Singapore Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Travel & Logistics
Is Singapore expensive?
Answer: Compared to other Southeast Asian countries, yes, Singapore is more expensive. However, you can manage costs by eating at hawker centers, using public transport, and visiting free attractions.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Answer: Singapore is a tropical country with hot and humid weather year-round. There isn’t a “best” time for weather, but the dry season (February-April) might see slightly less rainfall. The monsoon season (November-January) can bring heavy, sudden downpours.
Do I need a visa to travel to Singapore?
Answer: This depends on your nationality. Most tourists from Western countries can enter Singapore for up to 90 days without a visa. Always check the official ICA (Immigration & Checkpoints Authority) website for the latest requirements for your specific passport.
What currency is used in Singapore?
Answer: The Singapore Dollar (SGD).
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Answer: Yes, major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, including at hawker centers and on public transport (via contactless payment). It’s still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or at certain local stalls.
Do I need to carry cash?
Answer: While card payments are common, having some cash is useful for small local shops, traditional hawker stalls, and taxis that might not accept cards.
What about language barriers?
Answer: Singapore has four official languages, but English is the primary working and teaching language. You will have no problem getting around and communicating in English.
What’s the best way to get from the airport to the city?
Answer: The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) train is the most cost-effective option. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are also readily available.
How can I save money on travel in Singapore?
Answer: Utilize the MRT and bus system. It’s affordable and efficient. Eat at hawker centers, which offer delicious and cheap local food. Many attractions like Gardens by the Bay’s outdoor areas and the Singapore Botanic Gardens are free.
What are the local rules and etiquette I should know?
Answer: Be aware of the fines for things like littering, chewing gum (though you can chew it, it’s illegal to sell), and smoking in non-designated areas. Also, remember to return your tray and clear your table at hawker centers and food courts.
Transportation
How do I use public transport?
Answer: The MRT and bus systems are extensive and easy to use. You can pay with a contactless credit/debit card, a pre-paid EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay card, or by using a mobile payment app like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Do I need to buy a special tourist transport card?
Answer: While there are tourist passes, for most travelers, simply using your contactless credit card (Visa/Mastercard) is the most convenient option as it is tapped and a fare is deducted based on distance traveled.
Is Grab or Gojek better for ride-hailing?
Answer: Both are popular and reliable. It’s often recommended to have both apps installed and compare prices before booking, as one may be cheaper depending on demand.
Are taxis a good option?
Answer: Taxis are metered and widely available. They can be more expensive than ride-hailing apps but are a good alternative if you prefer not to use an app.
How can I get to Sentosa Island?
Answer: You can take the Sentosa Express monorail, the cable car, or a taxi/ride-hailing service. The monorail is a popular and efficient choice.
Food & Dining
What is a “hawker center”?
Answer: A hawker center is an open-air food court with many stalls selling a wide variety of affordable local dishes. It’s a fundamental part of Singaporean culture.
What are some must-try hawker dishes?
Answer: Chicken Rice, Laksa, Chili Crab, Char Kway Teow, Hokkien Mee, Satay, and Bak Kut Teh (pork rib soup) are highly recommended. Don’t forget to try Kaya Toast and soft-boiled eggs for breakfast.
Where are the best hawker centers?
Answer: Travelers frequently recommend Maxwell Food Centre, Amoy Street Food Centre, Old Airport Road Food Centre, and Tiong Bahru Market. Lau Pa Sat is also popular for its atmosphere, especially Satay Street at night.
Is it safe to eat street food?
Answer: Singapore’s hawker centers are famously clean and strictly regulated by the government. The food is safe to eat.
Is there a dress code for restaurants?
Answer: Most restaurants and food courts have no dress code, and smart casual is generally accepted. However, some high-end fine dining restaurants might require a more formal attire.
Packing & What to Wear
What clothes should I pack?
Answer: Lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential due to the heat and humidity. Think shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and light dresses.
Do I need a jacket or sweater?
Answer: Yes! While it’s hot outside, air conditioning in malls, cinemas, and restaurants can be very strong. A light jacket or cardigan is a must for indoor places.
What about footwear?
Answer: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are highly recommended, as you will likely be doing a lot of walking.
Should I bring a reusable water bottle?
Answer: Yes, Singapore’s tap water is safe to drink, so bringing a reusable bottle is a great way to stay hydrated and save money.
Do I need to bring an umbrella?
Answer: Absolutely. Sudden, heavy downpours are common, so a small, foldable umbrella is an essential item to carry in your bag.
Attractions & Itineraries
What are the top must-see attractions?
Answer: Gardens by the Bay (especially the Supertree Grove), Marina Bay Sands Skypark, Sentosa Island, Singapore Zoo/Night Safari, and the Singapore Botanic Gardens are often at the top of tourist lists.
Are there any free things to do?
Answer: Yes, many! You can explore the outdoor gardens at Gardens by the Bay, walk along the Marina Bay waterfront, visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens, or wander through neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little India.
Is the Singapore Zoo worth it?
Answer: Yes, many travelers praise the Singapore Zoo for its open-concept design and well-kept enclosures. The Night Safari is also a unique and highly recommended experience.
What’s there to do on Sentosa Island?
Answer: Sentosa has Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, various beaches, a Luge ride, and several other attractions.
What’s a good itinerary for a short trip (3-4 days)?
Answer: A common itinerary includes one day for Marina Bay/Gardens by the Bay, one day for Sentosa Island, and one or two days for exploring cultural neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam.
Miscellaneous Questions
Is it true you can’t chew gum?
Answer: It’s a common misconception. You can chew gum, but the sale of chewing gum is prohibited in Singapore (with the exception of therapeutic gum from a dentist).
What’s the local term for the MRT?
Answer: While it’s officially the “MRT,” many locals simply refer to it as the “train.”
Can I use my credit card on the MRT?
Answer: Yes, most contactless Visa and Mastercard credit cards can be used directly at the gantry, eliminating the need to buy a separate card.
What’s the best souvenir to buy?
Answer: Food items like bak kwa (a savory-sweet dried meat), kaya jam, and local snacks are popular choices. You can also find unique handcrafted items in neighborhoods like Chinatown.
Are there any hidden gems or non-touristy spots?
Answer: Travelers often recommend exploring residential areas, visiting smaller hawker centers outside the city center, or going to the East Coast Park for a more local experience.