The skyscrapers, nightlife, cleanliness, and beautiful architecture make Singapore ideal for anyone to enjoy. Singapore is a massive city and country with so much history and interesting Singapore facts to learn! Let’s dig into a couple!

Interesting and Fun Singapore Facts

1. The symbol of Singapore is the Merlion, a creature that is half lion and half fish

Lion’s head, the body of a fish. It seems legit, right? While it is Singapore’s symbol and official mascot, it isn’t a ‘real’ mythical creature. It was designed by British ichthyologist Alex Fraser-Brunner in 1964 for the Singapore Tourism Boa

rd. The fish represents Singapore’s humble origins as a fishing village called Temasek, later renamed Singapura or ‘Lion City,’ thus explaining the lion’s head. Sorry mythical beast fans.

2. The World Toilet Organization was formed on 19th November 2001 in Singapore

Going right in with one of the most leftfield facts about Singapore. Back in 2001, the toilet-passionate city-state proposed making November 19 ‘World Toilet Day.’ 122 countries backed the idea, and the World Toilet Organization (WTO, obviously) began. It’s actually really cool, aiming to solve a world sanitation crisis by providing clean, safe toilets for everybody.

3. You can still get caned in Singapore

Though caning was only a Victorian British thing to do? Well, don’t forget that Singapore was a Victorian British colony; caning was just one of the things introduced into then-Malaya and the Straits Settlements, one of which was Singapore.

You can get caned not only for vandalizing but for sexual abuse, rioting, and drug abuse, to name just a few. The punishment is applied to bare buttocks. Ouch. Women are exempt.

4. Singapore has compulsory military conscription of 1-2 years

That’s right. It’s a fact about Singapore that this country is pretty paranoid about its neighbors (well, it seems that way). So on March 15, 1967, National Service was made compulsory for all male 18-year-old Singapore citizens and permanent residents.

That means there’s a substantial military force at any one time standing to attention in Singapore.

5. Singapore has its very own dialect 

Singapore is awash with different languages. The four official languages are English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. Though most Singaporeans can speak at least one, naturally, a dialect that’s a blend of all of them has popped up over the years – Singlish.

It’s a pretty complicated English-based dialect that involves ending sentences with lah for emphasis. That’s just one quirk.

6. Hawker Centers are the best place to eat local Singapore food

Eating at a Hawker stand is one of the best things to do on any Singapore itinerary. Singaporean cuisine is unreal. Regional Chinese dishes like lor mee and Hainanese chicken, Indian thali sets, Malay favorites like nasi goreng, and a whole bunch of other amazing tantalizing delights can be found at Singapore’s hawker centers.

The forerunner to the food court, these places have dedicated outlets for stalls, each one with a health rating and plenty of tables, chairs, and benches. Chinatown Complex Food Center is the largest: how do 260 food stalls sound?

7. Singapore held the world’s first Formula One night race

We thought that’s because the daytime temperatures are just too hot for sitting in a car in all that get-up – and for sitting in a crowd watching those racers zoom around. But actually, it’s for the benefit of European viewers. Time difference and all. The first night race in the world was held at Marina Bay Street Circuit for the 2008 FIA Formula One World Championship.

8. Singapore was founded by the British

Singapore – then Singapura – did exist but was only a big deal long ago. The last king of Singapura fled in the late 14th century after being attacked.

There’s evidence to suggest the whole place was abandoned. It was nothing more than a small-time trading outpost when Sir Stamford Raffles rocked up in 1819 and established Fort Canning. The rest is history.

9. Singapore is one of only three surviving city-states in the world

Singapore doesn’t have a capital since it’s a city-state – a country that is literally just a city. The other two are San Marino since it’s just a city and the Vatican City (the clue’s in the name). Others, like Dubai, claim the title of the city-state, but they just don’t cut the mustard.

10. The entire national anthem is printed on the back of the S$1000 note in microprint

This is one of our favorite facts about Singapore. Banknotes in Singapore feature a whole lot of micro text (words you can barely read). Most notes just say “Monetary Authority of Singapore” into infinity. The S$1000 bill, however, has the entire Singaporean national anthem on the back in the micro text. Super cool.

11. Singapore has a lot of little islands

Singapore is one small island itself, but did you know there are a bunch of other islands and islets that make up Singapore? Sixty-two others, to be exact. Some were created by land reclamation – a lot of land reclamation. Since 1965, Singapore’s land area has increased by 23% (50 square miles)!

12. Christmas Island used to be Singaporean territory

One of the islands that used to be part of Singapore, back in the British colonial days anyway, was Christmas Island.

Far-flung, coconut crab-infested Christmas Island. In 1958, the islands were transferred to Australia. Similarly, the archipelago of Cocos Islands was transferred in 1955.

13. And one of Singapore’s islands have a dark history

Sentosa Island is a place of high-end glitz and glamor, home to a 1.2-mile-long sheltered beach, Universal Studios Singapore, a casino and two golf courses, a crazy resort, and 14 other hotels.

But it was formerly a British military base featuring Fort Siloso. And when the Japanese captured Singapore in 1942, Fort Siloso became a pretty horrific POW camp. A little-known fact about Singapore – well, Sentosa.

14. The People’s Action Party has won every election since self-government began in 1959

Singapore may be a democracy, a parliamentary republic with a “Westminster system,” but the government currently in power – the People’s Action Party (PAP) – has been voted in every single time since the very first election. Hmm… 

15. Singapore is also referred to as the Garden City 

You may think of Singapore as a skyscraper-ridden megacity, but that’s not true. Singapore is dedicated to “greening” efforts and is recognizable for its tree-lined streets and an increasing number of rooftop gardens and green buildings overflowing with tropical plants. It’s a vision of the future!

