Budget Friendly Travel Tips for Singapore

Singapore is located in Southeast Asia with about five million people at the southern tip of the malay peninsula with the majority people living there are Chinese, Malay people, Indian and Eurasion communities. Singapore was a British colony and part of Malaysia until 1965, it became an independent state. After independence, it adopted democratic system. Singapore is a sunny,  tropical island in Southeast Asia which stretches over 710 square kilometers.. Singapore is famous for its iconic attractions, world class shopping district and its broad culinary scene dishes. 

Let's Get Your Visa for Singapore

You should know that before applying for a visa you should be at least 18 years old to travel alone. If you are below 18 years old then you should accompany your parents, grandparents or siblings who are at least 18 years old. You can apply for a 30-day or a 90-day tourist visa.

There are certain documents you need to submit while applying for a visa:

1. Proof of residence in the country in which you reside

2. Return flight tickets proof

3. Proof of current employment status

4. Bank statements

5. Itenary of the flights you are going to take in your trip

6. Government Authorized Identification Document 

7. Address of the residence where you are staying in singapore

Points to Keep in Mind while you are applying for visa:

1. It is recommended for you to apply for a visa 30 days before your arrival date in singapore.

2. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your return date and you should have two blank pages in your passport. 

3. You have to prove your financial stability that you are capable enough to cover your travel expenses.

When you should travel to Singapore

You may not have the option of choosing when to visit singapore but it depends on  what to do and see, as well as your budget:

1. February to April: If you visit from February to April then it is the dry season in singapore. There will be less rain and humidity with more sunshine. Although, it's a good time for outdoor activities and for cultural activities.

2. June to September: It is the best time to explore Singapore as its festive season. The days are longer with more sunshine and low humidity levels.

3. November to January: if you visit from November to January then it is monsoon season here with heavy rainfall and high humidity. You can enjoy indoor activities.

4. May and June: It is considered the hottest months with temperature rising up to 90 degrees. Although you can also enjoy the singapore cocktail festival.

Seasons in Singapore

1. Summer:

Summer occurs from June to September best characterized by the south west monsoon season. During this season Singapore experiences strong winds, thunderstorms and balmy weather. These months are considered first months with gust, haze and smoke which comes from nearby Indonesia which means it is not the best time to visit Singapore, as the pollution and low visibility negatively impacts visits.

2. Fall:

Temperature in Singapore ranges between 25 to 32 degrees celsius during the inter-monsoon period from October to November. This season brings little thunderstorms and rains which are usually for a short time.

3. Winter:

The best time to visit Singapore is during the winter season. December to January specially includes christmas and new year savors a city full of life and celebrations. In this period, the country is considered the coolest. Temperature usually drops below 23 degrees with frequent rainfall and thunderstorms.

4. Spring:

Singapore has spring season from March to May, which faces some of the driest and warmest months. The temperature reached up to 32 degrees celsius which makes it the best time to visit Singapore, as it is considered the most reliable weather to visit. During this season, thunderstorms are likely to happen but with less humidity.

Must Visit Places in Singapore:

1. Gardens by the Bay: You can visit the vibrant evening light show, see dome-shaped flowers and lush landscapes. The idea behind this garden was to enhance more greenery into the world and raise the quality of life.

2. Cloud Forest: It is one of the tallest indoor waterfalls with plants from all over the world.

3. National Orchid Garden: This beautiful garden is full of more than 1000 orchid species with beautiful vibrant colors and more than 2000 hybrids..

4. Singapore Flyer: It is one of the largest wheels in the whole world which is 165 meters tall. It gives a breathtaking view of the whole marine bay. 

5. Sands Skypark Observation Deck: Hotel’s observation deck is on the 57th floor offering a whole city view which opens from 10 am to 10 pm. It also offers a rooftop bar and evening drinks. Visitors need to reserve beforehand to avoid overcrowding.

6. Chinatown: Chinatown is a good place to start if you wish to peek into Singapore's chinese culture. Here you will find good variety of food options, shopping and museums which makes the visitor happy at the end of the day.

7. Jewel Changi Airport: The Rain Vortex is the main center of attention in Changi airport as it is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall which is surrounded by a terraced forest setting. It's a natural architecture airport with dining and shopping.

8. Merlion Park: It is considered as the official mascot of singapore. It has an iconic statue of a half lion and half fish with a beautiful bay view and amazing night time view for photography.

9. Night Safari: It is the world's first night time wildlife park and 12 times it has been called best Attraction winner in Singapore

10. Singapore Cable Car: Singapore has a cable car ride with a beautiful scenic view with a trip for 15 minutes on sentosa line and a trip for 30 minutes on the mount faber line.

11. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands: The shops by the Marine bay have malls with luxury brands, high end shops and diverse dining options. 

How Can You Travel Within Singapore

1. Mass Rapid Transit (MRT): 

The most convenient way considered by travelers to travel around is by using MRT. MRT helps you to get around easily and lets you avoid traffic. You can purchase a card available in all MRT stations.

2. Public bus network: 

Another option to roam around in Singapore is by using a public bus which is cheap and convenient. Although you might get stuck in traffic jams, it is the most scenic way to travel while enjoying the journey.

3. Free shuttle buses: 

There are some bus shuttle services in Singapore which are free of cost. It is more convenient than the public buses. Some shuttle services go around sentosa island, Kranji Countryside and Mandai Wildlife Reserve.

4. Shared bicycles: These are the best way to travel on a budget in singapore. Sharing a bicycle is cheap and a better alternative than taking a bus or an MRT. There are multiple locations to pick anc return the bicycle through an app. It is best to cover shorter distances only as it is a bicycle and quite basic.

