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8 of the best places to visit in Singapore

Apr 16, 2024 • 12 min read

From art to the astonishing architecture, here are the places that should be on every Singapore itinerary © Sean3810 / Getty Images

Singapore's allure goes beyond its iconic hotels, manicured gardens and world-class airport. A maturing local identity peeks through if you know where to look.

At first glance, the city isn't really known for range when it comes to travel, especially with its headliners clinching superlatives at every turn. Attractions like the Marina Bay Sands , Gardens by the Bay  and Jewel Changi Airport  suggest that the city-state has little beyond manmade sights to offer, but ask any local and they'll be happy to point out that there's life beyond Crazy Rich Asians.

To know Singapore more intimately, venture beyond its famous showcase to the various neighborhoods around the island. From a red light district that doubles as an excellent food hub, to a tranquil reservoir hiding the world's first nocturnal zoo, here are the best places to visit in Singapore to discover its alternative charms.

1. Pulau Ubin

A rural island holding fast to the 1960s

Off the eastern shores of Singapore is Pulau Ubin , a tiny island where many locals consider to be the last vestige of kampong (village) life. More than just a description of a gathering of makeshift houses made of zinc sheets and wood, the term represents a simpler time when the communal spirit was strong. Thus, it became a destination for Singaporeans to visit for some authentic nostalgia. 

While small, the best way to explore the island is by bicycle – a fact evident by the many rental shops near the jetty entrance. If you have limited time, take the eastern trail as it leads to the island's most famous sight,  Chek Jawa wetlands . Walk the extensive boardwalk to spot mudskippers and fiddler crabs, or come during low tide to see carpet anemones, ribbon seagrass and the occasional horseshoe crab. At the end of the walk, climb up Jejawi Tower for panoramic views of the area.

As one of the few sites for granite mining in the early days, the western trail features three water-filled quarries that look spectacular on a sunny day. Cycle first to Petai Quarry and pop by Butterfly Hill to see a small knoll decorated with plants that draw the fluttering creatures. Further along, you'll come by Puaka Hill. It's an easy 15-minute hike up to the highest viewpoint on the island, which offers stunning views of Ubin Quarry from the top. Consider dropping by Wei Tuo Fa Gong Temple nearby, a temple from the 1950s with colorful prayer flags over a pond. 

Return to the main village and have a meal at one of the humble eateries there. Enjoy the rustic atmosphere as well as an impressive example of a wayang stage for traditional theatrical performances, now rarely seen on the main island. 

Planning tip: Take a one-way ferry ride to the island from Changi Point Ferry Terminal for just $4 a person. The independent operators will wait to fill the boat of 12 before leaving, so waiting times may vary from a few minutes to 20 minutes. Insect repellant is heavily advised. 

The red-light district that's also a popular supper spot

Since it's a place that's often seen as sanitized, the fact that there are legalized brothels in Singapore may be a surprise to some. Limited to the even-numbered lorongs (lanes) branching out from Geylang Road, one can identify them by their open gates and their red numbered signs or crimson hanging lanterns at the door. However, for many locals, the star attraction here is really the unpretentious food scene, especially after dark.

It's all a very logical evolution of course. Customers visited in the wee hours and neighboring businesses adjusted their hours for the clientele. As more night owls gravitated there for supper, Geylang became a 24/7 food haven. An early example is Yong He Eating House , a Taiwanese joint most famous for their fried fritters and smooth beancurd. It's also one of the few places you can try a salty variety of the latter, made savory with minced meat, preserved vegetables, spring onions and dried shrimp. Further down the road, Eminent Frog Porridge has earned itself a mention in the Michelin Bib Gourmand guide with their claypot delicacy, but there are other stir-fry dishes for those not into the creatures. Charcoal-cooked dishes are popular too, with stunning examples of seafood noodles fried in a wok at Swee Guan Hokkien Mee and the oven-roasted char siew pork slivers in Koung’s Wanton Mee . For a sharing platter, Mongkok Dim Sum serves up all sorts of steaming treats in small baskets throughout the day. There's even a string of vendors selling that most polarizing of fruits, the durian.

Local tip: Safety is not an issue despite the repute, and the brothel operators mainly keep to themselves. If you do venture into their lanes, do not gawk and refrain from taking pictures and videos. Instead, if you wish to better learn about the history of the area, the independent Geylang Adventures will assure one of a vivid and respectful trail.

A photogenic Peranakan enclave with tasty adventures

An ethnic group that emerged from early Chinese settlers marrying with Malay and Indonesian communities in Southeast Asia, the Peranakans bear out this fused heritage in an attractive and vibrant way. Other than visiting the museum at Armenian Street , one can visit Katong to experience their architecture and food.

The most photogenic stretch can be found at Koon Send Road, where a line of multi-colored pastel terrace houses are a perfect backdrop. As you make your way down Joo Chiat Road towards East Coast Road, you'll notice numerous food options, ranging from local Bak Kut Teh (pork rib soup) to trendy cafes. You'll also come by Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen , a great option for some authentic cuisine. As you move towards East Coast Road, try to spot one of the many eye-catching murals tucked in the alleys.

The main stretch holds more food offerings, but visit Peranakan Inn & Lounge for homey classics like Ayam (chicken) with Buah Keluak – a savory and painstaking dish made special by the earthy nuts. Baba Chews is a more commercial counterpart located below Hotel Indigo. Across the road, the glutinous rice dumplings at Kim Choo Kueh Chang are hot commodities, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival. While you're there, popular food choices include Katong Laksa  – which serves a creamy curry noodle dish – and Birds of Paradise , a local gelato maker known for their botanical flavors. 

As the area is not as accessible via the local subway system, make the most of your outing with a visit to the nearby East Coast Park,  Singapore's largest example of the coastal ecosystem. Then visit East Coast Lagoon Food Village to sample the tasty hawker fare.

4. Tanjong Pagar

A different creature by day and night

With its proximity to the Central Business District (CBD), Tanjong Pagar is a hotbed of suits seeking out hawker nosh at Amoy and Maxwell Food Centers, or their afternoon cuppa at chic cafes. This juxtaposition between modern and traditional can also be seen in its architecture, especially in Chinatown and along Amoy Street and Telok Ayer Street, where heritage shophouses sit next to towering blocks. Interestingly, this is also where one can find Singapore's multi-religious society represented along one road. Make your way to the South Bridge Road end of Pagoda Street and you'll find yourself between two 19th century places of worship,  Masjid Jamae and Sri Mariamman Temple. Move further south of the main road and you'll come by the impressive Buddha Tooth Relic Temple , with Fairfield Methodist Church just across the junction.

When the sun sets, the area goes from bustling to bar-centric, and here you'll find some of the world's best watering holes. In fact, two of the three Singaporean bars that have made it to the World's 50 Best list call this area home. Jigger & Pony is a more polished affair residing in Amara Hotel – an excellent place for an espresso martini. Sago House has a more convivial atmosphere in a compact space, along with a smaller menu that rotates regularly. For other tipple explorations, try Live Twice and Oriental Elixir .

Tanjong Pagar also hosts the island's only LGBTQ+ nightlife businesses. While not legally recognized, the community enjoys relative freedom at these establishments. Taboo and Tantric Bar are local institutions, while newer joints prefer more provocative names such as Sausage Market and Neil's Conversion Clinic .

A natural sanctuary with world-class facilities

The Singapore Zoo consistently places itself as one of the world's best animal parks and a must visit when visiting the country, thanks to its naturalistic habitats that cater to the wildlife. Always innovating, the teams behind the zoo created  Night Safari Park  in 1994, the world's first nocturnal zoo exhibit, and later on in 2014, River Wonders  – the first and only river-themed version in Asia. This was most recently joined by Bird Paradise in 2023, showcasing an astonishing variety of birds such as hornbills, flamingos and even penguins, set against various Asian backdrops like rice terraces and bamboo groves.

Less talked about is the nearby Upper Seletar Reservoir. Situated in the Central Catchment Reserve, it is a peaceful escape from the urban areas and also a great spot to catch a tree lined sunset. With such a scenic potential, the area is also slated for a new attraction in 2024,  Rainforest Park ; highlights will include a 250m suspension bridge and a canopy walk 11m above the ground.

Planning tip: Private hire is the most convenient transport option, and the journey will take about 30 minutes from the city. For public transport, take the MRT subway to Ang Mo Kio Station and transfer to bus 138. You can also drop off midway to visit the reservoir. Or, head further north to Khatib MRT and opt for the $2 park shuttle ride. Because Bird Paradise is slightly apart from the other zoo parks, it is best to visit it first and take the free shuttle to the other segments and finish with Night Safari Park.

6. Tiong Bahru

A residential relic which experienced a renaissance

Singapore's public housing scheme first took root in Tiong Bahru in the 1930s, which is why the designs here differ so greatly from today's soaring blocks. Rather than focusing on living density, the four-story buildings are comfortably spaced apart, making it an easy stroll for visitors. The architecture is a highlight here: quiet art deco with soft curves infused with Straits elements, like corridors reminiscent of five-foot ways, spiral staircases and light wells. Spot the green tinted glass used to shield residents from the harshest sun in certain areas.