16. Singapore is home to the best airport in the world

One of the most fun facts about Singapore is that Changi Airport is currently ranked as the World’s Best Airport. Not only that, but it has won this accolade for the seventh year running since 2013.

It’s honestly insane. The $500 million 2019 renovations include a trampoline, giant slide, indoor forest, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, cinema, and swimming pool. The tagline makes sense: “More than an airport.”

17. Singapore is the most religiously diverse country in the world

You heard it here first, folks. With 5.6 million residents comes a lot of diversity. We already know that Singapore has four official languages (the subway signs are in all four) and a host of different cuisines on offer, but religions?

It’s pretty diverse for religion, too. Varieties of Buddhism and Christianity top the list, with everything from Taoism to Zoroastrianism, represented here.

18. Singapore has imported a lot of sand for land reclamation

By a lot, we mean a lot. In 2010 alone, the city-state imported just under 15 million tons of sand for land reclamation projects. So much so that Southeast Asian neighbors Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam have barred sand exports to Singapore. In 2016, the country switched to polders, a Dutch method of land reclamation. Phew.

19. Singapore has only one UNESCO World Heritage Site

Singapore is a green city, that’s for sure, but the historic Singapore Botanic Gardens attracted the attention in the end. These 150-year-old tropical gardens are the country’s first and only UNESCO World Heritage Site.

20. It’s always hot in Singapore

Always, always, always. Singapore is less than 100 miles from the Equator. It has a tropical rainforest climate. There are no seasons.

It’s always between 25 to 35°C (77 to 95 °F). Yes. It’s one of the most well-known facts about Singapore is Hot. All. The. Time. When we last visited, we found ourselves venturing into the mall for hours just to get some AC.

21. Roughly 44 percent of the Singaporean workforce is made up of non-Singaporeans

A lot of the construction work is done by what the government calls “foreign workers,” mainly Bangladeshis.

Many office workers are from Europe, North America, Australia, and other Asian countries – “foreign talent.” It’s got a low unemployment rate. It also does not have a minimum wage. What does that mean? High-income equality.

22. Singapore has the world’s highest percentage of millionaires

Incredibly, this isn’t China. The United States may have the most millionaires, but Singapore has the highest percentage. One out of every six households boasts at least $1 million in disposable wealth. One of those rich and wealthy Singapore facts to know.

23. It’s super expensive to own a car in Singapore

Good thing everyone’s a millionaire, then. But seriously, Singapore is small. There are a lot of people. The private car-to-person ratio is restricted to help stop congestion and pollution. Cars in Singapore cost almost twice as much as they do in other countries.

For example, a Singaporean Certificate of Entitlement, allowing a car to be used for ten years, is the equivalent cost of a Porsche Boxster over in the US. One of those totally nutty Singapore facts!

24. A lot of Singaporeans have live-in domestic help

It’s actually (and sadly) pretty standard. There are about 224,500 foreign domestic workers in Singapore as of December 2013. They come from Indonesia and the Philippines, for the most part, and are maids, cleaners, nannies, or all three.

25. Peranakan cultures can be seen all over Singapore

What’s Peranakan? These are Chinese settlers who came to areas of Southeast Asia to seek their fortunes. With a distinct culture that takes in the best of everything, Peranakans are known for their splendid shophouses, ornate formal dress, fantastic food, and Victorian-influenced tiles (for real).

26. Every day, two new restaurants open in Singapore

Food is a national pastime in Singapore. Eating it, talking about it, no one quite does foodie to the level of a Singaporean. From the hawker centers to luxury, high-end dining, and hipster cafes, there’s literally everything on offer here.

On average, two new restaurants pop up per day. This country is food mad, and I love it (and I love that this is one of my favorite Singapore facts!)

27. Gardens by the Bay boasts the largest glass greenhouse in the world

A very cool nature park taking up about 101 hectares of reclaimed land, the waterfront Gardens by the Bay comprises three gardens – Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden. The largest by far is the 54-hectare Bay South Garden, which contains the Flower Dome, the largest glass greenhouse in the world. 

28. Singapore is home to the world’s largest vertical garden

More from the greenest city on Earth now, and it’s time for an amazing, record-breaking facts about Singapore. The 2014 Tree House condominium set an actual Guinness World Record for hosting the world’s largest vertical garden.

Its four state-of-the-art towers comprise 24,638.59 square feet of greenery, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing heat absorption with heat-reducing windows. It’s awesome.

29. Singapore is also known as the Little Red Dot

This is one of the best fun facts about Singapore, and it’s definitely a party conversation starter! Singapore citizens affectionately refer to their city-state as the Little Red Dot. At only 277 square miles, it is pretty small. On a world map, you-are-there situation, Singapore would be just a little red dot.

However, the term took off when an ex-president of Indonesia used the term “little red dot” in a seemingly disparaging nature. Citizens and politicians alike took up the term as a source of national pride. We mean, they may be a little red dot, but dang.

Hopefully, you enjoyed these fun and interesting Singapore facts! If you have any questions or want to add facts about Singapore, leave a comment!

Being situated around 85 miles from the equator, Singapore is a hot, humid country, and temperatures during the year rarely drop below 24°C. There are changes in the weather, however, with monsoon seasons bringing heavy downpours and swelteringly high humidity. 

