Singapore

Singapore’s history dates back at least eight hundred years, having been a maritime emporium known as Temasek and subsequently a major constituent part of several successive thalassocratic empires. Its contemporary era began in 1819, when Stamford Raffles established Singapore as an entrepôt trading post of the British Empire.

 

Things to see and do in Singapore

Some things that are worth trying out:

Place to Eat

 

View The Singapore Photo Gallery

 

Typical costs when traveling

A typical Singapore trip can cost anywhere from S$100 to S$300 per day, depending on your travel style and spending habits. Budget travelers can find accommodation for around S$30-40 per night in hostels, and enjoy meals at hawker centers for S$5-10. Mid-range travelers might stay in hotels for S$200-300 per night and eat at cafes or restaurants, spending S$10-30 per meal. Luxury travelers could spend S$700 or more per day on accommodation, dining, and activities. 

 

Accommodation:
  • Hostels: S$30-40 per night for a dorm bed.
  • Mid-range Hotels: S$150-350 per night.
  • Luxury Hotels: S$600+ per night. 
Food:
  • Hawker Centers: S$5-10 per person.
  • Cafes/Small Eateries: S$10-30 per person.
  • Restaurants: S$20-100+ per person. 
Transportation:
  • Public Transport (MRT/Bus): S$1-3 per trip. 
  • Singapore Tourist Pass (1-3 days unlimited travel): S$22-34. 
  • Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Higher cost, depending on distance. 

Do’s and Don’ts

In Singapore, it’s important to be mindful of local customs and laws. Do join the queue, be respectful of others, and dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. Don’t litter, chew gum, or smoke in public, and avoid public displays of affection. 

 

Do’s:
  • Join the Queue: Singaporeans value orderly queuing, so be sure to join the back of any line, whether for public transport, food stalls, or attractions.
  • Be Respectful: Address elders as “uncle” or “auntie,” and be mindful of body language, avoiding pointing or shouting.
  • Dress Appropriately: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
  • Use Public Transportation: Singapore’s public transport is efficient and reliable, so consider using it instead of taxis.
  • Stay on the Right Side of Escalators: Leave the left side open for those who want to pass.
  • Show Deference: Address business partners by their titles and surnames until given permission to use their first names.
  • Gift Appropriately: Offer gifts when leaving, not when arriving, and be prepared to have them refused three times before they are accepted.
Don’t:
  • Litter: Singapore has strict laws against littering, so dispose of your trash properly.
  • Chew Gum: Chewing gum is prohibited in Singapore, even for medicinal purposes.
  • Smoke in Public: Smoking is banned in many public areas, so be sure to smoke only in designated areas.
  • Eat or Drink on Public Transport: Avoid eating or drinking on the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) or buses.
  • Public Displays of Affection: While hand-holding and hugging are generally accepted, keep PDA to a minimum.
  • Disrupt the Peace: Avoid loud conversations or making noise in public places.
  • Connect to Unauthorized Wi-Fi: Connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi is considered hacking and can lead to penalties.
  • Do Graffiti: Graffiti or damaging public property is strictly forbidden and can lead to fines and other penalties.

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