For the most representative take, make your way to block 55 at the junction of Tiong Bahru Road and Tiong Poh Road to admire the architectural highlights of these rare pre-war buildings. When the area was slated for conservation, this drew the attention of the local creative community, and many have quietly made their homes or businesses here. You'll see this new millennial revival as you expand your walk, spotting intermittent options for quaint cafes, crafty retail stores and delicious hawker fare. Tiong Bahru Bakery , opened by Frenchman Gontran Cherrier, has become a stalwart fix for croissants, while Micro Bread & Co and Flock Cafe are great local alternatives for baked goods. Cat Socrates has delightful stationary and souvenirs to take home, and Nana & Bird is a well-established spot for chic women's clothing.

Don't forget to visit Tiong Bahru Market for a true local experience. The first level houses daily sundry, fresh flowers and other necessities, while the second story is a well-regarded hawker center. Take your pick from piping hot umami prawn noodles, freshly-steamed buns and even a Michelin Bib Gourmand chicken rice stall. Finish off your exploration at Nimble/Knead and have your weary body spiffed up at this unique spa housed in shipping containers.

7. Bugis and Kampong Glam

A thriving shopping area with Malay cultural attractions

Kampong Glam has emerged as one of the best places to visit in Singapore, largely thanks to its star attraction, Haji Lane. The bohemian street is as unbridled as it gets on the island, with energetic murals crawling up shophouses selling everything from clothing to trinkets. Make your way to the end at Beach Road (where the coastline used to be before reclamation happened) to experience a Mexican meal underneath a massive Aztec art piece at Piedra Niegra , or join the locals having some soupy prawn noodles at Blanco Court or Hainanese pork chop at Prince Coffee House.

There's plenty to see past the revelry at the lane. As you make your way towards Sultan Mosque , you'll notice Arab Street specializes in classic Middle-Eastern trade items like fabrics and rugs – much like in Singapore's early years. As you reach Bussorah Street, admire the golden domes of the mosque down a line of shophouses before popping by Jamal Kazura Aromatics for some heady traditional perfumes. Neighboring hole-in-the-wall Bhai Sarbat continues to pour out some of the best teh tarik (frothy milk tea) anywhere on the island. The nearby Malay Heritage Centre is undergoing some renovations, but the grounds are pretty to walk through given its original use as a former Istana (palace). Other worthy mentions include the dramatic Vintage Cameras Museum shaped like an actual Rollei, and Golden Landmark Shopping Center with its humble shops and startlingly beautiful glass elevators.

The larger neighborhood of Bugis is also an enjoyable slice of Singapore, boasting a more street market-style approach. Walk up to Albert Street and you'll be sandwiched between Albert Center with tons of hawker options and Fu Lu Shou Complex, which offers affordable massages. To the west stand two favored religious venues:  Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple , one of the busiest Chinese temple in Singapore, and beautifully decorated Sri Krishnan Temple.

Local tip: Bugis is also one of the best places to stay when visiting Singapore. Not only is it well-connected with four out of the six MRT subway lines within easy walking distance, but it contains surprisingly affordable accommodation options for such a central location, including independent operators and global brands like ibis and Mercure hotels.

This article was first published Oct 13, 2021 and updated Apr 16, 2024.

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Singapore Travel Guide 2024

Singapore has been in the top ten list of the most visited cities in the world for years. Our small yet beautiful island deserves it as the city has everything to satisfy any need of visitors: a green and safe environment, cultural diversity, delicious food, world-class shopping malls, the latest fashion and electronics, vibrant nightlife, cheap and convenient public transport, and many more.

You are reading the most comprehensive Singapore travel guide [2024 Guide], which covers everything you need to know to have a satisfying trip. Scroll down to discover them all.

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Where to Have Halal Food in Singapore?

From fancy international buffets in five-star hotels to budget-friendly a la carte meals at individual restaurants, there is plenty of halal food to enjoy..

Where to Shop in Singapore?

Whether you want to shop at an orchard luxury mall, a factory outlet mall or a street market, singapore has got you covered..

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Singapore has one of the hottest and most vibrant nightlife scenes in asia. discover it here..

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Massage and beauty sessions can make the brilliant extras for a more satisfying trip..

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“The handiest and most marvellous city I ever saw”, wrote the natural historian William Hornaday of Singapore in 1885, “as well planned and carefully executed as though built entirely by one man. It is like a big desk, full of drawers and pigeonholes, where everything has its place, and can always be found in it.” This succinct appraisal seems apt even now, despite the tiny island’s transformation from an endearingly chaotic colonial port, one that embodied the exoticism of the East, into a pristine, futuristic shrine to consumerism. In the process, Singapore acquired a reputation, largely deserved, for soullessness, but these days the place has taken on a more relaxed and intriguing character, one that achieves a healthier balance between Westernized modernity and the city-state’s traditional cultures and street life.

Top 5 dishes

Sri mariamman temple, taking chinese tea, tanjong pagar, the baba house, drinking and nightlife, entertainment, street theatre, tailor-made travel itineraries for singapore, created by local experts.

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Indulgent Singapore

From the infamous Singapore Sling to fabulous shopping and nightlife, colourful neighbourhoods and mouth-watering cuisine, the small city-island of Singapore packs a punch. Come here for a relaxing break or a luxury respite before heading on to one of its more frantic neighbours.

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Uniquely Singapore

There’s plenty to enjoy in Singapore, from visiting ethnic neighbourhoods like Little India and Chinatown, to night safaris, authentic street food and sampling the eponymous cocktail, or two. Singapore is, in short, the ideal introduction to Asia in one fell swoop.

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Singapore & Bali - A Unique Exploration

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The foundation for Singapore’s prosperity was its designation as a tax-free port by Sir Stamford Raffles, who set up a British trading post here in 1819. The port plays a key role in the economy to this day, though the island now also thrives on high-tech industry, financial services and tourism, all bolstered by a super-efficient infrastructure. All these achievements were accompanied by a major dose of paternalism, with the populace accepting heavy-handed management by the state of most aspects of life in exchange for levels of affluence that would have seemed unimaginable a couple of generations ago. Thus it is that since independence much of the population has been resettled from downtown slums and outlying kampongs (villages) into new towns, and the city’s old quarters have seen historic buildings and streets bulldozed to make way for shopping malls.

Yet although Singapore lacks much of the personality of some Southeast Asian cities, it has more than enough captivating places to visit, from elegant temples to fragrant medicinal shops to grand colonial buildings. Much of Singapore’s fascination springs from its multicultural population, a mixture of Chinese, Malay and Indian, which can make a short walk across town feel like a hop from one country to another, and whose mouthwatering cuisines are a major highlight of any visit. The city also rejoices in a clutch of fine historical museums that offer a much-needed perspective on the many successes and sacrifices that made Singapore what it is today, plus a lively arts scene featuring no shortage of international talent and local creativity.

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Singapore has no national dish – but that’s because it has any number of dishes that could happily qualify for that title. As many travellers never graduate beyond extremely predictable fried rice and noodle plates, here’s our selection of five of the best things to try.

Satay A mainly Malay dish of mini-kebabs on twig-like sticks, barbecued over coals and eaten dipped in a peanut-based sauce, accompanied by glutinous rice cakes and cucumber and onion slices.

Fish-head curry Many Indian restaurants offer this fiery stew containing a large fish head – eyes and all; the cheeks are the best bits.

Chicken rice Widely available at hawker centres, this Hainanese speciality features steamed chicken served atop rice cooked in chicken stock, served up with chicken consommé – the simplest of concepts, but incredibly satisfying.

Chilli crab Whole crabs wok-fried and served in a gloopy gravy made with tomato, chilli, garlic and a little egg. It’s mainly served at seafood outlets, though some ordinary Chinese restaurants offer it too.

Laksa A Peranakan classic of rice noodles, prawns and other morsels steeped in a rich, spicy, curried coconut soup; not hard to find at hawker centres and food courts.

The two square kilometres of Chinatown , west and south of the Singapore River, were never a Chinese enclave in what is, after all, a Chinese-majority country, but they did once represent the focal point of the island’s Chinese life and culture. More so than the other old quarters, however, Chinatown has seen large-scale redevelopment and become a bit of a mishmash. Even so, a wander through the surviving nineteenth-century streets still unearths musty and atmospheric temples and clan associations, and you might hear the rattle of a game of mahjong being played.

The area was first earmarked for Chinese settlement by Raffles, who decided in 1819 that Singapore’s communities should be segregated. As immigrants poured in, the land southwest of the river took shape as a place where new arrivals from China, mostly from Fujian (Hokkien) and Guangdong (Canton) provinces and to a lesser extent Hainan Island, would have found temples, shops with familiar products and, most importantly, kongsi s – clan associations that helped them find lodgings and work as small traders and coolies.

