Singapore
Destination Guide
How to use my destination guides
My destination guides are organised in two main sections:
Overview
This will help you to decide if this is a location for you, and if so, where you may want to spend your time. For larger countries, I also provide additional overviews of different regions, states and territories.
Specific Recommendations
Here I list specific things to see and do. For each, I provide star ratings so that you can easily see how good, unique and adventurous each place is. This means that you can easily pick out where sounds right for you!
Photos note: All of the photos you see on my website are taken by me or of me!
Overview
Singapore is a city-state located in south-east Asia. As a former British colony, many people speak English (it is also their national language) but there are 3 main demographics there: Chinese, Indian and Malay.
I absolutely love Singapore, it is like no other city that I have ever been to! It is super high-tech and modern and also beautiful, as someone who isn’t much of a city person, I still love it here. It’s quite humid and coastal, as it is a famous trading port. As a city-state, they have no land to expand on; they have reclaimed some land from the sea, but other than that, they have just planned their city really, really well. It’s very clean (chewing gum is illegal there) and their Botanical Gardens are awesome. A lot of people don’t go because they think it’s expensive – it’s not. Don’t get me wrong, it’ll cost you more than other places in the region, such as Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia etc., but by the standards of other western cities, I would say it’s comparable for accommodation, but other things, such as food and transport, are far cheaper.
You can eat out at the many amazing ‘Hawker’ markets where cuisine from all different cultures is available in stalls and you can eat out on the tables in the centre, with each person getting food from their venue of choice but eating together. This is better than most restaurant food I’ve had in the rest of the world and for a good price! Some of these stalls are even Michelin star.
Words can’t do this city justice! In my opinion, it’s very ‘sci-fi’: clean, well organised and efficient. You can see skyscrapers with trees on, beautiful architecture and even old architecture, such as in Chinatown. It’s a melting pot of people, cultures and cuisines. Also, the airport – WOW! The airport is a destination in itself; it has a huge circular waterfall through the middle of it, gardens, you name it. You can also check in your bags several hours before your departing flight and they take it to your terminal so that you can spend time in their central area and enjoy it – highly recommend. It’s a beautiful city in the day and at night. A lot is very modern, but it has its fair share of history too, it’s a bit touristy, but you still have to check out Raffles Hotel and get yourself a Singapore Sling.
Language
The whole country speaks English to varying degrees – it is their national language and was a former British colony. This makes it easy to travel and have a great time. Many people speak Chinese as their first language and I generally found Singaporeans of Chinese descent to speak the least English on average, with those of Indian and Malay descent speaking more. I was a little surprised by how little English some people spoke there, as I was under the impression everyone learned English in school. Regardless it’s easy to get around and everyone speaks at least some English.
Economy and Safety
Singapore is, as far as I am aware, about as safe a place as it’s possible to be. Crime seems to be under control, it has a strong economy and the streets are spotlessss and safe. Travel and food are cheap but accommodation and attractions can set you back a bit.
Travel Ease
The Singapore metro system (MRT) is the best I have ever seen! It’s incredibly cheap, super clean, efficient and so easy to get around in. Most people in Singapore don’t drive but use the metro. Public transport can easily get you anywhere and it’s genuinely a joy and an education to behold. Tax money well spent!
The People
They’re ace! My rental car in New Zealand broke down and I hitchhiked with some Singaporeans in their camper to get back to where I needed to be and met up with them again when I was over there. They showed me the hawker markets and we hung out, which made my life better there, seeing some locals. Like any big city, you have a lot of business people who need to get on with their day and they are used to tourists and internationals there (especially Brits such as myself), but they’re really nice, polite and friendly. Also, like I say, it’s super safe.
History
Singapore was a British colony until 1957 (except for being briefly occupied by the Japanese in WWII) and it was one of Britain’s most important colonies. It was an important trading post and naval base for the British, with Winston Churchill dubbing it ‘the Gibraltar of the East’ as it guards the Malacca Straight – the fastest trading route from the Pacific (China, etc.) into the Indian Ocean. For the British trade would flow through here from China, British Hong Kong and head west via Indian then through the Suez Canal in Egypt and back to Europe.
