret biting into.

Don’t miss out on sweet and sour pork too. In Hong Kong, its umami charts are guaranteed A++.

Restaurants to Visit

In Hong Kong, you’ll find a vast selection of excellent restaurants.

That said, it also depends on what cuisine you’re craving most. Don’t worry though, with over 15,000 restaurants, there’s no shortage of culinary options to choose from.

Some good options, though? Ronin is an excellent choice for seafood lovers and anyone craving Japanese cuisine. Plus, it’s also famous for being a whisky wonderland, featuring 100+ whisky collections, along with wine and sake.

If you still haven’t had enough Chinese, Tin Lung Heen serves one of the best Iberico char siu in the city. Essentially, it’s tender barbecued pork enveloped in osmanthus honey.

Small bites, anyone? Little Bao makes it to the top 30 of Conde Nast Traveler recommendations. This small restaurant only seats 10 but is always packed.

For date nights, special occasions, and Italian gourmet, check out 8-1/2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana. Prefer French cuisine? A more accurate description would be the love child of French techniques and Japanese ingredients.

That’s what you’ll find at Frantzen’s Kitchen, which is by the way, run by a Swedish chef. So technically, you’re getting Swedish, French, and Japanese in one plate.

And of course, who can forget dim sum, right? For the cream of the crop recommendation in the dim sum category, be sure to dine at Maxim’s Palace. Tim Ho Wan is a legend of its own, but Maxim’s Palace definitely deserves a star for its flavors.

Shopper’s Paradise

Daily shopping sprees are a thing in Hong Kong, thanks to its huge bargain and price steals. And just when you think that’s enough to fill your shopaholic cravings, just wait till you see what your options are.

From luxury markets to Mong Kok’s markets, you’re bound to leave the city with several shopping bags. The best part? Several Hong Kong shops don’t come with sales tax.

Even better, the city boasts plenty of factory seconds, including Gucci, NEKI, and Prada stocks. If you know where to look, you can get designer bags for 10% of the price. On average, outlet stores in Hong Kong sell designer collections at 30% to 70% off the original price.

In other words, if you’re planning on buying luxury goods, Hong Kong is one of the best cities to do so. Because minus the sales tax plus the ridiculous discounts, you’re easily getting these at cost. Sometimes even lower.

So, which shopping malls should you go to? For fashion trend designs and designer labels, head to Citygate Outlets, located in Tung Chung.

If you want electronics, visit Golden Computer Centre located in Sham Shui Po. High street fashion? GU has the best collections and is located in Tsim Sha Tsui.

For everyday essentials, Miniso located in Wan Chai offers one of the most affordable selections. Be careful, though: you may not want to leave.

Also in Wan Chai is the Odd One Out, perfect if you’re looking to shop for art, home, and lifestyle products.

Midnight snacks in case you get hungry? 759 store serves a huge collection of Japanese snacks; however, most are sold in bulk. It should be enough to last even after your trip.

But if you simply want to browse or prefer to spend more time shopping, be sure to visit these malls:

• Fashion Walk

Lee Gardens Shopping Mall is also a great option and features unmissable dining experiences. Times Square Mall, located in Causeway Bay, is perfect if you want a versatile mix. Shopping, dining, cafes, theaters, and several tourist attractions all make up Times Square’s lively vibes.

Finally, there’s Pacific Mall, which is perfect for shopping or browsing. It’s also connected to four Hong Kong hotels:

• JW Marriott
• Island Shangri-la
• The Upper House

Vibrant After-Dark Scene

Hong Kong’s nightlife scene stands out. From upscale clubs and bars to slow evening cruises, there’s plenty of entertainment after dark.

For party central vibes, Lan Kwai Fong has it all. You’ll find over 90 bars in this area alone, along with countless restaurants that stay open until the wee hours. So after a great night out with friends, go grab some dumplings. Or maybe Mexican, Thai, Japanese, you name it.

Aside from Lan Kwai Fong, there’s a lot of nightlife happening in Wan Chai too. Head to Lockhart Road, which is often referred to as the city’s red-light district.

Not your cup of tea? Knutsford Terrace in Tsim Sha Tsui could be a better spot to enjoy Hong Kong’s nightlife scene. Here, you’ll find a long stretch of bars, clubs, open-air eateries, and live music clubs.

Last but not least, Hong Kong has several nightlife options that don’t involve loud music and crowded streets.

Among all districts, Causeway Bay makes for the perfect choice if it’s a casual or relaxing night out you’re after. The area is full of rooftop bars and pubs ideal for anyone that’s looking to have a drink and unwind.

Which Is Better – Singapore or Hong Kong?

Is Singapore or Hong Kong better for a vacation? It’s a tough call. But in the category of shopping and nightlife, Hong Kong is a much better choice.

Both also offer some of the best gastronomic landscapes in Asia, so you aren’t missing out if you visit either. But perhaps the most concerning question is, which offers better sightseeing?

Singapore has Gardens by the Bay, Universal Studios on Sentosa Island, and Marina Bay Sands. There’s also Orchard Road, which altogether offers plenty for travelers including families.

In contrast, Hong Kong has Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, Victoria Peak, and Victoria Harbour.

Between the two, Hong Kong scores just one notch higher than Singapore in this department. Not to mention, it has more activities for both kids and older adults.

Singapore, on the other hand, is more catered toward adults. And while it does offer a number of family-friendly attractions, it’s not as exciting as Hong Kong’s.

It’s also worth noting that tourists in Hong Kong can opt for scenic hikes at Victoria Peak as well. There’s also a tram and playground for kids at Victoria Peak.

