Are you planning a trip to Singapore soon? If so, this article is perfect for you. I'll share essential tips on what to get ready before your exciting Singapore vacation.
Singapore may be a small country, but it is filled with exciting activities and delicious cuisine. Its appeal rivals that of destinations that are much farther away. It is a memorable place for a holiday no matter where you're traveling from.
Make sure to read this article to the end for tips to make your vacation even more thrilling and memorable!
It's a great idea to fill out the SG Arrival Card before you land in Singapore. This card is a digital form of the disembarkation/embarkation (DE) card, commonly known as the white card. Tourists need to complete it to get entry permission from Singapore's immigration officials.
You can fill out this arrival card up to three days before you reach Singapore. Doing it early is much easier than waiting to complete it at the airport.
No vacation is complete without internet access. We all need information, especially when in a new country. Here are three ways to stay connected in Singapore:
First, consider a roaming data plan from your local cellular provider. It's easy to activate — you can purchase it via the provider's app or a favorite online store.
But remember, roaming costs can be high, depending on the plan you choose. So, make sure to review the rates and pick a plan that fits your travel plans.
Another option is an e-SIM Card. You can buy and activate it online, which is very convenient.
e-SIM Cards often have better rates than roaming plans. You can select a data plan that suits your needs, whether it's for a day or a week. If you're after flexibility and want to save money, e-SIM Cards are a smart choice.
Lastly, there's Pocket WiFi. You can rent this device at the airport or pre-order it online. Pocket WiFi lets you connect multiple devices simultaneously, making it ideal for group trips with family or friends.
It's usually budget-friendly and offers stable connectivity, as long as you're in an area with good signal.
Google Maps is a handy tool, not just for finding tourist spots and restaurants, but also for precise navigation.
Whenever my husband and I are traveling abroad, Google Maps becomes our go-to guide. It helps us find our way around easily.
Simply type in your destination, and Google Maps will show the closest bus or MRT line you can take, along with reliable time and distance estimates.
Ensure you have Google Maps installed on your phone. Remember to download the offline maps, so you can use them even without an internet connection.
Payment methods are another crucial aspect. As a highly developed nation, Singapore offers electronic payment options alongside cash.
On our trips, my husband and I often use the EZ-Link card. This contactless smart card is accepted for MRT, buses, sMRT, and taxis.
You can also use EZ-Link to pay for food, drinks, and at other stores that accept it.
Another choice is the Singapore Tourist Pass, specifically designed for tourists. It allows unlimited use of buses, MRT, and LRT for a set period.
However, we prefer the EZ-Link card for our week-long vacations, as it tends to be more cost-effective. But again, it's more of a personal choice, so you can use the one that fits your budget, convenience, and itinerary.
If getting an STP or EZ-Link card seems complicated, you can use a Contactless Visa for public transport. Here’s a comparison between using EZ-Link and Visa Contactless:
In Singapore, the local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Remember to change your money into SGD before you travel. Although many places in Singapore accept card payments, having cash is still useful.
When we visit Singapore, my husband and I usually withdraw SGD from ATMs at Changi Airport. We find it more convenient and the fees are often lower than at a currency exchange.
However, it's up to your preference. Exchanging money in your home country is also a good option.
Now, think about where you'll stay. You can choose from hotels, hostels, serviced apartments, and more. Pick a place that fits your budget and needs. Below, syfaganjarstory will suggest some accommodation options in Downtown Singapore. Check them out:
Planning your itinerary is closely linked to the previous point because you will have to think about the hotel and its distance with some tourists attractions. It's best to organize your schedule in detail to ensure a smooth vacation.
This is a matter of personal choice, but I believe in having a well-planned trip to make the most of your time. This is especially important for those visiting Singapore for the first time.
Include your accommodation, places of interest, shopping destinations, and budget for meals in your plan to make sure you don't miss anything.
Don't forget this essential item! A travel adapter is a must-have for international trips.
Different countries use different types of electrical outlets. Some might have flat pins, others round, or even a mix of both. It can be quite a problem.
Thankfully, a universal travel adapter solves this issue. It lets you connect your devices to various socket types. Just plug the adapter into the wall socket, and then connect your device to the adapter.
These are some key preparations for your trip to the Lion City. I hope you find them helpful!