Singapore originally gained its independence as part of Malaysia in 1957, but then seceded from Malaysia in 1965.
Overview Summary
Singapore is an amazing city. There is loads to do and it looks really unique! I feel that so many cities are all very much the same, but to me, Singapore really stands out. If nothing else, it’s worth going just to see how well a place can run when people can put all their focus into one city. It’s a great city and one which really made me feel at home.
Specific Recommendations
How to interpret my specific recommendations
My specific recommendations are listed below. Firstly, you will find: its name, a quick link to locate and save it to your Google Maps, and for some, a photo. The photos, if present, like all those on this page, have either been taken by me or feature me in them. If you save the location to your Google Maps, I suggest that you add a note on there too, to remind you that you heard about it here. A good way to do this is by copying my website link into the location description. This way, you can check back here nearer the time of your visit to jog your memory as to what is there. I use Google Maps to plan all of my trips and, when used to its full potential, it is incredible! If you haven’t already, check out my blog post on how I use Google Maps to revolutionise my travels!
I provide a description of each location, as well as a duration estimate for how long you may want to spend at that location, to help with your planning.
I also provide star ratings for three categories.
Andy Argo
My overall rating
Worth seeing if you’re passing
Worth a detour if you have time
A must see!
Adventure
The level of exertion and danger involved
Easy to access, low risk and no strenuous exercise required
Some exercise is required, such as hiking. Some risks, such as bad weather, uneven ground, steep edges, etc.
Involves more exercise, greater danger or both. Examples include diving or scrambling up mountains, where experience is required.
Uniqueness
How well known and unique a destination is
A well-known destination or one that is not overly unique. I have listed restaurants in this category as food is everywhere.
Somewhat unknown or unique
Very unique
Some other points to note are:
- I like a bit of danger and history, so you may find that my ‘Andy Argo’ star ratings are sometimes (but not always) a little biased in favour of these types of locations.
- On my ‘Andy Argo’ stars, if I have given something one star, it’s good and worth doing. Having one star doesn’t mean it’s bad; it’s still high praise, as I only include the crème de la crème on this list!
- My duration recommendations are based on what I think is the minimum amount of time you would want to spend there. I always recommend being spontaneous when travelling and changing plans depending on your circumstances, how you feel, and following advice from locals. Remember you’re there to enjoy it, so don’t feel rushed and stressed, you’re on holiday!
- In a small handful of instances, I have included somewhere I have been with zero Andy Argo stars. I have done this a handful of times for very touristy places. These are locations which I have been to and which are sufficiently famous that I think people would wonder why they aren’t on the list, but which, in my opinion, don’t make the cut and are overrated (sorry).
- I have been to the vast majority of these recommendations; however, sometimes I include several locations which I haven’t been to for the following reasons:
- A friend of mine has been there and has highly recommended it to me.
- Internet searches suggest it sounds noteworthy enough to include.
Disclaimer – I am not responsible for your safety or enjoyment at any of these locations. Everything I have recommended here is based on my experience and opinion. I may have recommended places I visited years ago or, as mentioned previously, a handful which I have had recommended to me. Do your own research before visiting any attractions to ensure that you think you will enjoy them and that they are sufficiently safe. My recommended duration times are also estimates based on my opinion; do your own further research and plan accordingly. I have recommended places which I think people will like, but it is all based on my opinion; I may love something that you hate. Be sure to have sufficient travel insurance and make your own judgments. Check weather forecasts and consult reputable local guidance before visiting anywhere you seek to visit. For more adventurous activities, ensure that you are physically and mentally prepared and that you have the right supervision, equipment, and training for the activity. Long story short, use some common sense and don’t sue me, I’m broke enough already. Happy travels, Andy
Specific Recommendations
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Building
Recommended Duration: 2 hours+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
This is not just an airport – this is an architectural and artistic marvel! When you leave Singapore, go early for your flight and drop off your bags. They are so organised, they send your bags to your terminal so that you can spend more time in the airport itself, which I’d highly recommend! It’s literally got a circular waterfall cascading down from the roof and gardens in there, it is stunning and like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Gardens
Recommended Duration: 4 hours+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
This is awesome! Many of you will be familiar with it already, given its fame, but it’s definitely worth the hype. There are the famous man-made metal trees with plants growing up them, which you can go up and explore.
