The Ultimate Guide to a Fun and Frugal Singapore Vacation

If you're planning a trip to Singapore, look no further! This article will be your ultimate guide and provide you with valuable insights to make your travel plans a breeze. From exploring the vibrant cityscape to uncovering hidden gems, we'll ensure you have a memorable journey. So, get ready to dive into a world of excitement and discover why Singapore is a destination like no other.

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Singapore is a captivating destination that attracts many tourists. Let’s explore some super fun and cost-effective tips for traveling to this amazing country in the article below.

1What is the best time to visit Singapore?

The most suitable time to visit Singapore is from December to February. During this period, Singapore experiences a temperate climate with cool and pleasant weather.

July and August are also popular months for travelers

Additionally, July and August are months that many tourists choose to visit Singapore. This is when many famous brands in Singapore hold grand “super sale” events.

2 What do I need to prepare for my trip to Singapore?

Passport: According to the regulations of countries, when traveling abroad, a passport is required for entry and exit procedures, and Singapore is no exception. Also, your passport must be valid for at least six months.

Vietnamese citizens are also exempt from visas when visiting Singapore. However, the visa exemption is only applicable if your stay does not exceed 30 days. Therefore, when entering Singapore, you should also prepare documents proving your length of stay.

Return air ticket: Singapore will grant a visa exemption to Vietnamese citizens if you have a valid passport and a return air ticket. So, make sure you have a return air ticket to facilitate your entry and prove your length of stay in Singapore.

Essential items for traveling to Singapore

Cash and credit cards: It is advisable to carry a moderate amount of cash, sufficient for your needs. If you plan to carry more than $5000, you must declare it to customs in advance. Alternatively, you can opt to bring credit cards instead of a large amount of cash.

Plastic bottles: Drinking water in Singapore tends to be expensive. Bringing your own plastic bottles allows you to fill up at public water dispensers, helping you save a significant amount of money.

Power adapters: The type of power outlet commonly used in Singapore is the three-pin square socket.

The distinctive feature of this type of power outlet lies in the third pin, which is an earth pin that serves as a safety measure against electric shocks. This characteristic makes the three-pin power outlet inherently safer for users.

Hence, to utilize your electrical devices for charging phones, cameras, and so on, it is advisable to bring compatible power adapters.

Electricity: However, Singapore uses 220-245W electricity, similar to Vietnam, so you don’t have to worry too much about bringing your electronic devices on your trip.

Three-pin square power outlet

Other essential items such as clothing, shoes, hats, and personal items: Pack only the essentials that are truly necessary and suitable for your needs.

3 Where should I stay in Singapore for convenient dining and entertainment options?

If you are a passionate shopper, you may want to consider staying in hotels along Orchard Road, a bustling and vibrant area with numerous shopping malls.

Choosing the right accommodation

Hotels near Marina Bay offer a fantastic choice if you wish to explore many of Singapore’s attractions. From here, you can easily access and enjoy various fascinating destinations such as Garden by the Bay, Skypark, ArtScience Museum, and more.

If you’re seeking more entertainment and fun activities, consider staying in the Sentosa area, a wonderful blend of cultural heritage, nature, and resorts.

4 What mode of transportation should I use when traveling in Singapore?

In Singapore, there are numerous transportation options to choose from, including the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) train system, buses, grab services, and river taxis.

Among these, the MRT is the fastest and most commonly used mode of public transportation in the city center. The MRT in Singapore is efficient and easy to navigate, with ample signage and instructions.

Using the MRT system

Additionally, the MRT rail network covers all the major tourist spots in Singapore. Therefore, for tourists, the MRT is the most convenient and accessible mode of public transportation.

5 What local delicacies should I try in Singapore?

Bak Kut Teh (Pork Rib Soup): This dish is prepared by simmering pork ribs until tender and seasoning them with spices such as star anise and pepper, resulting in a tea-like broth.

Bak Kut Teh (Pork Rib Soup)

Wonton Noodles: The Singaporean version of wonton noodles is characterized by dry noodles topped with a slightly sweet sauce. The dish is typically served with char siew (barbecued pork), wonton dumplings filled with minced pork, and a small bowl of soup.

