Singapore, also is known as the "city of the lion," is the icon of multiculturalism with citizens from diverse ethnicities, i.e., Malay, South Asian, East Asian, and European coexisting peacefully. From the birth of their unique language, Singlish (Singaporean + English), to its vibrant cuisine, which is influenced by all around Asia and Europe, this fusion of different ethnicities is deep-rooted into its modern contemporary society. The small city-state of Singapore is located on the southern tip of Malaysia and offers one of a kind experience different from any other Asian state. During your travel to Singapore, which can take place after getting one of the appropriate Singapore visa types you, can swim in exotic natural beaches to human-made infinity pools at the top of Marina Bay Sands Singapore. Moreover, from walking in the indoor gardens to hiking in the wild natural parks and stellar nightlife to bustling bazaars, the city essentially has everything.
In this travel guide, we will present to you 12 reasons why Singapore should be your vacation destination and what to do in Singapore. But before you start planning, make sure you have a handsome amount of cash in your account because getting around there will be expensive. Don't mistake its currency with other Asian countries since a U.S. dollar equals 1.33 Singaporean dollars.
1. Singapore Weather
Singapore weather remains pretty much the same throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit) to 32 degrees Celsius (89 degrees Fahrenheit). However, Singapore weather is very humid because of its proximity to the sea and the high temperature given its equatorial position. Since it is situated on the equator, which causes a high temperature and frequently heavy rainfalls because of its proximity to the sea, humidity is very high in Singapore weather. Hence, don't forget to pack an umbrella and raincoat.
Despite all the rainfall, it is one of the cleanest cities globally because of the hefty fine for littering and spitting. Moreover, there are unique spots for chewing gums and smoking, and one cannot indulge in these activities everywhere around the country.
2. Diverse Culture
Although the significant chunk of the Singapore population is the immigrants from China, Malaysia, and India, it also has residents from other parts of South, Central, and Pacific Asia. This has influenced the food, infrastructure, and national customs of this region. You can spot many neighbourhoods developed by a majority group where they tried to recreate their motherland. For example, Chinatown has its local streets designed liked China, Hawker centres, lanterns, vendors selling Chinese artefacts, and restraints serving Chinese food. Little India is another replica with temples, authentic streets, and Indian food. Arab Street is an Arab majority neighbourhood home to majestic mosques like Masjid Sultan, Arab cafes and restaurants selling tea, shops selling Persian carpets, and Arab textile.
3. Singaporean Cuisine
Consider Singaporean cuisine as puzzle pieces that join together to form its vibrant and diverse cuisine. Every dish in this country derives its influence from a different culture, and sometimes it is the marriage between two or more. All of this cultural borrowing has resulted in something distinctive, which is unlike anything else. For example, the famous fish head curry is of South Indian origin, Nasi Lemak is of Malay origin, and Bak kut teh is from Southern China. Stir-fried vegetables with noodles, curries made with coconut milk, and seafood such as crab cooked with spicy sauces. Durian, although a pungently smelling fruit, is an integral part of its food culture. You can find all these in Hawkes centres that serve the best possible variations of them at affordable prices.
4. Nightlife
There are probably two main indulgences every day among Singaporeans is eating and dancing. Its nightlife is one of the most happening and energetic in the world. They are known for partying till 3 in the morning with the city blasting with lights and music. The city centre is the nightlife hub with Marina Bay and Clarke Quay, offering rows of nightclubs and discos with breathtakingly beautiful scenery. Rooftop bars with spectacular views of its towering skyline have also hosted several international D.J.s, the likes of David Guetta. Some famous party spots you must visit during your travel to Singapore are;
- Zouk Singapore
- Orchard Road
- Club Street in Chinatown
- Holland Village
- Gardens by the Bay
5. Universal Studios
If you are a family travelling with kids, then these party spots might not be appropriate for your kids but fret not as Singapore has something to cater to your family's needs. (told you it has everything) The Extravaganza family theme park has the world's tallest roller coaster for daring adults and teens, life-size animation movie characters like Elmo, and minions for toddlers' entertainment S.E.A. Aquarium for a peek inside the underwater world. Turn this into a full-day adventure full of thrilling rides, incredible live shows, live performances, interaction with favourite Disney characters, water park swimming, V.R. fun, shopping, and a food spree at the in-house shops.