Also, there are massive domes full of plants and artificial waterfalls. In the evening, you can also see incredible light shows, which are well worth it. This is a must-do if you go to Singapore; it’s not cheap, but it’s worth it and you can’t see anything like this elsewhere in the world.
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Viewpoint and building
Recommended Duration: 1 hour+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
Even if you choose not to pay to go up to the observation deck, at least go to the harbour and look at this amazing building! For those of you who aren’t familiar with it, it looks like three skyscrapers with a ship ontop. You can pay to go up to the observation deck (book online first is my advice) and get an amazing view; it’s worth it! There are also rooftop bars and a shopping mall on the ground floor. You can also stay here, which I’m sure is incredible, but it’s not cheap.
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Waterfront / Viewpoint
Recommended Duration: 30 mins+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
Walk around the bay, taking in the scenery and architecture. You’ll get views of the Marina Bay Sands hotel, the ArtScience Museum, which looks a bit like a hand and in the evening you can see a free light show there.
Chinatown
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: District
Recommended Duration: 1 day+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
I stayed here and really enjoyed it and would recommend that others stay in this area. It’s safe, has good food and has easy access everywhere.
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: District
Recommended Duration: 2 hours+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
Little India has some cool attractions like the Former House of Tan Teng and just walking the streets and buying stuff is cool.
Fort Canning Park
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: City park
Recommended Duration: 20 mins+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
A small but nice inner city park.
Arab Street
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Street
Recommended Duration: 15 mins+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
A historical and attractive street, its worth taking a small detour to if you have time.
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Bar
Recommended Duration: 30 mins+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
Where the Singapore Sling was invented. It’s a cool historic bar which takes you back in time to the colonial era.
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Temple
Recommended Duration: 1 hour+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
Beautiful temple located in Chinatown.
City Gallery
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Map
Recommended Duration: 15 mins+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
I’m a nerd for good architecture and city planning. This is a free museum with a great 3D plan of the city, which also explains what is changing in the city state. I found it really interesting. It’s close to Chinatown too, so you may as well pop in on your way to or from there.
Lau Pa Sat
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Food and drink
Recommended Duration: 1 hour+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
A famous hawker market selling street food. The food in Singapore is amazing, with plenty of choice. There are even some Michelin-star award-winning chefs working at Hawker markets in the city! Follow your nose and enjoy!
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Island with activities and beaches
Recommended Duration: 3 hours+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
You can take cable cars over to this island, which has beaches and other attractions. The cable car gives you a great view of the city.
Singapore Metro (MRT)
Adventure
Andy Argo
Uniqueness
Category: Transport
Recommended Duration: 20 mins+
Andy visited?: Yes
Description
That’s right, the Singapore MRT (metro) gets its own mention! You will likely end up on this anyway, as most Singaporeans and visitors use it. It’s easily the fastest way around (faster than driving and taxis) and it’s cheap, clean, easy to use and frankly incredible.
It’s an education to see how well this works compared with public transport in other countries. Also, the stations offer protection against bombs and the trains are all driverless so very punctual and with no strikes!
I hope that you have found this free Destination Guide useful. It took a lot of time and travel for me to make this, so if you would like to show your thanks by sending a small donation, I would be very grateful. This can be done on my Support Me page. Thank you!
Happy travels!
Andy Argo
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Title image: View across Marina Bay, including Marina Bay Sands.