So, to help you plan your trip to Singapore, here’s a monthly breakdown of the weather in Singapore and a round-up of its amazing festivals too.

When is the Best Time to Visit Singapore?

Weather in Singapore in January

January is the coolest month of the year in Singapore, but not by much. Temperatures on the island nation never really dip below 24°C, so you won’t need to pack any winter clothes. The daily average is 26°C, which is much warmer when compared to winter elsewhere in the Northern Hemisphere. Temperatures can easily hit 30°C as well.

Skies at this time of year aren’t exactly brimming with sunshine. There are around 6 hours of sunshine a day. This is the monsoon season, after all. That means you can expect rain for an average of 18 days across the month; heavy downpours at that, too. 

Also, humidity doesn’t drop below 70% humidity at any time during January, so not exactly the best time to visit Singapore.

Weather in Singapore in February

Though still firmly within Singapore’s northwest monsoon season, the rains have begun to ease by February. This month sees an average of 13 days of rainfall, which still means there’s a fair bit of cloud cover. 

Temperatures rise slightly to an average of 27°C during the day and can reach around 32°C. But because of the lack of rain and cloud cover, there’s also a drop in humidity. However, do note that Singapore, in general, is still very humid at this time; and being a city doesn’t help matters, either. You might find it’s time to head to a nice air conditioned mall while visiting to escape the heat.

The average sea temperatures in February are a balmy 28°C. So if you catch a break in the rain, it’s time to head down to the beach at Sentosa!

Weather in Singapore in March

The monsoon season starts to wane in March, making it a good time of year to visit Singapore. It’s actually one of the sunniest months of the whole year, receiving well over seven hours a day of sunshine on average. Temperatures are similar to those in February, clocking in at around 27°C, but highs of 31°C are not unheard of.

Another good thing about visiting Singapore in March is that the presence of cooler sea breezes, especially in the afternoon, take the edge off the day’s heat and humidity. It’s a nice time to stroll around. 

That said, there’s still a chance of thunderstorms, which are short and usually accompanied by heavy rain. There’s a 40% chance of rain on any given day in March, with 17 days seeing at least some rain.

Weather in Singapore in April

April is hot and humid, but since it’s sandwiched between two monsoon seasons, it’s probably one of the best times of year to visit Singapore. Temperatures average out at 27°C but can climb to over 30°C on any given day.

Though it’s outside of the monsoon season, there’s still definitely a chance of thunderstorms, and rain, too. There are 14 days of rain, on average, throughout April in Singapore.

If things get too hot for you, just do what the Singaporeans do and head inside. There’s almost no end to the number of air-conditioned malls and various indoor public spaces that you can duck into if the heat starts getting to you.

Weather in Singapore in May

Temperatures continue to rise in May as the country heads into the hotter months of the year. But even so, it’s a good time to visit Singapore since it’s right before the busy summer holidays kick-off. The average temperature this time of year sits at around 27°C, with highs of 31°C and lows of 25°C.

You can still expect thunderstorms, especially in the afternoons, with rain across 19 days of the month, more than is seen in April. Hours of sunshine clock in at around six hours, with plenty of cloud cover.

Sea temperatures are 30°C in Singapore during May. That makes it a great time of year for water sports and lounging on the beach (best done in the morning). In my opinion, May is the best month to visit Singapore.

Weather in Singapore in June

As the school holidays hit, so do the high temperatures. June is one of the hottest months in Singapore, which is saying something since it’s fairly warm all the time. The average high is around 32°C, with day temperatures hovering around 30°C. This is the official start of the “summer” season. 

It’s also the start of the southwest monsoon, but don’t worry, it’s not in full swing yet. Rain falls typically in the late afternoon or evening, but generally, you can expect pleasant days with lots of sunshine. Get ready to feel that heat; June is a sweaty month!

Weather in Singapore in July

Hot. July in Singapore is hot and not the best time to visit. Though much of the year is above merely mild, this month sees particularly high temperatures. Daytime temps average upwards of 30°C, while nighttime doesn’t get below 28°C or  29°C. You’ll be thankful for the AC.

School holidays continue and families head to Singapore for a break, and Singaporeans themselves head to the beach. That’s probably down to the very warm sea temperatures of 30°C; it’s like getting into a bathtub!

There’s quite a bit of sunshine at this time of year, but there’s still a slight chance of rain. Usually, this happens towards the end of the day as humidity builds up. A fun fact about Singapore is that there are many little islands around, a fun thing to do in July is escape to one of these islands!

Weather in Singapore in August

Another hot summer month in Singapore. It’s the end of the summer holidays but not the end of the heat. Temperatures reach highs of 31°C, with daytime temperatures hovering around 29°C and night temperatures seeing no respite (it never falls below 28°C). Not exactly the best time to visit Singapore.

Rainfall is slightly up on average compared to previous months, with a chance of rain over 20 days on average, and a little more cloud coverage, too. But the rain, instead of putting you off sightseeing and other activities, can often mean a refreshing break to the heat.

Sea temperatures drop, but only slightly, to 29°C; still very pleasant for a swim. 

Weather in Singapore in September

While you may think it’s a good time to visit Singapore because the school holidays are well and truly over, it may not be great in terms of weather. Sporadic rain is more frequent in September, but again, it does bring a slight break in the heat. There’s a 40% chance of rain every day, so you’ll need both an umbrella and sunscreen, for sure.