This was one of the most colourful districts of old Singapore, but after independence the government chose to grapple with its tumbledown slums by embarking upon a redevelopment campaign that saw whole streets razed. Someone with an unimpeachable insight into those times, one Lee Kuan Yew, is quoted thus in the area’s Singapore City Gallery: “In our rush to rebuild Singapore, we knocked down many old and quaint buildings. Then we realized that we were destroying a valuable part of our cultural heritage, that we were demolishing what tourists found attractive.” Not until the 1980s did the remaining shophouses and other period buildings begin to be conserved, though restoration has often rendered them improbably perfect. Even so, as in Little India, the character of the area has had a bit of a shot in the arm courtesy of recent immigrants. As regards sights, the Thian Hock Keng, Buddha Tooth Relic and Sri Mariamman temples are especially worthwhile, as is the Chinatown Heritage Centre museum, and there’s plenty of shophouse architecture to justify a leisurely wander.

Though Singapore has no shortage of striking modern buildings, it’s the island’s rows of traditional shophouses that are its most distinctive architectural feature. Once often cramped and unsanitary, many were demolished in the years following independence, but since the 1980s whole streets of them have been declared conservation areas and handsomely restored.

As the name suggests, shophouses were originally a combination of shop and home, with the former occupying the ground floor of a two- or three-storey building; eventually many came to be built purely as townhouses, but the original name stuck. Unusually, the facade is always recessed at ground level, leaving a space here that, combined with adjoining spaces in a row of shophouses, would form a sheltered walkway at the front (the “five-foot way” , so named because of its minimum width) – hence the lack of pavements on Singapore’s older streets. Another notable feature is that shophouses were built narrow and surprisingly deep. Behind the ground-floor shop or reception hall there might be a small courtyard, open to the sky, then yet another room; this layout can be seen at the Baba House and the Katong Antiques House. Also, shophouses were usually built back to back, with tiny alleyways separating the rear sections of adjoining rows; it’s down one such alleyway that the brothels of Desker Road are tucked away.

Shophouses began to be built from the mid-nineteenth century. The oldest ones are no longer standing, but slightly later examples, which still exist on and around Telok Ayer and Arab streets, for example, feature the characteristic shuttered windows and tiled roofs that continued to be used for several decades. Otherwise, their decoration was limited, say, to simple stuccowork, but by the turn of the last century, the shophouse had blossomed into a dizzy melange of Western and Eastern styles, which both European and local architects enjoyed blending. So-called Neoclassical, Chinese Baroque and Rococo shophouses featured decorative Corinthian columns, mini-pediments, fanlights, a riot of multicoloured tilework and stucco, even curvy gables. Local ornamentations included wooden trelliswork and eaves overhung with a row of fretted fascia boards, both often seen in Malay palaces; Peranakan pintu pagar , half-height swing doors like those in Wild West bars; and Chinese touches such as floral and animal motifs. You can see fine wedding-cake-like rows of shophouses in these styles around Joo Chiat Road in Katong and on Sam Leong and Petain roads at the northern edge of Little India.

By the 1930s, global recession and prevailing artistic trends had caused a swing towards more sober Art Deco and modernist buildings, with simpler, geometrical facades often topped by a central flagpole. Shophouses with so-called Tropical Deco stylings continued to be built in Singapore after World War II, even though Art Deco had become old hat elsewhere, and there are quite a few examples in Chinatown, on South Bridge Road for example.

Boxy 1960s shophouses were the form’s last hurrah. By the 1980s, shophouses had pretty much fallen out of favour as they were just too small to make efficient use of scarce land, though a semblance of the five-foot way lived on in some concrete shopping developments of the time.

As with heritage buildings the world over, today’s surviving shophouses are often but a handsomely restored shell concealing insides that have been totally gutted and rejigged. Many no longer serve as shops, homes or clan houses, functioning instead as bars, beauty salons or offices.

Singapore’s oldest Hindu shrine, the Sri Mariamman Temple, boasts a superb entrance gopuram bristling with brightly coloured deities. A wood and atap hut was first erected here in 1827 on land belonging to Naraina Pillay, a government clerk who arrived on the same ship as Stamford Raffles when he first came ashore at Singapore; the present temple was completed around 1843. Inside, look up at the roof to see splendid friezes depicting a host of Hindu deities, including the three manifestations of the supreme being: Brahma the creator (with three of his four heads showing),

Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer (holding one of his sons). The main sanctum is devoted to Mariamman, a goddess worshipped for her healing powers.

Smaller sanctums dotted about the walkway circumnavigating the temple honour other deities. In the one dedicated to the goddess Periachi Amman, a sculpture portrays her with a queen lying on her lap, whose evil child she has ripped from her womb; it’s odd, then, that Periachi Amman is the protector of children, to whom babies are brought when one month old. Once a year, during the festival of Thimithi (Oct or Nov), an unassuming patch of sand to the left of the main sanctum is covered in red-hot coals that male Hindus run across to prove the strength of their faith. The participants, who line up all the way along South Bridge Road waiting for their turn, are supposedly protected from the heat of the coals by the power of prayer.

At two Tanjong Pagar teahouses, Tea Chapter and Yixing Yuan Teahouse, visitors can glean something of the intricacies of the deep Chinese connection with tea by taking part in a tea workshop lasting up to an hour. Participants are introduced to different varieties of tea and talked through the history of tea cultivation and the rituals of brewing and appreciating the drink. The water, for example, has to reach an optimum temperature that depends on which type of tea is being prepared; experts can tell its heat by the size of the rising bubbles, described variously as “sand eyes”, “prawn eyes”, “fish eyes”, etc. Both venues also stock an extensive range of tea-related accoutrements such as tall “sniffer” cups used to savour the aroma of the brew before it is poured into squat teacups for drinking.

The district of Tanjong Pagar , fanning out south of Chinatown between Neil and Maxwell roads, was once a veritable sewer of brothels and opium dens. Then it was earmarked for regeneration as a conservation area, following which dozens of shophouses were painstakingly restored and converted into bars, restaurants and shops, notably on Neil Road and Duxton Hill just south of it. A grander example of the area’s architecture can be found right where South Bridge Road flows into Neil and Tanjong Pagar roads: here you’ll easily spot the arches and bricked facade of the Jinrikisha Building , constructed at the turn of the last century as a terminus for rickshaws. They were superseded by trishaws after World War II, and today the building serves as office space – with a celebrity landlord, the Hong Kong actor Jackie Chan.

Tanjong Pagar’s main sight is the Baba House , though as an architectural attention-grabber it’s rivalled by the seven interlinked towers of the Pinnacle@Duxton , a showpiece public housing development that offers fine views over much of Singapore.

The Baba House is one of Singapore’s most impressive museums, because it is and isn’t a museum: what you see is a Peranakan house from the turn of the last century, meticulously restored to its appearance in the late 1920s, a particularly prosperous time in its history.

The house is easily spotted as it’s painted a vivid blue. Note the phoenixes and peonies on the eaves above the entrance, signifying longevity and wealth and, together, marital bliss. Even more eye-catching is the pintu pagar , the pair of swing doors with beautiful gilt and mother-of-pearl inlays.

With its affluence and large expat community, Singapore supports a huge range of drinking holes , from elegant colonial chambers through hip rooftop venues with skyline views to slightly tacky joints featuring karaoke or middling covers bands. There’s also a bunch of glitzy and vibrant clubs where people let their hair down to cutting-edge sounds minus – this being Singapore – any assistance from illicit substances. Some venues regularly manage to lure the world’s leading DJs to play, too.

Singapore offers an excellent range of cultural events in all genres, drawing on both Asian and Western traditions, and even on a brief visit it’s hard not to notice how much money has been invested in the arts. Prime downtown property has been turned over to arts organizations in areas like Waterloo Street and Little India, and prestige venues like Theatres on the Bay bring in world-class performers – at top-dollar prices. This isn’t to say that all is hunky-dory: questions remain over whether creativity is truly valued when censorship lingers, if not as overtly as in the 1970s and 1980s, then in terms of there being well-established red lines concerning party politics, ethnicity and religion which no one dare cross. More cynically, some say that support for the arts is a way to keep Singapore attractive to expats and its own sometimes restive middle class.

Walk around Singapore long enough and you’re likely to stumble upon some sort of streetside cultural event, most usually a wayang – a Malay word used in Singapore to denote Chinese opera. Played out on outdoor stages next to temples and markets, or in open spaces in the new towns, wayangs are highly dramatic and stylized affairs, in which garishly made-up characters enact popular Chinese legends to the accompaniment of the crashes of cymbals and gongs. They’re staged throughout the year, but the best time to catch one is during the Festival of the Hungry Ghosts, when they are held to entertain passing spooks. Another fascinating traditional performance, lion-dancing , takes to the streets during Chinese New Year, and puppet theatres may appear around then, too. Chinatown and the Bugis/Waterloo Street area are places where you might stumble upon performances.

With so many ethnic groups and religions present in Singapore, it would be unusual if your trip didn’t coincide with some sort of traditional festival, ranging from exuberant, family-oriented pageants to blood-curdlingly gory displays of devotion. Below is a chronological round-up of Singapore’s major festivals (excluding commercial events themed around shopping or the arts, for example, which are covered in the relevant chapters), with suggestions of where best to enjoy them. The dates of many of these change annually according to the lunar calendar; we’ve listed rough timings, but for specific dates it’s a good idea to check with the Singapore Tourism Board ( w yoursingapore.com ). Some festivals are also public holidays, when many shops and restaurants may close.