Overall, Hong Kong is a more exciting destination to visit, offering a ton of things to do and see. Additionally, the shopping and nightlife opportunities are undeniably better and more varied.

Singapore is the better choice if you’re after easygoing experiences. The Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, and its many green spaces offer plenty of options to unwind. The food is also excellent, and with a good number of nightlife options, Singapore is still a great place to visit.

FAQ Singapore vs. Hong Kong Economy

Hong Kong and Singapore have always been neck-to-neck in economic growth. However, the recent trend reveals that Singapore’s economy is growing at a faster and higher rate than Hong Kong’s.

A good measure to indicate economic growth is GDP per capita. And based on the data, the GDP per capita reveals a big difference between the two. Hong Kong’s GDP per capita is USD 49,800 whereas Singapore’s GDP per capita is USD 72,794.

In other words, Singapore’s economy is more prosperous than Hong Kong’s. And even though both cities have similar GDPs, Singapore’s higher GDP per capita reveals a more booming economy.

Is Hong Kong Richer Than Singapore?

In the past, Hong Kong was a lot richer than Singapore. But in recent trends, Singapore has caught up and even outpaced Hong Kong, according to Bloomberg.

While Hong Kong is one of the richest countries in Asia, Singapore holds the number 1 spot in 2023. Having the highest GDP per capita (72,794), Singapore is richer than Hong Kong.

According to Finews Asia , Singapore’s wealth has been growing at a rate of 5.3%. Whereas Hong Kong grows at an average of 4.3%. In the list of richest countries in Asia, Hong Kong ranks 4 th .

Hong Kong vs. Singapore GDP

Hong Kong and Singapore have similar GDPs, although Singapore’s is still higher. Hong Kong’s GDP is USD 369.2 billion while Singapore’s GDP is USD 397 billion.

Is Hong Kong Cheaper or More Expensive Than Singapore?

Hong Kong is cheaper than Singapore. On average, Singapore is about 20% more expensive if you include the cost of living.

Although transport prices are slightly lower in Hong Kong, food is more expensive than in Singapore. For instance, an average meal in Hong Kong costs about 50 HKD (6.40 USD at 7.85 HKD a dollar).

Accommodation prices are similar in both Hong Kong and Singapore. With regards to transportation though, Hong Kong offers more options apart from the standard MRT. You can opt for buses, tramways, minibusses, and ferries.

That said, it’s easier to spend more in Hong Kong than in Singapore. Shopping-wise, and even if sales tax is lower for luxury goods, you also have more opportunities overall.

This can lead to higher costs if you’re not careful. Not to mention, because Hong Kong offers more sightseeing and attractions, tourists can also spend more in Hong Kong.

So, taking into account all these factors, you could spend about 10% more in Hong Kong than in Singapore. For cost-conscious travelers, this is something to keep in mind if you decide to visit Hong Kong.

Humidity in Hong Kong vs. Singapore

Hong Kong and Singapore have similar weather and both are characterized as having tropical climates. But throughout the year, Singapore is more humid than Hong Kong.

In Singapore, it’s more or less summer throughout the entire year, accompanied by two monsoon seasons.

The first monsoon season occurs from November to March, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Singapore’s second monsoon season happens between June and September. During this time, expect occasional rain showers and thunderstorms.

Hong Kong, in contrast, has four seasons. So unlike Singapore, there are months when the weather is more pleasant and cool.

From June to August, Hong Kong can be uncomfortably hot but it’s not as humid as Singapore. From December to February, the weather in Hong Kong is much cooler. July to October in Hong Kong isn’t that hot either but will have occasional thunderstorms and typhoons.

Altogether, Hong Kong’s weather is more pleasant than in Singapore. Thankfully, Singapore has a lot of air-conditioned rooms and places to keep you cool throughout the year.

Hong Kong vs. Singapore Tourism

Hong Kong sees more tourists than Singapore annually. This is mainly because Hong Kong also offers more tourist attractions than Singapore overall.

You could spend a week in Hong Kong and not feel bored. Whereas in Singapore, four days are generally enough.

That said, it also depends on what you’re looking for most in your vacation. For instance, one of the reasons why Hong Kong is so popular is also due to its shopping and nightlife opportunities. This draws in millions of tourists each year solely for its shopping opportunities.

As for nightlife, it should come as no surprise that Hong Kong is also a popular destination for young crowds.

Hong Kong Disneyland vs. Universal Studios Singapore

Hong Kong Disneyland (HKD) is arguably better if you’re traveling with kids as it’s more kid friendly. Not to mention, there are more rides tailored for younger kids overall. Universal Studios Singapore (USS) favors older kids or adults.

That said, online forums reveal that Hong Kong Disneyland is the superior choice. Several will also agree that Hong Kong Disneyland is nicer and has more attractions.

However, when you look at the rankings online, Universal Studios Singapore ranks 1 st among all in Asia. In fact, it is crowned the best in Asia. Hong Kong Disneyland, on the other hand, ranks in 2 nd place.

Which is truly better depends mostly on who you’re traveling with. There’s no doubt both Hong Kong Disneyland and Universal Studios Singapore are fantastic theme parks. But because Universal Studios Singapore has more roller coasters, it’s not as suitable for kids. One of their most famous roller coasters, Battlestar Galactica, is one of the best rides in USS.

Now if you prefer better water rides and shows, HKD definitely comes out on top. Disneyland shows often come unmatched in the theme park category.

As for dining options, Universal Studios Singapore offers more variety than Hong Kong Disneyland.

Hong Kong Fried Rice vs. Singapore Fried Rice

Hong Kong Fried Rice and Singapore Fried Rice differ in taste, cooking style, and the ingredients used. Between the two, it’s a matter of preference.

