Singapore: What You Need To Know Before You Go

Singapore is one of the most incredible cities in the world, despite being one of the smallest. It is known for its futuristic style, endless activities, and safe streets, which makes it so desirable to tourists all year round.

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There are tons of things I wish I knew before visiting Singapore. It is definitely a city where you would want to know step by step what you are doing before you go, so you don’t waste any of your precious time there.

If you are looking for things to do in Singapore, places to eat, or where to stay, check out my ultimate Singapore travel guide: 

https://www.saorblog.com/2023/07/12/the-ultimate-guide-on-how-to-spend-7-days-in-singapore/: Singapore: What You Need To Know Before You Go

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Take a look at some of the things I think you should know before visiting Singapore.

1. You don’t need a visa to enter the country

Singapore allows tourists to visit without a visa for stays up to 30 days, so you don’t have to worry about all that visa stress.

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What you do need is: 

– A passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date.

– You must complete an SGAC declaration form. You can do this at the airport when you arrive, or to save time you can do it from 3 days before you leave for Singapore. You can fill this out here:

https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard/?fbclid=PAAaarYxRKbEuXXfSa0y2_VEUHxegeN0Wt2KJHvoTjqhstEXLPGi_c7u5VLLs_aem_AS0edTCENrLkAImXDYV2H6TAvp0hWKkrDJXJmJ8vdFZYrLTM33C2-2H8uBDWRureuio: Singapore: What You Need To Know Before You Go

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– You may be asked for proof of onward travel or proof of funds, so ensure you have these.

– Bring vaccine documentation in case you are asked for it.

2. Almost everywhere accepts credit card in Singapore

Card is king in Singapore! This was the only place we didn’t need to take cash out, as even the markets take cash and you can add a tip onto your card payment. This saved us from having left over Singaporean Dollars when continuing our travels to other parts of Asia.

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3. You 100% can do Singapore on a budget

If you eat at hawker centres, stay in hostels, take the metro and do free activities (Gardens By The Bay, Buddha Tooth Relic, Siloso Beach) you can definitely stay within budget when visiting Singapore.

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Having said that, we did spend the most money in one day when we were in Singapore on food, drinks, activities, and everything in between, but we also were not stuck to a strict budget.

4. The metro is the best way to get around

Taxis in Singapore can be expensive so the best way to get around is by metro. It is so accessible and easy to use. We were in Singapore for a week in total, so instead of purchasing a metrocard, we just tapped our visa cards every time we got on and off the metro. This is the cheapest way to use the metro if you aren’t going to be in Singapore for an extended period of time.

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The metro is also very well connected, so you can travel anywhere in the city on it.

5. Singapore is HOT

I went to Singapore in March and it was crazy warm. The humidity is on another level, making it feel like it is three times hotter than it actually is.

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Due to the humidity, you can almost expect rain everyday in Singapore, but it only lasts for a short period, so it shouldn’t affect your day.

6. Singapore is very walkable

Although the metro is great, sometimes walking around a city is the best way to find hidden gems. Singapore is a really easy city to walk around. It’s not a big city, so everywhere is within walking distance.

7. It is super safe 

Singapore is known as one of the safest countries in the world, with their crime rates being extremely low. I felt extremely safe in Singapore but this is completely subjective, so it could be different for you.

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8. It takes 3-4 days to see all Singapore has to offer

Singapore is one of the most amazing cities I have ever been to but you can see everything the city has to offer in 3-4 days. I would not stay longer than a week in Singapore, because you will spend a lot of money, but on the other hand you will never run out of things to do.

9. Almost everyone speaks English

Singapore doesn’t have a native language, so for many Singaporean citizens English is their first language. It is a very multicultural city, with a mix of expats and locals.

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10. Give yourself extra time at Changi Airport

If you are flying in or out of Changi Airport you have to visit the Jewel, which is a huge complex full of restaurants, shops, a wonderland, a cinema, and of course the largest indoor waterfall in the world.

I wish I left myself more time to explore The Jewel, so definitely give yourself an hour or two so you can walk around the incredible building and even grab some food.

Singapore was one of my favourite places I have ever been to, so be sure if you are visiting to make the most out of your experience. The city that has something for everyone, so go see it for yourself and enjoy!

Chat soon,

Aoife x