Singapore is the only country with an ethnic Chinese majority not to use Chinese as its main language of education and business. English enjoys that role – but here it’s often upstaged by the entertaining, though often baffling, Singlish , a mash-up of English together with the grammatical patterns and vocabulary of Chinese and Malay. Pronunciation is staccato, with final consonants often dropped, so “cheque book” would be rendered “che-boo”. In two-syllable words the second syllable is lengthened and stressed by a rise in pitch: ask a Singaporean what they’ve been doing, and you could be told “slee-PING”.

Conventional English syntax is twisted and wrung, and tenses and pronouns discarded. If you ask a Singaporean if they’ve ever seen a Harry Potter film, you might be answered “I ever see”, while enquiring whether they want to go out to buy something might yield “Go, come back already”. Responses are almost invariably reduced to their bare bones, with words often repeated for stress; request something in a shop and you’ll hear “have, have”, or “got, got”.

Exclamations drawn from Malay and Hokkien Chinese complete this pidgin, the most ubiquitous being the Malay suffix “lah”, used to add emphasis to replies, as in: “Do you think we’ll get in for free?” “Cannot lah!” If Singlish has you totally confused, try raising your eyes to the heavens and crying “ay yor” (with a drop of tone on “yor”) – an expression of annoyance or exasperation.

Although these linguistic quirks often amuse foreigners and locals alike, there is much official hand-wringing that poor English could compromise Singapore’s ability to do business globally, so much so that a government-backed Speak Good English movement has been set up to try to shore up standards.

Travel advice for Singapore

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Singapore

• Eating and drinking in Singapore
• Travel Tips Singapore for planning and on the go
• How to get to Singapore
• Travelling with children in Singapore
• Shopping tips for Singapore
• Getting around Singapore: Transportation Tips
• Best time to visit Singapore

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updated 11.10.2023

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Singapore Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Singapore is one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s a foodie’s dream, bursting with tasty hawker stalls, delicious Indian food, and fresh seafood. There are hiking trails where you can stretch your legs and beaches for chilling out and soaking up the sun.

Home to around 5.7 million people, Singapore is a cosmopolitan city-state that gained independence from the British in 1965. It is now one of the world’s leading economic centers in shipping and banking.

Because of its status as a global economic hub, Singapore is expensive by Southeast Asian standards, with everything costing almost double what it does elsewhere in the region. In fact, it consistently ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world!

For this reason, visiting Singapore isn’t as popular with budget travelers compared to affordable destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, or elsewhere in Southeast Asia .

But while most people come here for a couple of days just to see the highlights, the city actually has a lot to offer and requires more time than you might think. Don’t rush your visit if you can afford it; Singapore can fill any schedule.

Use this Singapore travel guide to help plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this lively multicultural metropolis.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Singapore

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Singapore

1. Eat at the Boat Quay

Boat Quay is the place to go for dining and entertainment. The alfresco pubs and restaurants make Boat Quay ideal for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. Try Wakanui for quality Japanese steak cooked over a white oak fire, or Kinara for reasonably priced North Indian cuisine.

2. See the supertrees at Gardens by the Bay

This urban landscaping project is a series of towering metal “supertrees.” There are roughly 200 species of orchids, ferns, and other tropical plants coating their structure. It’s free to walk through the outdoor gardens, but you have to pay 8 SGD for the canopy walk (which is worth doing!) as well as for the stunning Flower Dome and Cloud Forest biodomes .

3. Hang out (and party) on Sentosa

This little island is home to a nighttime light show on the beach and a host of bars, restaurants, and beaches to enjoy. Hang out at Bora Bora Beach Bar or splash out and try the cable car sky dining experience (it isn’t cheap). You can get to Sentosa via the Sentosa Express train (4 SGD). Entering on foot/bicycle is free.

4. Tour the Singapore Zoo

Spanning 70 acres, the Singapore Zoo is massive, boasting over 3,600 mammals, birds, and reptiles. There are lions, tigers, sun bears, Komodo dragons, primates, and much more! The zoo offers a night safari featuring over 900 different nocturnal animals (41% are endangered). Admission is 44 SGD and the night safari is 48 SGD.

5. Hang with the Merlions

The Merlion is Singapore’s mascot and has the head of a lion and the body of a fish. The original statute (and most impressive Merlion) can be found in Merlion Park, but the 37-meter-tall (121-foot) replica on Sentosa is also pretty cool to see. There is no entrance fee for Merlion Park.

Other Things to See and Do in Singapore

1. admire thian hock keng temple.

Thian Hock Keng (Palace of Heavenly Happiness) is one of the most photogenic buildings in Singapore. The temple originated as a small building that served the local Chinese population. It was expanded in 1840 and made from the finest materials available at the time, paid for by years of donations from the local community. It’s the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore, dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea (Chinese immigrants came here to ask for safe passage before leaving to cross the South China Sea). The temple was designated as a national monument in 1973. Admission is free.

2. Explore Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Bukit Timah, located within Singapore’s only remaining stretch of rainforest, is the country’s premier eco-tourism attraction. On the hiking and biking trails, you’ll be able to get up close to the macaques, squirrels, flying lemurs, and various species of birds. The reserve covers over 400 acres and is 30 minutes from the city center. It’s open daily from 7am-7pm. The weekends get really busy, so come during the week if you want to avoid the crowds.

3. Wander around Chinatown

Chinatown encompasses two square kilometers of traditional Chinese life, nestled beside the modern Central Business District. This remains the place to get a real sense of Chinese culture within Singapore. The streets are filled with temples, craft shops, stalls, and restaurants and are a great place to pick up a bargain. Head down Chinatown Food Street to find some char kway teow (stir-fried noodles) or grilled meats. If you can, eat at Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle (aka Hawker Chan), the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice is another Michelin-starred hawker stall worth a visit. Like Hawker Chan’s, it’s located in the Maxwell Hawker Center.

4. Eat hawker food

Singapore’s hawker food scene is one of the best in the world. It has been recognized by Michelin in 2016 with the world’s first street food Michelin star and by UNESCO in 2020 with Cultural Heritage status. Whether you go to Newton Food Center (of Crazy Rich Asian fame), to the Old Airport Hawker (many locals’ favorite), or to one of the other 103 centers across the island, you won’t be disappointed and you can grab a cheap meal surrounded by locals. Don’t miss the chili crab, satay, dim sum (dumplings), or nasi lemak (fried chicken with coconut rice). If you’re not sure where to go or what to eat, take a guided food tour!

5. Take a trip to Pulau Ubin

This island lies off the northeastern coast. It’s incredibly different from the modern city; locals still use a diesel generator for electricity and fetch water from wells. Rent a bike and explore the sights, villages, and beaches of this island. To get there, hop on a bumboat from the Changi Point Ferry Terminal, which costs about 3 SGD and takes 10-15 minutes. There are no fixed departure times — just line up and wait. Very few tourists make it out this way; it’s one of the most off-the-beaten-path things you can do here.

6. Relax in the Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens lie close to the city and consist of 128 acres of gardens and forest. Founded in 1859, the main attraction is the National Orchid Garden, home to over 1,000 species of orchids. There is also a ginger garden, a rainforest, and various streams and waterfalls to explore. The Botanic Gardens are Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage site (and the only tropical botanic garden on UNESCO’s World Heritage List). It’s open daily from 5am-12am, and admission is free to everything except the National Orchid Garden, which is 15 SGD.

7. Eat in Little India

No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to Little India, where you can get amazing, cheap, and delicious food, fresh vegetables, snacks, and souvenirs. Seek out local favorites like roti prata (pancakes) and teh tarik (“pulled” tea). Make sure you stop off at the Tekka Center, a hawker center with Indian clothing, groceries, and food. The food here is cheap and delicious and makes for an authentic Little India experience.

8. Learn about Singapore’s History

For a more cultural experience, visit the former British naval base of Fort Siloso located on Sentosa. It’s a decommissioned coastal artillery battery the only preserved fort on the coast of Singapore, providing a fantastic look into the city-state’s complicated history. You’ll get to see the coastal guns and the remains of tunnels under the fort. It’s a well-constructed, interactive attraction. Entrance is free.

9. Visit Sri Mariamman Temple

This extremely colorful, ornate temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, built in 1827 in Chinatown. It was constructed in what is known as the Dravidian style and is devoted to the goddess Mariamman, known for curing illnesses and diseases. During the post-war colonial period, it was a hub for community activities and was even the Registry of Marriages for Hindus. Admission is free.

10. Watch a free concert

The Singapore Symphony Orchestra hosts various free concerts at different venues around the country. You might just be lucky enough to catch one of their shows — just check their website for details during your visit.

11. Visit the MacRitchie Reservoir Park

MacRitchie Reservoir is Singapore’s oldest reservoir, dating back to 1868. Today, this beautiful and lush city park is a relaxing place to spend an afternoon. Walk the 8-kilometer (5-mile) treetop hike, with bridges suspended high above the forest floor, where you might see long-tailed macaque monkeys, squirrels, monitor lizards, owls, and even flying lemurs. In addition to the TreeTop Walk, there’s also a network of walking trails. Admission is free.