Hong Kong fried rice is sweeter, whereas Singapore fried rice is spicier. In terms of rice texture, Hong Kong fried rice uses Jasmine rice while Singapore fried rice uses long-grain rice.

Those are essential to the overall taste because it affects its harmony with the other ingredients. For instance, Hong Kong fried rice includes char siu and diced vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions. Singapore fried rice also uses similar ingredients but also has diced chicken and shrimp, apart from char siu.

Lastly, the cooking method plays a key role in the overall result of each fried rice. Hong Kong fried rice is cooked over high heat, giving it a smoky flavor and crispier texture. Singapore fried rice, in contrast, uses medium heat to prevent the chili paste and ketchup ingredients from burning.

In Hong Kong, one of their most famous fried rice options is Yangzhou fried rice. In Singapore, one of the most popular is their Nasi Goreng fried rice.

Hong Kong Noodles vs. Singapore Noodles

Hong Kong noodles are quite different from Singapore noodles. Specifically, what separates the two is the texture of the noodles used, the meat, the taste, and even the cooking process.

For Hong Kong noodles, thinner and rounder noodles are used. In comparison, Singapore noodles often lean towards vermicelli-style noodles.

Ingredients-wise, Hong Kong cuisine adds pork, beef, shrimp, and vegetables to its noodles. Whereas Singapore only uses chicken or pork sparingly.

It’s also worth noting that Singapore noodles have a distinct, spicy flavor. Hong Kong noodles, on the other hand, are sweeter and more savory. Mainly due to the addition of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil

Although both Hong Kong and Singapore noodles are stir-fried, their cooking process is different. Soy sauce and oyster sauce are usually added at the beginning of the cooking process. Whereas for Singapore noodles, curry powder is added towards the end.

Both are flavorful, but it all comes to preference. If you prefer a sweeter umami of flavor, go for Hong Kong noodles. But if you enjoy a spicier and curry-like flavor, you’ll enjoy Singapore noodles more.

Are Hong Kong and Singapore Different Countries?

Hong Kong and Singapore are very different countries. Singapore is an independent state located in Southeast Asia. Hong Kong, in contrast, is a special administrative region that belongs to the People’s Republic of China.

In Singapore, it’s also easier to communicate with the locals since their official language is English. In this regard, both countries use different languages to communicate with one another.

In Hong Kong, Cantonese is the official spoken language. While in Singapore, their native language is simplified Chinese. You might also hear Malay or Tamil since there is a larger proportion of non-Chinese in Singapore.

Additionally, both have different climates and geography. Hong Kong’s landscape is mountainous whereas Singapore’s is flat.

Climate-wise, Singapore is more humid and only has one season. Hong Kong has four seasons, making it very different from Singapore.

There are a lot of differences between Singapore and Hong Kong, from culture and infrastructure down to food.

Hong Kong and Singapore Similarities

Despite their significant differences, Hong Kong and Singapore also share several similarities. First, both Hong Kong and Singapore have a strong Western influence. Mainly because both were colonized under British rule.

Hong Kong and Singapore are also significant business hubs in Asia and have prosperous economies. Although their cultures differ, both countries are home to diverse populations too. In that regard, Hong Kong and Singapore are considered multicultural societies.

Finally, both countries have a high standard of living, from their healthcare to education systems.

Is Hong Kong in Singapore?

No, Hong Kong is not in Singapore. Although both are a part of Asia, this does not mean Hong Kong is in Singapore or vice versa.

Using Google Maps as a reference, there is a considerable distance between the two. Specifically, Hong Kong is located in southeastern China. Whereas Singapore is situated in the southern part of the Malay peninsula.

Where Are Singapore and Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is located on the southern coast of China, and about 37 miles (60 km) east of Macau. Singapore is in Southeast Asia and is geographically situated between Indonesia and Malaysia.

Is Hong Kong Near Singapore?

Hong Kong is about 1,500 miles (2,414 km) away from Singapore, making both relatively close to each other. By air travel standards, Hong Kong is near Singapore and you can travel from one country to the other in less than a day.

How Far Is Singapore From Hong Kong?

Singapore is approximately 1,606 miles (2,585 km) from Hong Kong. From Hong Kong to Singapore, the average travel time takes about four hours.

Singapore vs. Hong Kong Size

Singapore, also referred to as a dwarf state, is smaller than Hong Kong in size. Singapore’s total land area is approximately 278 sq. miles (719 sq. km). Hong Kong is slightly bigger than Singapore, with a total land area of 427 sq. miles (1,106 sq. km).

But even though Hong Kong is larger than Singapore, both are considered small countries. And despite Singapore being smaller, it’s more densely populated than Hong Kong. Singapore has a total population of 5.4 million but is smaller than Hong Kong, which has a population of 7.4 million.

How Big Is Hong Kong Compared to Singapore?

Hong Kong is 1.5x bigger compared to Singapore.

Singapore Area vs. Hong Kong

With a total area of 278 sq. miles (719 sq. km), Singapore is approximately 54% smaller in area than Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Mahjong vs. Singapore Mahjong

Mahjong is played differently in both Hong Kong and Singapore. One of the major differences between Singapore and Hong Kong is that Singapore Mahjong is more suitable for beginner players.

For both Hong Kong and Singapore Mahjong, each game starts with 144 tiles. This includes three suits of circles, bamboo, and characters.

However, the rules for Singapore Mahjong are different than the rules in Hong Kong Mahjong. For instance, Hong Kong Mahjong requires four players and every player must start with 13 tiles. Singapore Mahjong varies slightly, as it only requires three players. In addition, every player starts with 16 tiles instead of 13 tiles.

