About Place
- "A garden city with a futuristic skyline"
- "A melting pot of cultures and cuisines"
- "An urban oasis with lush green spaces"
Reasons to Visit
- Architectural Marvels : Singapore is renowned for its stunning architecture that seamlessly blends futuristic design with green spaces. The Marina Bay Sands, with its iconic infinity pool, and the Gardens by the Bay, with its towering Supertrees, are must-visit landmarks. These structures showcase Singapore's commitment to innovative and sustainable design.
- Cultural Diversity : Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, including Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. This diversity is reflected in its vibrant neighborhoods, such as Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam, each offering a unique cultural experience. Visitors can explore temples, mosques, and historical sites, and enjoy a wide range of cultural festivals throughout the year.
- Culinary Delights : Singapore is a food lover's paradise, famous for its hawker centers where you can find affordable and delicious street food. Signature dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and laksa are not to be missed. The city also boasts a plethora of high-end restaurants and is home to some of the best fine dining experiences in Asia.
Visa
- USA/Canada/EU : Generally, travelers from these countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- Australia/New Zealand : Visa-free for up to 30 days.
- India : Requires a visa, which can be applied for online (e-Visa).
- China : Requires a visa; short-term tourist visas are available.
- Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) : Generally visa-free for up to 30 days.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Destination :
- Approximate cost for round-trip flights for two people from a major metro city (e.g., New York) to Singapore : $1,500 - $2,000
- Hotel Cost :
- Average hotel cost per night : $150
- Total cost for 5 nights for two people : $750
- Food Cost:
- Average cost per meal for two people : $50
- Total cost for 10 meals (lunch and dinner for 5 days) : $500
- Activity Cost :
- Marina Bay Sands SkyPark : $50 for two
- ArtScience Museum : $50 for two
- Gardens by the Bay : $40 for two
- S.E.A. Aquarium : $80 for two
- Adventure Cove Waterpark : $60 for two
- Night Safari : $80 for two
- Total : $360
- Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Estimated cost for car rental and transportation within Singapore : $150
Total Estimated Cost : $3,810 - $4,260
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Marina Bay Arrive in Singapore and check into your hotel. Start your exploration at Marina Bay Sands, where you can visit the SkyPark Observation Deck for panoramic views of the city. Have lunch at the Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre, trying local favorites like satay. In the afternoon, explore the ArtScience Museum with its fascinating exhibitions. Enjoy an evening stroll along the Marina Bay waterfront, and dine at the Fullerton Bay Hotel's Clifford Pier, savoring modern Asian cuisine. Conclude the night with a light and water show at the Marina Bay Sands.
Day 2 : Gardens by the Bay and Chinatown Begin your day at Gardens by the Bay, exploring the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. Have lunch at Satay by the Bay, sampling different types of satay. In the afternoon, head to Chinatown, visiting the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and exploring the vibrant streets. Try local Chinese dishes like char kway teow at Chinatown Complex Food Centre for dinner. Spend the evening at Clarke Quay, enjoying the lively nightlife and riverside views.
Day 3 : Sentosa Island Travel to Sentosa Island and start with the S.E.A. Aquarium. Have lunch at Coastes, a beachside restaurant. In the afternoon, relax at Palawan Beach or try the adrenaline-pumping activities at Adventure Cove Waterpark. For dinner, head to the Tanjong Beach Club for a relaxing meal by the sea. End the day with a visit to the Wings of Time show, a spectacular night performance.
Day 4 : Little India and Kampong Glam Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Little India in the morning, visiting the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. Have lunch at the Tekka Centre, enjoying Indian delicacies. In the afternoon, head to Kampong Glam, visiting the Sultan Mosque and browsing the boutique shops on Haji Lane. For dinner, try Mediterranean cuisine at the Blu Jaz Café. Spend your evening at a rooftop bar like Loof, enjoying views of the cityscape.
Day 5 : Singapore Zoo and Night Safari Spend the morning at the Singapore Zoo, known for its open and naturalistic exhibits. Have lunch at the zoo's Ah Meng Restaurant. In the afternoon, return to your hotel to relax. In the evening, visit the Night Safari, where you can see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. Dine at the Night Safari's Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant before heading back to your hotel.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
- Use reliable transportation and avoid unlicensed taxis.
- Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Respect local laws and customs.
- Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing personal information.
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.
- Stay in well-lit and populated areas at night.
- Keep your accommodation's address handy.
- Purchase travel insurance for emergencies.
Flights
- Singapore Airlines, direct flight, approx. 18 hours, $750 per person.
- United Airlines, one stop, approx. 20 hours, $650 per person.
- Cathay Pacific, one stop, approx. 20 hours, $700 per person.