Even though September is officially “fall”, the temperatures don’t give much sign of abating. Highs are still 31°C, while the average temperature sits around 27°C. With less wind providing those (relatively) cool breezes, it’s still pretty humid, too.

Weather in Singapore in October

While elsewhere in the Northern Hemisphere things are getting chilly, October weather in Singapore remains warm and wet. Temperatures during this month are a mixed bag. They average around 27°C, can climb way above 30°C, but can also drop to 24°C (cool by comparison).

It’s still humid during October in Singapore. But due to this being an inter-monsoon period and slightly cooler temperatures, it’s a good time to visit Singapore. There is slightly less rain (15 days or so) too, which usually arrives only in the afternoon in the form of a short downpour. No extreme crazy weather, just the odd thunderstorm. That being said we had a fantastic beach getaway to Telunas off the coast of Singapore in October.

Weather in Singapore in November

November marks the start of the northeast monsoon in Singapore. That means the highest rainfall averages of the year are just around the corner. But it’s not all bad; the temperatures are still warm, but bearably so. It’s 26°C on average in the daytime, but with highs of 30°C.

Humidity is also on the rise, so walking just about anywhere is a sweaty business. Dipping into air-conned malls is a must, especially if you get caught in an afternoon storm.

Weather in Singapore in December

The festive season is one of the most popular times to visit Singapore, with plenty of visitors swinging by for Christmas fun. It’s warm, so why not?

Temperatures vary between lows of 23°C and highs of 29°C, so it’s much cooler than the height of summer. It’s a nice time of year to visit Singapore if grueling temperatures aren’t your thing. However, there’s still plenty of rain. In fact, December is the wettest month of the year. Bring your poncho and your umbrella. Another downside; humidity is at a pretty unrelenting 87%.

Fun Festivals in Singapore

Winter Festivals in Singapore

Christianity is widespread in Singapore (as is consumerism), so Christmas is a pretty big deal in the tiny nation-state. In December, Orchard Road, the popular shopping destination, is festooned with lights, with carol singers putting on shows and plenty of festive atmosphere. Despite the humidity. There’s also the Christmas Fair at Gardens by the Bay, which is one of the best sights to see on a Singapore stopover.

January sees the festival of Pongal. Usually falling between the 14th and 17th January, Pongal is best seen in Little India, where Singapore’s Indian community creates bright patterns in celebration of harvest time, while also thanking the sun god, Surya.

Also in January is the Thaipusam, a Hindu festival of penance, which devotees mark by piercing their skin.

Chinese New Year is the biggest of them all. Held on a new moon, also known as the “Spring Festival”, this usually happens sometime in February. Not only the Chinese community, but everyone in Singapore comes out in celebration. Chinatown is busy with people watching the Chingay Parade. 

The Lantern Festival is held in Chinatown on the last day of Chinese New Year. The streets are lit up as children carry lanterns and release them into the sky.

Due to the Chinese New Year, winter is a great time of year to visit Singapore. The celebrations are immense!

Spring Festivals in Singapore

Easter is also a fairly big celebration in Singapore but is mainly confined to churches and private homes. No carnival here.

But in May, you’ll be able to witness the Buddhist festival of Vesak. This marks the birthday of the religion’s founder, Gautama Buddha. It’s an important day to celebrate both his enlightenment and death; a time of joy, peace, and reflection. You’ll see people releasing caged birds as a symbol of freeing the soul. 

Head to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, or Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery in Bishan for celebrations.

Muslims in Singapore celebrate Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, which marks the start of Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer ahead of Eid itself. Light-up decorations can be seen along Changi Road and Sims Avenue. 

Summer Festivals in Singapore

The Dragonboat Festival takes place sometime in June (dates change). Head to the Bedok Reservoir and the DBS Marina Regatta to catch sight of the traditional boats racing with crowds cheering them on.

Summer also sees the end of Ramadan, which is marked by Hari Raya Haji. The district of Kampong Glam is where you’ll see crowds of people eating out and festivities in the streets.

In July the school holidays are in full swing. It’s also in this month that the Singapore Food Festival is held. It’s a celebration of all things delicious, and trust us, Singapore does food very, very well! Also in July is Pink Dot, a celebration of Singapore’s LGBTQ+ communities, designed to raise awareness and celebrate openness. Pink Fest holds various events across the city.

Flyovers and military parades mark Singapore National Day on August 9th each year. Tickets are hard to come by, but views from Marina Bay Sands or the Singapore Flyer are also good. In mid-August, it’s time for the Buddhist Hungry Ghost Festival, marked by offerings of food and fires on the street.

Fall Festivals in Singapore

September means one thing: Formula One. It’s a big deal in Singapore, but hotel prices are super expensive because of that.

Also in the fall is Diwali. Known as the Festival of Light, this Hindu celebration brings light to the dark streets and commemorates Rama’s victory over the demon king, Ravana, as told in the epic Ramayana. Following this is Thimithi. Another Hindu festival, this one sees devotees walk across glowing embers at the Sri Mariamman Temple.

When is the Best Time to Visit Singapore For…

Best time to visit Singapore weather-wise?

March and April are great times to visit Singapore. It’s when you stand a good chance of getting sunny skies and the weather isn’t completely boiling (though it is hot still).

When is the cheapest time to visit Singapore?

Singapore doesn’t have defined high and low seasons like many other destinations around the world. It stays pretty hot all year round and prices don’t shift as a result of a few degree difference in temperature.