These variations are the two biggest differences between Hong Kong Mahjong and Singapore Mahjong. Other differences include the points or scoring system. Because the scoring system in Singapore Mahjong is easier to understand, this is why it’s better suited for beginners.

Hong Kong vs. Singapore Population

Hong Kong has a larger population than Singapore, specifically about 2 million more.

Hong Kong to Singapore Time

Hong Kong and Singapore have no time difference. Both are set at UTC +8. So if it’s March 9, 2023, at 2:30 pm in Singapore, the same time is reflected in Hong Kong as well.

Distance Between Hong Kong and Singapore by Air

The distance between Hong Kong and Singapore by air is approximately 1,609.6 miles or 2,590.4 kilometers. An average flight from one country to the other takes about four hours. But according to Google Maps, the approximate travel time is 3 hours and 57 minutes.

Singapore to Hong Kong by Boat

From the Singapore port to the Hong Kong port, the distance is 1,862 nautical miles (3,448.4 kilometers). However, traveling from Singapore to Hong Kong via ferry is not possible. There is no private ferry service that offers the Singapore–Hong Kong route.

The best way to travel from Singapore to Hong Kong by boat is to do a cruise. There are several 12-night or 13-night cruises that include Singapore and Hong Kong as part of the itinerary. Often, this might also include other countries like Tokyo, Bangkok, Taipei, etc.

Try to book cruises with cruise itineraries that have either Hong Kong as the last port.

Singapore to Hong Kong by Train

Although it’s possible to travel from Singapore to Hong Kong by train, it’s a very long journey. Not to mention, you’ll have to take several buses before being able to board a train to Hong Kong.

First, you’ll have to travel from Singapore to Sheung Wan, which takes roughly 15 hours. From there, it’s another 6 hours and 50 minutes to Nanning Langdong. Once there, you’ll have to travel to Hai Phong, which takes 21 hours and 33 minutes to reach.

From Hai Phong, you’ll still have to make two additional trips, which will take you another day. Overall, it should take you roughly 4 days if you travel by train, bus, or any form of land transport.

Hong Kong to Singapore Distance by Train

The distance from Hong Kong to Singapore by train is 2,588.6 miles (4,166 km). Take note that this is assuming a straight line distance from Hong Kong to Singapore.

If you drive, the distance is much farther and harder to navigate through.

Hong Kong MTR vs. Singapore MRT

Hong Kong’s MTR railway system is acknowledged as the best in the world. Compared to Singapore’s MRT railway system, Hong Kong’s MTR is steps ahead in terms of design, efficiency, and punctuality rate.

One of the biggest differences between Hong Kong MTR and Singapore MRT is its maintenance rate. Put simply, Hong Kong’s MTR railway system rarely breaks down in comparison to Singapore’s.

Hong Kong’s MTR experienced a delay of five minutes for every 279,617 miles (450,000 km) traveled in 2014. In 2015, it experienced a delay every 223,693.6 miles (360,000 km). And in 2016, it was at 323,113 miles (520,000 km). In contrast, Singapore’s MRT system saw an average breakdown every 82,642.4 miles (133,000 km) traveled.

Another difference is price. Hong Kong’s railway prices are cheaper than Singapore’s. There’s also wait time, which is a lot shorter in Hong Kong than it is in Singapore. On average, Hong Kong’s MTR runs almost every minute at major stops like Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, Causeway Bay, and Wan Chai.

In fact, Hong Kong’s MTR system is also found in several countries. Some of these include Australia, Sweden, and UK.

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6 Best Travel Insurance with COVID-19 Coverage in Singapore (Apr 2024)

COVID-19 might be the last thing on your mind…but it could be the first thing to ruin your next trip. Whether you end up quarantined overseas or have to cancel the holiday entirely, there are plenty of ways COVID-19 could make a vacation go awry. And that’s before you consider things like lost luggage, flight delays , getting pickpocketed, and more.

Good news—there’s an easy way out. Before you jet off to your  dream travel destination , don’t forget to buy travel insurance . Covering you for your potential travel disruptions, travel insurance is the next most important thing besides your flight ticket!

Most insurance providers have added COVID-19 coverage to their travel insurance plans, but to varying extents. Some have COVID-19 as an optional add-0n that you have to purchase. Coverage wise, some providers offer far better COVID-19 protection than others.

Find out how to choose, what to look out for, and the cheapest travel insurance you can buy with our comparison of the best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage  in Singapore and their ongoing promotions. Promotions are generous this Apr 2024— you could even win a Rolex Oyster Perpetual , 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000), all-expenses paid trip, or a 2D1N staycation!

Best Travel Insurance in Singapore with COVID-19 Coverage (2024)

• Best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage

Bubblegum Travel Insurance

• FWD travel insurance
• Starr travel insurance
• MSIG travel insurance
• Singlife travel insurance
• Etiqa travel insurance
• Cheapest travel insurance in Singapore
• Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?
• How do I choose the best travel insurance policy with COVID-19 coverage?
• What do I do if I test positive for COVID-19 during or after travelling?

1. Best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage

With the sheer number of travel insurance providers out there, it can be overwhelming to compare everything against everything else. We know that pain, because that’s exactly what we’ve just done.  Wipe away those tears of exasperation— we’ve done the legwork for you and picked out the top 6 travel insurance plans in Singapore:

Why are these the top 6? We’ve compared them based on affordability, COVID-19 cover inclusion, emergency medical coverage, and trip cancellation coverage. (If you’re an adventure seeker, that’s more niche—refer to this article for all the best travel insurance for extreme sports and outdoor adventure instead.)

