10 Things You Need To Know About Singapore

Singapore has always been on my bucket list, and I finally made it—just in time for the Chinese New Year celebrations! This tiny island nation is one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations. From lush city gardens to futuristic skyscrapers and diverse food scenes, Singapore swept me off my feet.

In this post, I’m sharing personal travel tips I wish I’d known before going, plus a list of the places I explored. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re planning a return, this guide will help make your trip smoother, more fun, and definitely more Instagrammable. 😉

✅ It’s hot—and humid!

If you’re from Malaysia like me, the weather won’t shock you — it’s warm all year round. But what really hits you is the humidity. Singapore is seriously humid, and unless you’re staying inside an air-conditioned mall all day (which, hey, no judgment), you’ll be sweating before you even finish your first iced coffee.

To stay comfy, I recommend wearing light, breathable clothes, and carrying a small water bottle everywhere you go. Sunscreen is a must, especially if you’re exploring spots like Gardens by the Bay during midday.

✅ Singapore is not cheap—especially around tourist spots

It’s worth mentioning that Singapore is known for its higher cost of living compared to other Southeast Asian countries. Yes, Singapore is stunning, spotless, and super organized… but it’ll make your wallet cry a little if you’re not careful. I still remember paying €18 for four scoops of gelato near Marina Bay.

Was it delicious? Yes. Did it feel a bit outrageous? Also yes 😅

But don’t worry—you can totally enjoy Singapore without breaking the bank. Hawker centres are your best friends here. The food is authentic, tasty, and so affordable. A plate of chicken rice or laksa can be yours for under SGD 6. And if you’re booking accommodation, try staying a bit outside the main tourist areas like Marina Bay or Orchard Road.

And hey, don’t forget to treat yourself to one or two little splurges—you deserve it on holiday!

✅ The train (MRT) system is reliable

Singapore’s MRT is honestly a traveler’s dream. It’s clean, efficient, and super reliable—so you won’t find yourself stuck waiting forever like in some cities.

One pro tip? Grab the Singapore Tourist Pass as soon as you arrive at the airport or MRT station. For about SGD 30, you get unlimited rides on buses and trains for 3 days. The pass also offers discounts on a range of activities (with a 10 SGD refund upon return). It saves you from fiddling with top-ups or buying individual tickets, which is a total time-saver when you’re on the go exploring the city.

✅ Singapore Is One of the Safest Cities Around

Walking around Singapore solo? No problem at all. I felt completely safe during my whole trip, even at night. It’s one of the safest cities I’ve ever been to.

Still, a little common sense goes a long way. Avoid quiet, poorly lit alleyways after dark, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spots, and trust your gut if something feels off. But honestly, the city’s vibe is friendly and welcoming.

✅ There are many types of fines in Singapore

Singapore has a reputation for being strict, and for good reason. The city takes cleanliness and order seriously, and there are plenty of fines to remind you of that.

Littering? Big no-no. Eating or drinking on public transport? Also a no-go. Jaywalking or smoking in no-smoking zones? You’ll definitely get fined. So, always check the signs and act like you’re treating someone else’s home with respect—because that’s exactly what it is.

✅ Nighttime in Singapore Is Pure Magic

If you love city lights, Singapore will blow you away. The Marina Bay area is famous for its dazzling light shows, and you won’t want to miss them.

My favorites were the Spectra Light & Water Show at Marina Bay Sands—completely free and happening every night—and the Garden Rhapsody light show at the Supertree Grove in Gardens by the Bay. Both are incredibly photogenic and perfect for soaking in the city’s night vibes.

✅ Finding Halal Food Here Is a Breeze

As a Muslim traveler, I was relieved and delighted by how easy it is to find Halal food in Singapore. The country’s multicultural fabric means Halal options are everywhere—from halal-certified restaurants to dedicated food courts in neighbourhoods like Bugis, Geylang Serai, and Arab Street.

If you want extra help, apps like HalalTrip or Muslim Pro are great for locating nearby Halal eateries.

✅ Book-entry Tickets in Advance to Skip the Queues

Singapore’s popular attractions can get busy, especially during holidays or weekends. To save yourself the headache of long lines, I highly recommend booking tickets online before you go.

I personally used Klook.com and found it super convenient. You just pick your activity, pay online, and follow their simple instructions for ticket collection. This way, you won’t miss out on must-see spots like Gardens by the Bay, the ArtScience Museum, or the SkyPark Observation Deck.

Make sure to carefully follow the instructions provided regarding ticket collection.

✅ English Is Spoken Everywhere

One of the best things about Singapore is how easy it is to communicate. English is one of the official languages, and most locals speak it fluently.

You’ll also hear a unique local dialect called Singlish. It’s English mixed with Malay, Chinese dialects, and Tamil, sprinkled with fun little words and phrases like “lah,” “can or not?”, or “no need, lah!” It can take a little getting used to, but it’s all part of the city’s charm. Most Singaporeans are happy to help clarify if you get confused.

Quick rundown of the places I loved exploring

Nature & Architecture: