Why we love Singapore
Singapore is small enough to cover thoroughly and polished enough that almost nothing goes wrong. It’s a genuine city-state – dense, walkable in parts, and more varied than its clean-and-efficient reputation implies. The food scene runs from hawker centres to serious restaurants, often within the same neighbourhood. It works well as a destination in its own right or as a starting point for the wider region. This guide covers everything you need to know before you go.
Entry Requirements
If you are a British or American passport holder visiting Singapore, you do not need a visa for short stays (typically up to 90 days for tourism). Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry, and you may be asked to show proof of onward or return travel.
All travellers must complete the SG Arrival Card online within three days before arrival. This is a straightforward process and confirmation should be kept accessible on your phone or printed.
Singapore has strict immigration controls, so ensure all documentation is in order before travel. If you are unsure of your entry requirements, our Operations team will be happy to advise.
Health and safety
We are not certified to give medical advice, but we always recommend speaking to your doctor or a travel clinic before your trip. They will be able to review your vaccination history and advise on any additional precautions.
You can refer to Travel Health Pro for up-to-date information on recommended vaccinations and guidance on travelling with medication.
Getting around
Getting around Singapore is simple and efficient. The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is clean, reliable, and covers most of the city. Taxis and ride-hailing apps such as Grab are widely available and easy to use.
Most journeys are short, and it’s often quicker than expected to move between neighbourhoods. Walking is also a good option in many areas.
Baggage
If Singapore is part of a wider itinerary, baggage allowances will depend on your international or onward flights rather than anything specific to Singapore itself.
We recommend keeping essential items, including medication and a change of clothes, in your hand luggage, particularly if you are connecting onward.
Packing tips
Singapore is hot and humid year-round, so lightweight, breathable clothing is key.
We recommend:
– Loose, natural fabrics such as cotton or linen
– Comfortable walking shoes
– Light layers for air-conditioned spaces
– An umbrella or light rain jacket
Laundry services are widely available in hotels.
Climate
Singapore has a tropical climate with consistent heat and humidity throughout the year.
Temperatures typically range between 25–31°C, with short, heavy rain showers possible at any time. These are usually brief and rarely disrupt plans for long.
Laws and customs
Singapore is known for its strict laws and high standards of public behaviour.
– Always carry identification, such as a copy of your passport
– Smoking is only permitted in designated areas
– Littering, jaywalking, and chewing gum imports are subject to fines
– Public behaviour is expected to be respectful and orderly
The rules are clear and consistently enforced, which contributes to how smoothly the city operates.
Money matters
The currency in Singapore is the Singapore dollar (SGD).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common. ATMs are easily accessible across the city.
Cash is still useful for hawker centres and smaller vendors.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected in Singapore. Most restaurants include a 10% service charge in the bill, along with government taxes. Additional tipping is not necessary but is appreciated for exceptional service.
Practicalities
Plug type: Singapore uses plug type G – the same as in the UK.
Flights & time zone: The average flight time from London to Singapore is around 13 hours. Singapore operates on GMT + 8.
Languages: English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil are all official languages. English is widely spoken.
Food and drink
Food is central to Singapore and one of the main reasons to visit.
Hawker centres are the best place to start, offering a wide range of dishes in a casual setting.
A few highlights:
– Hainanese chicken rice: Poached chicken with fragrant rice and chilli sauce
– Laksa: Coconut-based noodle soup with spice and depth
– Chilli crab: A richer, messier dish worth the effort
– Char kway teow: Stir-fried noodles with prawns, egg, and soy sauce
– Satay: Grilled skewers served with peanut sauce
Tap water is safe to drink throughout Singapore.
Keeping connected
Most travellers rely on e-SIMs or local SIM cards. These are available at the airport and in convenience stores, with providers such as Singtel, StarHub, and M1 offering strong coverage.
Alternatively, you can purchase an e-SIM in advance through Airalo for immediate connectivity on arrival.