12. Visit the National Museum of Singapore

First opened in 1849, this is the oldest museum in Singapore . Learn about the country’s history, culture, and people through the various permanent and temporary exhibitions. There are gold ornaments, 18th-century drawings and artwork, the mace used by King George VI when he declared Singapore a city in 1951, and the Singapore Stone (an indecipherable stone with inscriptions from the 10th century). Admission is 15 SGD.

13. Admire the street art

Singapore has some really incredible street art to admire. While none of it is spontaneous (unauthorized graffiti is illegal), it can be found all over the island. Yip Yew Chong is probably the best-known artist as he has murals everywhere from Chinatown to the East Coast. His images depict scenes from days gone by and range from small pictures to entire walls. Kampong Glam, Chinatown, and Little India all have masses of art to look at, as does the east coast, but you can find it on random buildings in most areas. Take a walking tour if you want more detail, or Art Walk Singapore has three self-guided walks outlined on their website.

14. Marvel at the rain vortex in Jewel

Located adjacent to Changi International Airport, Jewel Mall is home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Cascading from the roof, the water falls seven stories (around 130 feet) to the basement through a huge tiered garden. At night it is lit up for a light and music show. There’s more to do at Jewel if you have time including two mazes, a canopy bridge, sky nets, slides, and a topiary walk. It’s free to see the rain vortex and prices range from 5-22 SGD each for the other activities. You can get bundles that work out cheaper.

15. Explore Kampong Glam

Also known by its most popular street, Haji Lane, and as the Arab Quarter, Kampong Glam is one of Singapore’s oldest neighborhoods. The shophouses here are now stores selling textiles, rugs, and Turkish homewares such as dishes and glass lamps. There are some great Arabic restaurants around here all under the shadow of the enormous golden-domed Sultan Mosque. There’s some street art around here and Haji Lane has some cool eclectic shops by day and a buzzing nightlife with outdoor live music by night. If you have time, check out the Malay Heritage Center (admission is 8 SGD).

16. Get spooked at Haw Par Villa

Hands down the quirkiest thing you can do or see in Singapore, Haw Par Villa is a huge outdoor art gallery. It was built in 1937 by Aw Boon Haw, a millionaire philanthropist one of the men behind Tiger Balm, for his younger brother. Once a theme park for locals, Haw Par Villa was also used as an observation point by the Japanese army during World War II. It’s filled with dioramas depicting Chinese mythology and has recently reopened after a 9-month refurbishment and renovation project. Entry to the grounds is free but the museum — called Hell’s Museum as it includes an exhibit depicting the 10 Courts of Hell — is 18 SGD.

Singapore Travel Costs

A budget hotel room with amenities like air-conditioning, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a TV starts around 65 SGD per night. Most larger chain hotels cost at least 80-110 SGD per night.

Airbnb is available in Singapore, with private rooms starting at 25 SGD per night (though they average closer to 60 SGD). Entire homes/apartments average 85 SGD per night.

Food – As a cosmopolitan hub, Singapore has food from all over the world, however, there is an abundance of Chinese and Indian food, which is usually around 8-9 SGD per meal. Rice or noodles are usually the backbone of most meals, and popular dishes include steamed chicken, chili crab, fishhead curry, satay, and nasi lemak (coconut rice cooked in a pandan leaf). The city’s hawker centers (large halls full of various food stalls) are one of the most popular and cheapest places to try Singapore’s vibrant cuisine.

As for Singaporean specialties, try the seafood, which costs around 20-35 SGD for a main dish. For drinks, beer is typically 8-10 SGD, a glass of wine is about 10-16 SGD, and a cappuccino is around 5 SGD.

There are also plenty of low-cost eateries around Singapore, with street stalls typically selling food for less than 6 SGD per meal. A fast-food burger is around 8-10 SGD while sandwiches at a café are around 11-14 SGD. There are many restaurants offering a set lunch menu for around 12-16 SGD, and a dish at dinner in most casual restaurants is around 20 SGD. After that, the sky is the limit.

If you want to cook your own meals, expect to pay 95 SGD per week for basic staples like rice, noodles, vegetables, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Singapore Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Singapore, expect to spend around 90 SDG per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating at the cheap hawker stalls and in Little India, cooking some meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours and enjoying nature.

On a more mid-range budget of 175 SGD per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for all your meals at cheaper hawker stalls, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the zoo and the botanic gardens.

On a “luxury” budget of 300 SGD or more per day, you can eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, stay in a hotel, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in SGD.

Singapore Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Singapore isn’t a super cheap destination so you’ll need to tread carefully if you want to avoid blowing your budget. Here are some ways you can save money during your visit:

• Take public transit – Singapore’s public transit system is fast and efficient, making it the best way to get around. Unlimited travel on public transport is 10 SGD per day with a Singapore Tourist Pass. If you’re staying a few days, the pass gets cheaper per day, as a two-day pass is 16 SGD and a three-day pass is 20 SGD.
• Eat on Smith Street – The stalls here offer food for less than 6 SGD and are a great place to sample local snacks.
• Eat cheap – Save money on food by eating in Little India, Chinatown, or the hawker stalls throughout the city. Meals in these places cost only a few dollars and are some of the tastiest around!
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with a local for free. You’ll not only save money but you’ll get to connect with someone who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Stick to happy hour – Alcohol is expensive in Singapore, so limit your drinking to save money. If you do plan on drinking, stick to the happy hours.
• Avoid bottled water – The tap water here is perfectly fine to drink, so avoid buying water and just refill your bottle. It will save you money and it’s better for the environment! LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Singapore

Looking for budget-friendly accommodation? Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Singapore:

• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel

How to Get Around Singapore

Like the MRT, Singapore’s bus system is extensive and efficient. You can use your Singapore Tourist Pass on the buses as well. You can also pay with cash, but it has to be the exact change. A single trip costs between 1.40-2.50 SGD.

Trishaws – Trishaws (like rickshaws) are less popular these days in Singapore, and now they’re largely used for guided tours that cost around 40 SGD for a 30-minute run. Trishaw Uncle is the only licensed trishaw tour operator in the city, offering various guided tours by trishaw.

Taxi – Taxis are comfortable and convenient, but they’re not cheap! All cabs are metered, but there might be surcharges depending on the company and where you’re going. For example, if you’re hiring a taxi from midnight to 6am there is a 50% surcharge on the total metered cost, while rides in the mornings and evenings carry a 25% surcharge. Prices start at 3.20 SGD and then increase by 0.22 SGD every 400 meters. Skip them if you can!

When to Go to Singapore

It’s always a good time to visit Singapore! The island is warm year-round with a tropical climate that boasts daily temperatures in the high 20s°C (80s°F). December to June is the busiest time to visit, especially during the Chinese New Year. February-April is the driest period with the most sunshine and least amount of rain.

Monsoons occur between December-March, with December usually being the rainiest month. The weather is windy, cloudy, and humid.

Late summer and early fall (July to October) are also a good time to visit if you’re hoping to avoid all the tourist traffic. The weather is still pleasant, averaging around 30°C (87°F) each day, and accommodation might be a bit cheaper during this time as well.

How to Stay Safe in Singapore

Singapore is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. In fact, it’s one of the safest countries in the world (it’s currently the 11th safest country).

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t walk home alone at night, don’t accept drinks from strangers, etc.)

Be aware that penalties for breaking the law here are stiff. For example, you’ll be fined up to 1,000 SGD for things like littering, spitting, and smoking in public. Singapore is also notoriously strict on drugs. If you’re caught even with marijuana in your system you could do jail time. In short, say no to drugs here!

Scams are rare in Singapore, however, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it when you’re in Singapore. Follow that rule and you’ll be fine.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Singapore Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Singapore Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Singapore travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

18 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Singapore

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

I grew up in Singapore and have lived here all my life — here's my complete guide to visiting the island-state

• Growing up in Singapore, I experienced a melting pot of cultures, languages, and experiences.
• Here's my ultimate guide to everything to do, see, and try while visiting the unique island-state.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

Before memes were a thing, there was a visual that floated around Singapore's digital space for a while. It read: "Dey, wǒ men paktor always makan at kopitiam one," which translates to "Hey, when we go on a date, we always eat at the coffee shop." If you're struggling to make sense of the original sentence, that's because it's pure Singlish — a unique blend of the languages and dialects spoken in Singapore. The same visual breaks it down: "dey" is Tamil; "wǒ men" is the Hanyu Pinyin for "我们, aka "we"; "paktor" is Cantonese; "makan" and "kopi" are Malay; and "tiam" is Hokkien/Hakka. That sums up Singapore and the experiences you can expect when you visit this unique island state.

I was born and grew up in Singapore, and have lived here all my life in various areas, from the heartlands of Toa Payoh to the country's only legal red-light district of Geylang. I've also spent many years of my professional life being a lifestyle writer dedicated to uncovering things to see, eat, and do in Singapore.

With four official languages and locals and transplants alike speaking many more, Singapore is a vibrant melting pot of culture. Growing up here as the product of a cross-cultural marriage, I celebrated most of the cultural events and festivals, from Chinese New Year to Deepavali and Christmas, and always had a variety of Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Eurasian dishes on my dining table.