To get the best deals for visiting Singapore you’ll want to steer clear of visiting around the Chinese New Year and around the Christmas Holidays as well as Formula 1. If you don’t care about the weather you can visit between November and January. This is Singapore’s Northeast Monsoon season, which will provide plenty of rain for the city. If you think that will cool things off beware it’s still quite humid.

Though if you want to find good deals on hotel rooms you should travel during the monsoon season.

Best time to visit Singapore for a honeymoon?

April and May are great weather-wise for a honeymoon. If you want to avoid the heavy tourist numbers you could travel at the tail end of summer. Late September and October see lower tourism numbers, with descent weather patterns before monsoon season.

When is the best time to visit Singapore for shopping?

The Great Singapore Sale is a shopping extravaganza that happens every year between June and August and is your best time to grab some deals on all your designer duds.

When is the best time to travel to Singapore season by season?

“High Season” Singapore doesn’t have a defined high season, but the best time to visit Singapore and when you’ll see the higher numbers of tourists are in December, January, and February for the holidays and Chinese New Year and again between June-August.

The winter travel months see people from all over flocking to Singapore for some warmth, although starting in Nover the Northeast Monsoon season starts. Expect rain in November and December, though it won’t change the weather in Singapore too drastically from other months.

Crowds are at their absolute highest in June, July, and August when a combination of summer travelers and shopaholics descend upon the city for the Great Singapore Sale. Expect temperatures to be hot, hot, hot, and humid during this time.

“Lower Season” There’s not much of a defined low season or shoulder season in Singapore. So I’ll call it a lower season. This is the time period between March and May and as well as September and October when crowds dissipate a bit. Temperatures let off a tad bit during these months providing some relief from the heat.

We traveled to Singapore from late September to October and found it to be an excellent time to travel. Though it was still hot and humid, we ourselves, who are not mall people, found ourselves in constant seek of heat relief in the city’s many malls. We also enjoyed a fabulous city break in nearby Teluna – I highly recommend checking them out!

Stopovers for some can be boring if you find yourself stuck on the floor of a terminal trying to connect to WiFi or craving a hot shower and a meal. Stopping over in Singapore has never looked so good, especially when there are exceptions to visas required to enter the country.

For most nationalities, all you need to enter is a passport with six or more months remaining, money that will last your stay, and a confirmed ticket to your next destination. Singapore layovers for up to 30 days are Visa-free but be sure to check with your government website prior to entering Singapore as passports from country to country have different rules and regulations.

Things to do on a 24-hour (or More) Singapore Stopover

Eat Chilli Crab

If you only have 24 hours in Singapore, you need to try the food at least! Without a doubt, Singaporean is my favorite food while traveling in Asia. There are a lot of meals to choose from, but one stands out from the rest, and that’s Singapore Chilli Crab.

Eating a crab can be one of the messiest things you can do food-related, so be prepared to make a mess. However, the dribbling tomato, chili, and basil sauce down your shirt is so worth it.

Singapore Chilli Crab in most places is very expensive but for a cheaper meal of the exact same quality, head to Chinatown where most restaurants and vendors will serve you up a freshly cooked crab for around 20 Singapore Dollars (SGD or S$). Expect to pay S$100 plus in Boat Quay or downtown Singapore.

Explore Chinatown

After finishing a delicious chili crab, keep exploring Chinatown as there are plenty of things to do in Singapore here. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple tops the list and hence the name, this temple is said to hold one of the Buddha’s teeth in this massive, architectural masterpiece rising to five stories high.

Chinatown also has the cheapest food and drink anywhere in Singapore so if you are keen on local cuisine, Chinatown is your best bet. Pretty much every street within Chinatown has some sort of restaurant, cafe, or street vendor selling delicious local cuisines such as chili crab, papaya salads, or Singapore’s famous runny egg and toast.

Getting to know Singapore’s past can be done by visiting Chinatown. Baba House is a museum in Singapore that shows just what the life of the Peranakan culture used to be and what it is still like.

The Peranakan people are descendants or were related to families with an immigrant who then went on to marry a local Malayan. The Peranakan culture is unique as the local Malaya women would create a whole new set of traditions.

Walk around Mount Faber Park & Southern Ridges

Mount Faber Park & Southern Ridges would have to be one of the most chilled-out places in Singapore. It has the most beautiful natural corridors complete with tropical rainforests, monkeys, and exceptional views of Sentosa Island and the distant Singapore skyline.

The whole Southern Ridges area from Mount Faber Park to Kent Ridge Park is not often a busy place, so expect to have the gardens to yourself. My favorite thing to do is find a giant fan palm to sit under and chill out Singapore-style.

Singapore is known for some very unique bridges, including that of Henderson Waves, a bridge-shaped into a wooden wave that connects Mount Faber Park to neighboring Telok Blangah Hill Park.

Before the development and the tourism boom began in Singapore, places like Kent Ridge and Mount Faber were culturally rich with kampong (traditional houses) and a life relatively untouched until the turning of the tide.

Cycle Pulau Ubin Island

Pulau Ubin Island is my number one must-do while in Singapore. Singapore isn’t a big country but getting to Pulau Ubin can be a bit of a mission especially if you are based in the downtown Quays area.

I chose to take the bus all the way across Singapore and alight at Changi Village (not Changi Airport) the bus/ train section takes around one hour.

From Changi Village, you’ll need to walk to the coast and through an undercover food market which is ideal to fuel up on food before boarding a bum-boat to Pulau Ubin Island at Changi Point Terminal.

A ticket one-way costs under S$3 which can be bought when on the boat or at the boat dock. The boat ride takes around 10 to 15 minutes each way and is quite scenic as Pulau Ubin Island sits in the Strait of Johor.

