An Ultimate Guide to Singapore

The word “Singapore” is derived from the Sanskrit words “Singh,” meaning Lion, and “Pur,” meaning city, symbolizing the nation as the city of Lion. Located in Southeast Asia, Singapore is an independent, small country with the world’s busiest port. Known for its clean and green streets, Singapore is renowned for its strict laws and fines. It stands as one of the most popular travel destinations globally.

Languages in Singapore

English is the most spoken language in Singapore, with other languages such as Malay, Tamil, Singaporean Mandarin, and various Chinese dialects also widely spoken across the country.

Nearby countries in Singapore ( Malaysia)

Singapore is a developed country in Asia, located on an island surrounded by other popular tourist destinations such as Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. These countries attract visitors from around the world.

Time in Singapore

India and Singapore have a time difference of 2.5 hours, with Singapore being 2 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time.

How to reach Singapore?

When it comes to flights, the cheapest options are usually available from Chennai, with round-trip fares ranging from 16000 to 17000 rupees. Direct flights from Mumbai and Kolkata are priced between 18000 to 20000 rupees, while flights from Delhi can cost up to 25000 rupees for a round trip per person. Flight fares tend to vary based on the season.

Visa for Singapore ( https://www.ica.gov.sg/)

To travel to Singapore, it’s essential to apply for a visa well in advance, as the country does not offer a visa on arrival. The application process typically takes 45 to 60 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry and have a passport-size photograph meeting specific requirements. You’ll also need to submit a Form 14A application letter and provide supporting documents such as income details. If a company sponsors you, include a sponsorship letter, or if you’re a guest, have an invitation letter. Additionally, ensure you have a confirmed return flight ticket and hotel booking for your stay.

SIM cards in Singapore ( Klook)

For first-time travelers to Singapore, getting a SIM card is essential for safety purposes. While free wifi is available at most tourist places, hotels, airports, and metro stations in Singapore, it’s advisable to avoid buying SIM cards from the airport as they tend to be more expensive. Instead, you can purchase a SIM card for around 500 Rupees in the markets of Singapore.

Currency in Singapore

The currency of Singapore is the Singapore Dollar, with 1 SGD equivalent to 62 INR. When traveling to Singapore, it’s advisable to convert INR to Singapore Dollars or US Dollars in India, as airport currency exchange rates are typically higher. Forex or international credit cards are widely accepted in Singapore, offering convenience for transactions.

However, it’s important to note that taxes may apply for every debit transaction. Additionally, 7-Eleven or other subsidiary marts provide the NETS card or the EZ-Link Card, which is a prepaid card used for local travel, dining, shopping, and more. These cards can be recharged if needed, with a minimum recharge amount of 10 to 20 dollars.

Convenience in Singapore

The metro is the ideal means of long-distance transportation in Singapore, with a minimum fare of 1 Singapore Dollar for local travel. The metro routes are similar to the Delhi metro, featuring blue, yellow, and pink lines. For groups of four, a taxi is a better choice, with a minimum fare of 200 rupees and an additional charge of 40 to 60 rupees per kilometer. As tourist spots are located nearby, transportation expenses are minimal. Additionally, to visit Sentosa, a monorail service is available from the HarbourFront metro station, and it’s free of charge. In Sentosa, visitors can enjoy free transportation options such as buses and battery cars. These convenient modes of transport make exploring the island hassle-free and enjoyable.

Food and Dining in Singapore

For vegetarian food options in Singapore, consider shopping at a grocery store in Little India market. Here, you can find a variety of Indian groceries including biscuits, butter, Maggi, cornflakes, and Dalia. On average, expect to spend around 100-200 Singaporean Dollars on food. It’s advisable to budget at least 500 Singaporean Dollars per person for food for the entire trip.

Best time to visit Singapore

For an affordable trip to Singapore, plan your visit between December and June, avoiding peak seasons like New Year or other holidays.

Where to stay in Singapore?

To get an affordable stay in Singapore with good metro connectivity look for hotels in areas like Chinatown or Clarke Quay.