Then there are the modern layers of bustling Singapore — for such a young nation, at just 57 years old, it's very technology-driven, so many of its systems, attractions, and buildings look futuristic. With intense tropical weather, the Lion City is also very green — Singapore's National Parks board estimated that in 2020, just under 50% of Singapore's land was covered in green space, with a tree-canopy cover of nearly 30% , making it one of the greenest cities in the world.

There's lots to see and do, from sampling food from across Asia to popping by unique ethnic quarters and meeting locals with a wonderful mix of backgrounds. Here's my complete guide as a local to all the best places to stay, eat, explore, and more for planning your Singapore itinerary. 

Explore Insider's guide to visiting Singapore.

→ How to get to Singapore by land, sea, or air, plus a local's tips for using public transit and taxi services

→ where to stay in singapore, recommended by a local — the best hotels, hostels, and more, → 10 of the best restaurants and places to eat authentic food in singapore, → 9 unique adventures and activities to do in singapore, from lush wetland hikes to a nighttime ghost tour, → what to know before traveling to singapore — the latest covid-19 regulations, weather advisories, and when to visit.

• Main content

Singapore, the Asian Tiger, is vibrant and ever-changing , at once a city, an island, and a nation with more than 5 million inhabitants: it has become an icon worldwide. Along with Bangkok and Hong Kong, Singapore is one of South East Asia's most popular tourist destinations .

• General Information
• Top Attractions
• Getting to Singapore
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat
• Singapore Map

Why Visit Singapore?

Exploring the Singapore river by boat, eating in a hawker, seeing the skyscrapers from  Merlion Park , visiting Little India , exploring Chinatown , or having a drink in Clarke Quay ... Singapore has any number of unforgettable experiences just waiting for you.

If this inspires you to visit Singapore, once you get there, you'll quickly realize that the best thing about the city is its unique atmosphere . Singapore is a city where you can find almost anything at almost any time: concerts, events , and lively streets are something the locals live on a daily basis.

Discover why tourism to Singapore grows year on year .

Book Your Hotel Stay With a Discount

Hotels and accommodation in general are quite expensive for what you would expect in a Southeast Asian city.

To save on accommodation, we recommend checking out this link to avail of great discounts (up to 75%). You'll pay nothing when you book and pay directly at the hotel.

• Hotels in Singapore - Book online with a lowest price guarantee

top activities

Singapore Tourist Bus The Singapore sightseeing bus takes you around the city's must-see sights and you can hop on and off an unlimited number of times to see the local skyscrapers!

Ticket to the Gardens by the Bay Experience a different day far from the bustle of Singapore in the Bay Gardens. Bottle trees, baobabs and over 500,000 species from around the world await.

Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck Ticket Enjoy the best views of Singapore from one of the most emblematic points in the city: the Marina Bay Sands hotel observation deck !

Experience an  unforgettable day at Singapore Universal Studios . Spend the day on rollercoasters and meet your favorite characters like  Shrek, Elmo, and more!

Universal Studios Singapore Excursion Enjoy fun filled day at Universal Studios Singapore, with transport from your hotel and entry to the park, all you need to do is enjoy!

Singapore Night Tour with Dinner Get lost in Singapore's nightlife and enjoy incredible views of the city. You'll try a traditional dish and sip a famous cocktail. 

Sentosa Fun Pass With this Sentosa Fun Pass, you'll enjoy some of the most fun attractions on this island of Singapore . Plus, you'll save money - it's a win-win!

Guided tour of Singapore On this tour, we'll discover the must-see sights in Singapore , from Merlion Park to the botanical garden - the best way to explore the city in just a few hours.

Singapore SIM Card Stay in touch with your family and friends on your trip to Singapore with this SIM card with 7.5 GB of high-speed internet for 15 days .

Go City: Singapore Explorer Pass Save money and craft your own itinerary on your trip to Singapore with the Go City: Singapore Explorer Pass . You'll have access to several different sites!

Singapore Zoo Tour Leave the city and explore one of the most fascinating zoos in the world , where the thousands of animals are only separated by natural barriers.

Singapore Private Tour Explore the city in an exclusive way with this Singapore Private Tour.  Discover the main charms of this city with an exclusive English-speaking guide.

Singapore Pub Crawl Enjoy an unforgettable  night of fun in Singapore  on this  pub crawl  of the city's hottest bars, which includes  three drinks . Ready to join the party?

Singapore Bike Tour Discover Singapore in a different way, exploring the city by bike . Visit Kampong Glam, Chinatown and Little India with an expert guide.

Singapore Art and Science Museum Ticket Be seduced by the futurism and the innovative technology in Singapore's Museum of Art and Science found in the most iconic building in the city

Singapore’s Historic Chinatown Walking Tour On this  guided tour of Chinatown , you'll experience the  exciting atmosphere of Singapore's Chinatown , the  oldest part of the city . Plus, sample local cuisine!

Singapore Tour for Cruise Passengers Arriving on board a cruise ship? Discover the main charms of the city with this Singapore Tour for Cruise Passengers taking you to its most symbolic locations.

Singapore Layover Tour Make the most of your stopover with this Singapore Layover Tour. You'll get to know the main monuments accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

Singapore Flyer Ticket Enjoy the best panoramic views Singapore offers when you buy this ticket for the amazing  Singapore Flyer observation wheel , one of the most famous in Asia!

Madame Tussauds Ticket Fancy a selfie with Tom Cruise, Taylor Swift or Jackie Chan ? At Madame Tussauds Singapore you'll find tens of wax replicas of the most famous people in history.

Go City: Singapore All-Inclusive Pass The Go City: Singapore All-Inclusive Pass gives you free access to more than 35 attractions around Singapore for 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 consecutive days .

Singapore Duck Tour On our Singapore DUCK Tour, we'll travel by both land and sea as we explore one of the most fascinating and bustling cities in Southeast Asia .

Sentosa Island Trip: Self Guided Take the cable car to Sentosa Island to discover the attractions on Singapore's most famous island such as the incredible S.E.A. Aquarium

Singapore Cable Car Ticket Enjoy some of the most spectacular views in the city with the Singapore Cable Car Ticket  - the best way to get to Sentosa Island!

Sentosa Island Cable Car Ticket Aboard Singapore's famous cable car you'll discover the beauty of Sentosa Island from above, enjoying a panoramic view of the city's main attractions!

Guide to Singapore

The Civitatis tourist guides are written by travelers like you. Here at Introducing Singapore, we're going to let you in on the secrets we discover on our travels. Discover what to see , what to do, and how to save in Singapore, a city known as the Asian Tiger.

The information and details in this guide were updated in March 2023. If you see any errors or anything we should change, please get in touch .

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Travel Guide: Discovering the Magic of Singapore

S ingapore, a vibrant and dynamic city-state in Southeast Asia, offers an enchanting blend of modernity and tradition. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, an architecture admirer, or a nature lover, Singapore has something to offer everyone. If you’re anything like me, you might have stopped by Singapore’s world-class Changi Airport in transit several times but have never ventured out into the city. I recently had the opportunity to change that and spend a week immersing myself in all that Asia’s Lion city-state has to offer.

From the clean and seamlessly functional infrastructure to the surreal and captivating cultural attraction, my time in Singapore almost felt like a dream. I can see why the city’s becoming a melting pot of cultures, filled with migrants, expats, and generations of locals, choosing to call the city home. You literally have all the best of Asia in one convenient city where you can drive from one end to the other in around 40 minutes. It may or may not also surprise you that Singapore is also often dubbed the “Cocktail Capital of Asia”, with a vibrant nightlife, and is home to a handful of the World’s 50 Best Bars.

Best Time to Visit

Singapore’s climate is typically hot and humid year-round with an average humidity of over 80%. However, it’s essential to note that from November to January, the city experiences its rainy season, which brings cooler temperatures but more precipitation. The best time to travel for pleasant weather is between February and October.

Where to Stay

With a number of world-class hotels and resorts at your fingertips, Singapore is a luxury paradise, however, it’s important to shop around. Here are some of the best places that I found to stay.

Pan Pacific Singapore

This iconic hotel offers breathtaking views of Marina Bay and is conveniently located near the city’s key attractions. The landmark hotel has recently undergone a $30 million renovation, featuring upgraded rooms, a stunning lobby area, and more family-friendly facilities like family-sized rooms and a kids club. The hotel also connects to three major malls and an MRT station. The Pan Pacific Singapore is also within reasonable walking distance of Marina Bay Sands complex and Gardens By the Bay. Stay here if you want a convenient base for the city’s hotspots and a reliable luxury stay.

Capella Singapore

Nestled on Sentosa Island, Capella offers a luxurious and tranquil retreat with stunning sea views. Less than 15 minutes from Singapore’s downtown financial district, you’ll find this ultra-luxury resort surrounded by lush green foliage and a tropical forest. While it is relatively removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ll find everything you need for a quiet, luxurious rainforest retreat with a peaceful view of the ocean. Stay here if you want a secluded, peaceful resort retreat.

