Things to know as a Tourist in Singapore

Singapore, one of the world’s smallest countries, is an exciting and mesmerising place that has come to light as a significant tourist attraction. The sparkling skyscrapers, luxury buildings, malls, zoos, parks, and adventure parks have made Singapore a famous holiday destination. However, certain things, like the rules of social conduct and the general customs that every tourist in Singapore must bear in mind before you book your bus ticket to Singapore.

12 Things every Tourist in Singapore must know

Here are some valuable tips that will help ensure that your trip to Singapore is a smooth, safe, and enjoyable one:

Singapore’s Weather

Singapore is warm all year long, and the humidity in the air is relatively high. In such climatic conditions, it is essential to keep yourself hydrated and carry small towels and an extra set of clothes in your backpack as you may get sweaty. 

Duty-free Regulations

Singapore has stringent duty-free regulations, especially for cigarettes. Any tobacco purchased is liable to be taxed. The restrictions are less severe for alcohol within permissible quantities. Narcotic drugs of any kind are strictly prohibited.

Singaporean Subway System

Singapore is an expensive city, and most people rely on the MRT for transportation. It is one of the best public transportation systems globally and is an affordable and efficient means to get around. There are also convenient bus connections near the stations. You should also keep an eye out for the reserved seats allocated to the elderly, physically disabled persons, and pregnant women.

Taxis in Singapore

Taxi drivers in Singapore are legally bound to charge meter prices, so do not attempt negotiations with taxi drivers. However, traveling by taxi can burn a hole in your pocket, so if you are on a budget, stick to the public transportation systems. 

Law and Order in Singapore

This one city-State is one of the safest countries in the world, even for solo female travelers. However, it is not crime-free, and you should be mindful of scams or drunken brawls. Singapore has stringent laws, including the prohibition on manufacturing or selling chewing gum and the criminalization of homosexuality.

Language in Singapore

Singaporean English, or “Singlish,” is commonly spoken by most Singaporeans. ONce you get used to the local colloquiums, you will realize that most Singaporeans speak faster English than Americans or Europeans.

Travel Season

While there aren’t different weather seasons in Singapore, it is advisable to avoid traveling to Singapore during the haze. This occurs when the annual Sumatran forest fires and the city is covered in smog. 

Smooth Bus Connectivity 

If you wish to travel to nearby places, buses are a great option to travel on a budget. Be it Penang, Kuala Lumpur or Genting Highlands, you can find buses for all the destinations from Singapore. You can book bus tickets online for several routes such as – 

• Singapore to Kuala Lumpur
• Singapore to Malacca
• Singapore to Johor Bahru
• Singapore to Genting Highlands
• Singapore to Ipoh

Best of all, the smooth bus connectivity is offered by impeccable bus operators such as –

• Transtar Bus
• StarMart Express
• Supernice Grassland
• KKKL Express
• 707 inc

Free Wi-Fi

You can avoid those international roaming charges with free Wi-Fi provided at most cafes, restaurants, and public places. It is powered by “Wireless@SG” and is available to anyone.

Dining out

Eating in Singapore is relatively affordable, and you can find numerous 24-hour restaurants as well. Hawker Centres, food courts, and “Kopi-tiams” are great places to devour some local food. It is a custom to reserve seats with packets of tissues or umbrellas.

Alcohol and Cigarette Consumption in Singapore

Smoking and drinking in Singapore can be an expensive affair unless you decide to drink at the hawker centres or kopi-tiams. You also have to be mindful of the alcohol consumption regulations like the prohibition on consuming alcohol in unlicensed public places from 10:30 P.M. to 7:00 A.M.

Transactions in Singapore

While there has been a move towards cashless transactions in Singapore, there are still numerous occasions on which you would require cash. If you are visiting hawker centres, Koti-tiams, or residential neighbourhood shops, it is good to carry around 50 to 100 dollars with you.

Singapore Tourism

Be sure to attend cultural festivals like the Singapore Jazz Festival, The Singapore International Festival of Arts, public parks, bazaars, residential neighborhoods, and free attractions like the HSBC Sky Vortex, Singapore Botanic Gardens, and light-and-water shows at the Marina Bay Sands.

Getting around Singapore is a piece of cake as well with a several platforms and modes of booking a bus ticket. But, it doesn’t get easier than booking a bus ticket with redBus, Singapore.