Hotel Soloha: Situated just a 7-minute walk from Chinatown, this property is surrounded by over 5 Indian restaurants. The hotel offers amenities such as free WiFi, daily housekeeping, air conditioning, and smoke detectors. The average price for a night’s stay for 2 adults is 10000 rupees.

Mercure Singapore on Stevens: Located in Orchard, Singapore, this hotel is a 3-kilometer drive to Little India. It costs 10700 rupees for 2 adults per night and offers amenities such as a kids’ play area, swimming pool, gym, and nightclub. The hotel offers a range of different rooms with breakfast and lunch or dinner facilities available for an additional fee. Nearby Indian outlets and a metro station within walking distance provide easy connectivity.

Dorsett Singapore: Situated in Chinatown, Singapore, this hotel is approximately 1.5 kilometers away from Clarke Quay. The cost is 13300 rupees per night for 2 adults and includes a complimentary breakfast. The hotel also offers currency exchange services. It is highly rated on MakeMyTrip.

The Bohemian: The Bohemian is a hostel situated in Chinatown, Singapore. Located just a 4-kilometer drive from Little India, this hostel offers a bar, barbecue facilities, shared bathrooms, and free WiFi. Prices at the hostel start from 3400 rupees per night for a single bed in a female room, including a complimentary breakfast. Prices may vary depending on the deck and the type of capsule chosen.

Places to Visit in Singapore

In Singapore, there are no natural locations to visit; all tourist spots are man-made, including numerous buildings, malls, and zoos.

Day-wise Itinerary

Day 1

Your first day in Singapore can start at the airport, where a free bus is available to take you to the Jewel. The Jewel is a mall that features an artificial view of nature. You can submit your luggage in lockers, which cost between 600 to 700 rupees. The entry ticket prices range from 500 to 3000 rupees, depending on the chosen activity. However, it’s not necessary to carry your luggage and visit the Jewel immediately; you can opt to visit it on the last day of your trip instead. Exploring the entire Jewel typically takes around 3 hours.

DAY 2

On the second day in Singapore, your journey begins with a visit to Sentosa, accessible by either metro or cable car. The cable car ride offers a scenic view, costing up to 1000 rupees for one side.

It is highly recommended to explore Universal Studios, despite being a bit expensive, as it is truly worth it. The entry fee is around 5000-6000 rupees per person, and exploring the entire studio typically takes half a day. Expect long queues, so be prepared for that.

Located opposite Universal Studios is the sea aquarium, with an entry ticket costing around 3000 rupees per person. It takes about an hour or two to explore the entire aquarium. In the evening, consider attending the Wings of Time show, known for its extravagant fireworks, which costs around 1000 to 1200 rupees for a ticket.

DAY 3

Board the Garden by the Bay metro in the morning between 9 to 10 am to reach directly to Garden by the Bay directly, where you can witness an artificially created view of nature. Explore the cloud forests, flower dome, and man-made waterfall, all designed to provide a natural ambiance. It typically takes about 2 hours to visit the entire place, with entry ticket prices ranging from 2000 to 3500 rupees, depending on the facilities availed.

Next, head to the Marina Bay area, home to the Arts and Science Museum, with tickets priced between 2000 to 3000 rupees. While this destination may not be budget-friendly, you can still enjoy clicking pictures inside the mall or at the neighboring buildings. For those interested in art and culture, a visit to the Red Dot Design Museum is recommended, with entry tickets costing 600 to 700 rupees. Additionally, to add excitement to your trip and create memorable experiences for kids, consider visiting Jumptokiya.

In the evening, around 4 to 5 pm, cross the main river of Singapore to reach the iconic lion statue, a symbol of Singapore where you can take photos. The statue looks mesmerizing after sunset, illuminated by the city lights. Experience the nightlife of Singapore or explore the shopping streets to make the most of your evening.

DAY 4

The fourth day of the trip starts again from Sentosa. Around 10 am, take the HarborFront Metro using the Freez Metro service. Visit the Sky Helix in Sentosa, where you can take photos and enjoy drinks at an affordable price of only 1000 rupees. However, budget-conscious travelers may not find it worthwhile. Next to the Sky Helix is Madame Tussauds Museum, with an entry fee of 1500 rupees.