The Ritz-Carlton, Millennia

Located in the heart of the city, The Ritz-Carlton provides opulent accommodation and world-class amenities. When I say opulent, I’m talking shiny marble floors, gold accents everywhere you look, and dramatic vaulted glass ceilings. The Ritz-Carlton is also home to one of the largest contemporary art collections in Southeast Asia with over 4,000 stunning artworks to gawk over. Stay here if you’re on your honeymoon or are a fan of classic luxury.

Pan Pacific Orchard

Situated in the upscale Orchard Road shopping district, this hotel is perfect for shopaholics and visitors wanting to be in the hustle and bustle. Orchard Road is the shopping capital of the city with rows upon rows of shopping centres to suit every end of a shopper’s budget. The mid-city hotel was recently demolished and rebuilt to look like a stack of Jenga blocks, featuring lush green vertical gardens and tropical elements all throughout. Stay here if you love being right in the centre of all the action or want a luxurious tropical stay in the middle of the city.

Where to Eat Like a Local

A hub of International commerce and one of the world’s most globalised cities, Singapore is not only a melting pot of blended cultures, but of incredible cuisine at every corner. Sure, you’ll be able to find your Westen big-chain restaurants and your basic fast food brands, but if you’re wanting to get a true authentic taste of Singapore, here’s some spots to get you started.

Don’t Sleep on Hawker Centres

Singapore hawker centres are basically large open-air food courts with stalls serving everything from full meals to snacks and drinks. Food stalls generally specialise in variations of one of two dishes, but you can bet that little hawker stall has perfected that recipe for generations. Singapore Hawker Centres as a pillar of Singaporean culture.

In fact, many locals told me that it’s quite common for locals not to ever cook at home, since you can get top quality home-style cooked meals for $3-$5. I completely get it. How many times have you spent a small fortune on collecting ingredients to cook something at home, only to create something dubiously sub-par? Me? Too many times.

• Must try: Satay sticks, Singapore Chilli Crab
• Location: 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore
• Must try: Tian Tian Chicken Rice, Ah Tai Chicken Rice, Xing Xing’s tapioca cakes
• Location: 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore
• Open: Daily from 8 am to 10 pm
• Must try: China La Mian Xiao Long Bao, Char Kway teow at Hill Street Fried Kway Teow
• Location: 335 Smith Street Chinatown Complex, Singapore
• Opening Hours: 8am – 9pm (Daily)

Hainanese Chicken Rice: Singapore’s National Dish

Hainanese Chicken rice, the unofficial national dish, is eaten “everywhere, every day” in Singapore. No doubt, almost everywhere you go, you’ll see a succulent cooked chicken hanging neatly in a row at a food stall or restaurant. It is deceptively simple but Hainanese chicken rice does not want for flavour, packing chicken goodness into the silky poached meat, fragrant rice, and tangy chili sauce (and often cucumber garnishes)

The recipe for the dish is adapted from early Chinese immigrants from Hainan Island, off the southern coast of China. Back in Hainan, locals call the dish “ Wenchang  chicken”. They use a particular fowl that is bony and fibrous and serve the chicken with oily rice. A ground green chili dip rounds off the dish. While you can get a great plate of Hainanese Chicken rice almost anywhere, here are some places to note:

Where to find the best Hainanese Chicken Rice

• Nam Kee Chicken Rice Restaurant: 201 Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore
• Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice: Maxwell Food Centre, #01-10/11, 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore
• Chin Chin Eating House: 19 Purvis St, Singapore
• Boon Tong Kee: 399, 401, 403 Balestier Road, Singapore

Where to Drink

A grand art deco bar known for its extensive collection of gin and stunning interiors. As soon as you step in, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time into a classy European hotel lobby from the early 1920s. Make sure to clear your camera roll to make room for stunning pics here.

Location: Parkview Square600 North Bridge Rd, Singapore

Open: Tue-Thu 12pm-12am, Fri-Sat 12pm-2am; Closed on Mondays

A hidden gem for cocktail enthusiasts, with innovative drinks and a cozy ambiance. Unassuming from the outside, but vibrantly fitted out and full of personality inside. The interiors are fitted out by an eclectic local DJ and the music programming provides local and regional DJs and record collectors with the opportunity to curate music that doesn’t normally find its place in a traditional club. Definitely a stand-out during my visit.

Location: 34 N Canal Rd, #01-01, Singapore

Open: 5pm-12am; Closed Sundays

An eco-conscious cocktail bar offering drinks inspired by local flora and fauna. Ask about their cocktails made with live ants.

Location: 52A Amoy St, Singapore

Open: Mon-Fri 5pm-10.30pm; Sat & Sun 4pm-10.30pm

Employees Only

A lively spot for classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. For anyone who’s been to an Employees Only bar in New York or Sydney, you’ll know to stick around for the fun burlesque shot.

Location: 112 Amoy Street, Singapore

Open: Mon-Fri, Sun 5pm-1am; Sat 5pm-2am

Jigger and Pony

One of the OG cocktail bars that put Singapore’s drinks scene on the map, where you can savor expertly crafted drinks. This place is currently the second-best bar in Asia and 14th-best in the world, so you know you won’t be disappointed with any drink on the menu here.

Location: Amara Hotel165 Tanjong Pagar Rd, Singapore

Open: Mon-Thu 6pm-1am; Fri & Sat 6pm-3am

Raffles Long Bar

A visit to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without sipping a Singapore Sling at the historic Raffles Hotel. It’s not every day you have the opportunity to sip a drink at the birthplace of Asia’s most famous cocktail (unless you’re a local), so this must-do bucket list item for anyone visiting Singapore. Don’t forget to snack on the accompanying side of peanuts, and toss the shells straight on the floor.

Location: Raffles Arcade328 North Bridge Rd #02-01, Singapore

Open: 11am – 11pm

Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Marina Bay Sands waterfront

With stunning sights to marvel at everywhere you look, the Marina Bay Sands waterfront is the perfect low-cost activity for anyone visiting the Garden City. Early mornings are a good time to enjoy this walk to avoid the heat of the day, but of course, a golden hour sunset is the ticket to some picturesque views. If you can, get to the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands for amazing views over the entire area.

Explore these futuristic Gardens By The Bay

If you’re wondering how Singapore got its Garden City nickname, Gardens By The Bay is a great place to start. You could easily spend a whole day walking through the alien-like Supertrees the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and the various garden installations.

Bugis Street Markets

Who doesn’t love a good bargain, honestly? Bugis Street market is a bustling market that’s popular with both locals and tourist. Here you’ll just about everything from souvenirs, t-shirts, shoes, jewellery, knick knacks and other fashion items. Over 800 shops of all shapes and sizes also make this the biggest market in Singapore. I easily spent half the day here shopping for gifts and walked away with $3 watches and the latest designer Christian Dorio bag.

National Gallery Art x Cocktails Tour

If you love a bit of cultural history, art, and happy hour this one’s for you. Immerse yourself in Singaporean art and culture at the National Gallery, housed in two beautifully restored colonial-era buildings, then sip an art-inspired cocktail at the in-house rooftop bar. The National Gallery’s 2-hour Art x Cocktail tour allows you to discover the art pieces that inspired craft cocktails from the gallery’s bar, Smoke & Mirrors, while learning about the evolution of cocktails throughout history.

Sentosa Island

Just a short drive out of the main city is Sentosa Island, Singapore’s premier island resort getaway. This 500-hectare resort island is home to a suite of themed attractions, spa retreats, alongside lush rainforests and golden sandy beaches. It’s also where you can enjoy attractions like Universal Studios, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Madame Tussauds. It’s easily accessible via the MRT network or by taxi, Sentosa Island is great for a day trip or an extended stay with family.

Travel Tips: bring a hat!

What I love about Singapore is that it offers all the best of Asia in one well-designed, functional, and beautiful city. It’s a captivating destination that seamlessly combines modernity with tradition and there’s so much to see, taste, and experience in this remarkable city-state. If you’re planning a visit soon, here are some handy tips to take note of before visiting:

• Wear Airy Clothing : Given Singapore’s warm and humid climate, lightweight and breathable clothing is a must. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.
• Save Money at Local Markets : Bargain hunters will enjoy the numerous local markets, such as Bugis Street and Chinatown. You’ll find unique souvenirs and tasty street food at affordable prices.
• Know the Country’s Laws : Singapore has strict laws and regulations, so it’s essential to be aware of them. For example, avoid spitting in public places and respect local customs.
• Tipping Isn’t Mandatory : Tipping isn’t customary in Singapore, as a 10% service charge is typically included in your bill. However, feel free to leave a small tip for exceptional service.

Disclaimer: The author of this article, John Guanzon, traveled to Singapore as a guest of the Singapore Tourism Board for the purposes of this review.

East meets West: A business traveler’s guide to Singapore

May 2, 2024

With origins dating back as far as the 14th century, the modern city-state of Singapore in Southeast Asia has evolved into a bustling hub of business and innovation. Today, rich and diverse cultures, efficient infrastructure, and world-class dining and entertainment options abound across this destination. Will you be heading to Singapore soon? Then check out this guide with tips from resident and BCD staffer Agnes Heng.

Singapore’s major industries and sectors are finance and banking, manufacturing, technology and innovation, tourism and hospitality, and logistics and transportation. It ranked ninth on BCD’s list of Top 10 intercontinental cities for 2023.

