"Lion City" - that's how its name is translated - although not among the top tourist destinations, but it has long appealed to true connoisseurs of exoticism with its originality. tripmydream shares with you some useful tips to get acquainted with this miracle city was top-notch.
1. Visa
The first thing any tourist should know is that on the territory of Singapore, citizens of our country can stay without a visa for 96 hours (four days). However, there are a few nuances that few people know about:
Transit only. For example, if you fly in from Bali and then fly back to the same place, it doesn't count as transit. Keep in mind that when transiting, you must have tickets confirming that you will be in Singapore for no more than the required 96 hours and a visa from the country you are flying to from Singapore (if it is required by the customs regulations of that country).
Time. Carefully check the time of arrival and departure because if you spend even half an hour longer in Singapore than the allotted time, you are not only not allowed to enter the territory of the state but also have the right not to board the plane even for departure from Singapore.
If you plan to stay in Singapore longer than 4 days, you will need a visa. A possible disadvantage is the need to use the services of an intermediary firm (e.g., this) since you cannot apply for a visa directly through the embassy.
What documents do you need for a Singapore visa? A copy of a passport valid for at least another six months by the time you enter Singapore, a color photo (preferably 400x514 pixels), and a completed application form.
The procedure is straightforward: you send the application form along with a photo and a scan of your passport (photo page) to the intermediary firm's email. After that, you will receive a check for the payment of services, and upon payment, you will receive your "golden ticket" to Singapore within 24 hours (and sometimes faster). Note that the visa issued is valid from the moment you submit your documents, so there is no need to submit them very early.
2. Safety
When it comes to safety, Singapore is nearly perfect. The streets are regularly and effectively policed by local law enforcement, ensuring your safety even in the most remote areas of the city. The only thing to keep in mind is that occasional petty theft and fraud may occur, but these incidents are mostly limited to crowded tourist areas.
3. Singaporean Taboos
Singapore has long been legendary among travelers for its strict and sometimes seemingly illogical rules, which carry serious consequences. So, what should you avoid doing in the Lion City?
Don't litter. Don't even think about it! The fine for dropping a cigarette butt or a piece of paper is S$500. You'll be charged even if you miss the garbage can, so it's better to practice your aim at home.
Don't swear. Swearing in public in Singapore can cost you dearly, both figuratively and literally. The fine for those who like to engage in verbal disputes can be several thousand dollars (in local currency). The same applies to threats, even if they were said in jest.
Using any narcotic substances is punishable by imprisonment, and attempting to smuggle them into the country (or worse, selling them) is punishable by the death penalty without the right to appeal.
Gum. While there's a popular belief that you'll be fined for simply chewing gum in Singapore, in reality, only its sale and importation are punishable offenses (resulting in one year in jail and a fine of $5500). So if you arrive in the country with chewing gum, you have nothing to worry about.
No smoking! Smoking in Singapore is strictly prohibited in closed public places (such as bars, cafes, restaurants, cinemas, etc.) unless marked with a sign permitting smoking.
Vandalism is strictly prohibited in Singapore, whether it involves causing serious damage to public property, graffiti, or simply carving initials on a park bench. Violators face not only monetary fines but also caning as punishment.
Eating and drinking on the move on the street, as well as in transport, crossing the road in the wrong place or at a red light, or leaving taps open in public toilets are all forbidden.
Touching strangers can be considered harassment and can lead to sanctions (up to two years in prison or a fine). Therefore, maintain your distance.
Greetings by hand should only be done with the right hand, never the left hand, as the left hand is considered "unclean."
4. Singapore's Subway: Good to Know
Singapore's subway is fully automated, but that doesn't mean you can forget about the little things like cash. Believe me, they can come in very handy because some payment terminals may not accept Visa or Mastercard. So it makes sense to stock up on a few cards from different payment systems and some small denomination cash.
Subway tickets should be kept for the entire trip, as you'll need them when you get off the subway. Fares vary depending on the length of the journey.
There's a way to save money on your fare: buy a travel card that can be topped up at a ticket machine. You'll save 10 cents each time you refill it, and after the sixth refill, all of your "savings" will go back on your pass.
5. Where to Vacation in Singapore
Once you've arrived in Singapore and sorted out your accommodation, it's time to start exploring the city. Where to start? Well, at least with the three central districts of the city-state: Central District, Jurong, and Sentosa (also known as the island).
The Central District is home to Singapore's main shopping street, Orchard Road, and hosts many fashionable hotels, cafes, and restaurants to suit every taste.
Sentosa is a resort island loved by both locals and visitors. It features an amusement park with hundreds of thrilling rides for all ages, an oceanarium, butterfly park, museums, and the famous musical fountain.
If you prefer a vacation closer to nature, Jurong is perfect. The Jurong Bird Park, home to hundreds of birds of all kinds and colors, will delight any traveler. The botanical garden is also famous for its magnificent orchid garden (open daily from 05:00 to 00:00, the Orchid Garden is open from 08:30 to 19:00).
If you're tired of the bustling city and want a more tranquil experience, head to Pulau Ubin Island. The welcoming and friendly locals, who are mostly fishermen, make it a great place to explore ancient temples and savor delicious fish and seafood dishes. Give it a try; you won't regret it!
Singapore's temples, not limited to just Buddhist ones, are worth exploring. The city boasts a captivating blend of religions and cultures, including European, Islamic, and more. You can easily find not only mosques but also Orthodox churches. Some of the most notable religious landmarks include the Christian Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator, the Abdul Ghafoor Mosque, the Hindu temple Sri Mariamman in Chinatown, renowned for its tower adorned with colorful sculptures of gods and monsters, and Sri Tandayutapani with its incredible glass ceiling.
Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to view Singapore from great heights on the giant Ferris wheel, immerse yourself in local life by wandering through the ethnic neighborhoods of Chinatown, Little India, Malay Village, and Arab Street. Be sure to visit Gardens by the Bay, a cutting-edge garden and park complex where you can witness the incredible diversity of our planet's flora, and the best part is, it's free!