Alternatively, you can visit the waterpark in Singapore. Activities like bungee jumping and the Giant Swing are available in the afternoon. A single activity costs 6000 rupees, while both activities are available at 10000 to 11000 rupees. These activities provide a great adventure and fun. For those not interested in these activities, relaxing at the beachside is a great option.

In the evening, explore Chinatown, where you can find the cheapest items in Singapore.

DAY 5

Start your fifth day with an early morning metro ride around 7 am to the Singapore Zoo. Experience a unique adventure by having breakfast with the animals. Spend half of the day exploring the zoo, and then head to the River Wander. The whole day trip costs 5000 to 6000 rupees per person.

In the evening, visit the Little India market, where you can experience a taste of India in Singapore and shop for edible items.

For a breathtaking view of Singapore at night, visit the Singapore Flyer, which costs 2500 rupees. If budget allows, consider enjoying a romantic dinner at the Singapore Flyer, costing between 20000 to 25000 rupees.

DAY 6

For those with an extra day in Singapore, there are several options to consider. You can explore the Night Safari, experience the high sky at various observation points, or enjoy a skyline view of the city.

Where to eat in Singapore?

Vegetarian outlets are readily available throughout Singapore. Additionally, in front of the Wings of Time show, there is an Indian restaurant offering a vegetarian thali priced at 600 to 700 rupees.

Other tips before Planning a trip to Singapore

To avail of hotels and flights at a cheaper rate, book in advance.
Singapore, known for its expensive reputation, offers affordable shopping options in Chinatown. Electronics are also available at more budget-friendly rates compared to India.
While there aren’t many nightlife activities to explore in Singapore, there are still plenty of options for entertainment and dining.
For affordable groceries, visit 7-Eleven, and for easy transportation, use the Grab application. For booking tourist activities, consider using the Klook application.
It’s advisable to always carry your passport with you
When traveling to Singapore, it’s advisable to carry a minimum of 100 to 200 Singapore dollars in cash. Additionally, it’s recommended to keep 500 Singapore dollars on hand for visiting tourist spots.
Pack summery clothes for your trip.
While travel insurance is not mandatory
It is recommended to keep in mind that getting a package for a trip to Singapore can be expensive, so budget accordingly.

Budget to travel in Singapore

Singapore is known for being an expensive travel destination. A 6-day and 5-night itinerary is typically sufficient to explore the entirety of Singapore. An average round-trip flight to Singapore for two adults can cost up to 50,000 rupees.

Visa costs for Singapore are around 2500 rupees. Accommodation in a decent hotel can be found for 10000 to 12000 rupees per night for 2 adults. Meals typically cost around 1200 to 1500 rupees per person per meal. Transportation costs in Singapore are reasonable, with an estimated total of 5000 rupees for the entire trip.

The major expenses in Singapore are usually related to activities and attractions. An individual can expect to spend around 6000 rupees per day on activities. For a budget projection for two adults traveling to Singapore:

Flight- 50000 (for round trip)

Visa- 5000

Hotel- 60000

Meals- 36000

Transportation- 5000

Activities- 36000

For a 6-day, 5-night trip to Singapore for two adults, an estimated budget of 192000 rupees can be projected. However, prices may vary depending on the season. For budget-conscious travelers, the cost can be reduced to 111000 rupees for 5 days and 4 nights. To reduce costs, flights can be booked in advance, with round-trip fares potentially as low as 32000 rupees. Staying at hostels, which can cost around 4000 rupees per night, and opting for thalis for meals, which cost 800 to 900 rupees each, can also help save money. Daily expenditure on meals would then be around 1800 rupees. Using the metro for transportation can cost around 2000 rupees for the entire trip. Additionally, limiting activities to major attractions can further reduce costs to around 20000 rupees. A budget-friendly itinerary could include:

Flight- 32000 (for round trip)