Ready to dive into the deets? We compared the coverage and prices of most popular  travel insurance plans with COVID-19 coverage in Singapore. So if you’re looking for a specific type of coverage for your travel needs, e.g. high trip cancellation coverage, this is a better summary table for you to work with:

Note: All travel insurance options above are before promotional discounts are applied. Unless otherwise stated, all include COVID-19 coverage.

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2. Bubblegum Travel Insurance

Bubblegum Travel Insurance  is a great option if you’re looking for fuss-free, essential coverage at affordable rates. Bubblegum’s travel insurance model is simple, offering just 1 travel insurance plan. Here are its pricing and coverage benefits:

If fuss-free, essential travel insurance is your top priority, we think Bubblegum is a good option for you. Their travel insurance is all-inclusive with coverage for travel inconveniences like cancellations and delays, and also gives you coverage for COVID-19 related expenses at no additional cost.

If you’re a thrill-seeker looking at adventurous activities, Bubblegum Travel Insurance will also cover you for hot air ballooning, scuba diving and skiing, with no restriction on height or depth.

Bubblegum travel insurance promotion

Total Premium

[Receive your cash as fast as 30 days*]   •  Enjoy 10% off  your policy premium and 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. •  Additionally, receive up to S$25 via PayNow with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.

Key Features

Bubblegum offers just 1 affordable plan to suit all your travel needs to maximise your savings

Overseas medical expenses up to $150,000 SGD (Covid-19 sub-limit of $65,000 included)

24-Hour global Emergency Assistance services including Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

Covid-19 trip related cancellation/curtailment up to $600 SGD included

Adventurous activities like scuba diving and hot air ballooning are covered with no limit on depth or height.

Bubblegum is currently offering a 10% discount on all their travel insurance plans. That means you can cover a 7-day trip to ASEAN with just $38—about $5+ a day !

Truth is, the discount is even greater when you consider the fact that Bubblegum will also give you My Millennium Points and cashback when you purchase Bubblegum travel insurance:

• Get  2,400 My Millennium Points (worth $16) with every policy purchased.
• Plus, get  $15 Cash via PayNow when you buy a Bubblegum Travel Insurance plan with a premium of $80 to $119.99 OR  $25 Cash via PayNow with a premium of $120 and above.

Promotion valid till 30 Apr 2024.

3. FWD Travel Insurance 

FWD travel insurance offers some of the cheapest travel insurance plans in Singapore, so this is a budget-friendly option which still offers you great value for every dollar. I like that coverage for emergency medical evacuation is unlimited for all tiers, and overseas medical expenses go up to a generous $1,000,000 (which is about as high as it gets).

Here’s a quick run-through of the price and benefits offered by FWD travel insurance plans:

When you’re purchasing FWD travel insurance, the COVID-19 benefits are an add-on. The price of the COVID-19 add-on costs between $11 to $22  depending on the part of the world you’re travelling to. If you choose to add it on, it’ll give you comprehensive coverage of the following:

• Trip disruption
• Trip cancellation
• Overseas hospital cash
• Hospital cash while in Singapore
• Medical expenses
• Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation

The plan reimburses your travel-related expenses if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 no more than 30 days before your scheduled departure date, or if you have to change your itinerary because of a COVID-19 diagnosis while overseas. You also get to claim medical expenses and a hospital cash benefit if you get hospitalised overseas or for up to 14 days in Singapore upon your return.

On top of that, there’s also an automatic policy extension of up to 21 days should you be prevented from travel as per foreign government regulations due to:

• You contracting COVID-19; or
• You or your travel companion needing to be self-isolated due to being in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19

Read the full T&Cs of FWD’s COVID-19 coverage .

FWD travel insurance promotion

[ Win a Rolex, Dream Vacation & More!   | MoneySmart Exclusive]   • Enjoy 25% off your policy premium and 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased.  T&Cs apply.    BONUS:  For a limited time only, stand a chance to score over S$10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw . • Rolex Oyster Perpetual - 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000) • All Expenses Paid Trip • 2D1N Staycation at any Millennium Hotels and Resorts and 15,000 My Millennium Points (worth up to S$550)    Increase your chances of winning when you refer friends  today. T&Cs apply.

Enjoy cashless medical outpatient treatment in Singapore, access to emergency assistance and your travel policy documents through the FWD SG app!

Add on coverage for COVID-19 available for both Single & Annual Trips for travel period of 90 days or less.

Optional add on coverage available when your trip is cancelled for any reason for Single Trips. (To be purchased within 7 days of your initial trip deposit for your trip).

Plan Highlights

Covid-19 protection, leisure activities.

Currently, you can take 25% off the prices for all FWD travel insurance tiers. That brings the rate for a 7-day ASEAN trip down to $25 to $42, or just $3+ to $6 a day !

We haven’t gotten to the really good part yet. Purchase FWD Premium , FWD Business , or FWD First travel insurance and stand a chance to win over $10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw ! Prizes include:

• Rolex Oyster Perpetual – 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000)
• All Expenses Paid Trip
• 2D1N Staycation at any Millennium Hotels and Resorts and 15,000 My Millennium Points (worth up to S$550)

Promotions valid till 7 Apr 2024 (Prizes 2 and 3) / 30 Apr 2024 (Prize 1).

4. Starr Travel Insurance

Starr’s travel insurance   Starr TraveLead Comprehensive is a leader in terms of how customisable their insurance is. When signing up, medical coverage (including COVID-19 coverage) is automatically included in all plans, but you can choose whether or not you want to add trip coverage (e.g. document loss, travel delay) and baggage coverage (e.g. baggage delay). Then, you can also easily add riders for Golf Protection, Cruise Vacation, Scuba Diving, and Snow Sports.