Pulau Ubin Island is a step back in time and reflects what Singapore used to look like, long before industrial development. Today, Pulau Ubin might seem a bit ‘touristy’ with bike hire stalls flocking the main street but there is more to the island that definitely needs to be put on your list of things to do in Singapore.

Hiring a bicycle on Pulau Ubin Island

To best see the island you’ll need to hire a bicycle which will cost anywhere between S$10 and S$20. Don’t be coaxed into paying more as a large proportion of the bicycle breaks cease to work. I was told that it’s best to ride anti-clockwise around the island.

As you cycle from one end of the island to the other, there are remnants of old Singapore with kampongs scattered around. A kampong is a hut generally built on stilts to avoid water rising in the monsoon season and allow air to ventilate the hut when humidity skyrockets.

Along with the kampongs, the island is known for its variety of wildlife especially monkeys and exotic bird species fluttering throughout the thick rainforest.

At the eastern end of the island, the Chek Jawa Wetlands is worth paying a visit for bird sightings and is one of the highest points on the island for rather good views of Pulau Ubin Island.

Getting back to the mainland of Singapore is easy; just return your bike where you hired it from and head for the one and only dock adjacent to the main street to board a bumboat.

Explore Gardens by the Bay at Night

One of the very best things you can do on a Singapore stopover is visiting Gardens By the Bay. Most cities at night are spectacular if you know where to go, and Singapore is no different. Many people are mesmerized by bright lights and tall buildings, but in Singapore, it’s also easy to be impressed by the Gardens by the Bay.

Gardens by the Bay are a year-round destination and the top thing to see and photograph in Singapore. They are accessible during the day, but nighttime is when they really come alive. The architects of Gardens by the Bay named a series of skeleton-looking trees called ‘SuperTrees.’ Each unique tree is sculpted from metal and covered from roots to the canopy with lights that change color every few minutes.

To get exceptional views of the SuperTrees, there are a few spots to check out such as the Singapore Flyer, an extremely large Ferris wheel. The Singapore Flyer goes so high that not only are the SuperTrees down below easy to see, lights from Indonesia and Malaysia become visible which is seriously mind-blowing!

Take in the Views from Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is one of, if not the most architecturally stunning and weird hotels on earth. Marina Bay Sands has to be seen to be believed and it’s not hard to see in Singapore. From the ground, take a walk from Fullerton Road past the iconic Merlion along the edges of Marina Bay.

The best time to do so is during the night as the hotel shows off an incredible display of dazzling lights and lasers along with water fountains that appear miraculously out of Marina Bay in a breathtaking display of choreography. At the top of Marina Bay Sands, there is an infinity pool that gives the impression of being one with the city skyline but doesn’t look down, it’s seriously high up.

The only way you can access the infinity pool is by being a guest of the hotel. If you are not one of the lucky bunch that gets to stay at the Marina Bay Sands there is another section that you can access, delivering views of Marina Bay, The Singapore Flyer, SuperTrees, and the Singapore skyline. The best time to go onto the viewing deck is at night.

Chill out in Sentosa

One of the best things to do on a longer Singapore Stopover is head to Sentosa Island. Sentosa Island is very much unlike the rest of Singapore and the complete opposite of Pulau Ubin Island. Sentosa is designed to be a little piece of paradise amongst the vibrant city of Singapore, a place close to downtown that is accessible for locals and international visitors.

Sentosa Island is the tourism hotspot in Singapore with everything from a world-class golf course, Universal Studios, and tropically styled beach to massive shopping centers. Sentosa Island is more of a playground for fine dining, drinking, and just having a whole lot of fun and there is something for everyone.

It may be hard to find a piece of the old Singapore on the island but a few remaining locations will ensure you don’t become completely overwhelmed by towering roller coasters and wave pools. The Malaysian Street Food Hawker Centre will give you traditional Singaporean dishes as well as a mix of Malaysian goodness.

If Sentosa becomes a bit much, take the cable car to Mount Faber Park on a scenic 10 to 15-minute ride. You can purchase round one round trip on the Mount Faber Line for about $30

Little India and Kampong Glam

Singapore’s SuperTrees were made to signify the multicultural nation that the country holds so dearly and Little India is a reflection of just how everyone gets along with one another despite cultural differences.

As the name suggests, Little India is one of Singapore’s most colorful suburbs for all things food, people, and culture along with a series of vibrantly painted houses. Little India is a piece of traditional India tucked away from the futuristic feels of Singapore.

It’s here that you can expect the people, food, and culture of this place to thrive and be everything India is with marigolds sold in excessive amounts to fragrant wafts from nearby wholesale markets.

The Tekka Centre Wet Market is where you will find a constant bartering and trading of fresh goods, spices, and things you would never imagine. Tekka Centre is certain to be a rush and you won’t necessarily find a cooked meal here instead walk or cycle to Dunlop Street for a guaranteed meal full of chilies and spice!

Kampong Glam is a hotspot for multiculturalism where everything seems to be happening right before your eyes. Kampong Glam is a short but humid walk across Rochor Canal and you hit Kampong Glam once you see the magnificent Sultan Mosque, dating back to the early 1900s.

Before you leave Kampong Glam, Kuan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple is a must-see where pilgrims of the Hindu faith ascend to be shrouded by the intense aromatic smells of incense all while aiming to get a rub of the bronzed Buddha’s belly.

