SINGAPORE

Traveling to Singapore is a great choice for several reasons: first, it’s a modern city with a rich mix of cultures, offering a blend of East and West. The city is clean, efficient, and easy to get around, thanks to its top-notch public transport system. Plus, Singapore’s food scene is world-renowned. You can try everything from Michelin-starred meals to delicious street food at hawker centers, with a variety of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and international flavors.

Yes, Singapore is considered one of the safest countries in the world. It has very low crime rates, and the government places a strong emphasis on public safety and law enforcement. Violent crime is rare, and petty crimes like pickpocketing are also uncommon compared to many other major cities.

When packing for a trip to Singapore, it’s best to be prepared for the hot and humid tropical climate, along with occasional rain. Here’s a list of essentials to bring:

Clothing:

• Light, breathable fabrics: Think cotton or linen for comfort in the heat.
• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so pack sneakers or sandals that are good for exploring.
• Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella: Singapore often has short, heavy downpours.
• Sunglasses and a hat: To protect yourself from the strong sun.
• Swimwear: If you plan to hit the hotel pool or Sentosa’s beaches.
• Smart casual outfit: Some restaurants or bars may have dress codes.

Essentials:

• Sunscreen: The UV index can be quite high.
• Refillable water bottle: Stay hydrated while out and about.
• Travel adapter: Singapore uses Type G plugs (the same as the UK), so pack an adapter if needed.
• Power bank: For keeping your devices charged while you explore.

Other Items:

• Insect repellent: If you’re planning on visiting parks or gardens.
• Medications: Always good to have basic meds for headaches or allergies.
• Light backpack or day bag: For carrying your essentials during the day.

How much you should bring to Singapore depends on your travel style, but here’s a general breakdown of daily costs for a range of budgets:

Budget Traveler ($50–$100/day)

• Accommodation: $20–$40 (hostels or budget hotels)
• Food: $10–$20 (eating at hawker centers or food courts, where meals cost around $3–$7)
• Transportation: $5–$10 (using public transportation like MRT or buses)
• Attractions: $10–$20 (free attractions like Gardens by the Bay and low-cost activities)

Mid-Range Traveler ($150–$250/day)

• Accommodation: $100–$150 (3-star hotels or boutique hotels)
• Food: $20–$50 (a mix of hawker centers and mid-range restaurants, where meals cost around $10–$30)
• Transportation: $10–$15 (public transport or occasional taxi rides)
• Attractions: $20–$50 (paid attractions like Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, Singapore Zoo, or Sentosa Island activities)

Luxury Traveler ($300–$500+/day)

• Accommodation: $250–$400+ (high-end hotels like Marina Bay Sands or luxury resorts)
• Food: $50–$150+ (fine dining, upscale restaurants, or multiple-course meals)
• Transportation: $20–$50 (taxis, private cars, or Grab rides)
• Attractions: $50+ (premium experiences, private tours, or high-end shopping)

Additional Expenses:

• Shopping: Can vary widely depending on where you shop (from affordable finds at markets to luxury brands at malls).
• Drinks: Alcohol is expensive in Singapore; drinks at bars can range from $10–$20 or more for cocktails.

The currency of Singapore is the Singapore Dollar, abbreviated as SGD. It’s commonly represented by the symbol S$ or sometimes just $.