Starr TraveLead Comprehensive comes in 3 tiers: Gold , Silver and Bronze . While all are pretty comprehensive (as the name suggests), we advise you go for at least Silver . This affords you $500,000 overseas medical coverage, as well as $30,000 medical coverage for COVID-19 and $250 coverage for COVID-19 related trip curtailments and cancellations. You won’t get the COVID-19 trip curtailment/cancellation coverage in the Bronze plan, which only offers $15,000 for COVID-19 medical coverage. Better be safe and  go for Silver or Gold.

Here are the prices and coverage amounts for each tier. Prices are given with trip coverage included in the plan.

Note: Starr also has a travel insurance called Starr TraveLead Essential, which also comes in Bronze , Silver and Gold tiers. They look very attractive because of their low prices—for example, Starr TraveLead Essential Bronze costs just $20 for a 7-day trip to an ASEAN destination.

However, unless you’re on a really tight budget, I wouldn’t recommend these plans because of their more limited coverage. For example, while the Starr TraveLead Essential Bronze plan does cover you for $200,000 worth of overseas medical expenses (which is already the bare minimum), it doesn’t cover you at all for trip cancellation and loss/damage of baggage. Neither do the Silver or Gold tier plans.

Starr Travel Insurance promotion

Starr TraveLead Comprehensive Silver

[ Win a Rolex, Dream Vacation & More!   | MoneySmart Exclusive]   • Enjoy 50% off your policy premium and 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. • Additionally, receive up to S$45 via PayNow OR 1 x Apple AirTag (worth S$45.40) with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.   BONUS:  For a limited time only, stand a chance to score over S$10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw . • Rolex Oyster Perpetual - 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000) • All Expenses Paid Trip • 2D1N Staycation at any Millennium Hotels and Resorts and 15,000 My Millennium Points (worth up to S$550)   Increase your chances of winning when you refer friends  today. T&Cs apply.

For Cruise to nowhere insurance: Find out more here

Flexible coverage allows you to create a travel insurance plan with different types of coverage and add-ons that can adapt to your needs

Overseas Covid-19 related medical expenses of up to $30,000 SGD included (Excluding China).

Covid 19 Trip related cancellation/curtailment up to $250 SGD included (Excluding China).

Covers Travel Expenses for return of Child(ren) during the hospitalisation of the insured person.

No sublimit or restriction on outpatient expenses and number of visits

24 hours Global Emergency Assistance Services help you when you need it most, connecting you with medical treatment and transportation

Seamless and Cashless claims via PayNow

Please note that travelling to Russia and Ukraine is not covered in Starr’s insurance with immediate effect.

With the ongoing 42% discount promotion on Starr travel insurance, prices are very affordable. Coverage for a week-long ASEAN trip is just $24+ ($3+ a day), while a trip of the same duration to countries like USA costs $30+ ($4+ a day).

The best part? Purchase Starr TraveLead travel insurance of any tier and stand a chance to win over $10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw ! Prizes include:

5. MSIG Travel Insurance

MSIG travel insurance is categorised into 3 plans— Standard , Elite , and Premier . The cheapest, basic plan still offers pretty adequate coverage in medical emergencies and trip cancellations or delays.

Here’s a quick run-down of the plan’s key benefits:

One more unusual area of coverage that MSIG includes is emergency dental expenses. You get $5,000 to $15,000 in coverage, depending on the travel insurance tier you select.

MSIG’s Areas A and B refer, roughly speaking, to ASEAN and Asia respectively. Here’s a more comprehensive list of the countries in each category:

• Area A : Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam
• Area B : Australia, China (excluding Inner Mongolia and Tibet), Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Macau, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and including countries in Area A
• Area C : Worldwide

MSIG Travel Insurance’s COVID-19 coverage is an automatic inclusion to its travel insurance plans and offers the following coverage:

• Trip cancellation, postponement, shortening, disruption
• Replacement of traveller
• Overseas medical expenses
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Overseas quarantine daily cash allowance

This is quite a decent list of benefits, but do note that daily hospital cash allowance is missing from the list.

MSIG travel insurance promotion

MSIG TravelEasy Standard

[ Win a Rolex, Dream Vacation & More!   | MoneySmart Exclusive]     3 DAYS FLASH SALE:   Enjoy 55% off your Single Trip policy premium when you apply promo code TRAVEL55 . Valid till 28 Apr 2024 .    • Enjoy 20% off your Annual Plan policy premiums (no promo code required). Valid till 6 May 2024 . • Get  2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. • Additionally, receive up to S$45 via PayNow OR 1 x Apple AirTag (worth S$45.40) with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.     BONUS:  For a limited time only, stand a chance to score over S$10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw . • Rolex Oyster Perpetual - 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000) • All Expenses Paid Trip • 2D1N Staycation at any Millennium Hotels and Resorts and 15,000 My Millennium Points (worth up to S$550)    Increase your chances of winning when you refer friends  today. T&Cs apply.

COVID-19 coverage of up to $150,000 medical cover and up to $1,500 travel inconvenience benefit for your trip protection.

Packaged tour coverage for insolvency of licensed travel agencies registered with the Singapore Tourism Board (includes NATAS registered travel agencies).

Get covered across all TravelEasy Plan types with a high limit of S$1,000,000 for emergency medical evacuation & repatriation

MSIG provides cover for insolvency of licensed travel agencies registered with the Singapore Tourism Board (includes NATAS registered travel agencies)

Currently, you can take 40% off all MSIG travel insurance plans with their ongoing promotion. That means your 7-day ASEAN trip now costs just $37 to $70 to cover compared to $62 to $116.

