Singapore
South East Asia
Travel | Updated 2025
Singapore is a destination that belies both its small geographical size and its location in South-East Asia.
Situated at the southernmost extremity of the Asian Peninsula, bordered by Malaysia to the north and Indonesia to the south, Singapore is a confluence of diverse ethnic influences, including Chinese, Malay, Indonesian, and Indian. As a member of the British Commonwealth, this small island nation is located at the very tip of the Malay Peninsula. English is widely spoken in addition to various other dialects.
Some Basic Information
ℹ️ Travel: Singapore is served by three terminals at Singapore Changi airport. With Singapore being such a small island to travel distances is rather swift and all public transport is clean, efficient, air-conditioned and easy to use. Taxi’s are all metered and should cost around SG$25 (GB£14.20).
The easiest method for me was to use the SMRT underground. The cost varies upon distance travelled but there is a SMRT station near Terminal 2 that carries you to the city centre. You have to change SMRT at Tanah Merah for the Green line that stops by Geylang, Bugis, City Hall, Raffles Place, and Chinatown. Regardless of which terminal you arrive always follow the sign for “Train to the City”.
ℹ️ Currency: The Singapore Dollar (SGD)
Courtesy of Google.com
ℹ️ CREDIT CARDS AND BANKS: ATMs are common place across the city. You will have no difficulties using your bankers card in cafes, restaurants and shops. The vast majority of market stall street sellers only accept cash. Always carry a little cash on you just in case you require it.
ℹ️ Weather: There is no Hot and Cold season in Singapore. The weather is hot, humid and often suffers from the mid-afternoon thunder shower due to the humidity. Quite often the showers relinquish as quick as they formed. The vast majority of buildings have air-conditioning.
ℹ️ Accommodation: Like all major cities in SE Asia hotels can run from the lavish to the basic budget, to everything in between. Sort what is important in a hotel for you and work around that. I stayed at the 3* Park View Hotel, a stones throw from Raffles Hotel. Prices are roughly £70 p/n with breakfast. The location is pretty decent too.
For a little luxury consider the 5* Fullerton Hotel down by the harbour front. Prices are roughly £200 p/n. If this is a little out of pocket then certainly consider the Afternoon Tea served in the afternoon. Of Course, for added luxury then consider the Marina Bay Sands hotel!
The Central Business District and China Town
Although much of Singapore’s skyline is dramatically shaped by mid to high-rise buildings that reflect the vibrancy of modern city centers around the globe, the true heart of this metropolis lies in its Central Business District, nestled by the stunning Singapore Harbour on the southern shore of the island. Exploring Singapore’s CBD is an absolute must during your trip! The streets buzz with the energy of people in sharp suits, embodying the thrilling pulse of the banking, finance, and insurance sectors that dominate this dynamic hub. Raffles Mall stands as a bustling junction of Western high street and Asian boutiques, inviting you to immerse yourself in a shopping experience like no other.
In the heart of Singapore’s bustling CBD, the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel stands as a breathtaking marvel, drawing you in with its stunning architecture and vibrant energy. While I may not have been able to indulge in a stay there myself, the allure of the surrounding Burgis area captivates with an abundance of hotels, just a mere 10-minute stroll away, inviting you to pass by the legendary ‘Raffles’ Hotel, steeped in history and charm.
After indulging in the vibrant CBD area, don’t miss the chance to marvel at the iconic statue of the ‘Merlion,’ the proud symbol of Singapore! Hop on the Singapore SMRT to Chinatown station and dive into the captivating world of Chinatown, the heart of the city’s Chinese heritage, where the culture is a thrilling tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavours. A trip to Singapore would be utterly incomplete without experiencing the enchantment of this extraordinary place—it’s a feast for the senses that will leave you longing for more!
Chinatown bursts with vibrant paper lanterns and lively karaoke street performers, and its shops brim with treasures for which the owners paid mere pennies compared to what they charge you. This enchanting district is undeniably the ultimate destination for savouring mouthwatering Singaporean cuisine. Don’t miss the delightful ‘Maxwell Street’, a haven for street vendor food, where each dish is expertly cooked fresh as you wait in eager anticipation. Not only is it extraordinarily delicious, but it’s also delightfully easy on the wallet!
Sentosa Island and Little India
As Singapore is an island, it may come as no surprise that it boasts several stunning beaches. But let me tell you, a trip to the beach is not just a mere outing; it’s your ticket to escaping the hustle and bustle of the city for a blissful morning or an idyllic early afternoon. Imagine savoring the gentle sea breeze while finding refuge from the stifling heat that often envelops Singapore. A visit to at least one of these captivating beaches is essential for an unforgettable experience during your stay in this vibrant city!
Sentosa is home to Universal Studios. The smaller but equally fun sister of the American Theme Park. Fully expecting to take a full day to do this attraction I was surprised I managed it within five hours. Partly due to the ‘Low Season’ (May-July) there were no crowds to fight your way through. Look for deals on Entry tickets. Most are promoted to residents but I managed to score a SG$10 off code if I paid by Mastercard that’s the parks Sponsor (at the time)
Once you have had your fill of Sentosa catch the train back to the mainland, then the Singapore SMRT to “LITTLE INDIA” station.