6. Shopping Spree
If you are a shopaholic and always looking for markets for some affordable steals or high brands to buy fancy clothing, then Singapore is the ultimate travel destination for you.
From luxury fashion brands to local economic stores at Orchard Road, thrift stores, and flea markets for second-hand sustainable shopping at Bugis Street, China Town, and Little India for ethnic shopping, the options are endless. Besides buying fashion items, you can also shop for spices, sauces, and local handicrafts that make perfect souvenirs.
This ultimate shopping spree is guaranteed to drain out your wallet, and you will most probably face the problem of excess baggage on your flight back home.
7. Architectural Wonders
As Singapore's physical facade has continuously been remodelling since the last few decades, the city is home to some of the eye-catching marvels of engineering.
Tallest Indoor waterfall
Its Changi airport has an indoor human-made 130 feet tall waterfall in its mall called "Jewel."The airport also has a Cloud forest full of lush green vegetation with a state-of-the-art greenhouse.
Gardens by the Bay
An artistic marvel of Horticulture, located adjacent to Marina Reservoir, is a spectacular showcase of plants and vegetation unlike anything else in the world.
Helix Bridge
The shaped like the D.N.A. helix bridges the way between Marina Center and Marina South near the Marina Bay area.
8. Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands, a real estate icon owned by the Las Vegas Sands Corporation, is a luxury hotel with the world's largest rooftop infinity pool. If you can afford this luxury, then it is suggested to book their staycation packages for a weekend getaway, honeymoon, or any celebration. But we have a sneaky hack for budget travellers too. It costs 20 dollars to visit the pool alone, but you can say that you are going to the rooftop bar, which has free entry. Then spend your money on a drink. Marina Bay Sands has its clubs, discos, 20 dining options, bars, cinema, and rooms with majestic views of the city's skyline.
9. Beaches
During your travel to Singapore, you will come across picturesque turquoise blue beaches with white sandy beaches. Ah! Perfect tropical heaven to unwind and soak up in the sun. Here is a list of beaches in Singapore with the vibe they have to offer.
- Palawan Beach – Perfect Beach
- Siloso Beach – Lively Beach
- Tanjong Beach – Party Beach
- Changi Beach – Tropical Beach
- Punggol Beach – Beach full of boulders and history
- Kusu Island – Unexplored Beaches
- Pulau Ubin Island – Rustic Beaches
10. Wildlife and Natural Parks
Now let's talk about nature; the greenery there is not only limited to artificial gardens and parks as there are plenty of natural forests and wildlife parks as well. Almost 45% area of the country is covered with vegetation, so don't forget to look beyond the shiny skyscrapers. Singapore Zoo is a rainforest zoo that is not only home to wild animals that can be explored at night during a night safari. You can also hire a small cruise for a boat safari and enjoy this beauty from the water.
11. Security
Probably the major perk of visiting Singapore is the chance to experience the city late at night. You can walk safely even after 3 in the morning because of its busy nightlife. Live your dream of roaming through a city late at night and enjoying a spectacular sunrise view at the marina bay or from a rooftop bar. Another reason for its safety is the heavy penalties and elegance, which has resulted in one of the world's lowest crime rates.
12. Things to do in Singapore
You might be wondering that it is only a city-state and covers an area of 722 km2, so what to do in Singapore. Well, it might be relatively smaller in the area, but it encompasses a multitude of entertainment options. Here are some answers to the "what to do in Singapore?" question:
- Watching Formula 1 Cars
- Light Show at the Fountain of Wealth
- Singapore Flyer
- Water Adventure
- Indoor Sky Diving
- Reverse Bungy
- Forest Obstacle
- Eye in the Sky
- Kayaking
With everything you can experience and explore in Singapore, it is ideal for travelling post-pandemic to end the quarantine blues before returning to normal.
