If you have booked yourself a trip to Singapore these tourist tips will help you make the most of your holiday. 

• Pack smart
• Hostels and hotels
• Know the law
• Use public transportation
• Carry cash
• Eat like a local
• Stick to happy hour
• Be smart with tipping
• Head to the free attractions
• Ride the Singapore Flyer

Pack smart 

Singapore is not only hot but also incredibly humid all year round. You need to pack lightweight clothing, such as cotton and linen, that will be comfortable and won’t stick to your skin. Asides from comfortable, lightweight clothing, make sure that you also pack some waterproofs. Rain is a common occurrence in Singapore, and when it rains it comes down hard.

Hostels and hotels  

Singapore is much more expensive than many other Asian cities, which means their hotels are also incredibly expensive. If money is no object on your Singapore holiday, there is an array of luxury hotels that offer 5-star rooms, complete with breathtaking views. If you are looking for cheaper accommodation for your stay, there are plenty of hostels scattered throughout the city. 

Top tourist tip: If you are travelling to Singapore during the peak holiday season make sure that you book your accommodation in advance. 

Know the law 

Singapore is rated as one of the safest cities in the world. This status has only been achieved due to its many laws and regulations, some of which are harsher than others. Before travelling to Singapore, make sure that you have a base knowledge of the rules and regulations that you must abide by or you may find yourself with a $500 fine for eating on the MRT (Singapore’s subway system).

Use public transportation  

The easiest, and cheapest, way to explore Singapore is by using public transport. Singapore MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the equivalent to a tube or subway- it can get you pretty much wherever you want to go. If you aren’t a fan of underground transportation, Singapore has a collection of buses that you can hop on and off at leisure. To make your journeys around Singapore easier, buy a Tourist Pass. You can choose either a 1,2 or 3-day pass, and once bought you can use the pass to get on all of Singapore’s public transport. Simply tap your pass, and away you go. 

Carry cash 

Like many countries, Singapore is making the move to becoming cashless. This being said, there are still areas where only cash is accepted. In places such as residential shops and kopi-tiams eateries (coffee shops), there are no card machines for card and contactless payments. It’s always best to carry between $50 and $100 with you just in case. 

Eat like a local 

Singapore is home to some of the best food in the world, and the place to find that food is the food centres and hawker stalls around China Town and Marina Bay. Here you will find local delicacies, such as chili crab and laksa, at affordable prices. These informal eateries will provide you will a high-quality meal without having to spend a fortune. Even if money is not an object on your holiday, make sure to have at least one local meal. 

Stick to happy hour  

Alcohol is incredibly expensive in Singapore. On average, a cocktail will set you back $20, whilst a beer can cost upwards of $10. That being said, from 5 pm to 9 pm, in bars across the city happy hour drastically reduces the price of these alcoholic drinks. If you are looking for an evening tipple, but don’t want to spend a fortune, make sure to check out the happy hour deals that are on offer. 

Be smart with tipping 

Unlike countries such as America, in Singapore, it is not mandatory to tip. This means that you do not have to add service charge on top of your meal. That being said, if you do think that the service was particularly good, it is always appreciated when a tip is given. 

Head to the free attractions 

As already established, Singapore is an expensive city for a holiday. That being said, there are plenty of free activities and attractions that will save you some money. Some of the free attractions to visit include the multitude of parks throughout the city, Chinese and Indian temples, the Singapore Botanical Gardens, and the Festive Light-up’s. 

Ride The Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer is an amazing way to get panoramic views of the city. At 165 meters tall, it is one of the highest Ferris wheels in the world. One full rotation will take 30 minutes to complete, in which time you can view the whole city. An adult ticket is $33, and tickets can be bought on the day, however, there are online discounts available. Just be sure that you aren’t afraid of heights before taking on the wheel. 

Whilst holidaying in Singapore, let us take care of your laundry. We can pick up your laundry from your accommodation and, whilst you enjoy the city, we can have your clothes dry cleaned and re-delivered to you. To book your service simply head to the Laundryheap website or download the free Laundryheap app.