Like Chinatown, Little India pulsates with life and colour, enriching the cultural tapestry of your trip in Singapore. As the vibrant heart of Singapore’s Tamil Indian community, it proudly houses the Sri Mariamman Hindu temple, the oldest in the city, and offers an unforgettable journey into the rich flavours of Indian cuisine and the bustling markets filled with enticing Indian goods. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this enchanting place, where you can truly feel the spirit of India for a few magical hours.
Botanical Gardens and Arab Street
Singapore Botanic Gardens is an expansive oasis of greenery, enveloping you in a vibrant, tropical rainforest that feels worlds apart from the bustling modern city surrounding it. Within this enchanting paradise lies Singapore’s National Orchid Garden, a breathtaking sanctuary showcasing countless orchid species, inviting you to lose yourself in its beauty for an entire day!
Regardless of how much time you devote to the enchanting Singapore Botanic Gardens or the breathtaking National Orchid Garden, you simply must end your days wandering along Arab Street. Just a short stroll from the Bugis SMRT station, this vibrant area pulses with life and culture, marking the third jewel in the crown of your three-day adventure, alongside the wonders of Chinatown and the colorful spirit of Little India.
The ARAB STREET area is home to the huge Sultan mosque that looks even cooler than it ordinarily might thanks to its position with huge modern buildings. Arab Street is also home to my favourite eatery in Singapore: Singapore Zam Zam, whose signature dish ‘Murtabak’ you would be crazy not to try.
Where to eat and drink
In Singapore, the options for wine and dine are truly exhilarating.
A stunning array awaits in the vibrant Clarke Quay and Boat Quay areas.
Yet, if you dare to wander off the well-trodden path, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of local gems, each offering delightful experiences at a fraction of the cost. Just like in any enchanting city, I find myself drawn to my favourite spots, where I eagerly spend my time reveling in the colourful tapestry of life as the world whizzes by…
MAXWELL STREET
Close to the Chinese street market on Maxwell Road is an outdoor eatery. You can sample the local dish “Laksa” which is served hot, in copious amounts and at an incredible price compared to other eateries in Singapore.
MARINA BAY SANDS HOTEL
The bar at the top of the Hotel is simply breathtaking. As the sun dips below the horizon, it offers an awe-inspiring panorama of the city that will leave you spellbound. And the cherry on top? You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to savour a drink in this spectacular setting.
There are two bars, and you simply must venture to the top of the Third Tower at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. It’s an exhilarating experience, completely free for non-residents! The bar staff radiate warmth, being both friendly and attentive, eager to share a conversation. You won’t believe the cocktails—you get to indulge in surprisingly affordable drinks in such a prestigious location, and as a delightful bonus, each one comes with a breathtaking view that will steal your breath away!
BOAT QUAY AND CLARKE QUAY
Be savvy: Clarke Quay flows seamlessly into Boat Quay right down to the vibrant CBD! What’s truly astounding is how dramatically drink and food prices can fluctuate along this exhilarating stretch. Take, for instance, my favourite pitcher of beer—just SG$7 at one end! Yet, as you get closer to the bustling CBD, it skyrockets to a jaw-dropping SG$25! It’s the epicenter where all the city’s professionals gather, making the experience as electrifying as the prices are surprising!
RAFFLES HOTEL AND THE FULLERTON HOTEL
Both located in the Colonial district, if time permits then set aside a few hours for ‘High Tea’ in either the very Colonial Raffles Hotel synonymous for the ‘Singapore Sling’ cocktail.
My own preference, however, is delightful afternoon tea at the Fullerton Hotel, where you can indulge in delicious sandwiches, exquisite cakes, and tempting pastries, all perfectly complemented by tea in charming china cups. For an extra touch of luxury, you can even upgrade to refreshing cocktails or sparkling Champagne!
Getting About Singapore
Train – Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is the fastest and best way to get around. The rail network is very extensive, so most of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance to an MRT station. Most trips will cost around SG$4 (GB£2.20), but you can buy a Singapore Tourist Pass which gives you unlimited travel for one day for SG$10 (GB£5.60), two days for SG$16 (GB£9), or three days for SG$20 (GB£11).
Bus – Like the MRT, Singapore’s bus system is very extensive and efficient. You can use your Singapore Tourist Pass on the buses as well. You can also pay with cash, but it has to be the exact change. A single trip will cost between SG$2.50 (GB£1.40).
Trishaws – Trishaws (like rickshaws) are less popular these days in Singapore, but you’ll find them along most of the tourist routes. They’re now managed by a queue system called Trishaw Uncle. You’ll pay about SG$60 (GB£32) for a 30 minute run.
Taxi – Avoid them if you can. Taxi’s in Singapore are not cheap.
Final Word
Singapore is wonderful. Its old British colonial meets modern 21st Century city. You can relax and take in the sights at your own pace or create an itinerary as intense as you want it.
Singapore offers something for everyone. Its a great place to spend a holiday but equally as great as a transit stop for a few days. Whatever your interested Singapore will not fail to deliver, and, for that long flight from Europe it certainly was worth the time.
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