Wonton Noodles

Singapore-style Fried Carrot Cake: This dish is made with eggs, preserved radish, and white radish flour. The carrot cake can be prepared in various ways.

Singapore-style Fried Carrot Cake

Dimsum: Typically, a Dimsum set in Singapore includes dishes such as BBQ pork buns, Xiao Long Bao soup dumplings, Siew Mai steamed pork dumplings, and Chee Cheong Fun rice noodle rolls.

Delicious food in Singapore

With its diverse culture, Singapore boasts a plethora of delectable and enticing dishes for you to indulge in during your visit.

6 Should I travel to Singapore on a tour or independently?

The choice depends on your personal preferences and interests. You can opt for a guided tour or explore Singapore independently.

For first-time visitors to Singapore, joining a tour is advisable. This option helps you avoid potential challenges with transportation and allows you to visit more attractions.

Choosing the right travel style

On the other hand, if you have previously visited Singapore or have experience traveling independently, you may prefer to explore Singapore on your own. This gives you more flexibility with your time and allows you to discover unique and exciting places.

7 What events and festivals take place in Singapore?

Christmas: Celebrated annually from November to January, Christmas is a significant festival for Christians. Visiting Singapore during this period allows you to indulge in shopping and explore beautifully decorated locations.

Chinese New Year: Chinese New Year is a traditional festival celebrated by Singaporeans to welcome the new year. It shares many similarities with Vietnamese New Year and is a special occasion to visit Singapore.

Hari Raya Puasa: Organized by Singapore’s Muslim community, the festival features stunning decorations in the city’s neighborhoods, along with traditional food, crafts, and clothing on sale.

Hari Raya Puasa celebrations in Singapore

Pongal Festival: Held in mid-January every year, the streets of Singapore come alive with colorful flags, music, and drums, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

In addition, Singapore hosts numerous other fascinating events and festivals throughout the year.

8 How many days are ideal for a trip to Singapore?

The ideal duration for a trip to Singapore is 3-4 days

To explore Singapore’s beauty and experience its local life, 3-4 days is the ideal duration. This timeframe allows you to plan your itinerary to cover the prominent attractions in Singapore.

9 What are the must-visit places in Singapore?

Marina Bay: As Singapore’s top tourist attraction, Marina Bay is renowned for its iconic Merlion statue, a mythical creature with a lion’s head and a fish’s body, spouting water into the bay. The surrounding area offers a variety of entertainment and shopping options.

Orchard Road: If you enjoy shopping, this is the place to be. You can find fashion items for yourself or unique souvenirs for your loved ones. Moreover, the area comes alive at night, with a bustling and vibrant atmosphere.

Marina Bay, Singaporep>

Singapore Flyer: Offering breathtaking panoramic views, the Singapore Flyer is the country’s tallest structure. From here, you can admire the city’s stunning skyline and modern architecture.

Garden by the Bay: This unique garden features large trees shaped in various sizes and styles. At night, the garden transforms into a magical and enchanting space with stunning lighting effects.

10 What souvenirs should I buy in Singapore?

Merlion-themed souvenirs: In Singapore, the Merlion is a famous mythical creature with a lion’s head and a fish’s body. Its image is used on various souvenirs such as lighters and keychains.

Kaya Jam: This unique jam is made from coconut milk and eggs, resulting in a delicious and distinctive flavor. It makes an excellent gift for your loved ones.

Souvenir options in Singapore

Laksa Paste: Laksa paste is a flavorful blend of curry, coconut milk, chili, and other spices. It enhances the taste of dishes and makes a great gift for food lovers.

Handicrafts and artworks: You can find a wide variety of handicrafts and artworks at the Singapore Handicraft Centre (located in Chinatown). These decorative items hold sentimental value and can be cherished for a long time.

11 What are some essential things to keep in mind when traveling to Singapore?

If you plan to visit Universal Studios Singapore (USS), it is advisable to go on a weekday instead of a weekend to enjoy lower ticket prices. Typically, shopping malls and attractions are open from 10 am to 10 pm.

Singapore’s tap water is safe for drinking, so you can freely drink from public water dispensers.

Always dispose of your trash in designated bins to avoid hefty fines.

Important things to remember when traveling to Singapore

  • The MRT ceases operations at