When we visited Singapore a couple of years ago, we had already been on the road for over 6 months. By the time we arrived to this modern and exciting city in South East Asia, we were worn out and exhausted. We were surprised to learn that Singapore has many nature reserves and parks that a person can check out. Who knew that the second most densely populated country in the world could have natural havens for people to slow down and become one with Mother Nature. There is so much more to do than just shopping and nightlife in Singapore and this Singapore travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.
Fast Facts about Singapore Travel
- Singapore power voltage is 220/240 V 50 Hz; Power sockets G
- Singapore currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD) and is around 1.50 SGD for 1 USD.
- Singapore has suffered a sharp rise in cases of dengue, a mosquito-borne disease in recent years. There is no vaccine so avoid mosquito bites. Peak biting periods are at dawn and dusk.
- When invited to a private home or entering a temple or mosque, remove your shoes.
- To help Singapore stay clean there are laws relating to jaywalking, littering, chewing gum, smoking in illegal areas or dropping cigarette butts. Watch out or you could get fined!
- Singapore chilli crab is famous (and an unofficial national dish), make sure you try some!
- If you have a smartphone, make sure to downtown the SG Bus App, a Singapore bus guide for Android and Iphone users.
Top Packing Tips
Singapore has a tropical climate, and stays hot and humid through out the year with an average temperature of 31º C. The cooler months are in December/January while the hottest months are in April/May. Although the heaviest rain occurs from November through January, Singapore residents experience rainfall almost every day, usually in the form of afternoon showers.
- The protection basics – Travellers should stock up on the essentials: sun block, mosquito/insect repellant containing DEET or a pyrethroid insecticide, sunglasses and a hat. If you plan on traveling in rural areas, make sure to avoid mosquito-born dengue fever by wearing clothes that cover the arms and legs and spraying yourself with DEET. Mosquito coils can also help.
- A tropical wardrobe. This should include—for both men and women—shorts, T-shirts, breathable rain gear, a warm jacket or fleece, sturdy footwear, and a wrap.
- Pack for Humidity – for humid weather it is best to pack fabrics that breathe as much as possible and natural fabrics, like cotton, linen or rayon (avoiding silk, wool and polyester). Clothing should be loose and comfortable to encourage the flow of air and allow moisture to evaporate.
- Umbrella / Rain coat: Thunderstorms and rain are common in Singapore – in short the weather can be unpredictable. Make sure to bring an umbrella or rain coat.
- Extra Luggage – Singapore is famous for its shopping. So take some extra luggage if you plan on shopping 'til you drop.
Top Things to do in Singapore
Adventure
- Rock Climb at the old Bukit Timah Quarries – There are almost 50 routes to challenge a climber from easy 5.7’s to difficult 5.12 b routes. Rock climbing is fairly new to Singapore, but it is catching on quickly
- Wakeboard! – Not only is it popular to head out to a reservoir and hire a boat, there is also a Cable Ski Park.
- Zipline at Mega Zip Adventure Park – zipline over the jungle canopy, try the high rope obstacle course, mini bungee jump or rock climbing wall!
Sights
- Enjoy the Beach Life – East Coast Park has 7.5 km of sand and sun. Not only can you relax on the beach and catch some rays, there are water sports, bicycle trails and running tracks.
- Visit Haw Par – an attraction that consists of several different scenes of statues depicting Chinese Mythology, legends and characters