Explore Boat Quay and Clarke Quay

Singapore has three quay spots to visit along the Singapore River with Boat Quay and Clarke Quay being the two must-sees. Boat Quay is the closest to Marina Bay with Clarke Quay a few minutes’ walk west of Boat Quay.

During my stay in Singapore, I chose to stay in Boat Quay given its close vicinity to pretty much everything in Singapore and it was a good choice. At Boat Quay, you’ll find many riverside restaurants, ferry terminals, and bars where the beer and Singapore Sling are anything but cheap.

From Boat Quay, everything is within walking distance, or if you prefer to catch a train, head to Clarke Quay Metro for access to Sentosa Island, Changi Island, or Marina Bay.

Clarke Quay is a bit outdated with its 80’s style hotels and outdoor spaces but Clarke Quay is all about food and nightlife. Clarke Quay is a great place to relax but the nights often get busy so look at heading to Chinatown for a chance at getting a seat for dinner and drinks.

Fort Canning Park

Within walking distance from Clarke and Boat Quay’s, Fort Canning Park is a tropical haven for everything natural so expect to find ancient trees, giant fan-palms and vines reaching to the sky.

Fort Canning Park has a darker side despite its sheer beauty. During World War II, Singapore was seen as a strategic place to obtain and the defense of Singapore was crucial. Scattered throughout the park are cannons and other weapons used during these dark days.

Getting around Fort Canning Park is simple, with a few concrete paths zig-zagging throughout the lush space. At the northern end of the park is Singapore’s National Museum.

Visit the Asian Civilization Museum

If you are near Clarke or Boat Quay, cross one of the bridges over the Singapore River to the Asian Civilisation Museum for insight not only into Singapore’s heritage, the museum offers vast collections of Asian artifacts from present times to thousands of years ago.

Explore Changi

Not all Singapore stopovers are lengthy so why not go for something super close to the international airport? Changi or Changi Village is an industrial suburb of Singapore that hugs a section of the coast along the Strait of Johor.

Changi Village is nothing like downtown Singapore. Instead, you will find more accessible access to Pulau Ubin Island and a food center or “hawker” which serves some top-quality Hainanese duck and rice.

Right near Changi International is the Changi Prison Museum and Chapel dedicated to telling the story of those fighting during WWII and how the prisoners of war survived the hardship.

Venture Around Changi Airport

As mentioned, not all stopovers in Singapore are long, and many times you may not be able to leave the airport. The good news is that Singapore Changi International Airport happens to be the best airport in the world, so don’t worry, you will get a taste of Singapore without ever having left the terminal!

Changi International is ridiculously big so the chances of seeing everything will be near impossible. A recent new addition to the airport’s interior includes a waterfall that cascades from the roof while lush gardens reach high to the ceiling of the glass roof.

Over the past couple of years, I have ventured to quite a few international airports, and not being able to leave them and experience what lay outside of its doors gets me down. To get over this, I allocate S$20 of cash into the local currency so I can spend it on the food of the local cuisine. This way, I will be able to get a taste of what the country would be like, and gives me the motivation to start planning future trips to that destination. See more long-haul flight tips here!

Enjoy Singapore’s Best Eats

Secretly, I am a big foodie, and sampling local cuisines (in large proportions) is my hidden talent. Singaporean food tops the list for me anywhere in Asia despite it being one of the most expensive countries to get a meal. However, a meal in Singapore can be as expensive or cheap as you want it to be. It’s possible to spend less than S$5 if you know the right spot.

The most expensive places to get a meal in Singapore are downtown Singapore, Sentosa Island, Mount Faber, Clarke, Boat Quays and Marina Bay Sands so expect to pay over S$20 for a starter meal and upwards of S$30 for a main course.

Chinatown, Little India, Changi Village, Pulau Ubin Island, and Kampong Glam are your best bets for street food like Hainanese duck and chili crab. You may have heard of the famous Singapore Sling, a cocktail invented at the Raffles Hotel. The Singapore Sling is a mix of liqueurs and spirits that taste a bit like cough medicine; unfortunately, you won’t find many places that sell this cocktail cheaply apart from corner stores.

Anywhere in Singapore, expect to pay S$20 or more for the Singapore Sling otherwise a corner store is more reasonably priced at S$7 (it comes in a bottle). Scattered throughout Singapore are places called ‘Hawker centers’ that are renowned for serving top-quality street food for a very cheap price. That’s where the above two photos were taken.

Food ranges from Indian, Malaysian, and Singaporean to Thai, generally open all day long. The best Hawker Centers are located in Changi Village near the ferry terminal and at the entrance to Sentosa Island near the cable cars.

Relax at Telunas Resort

Telunas Private Resort isn’t really an option for those with only 24 hours in Singapore, but rather for those on a long layover in Singapore. Natasha and Cameron had a six-day layover in Singapore and chose to spend for of those at Telunas, an exclusive beach resort that is a two-hour boat ride away from Singapore – technically in Indonesia.

Telunas is a true island eco getaway where those can come and relax away from the city staying in beautiful overwater bungalows. At Telunas Private Island there is no WiFi anywhere on the property and no 3G signal. So come with a good book in hand and get ready to relax! It’s hard to paint an accurate picture in just this paragraph, so you can read the full review and see the video here!

Timing your Singapore stopover

With Singapore being a small country with efficient modes of transport you’ll be able to get from the airport to Marina Bay in 20 to 30 minutes via taxi. Uber and taxis are an affordable way to get around, but the metro and buses are also fantastic.

Here are my personal things to do in Singapore recommendations if you have 24 hours or less.