On top of the 40% discount, you’ll receive lots of goodies with your MSIG travel insurance purchase:

• Receive  2,400 My Millennium Points (worth $16) with every policy purchased.
• $15 cash via PayNow with a premium of $65 to $119.99
• $25 cash via PayNow with a premium of $120 to $239.99
• $45 cash via PayNow or an Apple AirTag (worth $45.40) with a premium of $240 and above .

Promotion valid till 12 Apr 2024.

6. Singlife Travel Insurance

Singlife travel insurance comes in 3 tiers— Lite , Plus , and Prestige . The price you pay and the coverage you’ll get increase with each plan.

Here are Singlife travel insurance’s key prices and benefits:

On top of the coverage above, Singlife also covers you for chiropractor and/or chinese physician treatment : $250 ($50 per visit) for Lite, $500 ($75 per visit) for Plus, and $1000 ($100 per visit) for Prestige.

As far as COVID-19 coverage goes, here’s a quick run-down:

• Emergency medical evacuation, repatriation
• Overseas quarantine allowance
• Trip cancellation, postponement, interruption

While Singlife travel insurance’s coverage for non-COVID medical expenses, travel delay and trip cancellation is comprehensive, we have to dock some points for the lack of overseas hospital cash allowance and pretty low COVID-19 trip cancellation coverage.

Also, do note that the lowest tier, Lite, doesn’t come with certain coverage, such as trip cancellation or postponement for any reason and COVID-19 overseas quarantine allowance.

Singlife travel insurance promotion

Singlife Travel Plus

[Receive your cash as fast as 30 days*]   •  Enjoy 25% off  your policy premium and 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. •  Additionally, receive up to S$30  via PayNow with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.

Covers trip cancellation for any reason, T&Cs apply.

Covers trip interruptions or cancellations due to COVID-19 and cover your medical treatment should you contract COVID-19 whilst overseas.

Payout of up to S$150** should your trip be affected by excessive rainfall.

**For single trips (minimum 3 days) where more than 50% of trip duration is affected by rainfall levels of >6.4mm in a 24-hour period.

Seamless claims experience with PayNow

It’s a win-win situation—get 28% off your Singlife travel insurance premiums these goodies thrown in:

• $10 cash via PayNow with a premium of $65 to $129.99
• $20 cash via PayNow with a premium of $130 to $329.99
• $30 cash via PayNow or an Apple AirTag (worth $45.40) with a premium of $330 and above .

Promotion valid till 29 Feb 2024.

7. Etiqa Travel Insurance

Do you hate making travel insurance claims? I do. That’s why when a friend of mine told me that you don’t need to make any claim on Etiqa to receive compensation for your flight delay, I was very intrigued.

I’ve been fortunate—all my recent flights have left on time. But from what I’ve heard from friends who weren’t as lucky on their recent travels, it’s true that Etiqa has the most seamless claim process for flight delays . All you need to do is enter your flight details when purchasing your insurance. Etiqa will monitor your flight and know if your flight is delayed (to count as a delay, it needs to be pushed back at least 3 consecutive hours). If that happens, they’ll transfer money into your Etiqa TiqConnect eWallet—even if you don’t submit a claim! You can then encash that sum via PayNow.

On top of this travel delay claim benefit, Etiqa also provides flight check-in reminders and baggage belt collection details via SMS when you land. I’ve experienced this myself when I bought Etiqa’s travel insurance for my trip to the UK this year. Now that’s what I call service.

Etiqa’s travel insurance is called Tiq Travel Insurance  and comes in 3 tiers: Tiq Entry , Tiq Savvy , and Tiq Luxury . Here are their costs and coverage components:

Tiq Entry is sufficient to give you essential coverage for travel disruptions. But if you’ve just a little more to spend, go for Tiq Savvy . This will more than double your coverage limit for overseas medical expenses from $200,000 to $500,000 for just an additional $5 a week—that’s less than $1 a day.

[MoneySmart Exclusive]    • Enjoy 40% off your Single Trip policy premium and 60% off Covid-19 add-on for Annual Plans. T&Cs apply • Additionally, receive 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. T&Cs apply.    [Etiqa's 10th Year 2024 Grand Draw] Stand a chance to win S$10,000 cash or a Singapore Mint Lunar Dragon 1 gram 999.9 fine gold medallion (worth S$173) with eligible Etiqa/Tiq by Etiqa plans purchased. T&Cs apply.

Comprehensive COVID-19 add-on, protecting you before, during and after your trip

Covers Cruise to Nowhere

Get paid upon a 3-hour flight delay, even without submitting a claim

Instant claims encashment via PayNow

24-hour worldwide emergency travel support

The only disadvantage to Tiq travel insurance is that COVID-19 coverage is not included in the base price and you’ll have to pay for their optional  COVID-19 Add-On to be covered. Some people might say this is an advantage—it gives you a greater degree of flexibility to decide if you want to have COVID-19 coverage or not, especially as COVID-19 becomes less and less prevalent. However, the fact remains that you need to pay extra for it compared to travel insurance plans where COVID-19 coverage is already included.

Here’s how much the COVID-19 Add-On will cost for a 7-day trip:

To be covered for travel disruptions and medical expenses related to COVID-19, you’ll need to add the costs above to the base Tiq travel insurance prices.

Etiqa travel insurance promotion

Comprehensive Covid-19 add-on, protecting you before, during and after your trip

Enjoy  40% off Tiq Single Trip Travel Insurance plans —that means your week-long ASEAN trip now costs just $23 instead of $39 under Tiq Entry.

Getting annual travel insurance instead? Get  60% off COVID-19 add-on for Annual Plans!