This is according to BCD flight and car rental data collected for the report, Cities & Trends Europe, 2023 Edition . Singapore is tied with Zurich for No. 1 on the list of Most Expensive Cities in the World 2024.

Despite the high price tag, the outlook for business travel to Singapore is positive. This is due in part to recent visa exemptions for travelers from certain European countries, and overall, more lenient visa procedures. 

What makes Singapore a great place for business trips?

Agnes: Singapore is easy to get around with an excellent transportation network. Ride hailing or cabs are equally affordable. From a female perspective, Singapore is super safe for female travelers. It’s a melting pot of cultures and that reflects in our vibrant food and bar scene. You’ll be spoilt for choices when dining out.

The Singapore Airport

Singapore’s international Changi Airport is one of Asia’s largest transportation hubs. The airport is a destination in itself – with beautiful art spaces, attractions and installations, including a rain vortex that you have to see to believe, hedge maze and free two-hour bicycle rentals.

Getting around

Singapore boasts one of the most efficient and reliable public transportation systems in the world. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system provides easy access to key business districts and tourist attractions. For added convenience, taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available. Renting a car is also a viable option, although traffic can be congested during peak hours.

To get to the city from Changi Airport via rail, take the train from Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2) to Tanah Merah MRT Station (EW4) and then transfer to the East West Line towards Tuas Link MRT Station (EW33). Or, take the train from Changi Airport MRT Station to Expo MRT Station (CG1/DT35), and then transfer to the Downtown Line towards Bukit Panjang MRT Station (BP6/DT1).

To get to Changi Airport from the city, take the East West Line to Tanah Merah MRT Station (EW4/CG), then transfer to Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2). Alternatively, take the Downtown Line to Expo MRT Station (CG1/DT35), then transfer to Changi Airport MRT Station.

Fares vary depending on distance traveled, but expect to pay between SGD $2 to $3.50 (approx. USD $1.50 to $2.63) one way. ​Single-ride tickets and EZ-link cards can be purchased at all train stations.

Taxis are readily available for hire at taxi stands in the Arrival areas of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The approximate time for a taxi ride to the city center is around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and your exact destination within the city. The fares for taxi rides from Changi Airport to the city are metered. They typically range from SGD $40 to $50 (approx. USD $30 to $37), depending on factors such as distance traveled, time of day, and any applicable surcharges.

What should travelers do for bleisure?

Agnes: If time and schedules permit, check out the lush Flower Dome in Gardens by the Bay . The flowers are always blooming and you can view exotic plants from places like the Mediterranean region, South African savannahs and arid deserts. For unique dining, shopping and sightseeing experiences, consider Chinatown , Little India , and Kampong Gelam . Pulau Ubin is a special place. This island northeast of mainland Singapore is a 15-minute ferry boat ride, but worth the trip. It was once a granite mining hub and is one of the last standing kampongs (villages).

Dining & entertainment

Singapore is a paradise for food lovers, with a culinary scene that reflects its multicultural heritage. From hawker centers serving up affordable local delights to Michelin-starred restaurants offering gourmet cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate. After a long day of meetings, unwind with a stroll along the waterfront at Clarke Quay or enjoy a cocktail at one of the city’s rooftop bars.

Suggest your favorite lunch, coffee and dinner spots in the city.

Agnes: For drinks and city views, head to CÉ LA VI Singapore: Restaurant, SkyBar & Club Lounge . Smoke & Mirrors, located at the National Gallery, also boasts stunning views. Singapore is known for our street food and I’ll recommend Lau Pa Sat because it’s conveniently located in the Central Business District. Go in the evenings when Satay Street is open. Singapore is also known for chilli crab, and I would recommend New Ubin Seafood located in the CHIJMES heritage building (also the venue where the movie Crazy Rich Asians was filmed) or Jumbo . Also sample our traditional breakfast of kaya (coconut jam) toast, half-boiled egg and local coffee at Ya Kun . The coffee shops can be found all over the island.

Business etiquette

In Singapore, business etiquette is formal and professional. Dress smartly and arrive punctually for meetings. Handshakes are the customary greeting, and it’s polite to exchange business cards upon introduction. When dining with colleagues or clients, wait for the host to indicate where you should sit and follow their lead in ordering food and drinks. Here’s more on business etiquette:

• Professionalism: Singaporean business culture emphasizes professionalism and competence. Dress code tends to be informal. A collared long sleeve shirt (tie optional) would suffice in most business settings.
• Hierarchy: Respect for hierarchy is important but informal address is acceptable. First names may be used in business meetings.
• Greetings: A firm handshake is the common greeting in business settings. When meeting someone for the first time, it’s polite to ask how they would like to be addressed.
• Business cards: Exchanging business cards is a common practice. Present and receive cards with both hands as a sign of respect. Take a moment to study the card you receive before putting it away.
• Negotiation: Negotiations in Singapore are typically conducted in a respectful and tactful manner. Avoid aggressive or confrontational tactics, as they may harm the business relationship.
• Gift giving: While not mandatory, giving and receiving gifts is common in Singaporean business culture, especially during festivals or significant events. Gifts should be modest and given with both hands.
• Dining etiquette: Business meetings often take place over meals. Wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Use utensils rather than eating with your hands, unless it’s a customary practice for the specific cuisine being served.
• Follow-up: After meetings or negotiations, it’s customary to send a follow-up email or message expressing gratitude for the opportunity to meet and reiterating key points discussed.
• Understanding cultural diversity: Singapore is a multicultural society, and it’s essential to respect and understand the cultural differences of colleagues and business partners from various backgrounds.

What are the best co-working spaces in Singapore?

Agnes: The common ones are JustCo and WeWork , and they are conveniently located all over the island.

Meet BCD Travel at GBTA APAC in Singapore | May 14-15

Our experts want to connect with you at the 2024 GBTA APAC Conference ! Dig into the latest trends and challenges shaping the business travel sector and explore how BCD can offer innovative solutions. And check out these two BCD Travel sessions.

Embracing Inclusivity in Travel: Fostering Connections and Accessibility

May 15 | 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | GBTA Main Stage 

What role does travel play in cultivating an inclusive workplace? Why does inclusivity matter? What are some practical strategies for making travel accessible to all? Sharifah Alhabshi, APAC senior director of Program Management, will lend her POV to a discussion about unlocking the power of inclusivity in travel and paving the way for a more connected and accommodating future. 

The Big Idea: What is Today’s Work Culture and What Does it Mean for Business Travel  

May 15 | 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. | GBTA Main Stage 

The landscape of work is transforming and opening incredible doors for employers to revolutionize the traditional workspace into a dynamic and adaptable one. The Big Idea session at GBTA APAC will explore the potential perks and pitfalls of a flexible work culture and whether flexible work arrangements are just a trend or the future of employment. Moderated by Ben Wedlock, senior vice president of Sales, APAC.

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Persons interested in providing guiding services for remuneration in Singapore must possess a General Tourist Guide licence.

On 13 October 2023, Singapore Tourism Board called a Request-For-Proposal (RFP) on GeBIZ via the RFI module for the appointment of training organisations for the Tourist Guide course. The RFP was closed on 6 November 2023, with the details below:

Reference no: STB/TG/23-24/RFI-2

Description: REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR APPOINTMENT OF TRAINING ORGANISATIONS FOR TOURIST GUIDE COURSE

Published Date: 13 October 2023

Closing Date: 6 November 2023, 4PM

Appointed Date: 8 December 2023

Appointed Training Organisations:

1.  Singapore Chinese Chamber Institute of Business (SCCIOB)]

2.  Tourism Management Institute of Singapore (TMIS)

3.  William Angliss Institute Pte Ltd (WAI)

1.  Singapore Chinese Chamber Institute of Business (SCCIOB)

4.  Society of Tourist Guides (Singapore) (STGS)

5.  Alice Cheong Swee Chin on behalf of Health Supreme Group (HSG)

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Platform operators who intend to list services relating to tours, travel or guiding services should first conduct due diligence checks to ensure that the necessary Travel Agent and Tourist Guide licence requirements are met before deciding to publish the listing.

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About the Organisation

What industry does your organization fall within, what best describes the key intent of the project that your organisation is seeking funding for, is your organisation a singapore-registered legal entity, is your organisation an association, is the project able to achieve one or more of the following outcome.

• Increase no. of sailings to/from Singapore
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Is the project able to achieve one or more of the following?

• Improve visitor satisfaction (especially foreign visitors)
• Increase footfall
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Is the project able to attract foreign visitors and contribute to foreign visitors' spend?

Who will be the main target audience of your project, is your project innovative and/or a new event in singapore with tourism potential, what best describes your project, does the event have proven track records in singapore or overseas, and/or growth in tourism value such as growing foreign visitorship, and/or enhancement of precinct vibrancy etc, does the project have a clear tourism focus (e.g. tourism-related trainings, tourism companies taking on capability development initiatives or technology companies creating technology products and services for the tourism businesses), what best describes your market feasibility study project.

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Please note that projects that have commenced prior to Singapore Tourism Board's offer may not be eligible for grant support. Examples where projects are deemed as having commenced include:

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