Hotels
- Marina Bay Sands
- The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
- PARKROYAL on Pickering
- Shangri-La Hotel
- Raffles Hotel Singapore
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Singapore : +65 6737 6777
- Police : 999
- Ambulance : 995
- Firefighters : 995
Country
Closet Airport
- Changi Airport (SIN)
Nearest City
- Johor Bahru (Malaysia)
Heritage Sites
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Airlines
- Singapore Airlines
- United Airlines
- Cathay Pacific
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
Currency
- Singapore Dollar (SGD)
Languages Spoken
- English
- Malay
- Mandarin
- Tamil
Real Story
The Founding of Modern Singapore by Sir Stamford Raffles
In 1819, Sir Stamford Raffles, an official of the British East India Company, arrived on the island of Singapore, recognizing its strategic potential as a trading post due to its location at the crossroads of maritime trade routes between China and India. At that time, Singapore was a small Malay fishing village under the rule of the Sultanate of Johor.
Raffles negotiated a treaty with Sultan Hussein Shah of Johor and the local Temenggong (chief) to establish a British trading settlement on the island. This agreement marked the beginning of modern Singapore. Raffles’ vision was to create a free port that would attract merchants from all over Asia and beyond, fostering a diverse and bustling trade environment.
Under Raffles’ administration, the settlement quickly grew, attracting immigrants and traders from China, India, the Malay Archipelago, and the Middle East. He implemented policies that encouraged trade and immigration, laid out the first town plan, and established Singapore as a major port.
Raffles also emphasized the importance of law and order, education, and cultural preservation. He founded the Singapore Institution (now Raffles Institution), one of the oldest schools in Singapore, and promoted the study of local flora and fauna, laying the groundwork for what would become the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
The free port status and strategic location of Singapore attracted a surge of trade, leading to rapid economic growth. By the mid-19th century, Singapore had become a crucial hub in the global trade network, handling goods ranging from spices and textiles to tin and rubber.
Raffles’ legacy is deeply ingrained in Singapore’s history. His vision of a multicultural, economically vibrant, and strategically significant city has shaped the nation’s development. Today, Raffles is honored as the founder of modern Singapore, with numerous landmarks named after him, including Raffles Hotel and Raffles Place, the city’s financial district.
Cuisine
Singaporean cuisine is a vibrant fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western influences, reflecting the country’s multicultural heritage. Some must-try dishes include :
Hainanese Chicken Rice : Often considered Singapore’s national dish, this simple yet flavorful meal consists of poached chicken and seasoned rice, served with chili sauce and ginger paste.
Chili Crab : A local favorite, chili crab features succulent crab cooked in a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce. It is best enjoyed with mantou (fried buns) to soak up the delicious gravy.
Laksa : This spicy noodle soup combines Chinese and Malay flavors, featuring rice noodles in a rich coconut curry broth, topped with shrimp, fish cakes, and bean sprouts.
Culture and History
Singapore’s culture is a vibrant tapestry of diverse influences, reflecting its history as a colonial trading post and its modern status as a global city. The main cultural influences include Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western traditions, creating a unique blend that is evident in its festivals, architecture, cuisine, and everyday life.
Chinese Influence : The Chinese community is the largest ethnic group in Singapore, and their cultural heritage is visible in various aspects of life. Festivals like Chinese New Year are celebrated with grand parades, lion dances, and traditional feasts. Chinatown is a bustling area where you can explore Chinese temples, traditional medicine shops, and markets.
Malay Influence : As the indigenous people of Singapore, the Malays have a rich cultural presence. The Kampong Glam area, with the Sultan Mosque and Malay Heritage Centre, is a testament to this heritage. Traditional Malay music, dance, and food are integral to the cultural landscape, and festivals like Hari Raya Aidilfitri are widely celebrated.
Indian Influence : Little India is a vibrant neighborhood that showcases the Indian community’s contributions to Singapore’s cultural diversity. Temples, such as the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, colorful markets, and a variety of Indian restaurants make this area a must-visit. Festivals like Deepavali light up the city with beautiful decorations and celebrations.
Western Influence : As a former British colony, Singapore retains several Western influences, particularly in its education system, legal framework, and architecture. The colonial district is home to landmarks like the Raffles Hotel and the old Supreme Court, now the National Gallery.
Culinary Culture : Singapore’s food scene is a microcosm of its multicultural identity. Hawker centers are the best places to experience this culinary diversity, offering a variety of dishes from different cultures at affordable prices. Signature dishes include Hainanese chicken rice, Malay nasi lemak, Indian roti prata, and the fusion Peranakan cuisine, which combines Chinese and Malay elements.
Festivals and Events : Singapore celebrates a multitude of festivals reflecting its cultural diversity. These include Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Deepavali, and Christmas. The city also hosts international events like the Singapore Grand Prix, the Singapore International Film Festival, and the Singapore Food Festival, attracting visitors from around the world.
Modern Culture : Today, Singapore is a global financial hub known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle, clean streets, and efficient public transportation. The city embraces modernity while preserving its cultural heritage, creating a dynamic environment that is both forward-looking and deeply rooted in tradition.