From now till 15 Aug 2024, purchase Tiq travel insurance to enter  Etiqa’s 10th Year 2024 Grand Draw . 5 lucky winners will walk away with  $10,000 cash , and 150 will receive a S ingapore Mint Lunar Dragon 1 gram 999.9 fine gold medallion (worth $173)!

8. Cheapest travel insurance in Singapore

When I buy travel insurance, I don’t really care whether the insurer has 900 years of experience or if the plan comes with extra coverage for Chanel bags. Just give me the cheapest travel insurance plan can  l iao !

If that sounds like you too, you’ll be glad to know we’ve done the legwork for you. After assessing the most popular travel insurers in Singapore, the honour of cheapest travel insurance in Singapore goes to… FWD travel insurance .

FWD Premium

But as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. Will you regret being a cheapskate and lose out on important coverage if the only number you look at is the price?

In a way, yes. Because FWD travel insurance is only the cheapest option with 2 caveats.

Firstly, travel insurers have limited-time discounts all the time. This is no secret. It does, however, make it difficult to compare prices when an expensive plan is on 40% off but a cheaper one is on 10% off. That’s why for the table above, we compared base prices without discounts .

But when you take into account promotional prices, which plan is the cheapest? There’s no need to open a million tabs to compare every travel insurance plan out there. Just use our travel insurance comparison tool with the “Lowest Price” filter  on. You’re welcome!

The second caveat is this: FWD came out the cheapest when we looked at its price  without its COVID-19 add-on. If you’re looking for a travel insurance plan that includes coverage for disruptions due to COVID-19 (which you should!), the real winners are  Amex travel insurance and  Starr travel insurance .

Starr TraveLead Comprehensive Bronze

Personalise your travel insurance-Flexible coverage allows you to create a travel insurance plan with different types of coverage and addon that can adapt to your needs

Overseas Covid-19 related medical expenses of up to $15,000 SGD included (Excluding China).

Covers travel expenses for sending back an unattended child during the hospitalisation of the insured person

At the end of the day, ask yourself what specific travel insurance coverage you want to have, and assess the travel insurance options to find one that suits your needs.

Need some help? Read our travel insurance guide to understand all you need to know about choosing the best travel insurance. Don’t forget to use our travel insurance comparison tool to seamlessly compare plans across different providers in Singapore.

9. Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?

When the COVID-19 pandemic started, most insurers did not extend their coverage to COVID-19-related mishaps. (Read more here .) The pandemic was quickly considered a “known event”, which insurers usually do not offer compensation for. So, if your flight got cancelled because of COVID-19, you’d be out of luck trying to get your insurance claims approved.

Now that practically all travel restrictions are lifted, insurance companies are rushing for a slice of the pie. Since the virus looks like it’s here to stay, most insurers are offering coverage that includes specific benefits for COVID-19. Where COVID-19 benefits aren’t already included in the policy, insurers offer an optional COVID-19 rider you can pay for to add on to the existing regular coverage.

Read your policy documents carefully to see if COVID-19 is covered, and add it on if you need to.

10. How do I choose the best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage?

COVID-19 coverage  can vary quite a bit from insurer to insurer . When you’re shopping for the best insurance policy,  there are 4 things you want to look out for when it comes to choosing the best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage:

• Medical expenses coverage

Do note that the plans still exclude travelling against a travel advisory put in place by the Singapore government or by the local authority at your trip destination. Meaning, if your destination country goes on red alert for COVID-19, visitors are highly likely to come into contact with the virus and your insurance is highly likely to reject any COVID-19 claims. So be sure to check announcements on both ends before you depart.

Another common exclusion is failing to take precautions against COVID-19. This is worded kinda vaguely in those lengthy insurance policies, but could include not following any COVID-19 regulations at your destination or on the plane. So make sure you wear your mask whenever it’s required (or even when it’s not, if you want to play extra safe) and don’t attend any illegal raves.

11. What do I do if I get COVID-19 during or after my travels?

First of all, when booking your trip, you should retain all receipts, tickets and itineraries in case your trip has to be cancelled or altered.

At the first sign of a COVID-19 infection or related travel disruption, you should call your insurer and ask for guidance. Many insurers maintain a 24-hour hotline for travel claims. Save that number before you depart Singapore so that you aren’t stuck somewhere without wi-fi or 4G to Google the hotline.

To make a claim , you will usually have to submit your insurer’s form with supporting documents by the deadline mentioned in your contract (usually 30 days). Don’t wait until you’re back in Singapore to check which documents you need.

If you catch COVID-19 while you’re in Singapore , you will likely have to submit the results of a PCR Swab Test or Antigen Rapid Test conducted at a clinic or hospital.

It gets a bit more complicated if you’re overseas . The insurer will likely require documentation from the hospital as well as a doctor’s letter stating that you are unfit to travel and/or recommending treatment.

If you need to be quarantined overseas , you should make sure you have a quarantine order from the government, otherwise you may not be able to claim for quarantine allowance. Remember to ask for this as not all countries automatically issue such documentation.

ALSO READ: COVID-19 Travel Insurance Claim Guide

Planning to get travel insurance for your next trip? Learn how to claim for COVID-19 here!

About the author

Vanessa Nah  is a personal finance content writer who pens articles on the ins and outs of travel insurance, the T&Cs of credit cards, and the ups and downs of alternative investments. She’s a researcher at heart and leaves no stone unturned when it comes to breaking down complex finance concepts and making them easy to understand for the everyday Singaporean. When Vanessa’s not debunking finance myths, you’ll find her attending dance classes, fingerpicking a guitar, or (most im paw tently) fulfilling her life mission to make her one-eyed cat the most spoiled and loved kitty in the world.

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