5. Ride in Taxi: Taxis in Singapore have a small “Taxi” sign on the roof written electronically. You can hire a cab on the road but taxi’s will only stop on the taxi stands and not just anywhere. If it is raining, then it is difficult to find taxis.

6. Book a rideshare: 

If you have a local data plan or any app, then you can also do rideshare which are alternatives to taxis. You can book and pay through the application itself but the pricing during peak hours may differ.

What modes of payments are Accepted?

There are many payment modes accepted in Singapore:

1. Cash: 

It is the most used mode of payment for small amounts of transactions and if your network is not working then it is the best mode as it is without an electronic payment system.

2. Credit cards:

For online purchases, it is the most preferred mode of payment. The most popular credit card brand in Singapore is Visa.

3. Bank transfers:

For larger sums of money, bank transfers are a good method. It is an easy method of transaction as it can be done both online and offline using your phone or visiting the branch.

4. Digital wallets

There are many digital wallet apps in Singapore which are popular also including PayLah, GrabPay, and EZ Link Pay by Wallet. 

5. PayNow

Quick transactions can be done using a payment system called Paynow. If you are lacking cash then it would be great to have an online money transaction  application with you.

Calling and SIM cards 

When you are planning your international trip then you are busy in packing, doing pre-bookings and making itineraries but forget to prepare yourself for international cell services. When you reach the destination, either you will need international roaming on your cell or you will have to purchase a local SIM which includes Singtel, StarHub and M1. 

You should use a local SIM card because it will save you money as international calls and data are not included in monthly plans.

Did You Get Travel Insurance?

It is recommended to travel with your travel insurance which covers for your flights, baggage lost, medical expenses, loss of passport or many other things financially. Hence, carrying your travel insurance is very important. It can protect you from unexpected costs and situations such as:

1. Medical emergencies: It can cover huge medical bills if you get injured or maybe you are ill.

2. Trip cancellations and delays: It can help you with rebooking or refunds if your flight gets canceled or delayed.

3. Lost baggage: It can also cover the cost of losing your bag because of any mishap.

4. Weather disruptions: It can also cover unexpected issues that are related to weather.

Culture, Communication, and Etiquettes

Culture and etiquettes are different in every other country which can be reflected to you in one or another way. It is always a good thing to get into it and make your visit much more memorable than it can be like the saying “When in Rome, live like a Roman”.

Singapore is a country which has a rich cultural background including customs and norms. Etiquettes are different in the formal and informal way while interacting with Singaporeans. For example, when interacting in a business meeting shake hands while greeting and shake hands with everyone again when you are leaving. While you are shaking hands, keep it firm and bow slightly. The head is considered sacred, so never touch a person’s or child’s head. Foot is thought to be unclean as it is the lowest part of the body, so it should never be pointed at someone and never show the bottom of your feet.

Singaporeans are always punctual for any social gathering or business meeting. If you are late, then it is considered as a sign of disrespect, so it is better to call and inform them that you are running late. After being introduced, you can exchange business cards with both hands. Most of the large corporations are financed by Singapore’s government which is very known for its efficiency and corruption free business style. In business, it is very important for you to have personal contacts otherwise it takes years to develop business relationships. Singaporeans are known because they are fast paced and make their decisions quickly. They get right down to business without wasting any time further. You can also be direct when dealing with issues related to money with them.

There are many different attire accepted in Singapore due to different ethnic groups staying in singapore. Dress is very casual in singapore. Most common attire is western clothing. For business meetings, men should white shirt, slacks and tie whereas womens should wear blouses with sleeves and skirts or pants suits. Jackets are not a very necessary clothing item. 

Souvenirs to Bring back from The Kingdom of Singapore

There are many souvenirs to bring back from Singapore, including: 

1. Peranakan-inspired gifts:

It is a blend of Chinese, Malay and Indonesian influence. You can also find gifts like slippers that are beaded, porcelain ware and textiles.

2. Kaya jam:

It is a very loved Singaporean treat which is a spread and it is made from eggs, sugar and coconut milk. You can easily buy it from supermarkets in Singapore.

3. Salted egg fish skin

A few years ago, a popular snack started trending in Singapore called salted egg fish skin which is made by expert chefs.

4. Singapore Sling mix

It is a city’s cocktail culture which is a bottle of Singapore's sling mix which needs to be brought home with you to enjoy later on.

5. Straits Chinese jewelry

In the narrow lanes of Arab street and kampong glam, you can find very beautiful and exquisite jewelry which is straits chinese or Peranakan.

Conclusion

Singapore is located in Southeast Asia with about five million people. It has a rich cultural background including customs and norms. If you plan a budget friendly trip to singapore then you should visit February to April for outdoor activities whereas for indoor activities you can visit during monsoon season from november to January. Some places in Singapore are a must visit place like National Orchid Garden, Singapore flyer, Jewel changi airport and many more. The most convenient and budget friendly way of traveling in Singapore is by using public buses, free shuttle buses or shared bicycles. Do not forget to get your travel insurance as it will save you from many mishaps. Try getting a local SIM as it would be a more budget friendly option rather than getting an international roaming.

FAQs

Question 1: How much budget do I need for a Singapore trip?

Ans 1: If you make a budget friendly trip including flights, accommodation, fees for visa, travel insurance and daily expenditure, your trip could vary from Rs. 75,000 to Rs. 1,20,000 per person for a week.

Question 2: What is the cheapest way to travel within Singapore?

Answer 2: To cover every corner of Singapore, the best way to travel is by public bus. They start working everyday from 6 am in the morning to midnight. 

Question 3: Is Singapore costly for Indian tourists?

Answer 3: No, you can make a budget friendly trip if you are visiting Singapore.You can easily manage your whole trip under your budget.