Singapore Travel Guide
Singapore, a city that is also a country, is a small island nation with huge global significance. It is the 4th largest financial center in the world, behind New York, London, and Hong Kong. This clean, modern, and safe city is home to futuristic gardens, world-class hotels and shopping centers, urbanized waterfronts, and colorful neighborhoods. Taste your way through bustling hawker stalls, and sip on trendy cocktails in Singapore’s quays. If you’re a fan of modern, bustling cityscapes, put Singapore high on your list.
Singapore Stats
Official Languages: English, Chinese, Malay, Tamil
Population: 6 million
Capital City: Singapore
Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD)
Power Outlet: Type G
Travel through Singapore
How We Spent Four Days in Singapore
On our around the world trip, we spent four days in Singapore, visiting markets, shops, parks, and more. This article recounts our experience.
Top Experiences in Singapore
Gardens by the Bay. This large, modern, and colorful park is one of Singapore’s most iconic attractions. The gardens feature plants from all over the world, including indoor cooled conservatories aptly named Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, and Floral Fantasy. Be sure to also walk around the towering Supertrees, which are as innovative as they are stunningly lit at night. Some have solar cells to generate energy, and others release exhaust from the conservatories.
Marina Bay Sands. This 5-star luxury hotel dominates the Singapore skyline, with its triple tower design topped with a 340-meter-long skyway. The rooftop skyway features an observation deck, infinity pool, and a few restaurants/bars. Be sure to also catch the light and water show called Spectra, which takes place on the bay just outside of the hotel.
ArtScience Museum. This modern, flower-shaped museum blends art and science together through captivating exhibits.
Singapore Flyer. Located along Marina Bay, this 165-meter-tall Ferris wheel provides beautiful panoramic views of the Singapore skyline. Ride in a standard observation pod, or upgrade to a luxury dining experience in the sky.
Singapore Botanic Gardens. This massive, lush tropical garden is located just outside the city center. With a diverse array of both plant and animal life, there’s enough to see here that could take hours. One of its highlights is the National Orchid Gallery, which features over 1,500 species of colorful orchids.
Singapore Zoo. This large zoo is located within a rainforest setting, with over 4,200 animals from around the globe. Look for giraffes, kangaroos, elephants, orangutans, and more.
Chinatown. Wander the narrow streets, shop for antiques, and enjoy a window into Singapore’s Chinese heritage. Grab a bit of traditional Chinese food and a drink at one of the many trendy bars.
Shopping on Orchard Road. This bustling tree-lined boulevard is a hotspot in Singapore for shopping on any budget. There are numerous department stores, shopping malls, and luxury boutiques.
Hawker Stalls. Sample the rich flavors found in Singapore’s various hawker centers. Sizzling woks and savory aromas accompany a delicious meal cooked in an open-air market by masterful street chefs.
Sentosa Island. This resort island, located just off the coast of Singapore’s main island, is a great spot for families or those looking for a tropical beach escape. Unwind on bright sandy beaches lined with palm trees, seek thrills at Universal Studios Singapore, or make a splash at the Adventure Cove Waterpark.
When To Visit Singapore
Singapore is a year-round travel destination, located roughly 137 km (85 miles) from the equator. Temperatures vary minimally throughout the year, but be ready for hot, muggy days whenever you visit.
With little change in the monthly climate, the best time to visit Singapore is from August to December. During this time, you will be able to avoid peak tourist season, which runs from December to June, and you will likely benefit from lower hotel rates and fewer crowds.
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