Three full hours in Singapore city (six hours of layover time):

• Marina Bay Sands
• Chinatown
• Tooth Relic Temple

Six full hours in Singapore (nine hours of layover time):

• Marina Bay Sands
• Gardens By the Bay
• Chinatown
• Little India

10 full hours in Singapore (12 hours of layover time):

• Pulau Ubin Island
• Changi Village
• Mount Faber Park
• Boat Quay
• Gardens By the Bay

24 hours in Singapore

• You could viably fit everything on this list in if you hustle your way around the city and try to fit as much in as you can, but that can be exhausting, so consider what interests you the most before doing that. We find that hitting less places for a longer amount of time keeps us happier than running ourselves ragged around a destination.

When is the Best time to Travel to Singapore?

Singapore’s has two kinds of weather; very humid and monsoonal rains. Mornings in Singapore are the best before the sun rises and the humidity skyrockets. Any time after that, air conditioning will be your best friend. If you’re ever feeling hot just duck into one of the many shopping malls.

Anywhere from midday onwards, storms form and bring torrential rain to the city and generally will cool everything right down. One minute it can be clear blue sky, and the heavens will have opened.

Luggage Storage for your Singapore layover

It is possible to leave your luggage in storage while you go enjoy the city. this is much more enjoyable than lugging it around with you if you don’t have a hotel for the night. 

All terminals in Singapore Changi airport have baggage storage 24 hours a day. Prices range from S$5-S$20, see all the details here.

Getting Around Singapore on your Layover

Getting into the city is very straightforward once exiting Changi International. Taxis are frequently available 24 hours of the day outside of the international terminal so getting a ride is always a simple task. Expect to pay upwards of S$20 to Clarke or Boat Quay.

Trains frequently depart the international terminal and head everywhere around Singapore. Trains are much cheaper than taxis and are clean, safe, and efficient. Look for signs leading to METRO.

Once you are out of the airport, getting around is very easy with bicycles readily available but expect to be lathered in sweat after a ride, humidity often soars above 80% all day, every day.

METRO stations are everywhere in Singapore meaning you can get wherever you need without spending too much money. If you plan on using buses and trains, purchase an EZ link card which will enable you to use the card on both buses and trains with ease.

We’re big culprits of being connected every single day and with running a travel blog disconnecting from the internet feels next to impossible. It leads to a lot of stress and frustration in our lives despite what it may appear on social media. So, with a project in Ireland on the horizon, we decided to throw our phones in the suitcase and pick up two new books for a much-needed digital detox.

The Telunas resorts are an absolute treat and wonderful eco-lodges to escape modern-day life just a stone’s throw away from Singapore.

Getting to Telunas Private Island

Getting to Telunas Private Island or Telunas Beach Resort will be the hardest part of your trip. From Singapore, you need to take the ferry from Singapore Harbor to Batam. The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. Once you are at the Batam ferry station a Telunas staff member will collect you and transfer you to their local boat.

From Batam, you will take a local speedboat for 1.5-2 hours depending on conditions. The Telunas team is happy to set this all up for you before your arrival so the transfers are as seamless as possible.

Telunas Private Island Property

There are two properties that comprise Telunas, Telunas Private Island and Telunas Beach Resort. We spent one day at the beach resort and three days on their private island. Both are lovely, but they have very different vibes and cater to different guests.

The Beach Resort is better for larger groups, is more affordable, has more activities to stay busy, and models the look and feel of a traditional fishing village in the area. Since we spent more time at Telunas Private Island the focus of this post will be about the private island.

Telunas Private Island is the more exclusive and private option offering luxurious bungalows spread out from neighbors. It’s very easy to never talk to another person here if you want.

At Telunas Private Island there is no WiFi anywhere on the property and no 3G signal (but you can get a 3G signal on Telunas Beach Resort). So come with a good book in hand and get ready to relax!

The Rooms at Telunas Private Island

Every room at the private island is an overwater bungalow overlooking the beautiful ocean. Rooms are spacious and feature fabulous decorations. Seriously, if I were to design my own bedroom it would be modeled after Telunas.

Rooms can sleep up to four people making Telunas ideal for a four-person family. The bungalows are loft style with two twin beds on the top floor and a comfortable king-size bed on the bottom.

We didn’t spend much time in the room, but when we were there we spent most of our time out on the balcony relaxing in the sun or doing yoga in privacy. There are also coffee and tea-making facilities and an extremely comfy bed to relax in while being whisked away to the sounds of the ocean.

The Food at Telunas Private Island

Everyone staying at Telunas Private Island must purchase a mandatory full board meal plan. Meal plans include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinking water. Every day there will be a buffet breakfast, a set three-course lunch, and a three-course dinner.

The waitstaff will ask you if you are okay with the food choice options for the upcoming meal. They cater to all diets and we found that they were very flexible with our dietary needs and made sure we were happy with all meals. Foor was generally a mix of western specialties and Indonesian local cooking.

The Staff at Telunas Private Island

One of my favorite things about the Telunas properties is that they employ mainly from the local villages. More than 160 Indonesians work at the Teluans property and they have created their own wonderful community there.

Telunas is very far away from Singapore or any main city, so most of the villages in this archipelago still rely on fishing as their main income source. Telunas provides people with great employment opportunities and learning development not far from home.

The staff, especially the waitstaff, were downright excellent and spoke English well. Always helpful, smiling, and very accommodating to guests’ needs.

The Activities at Telunas Private Island

The main thing to do at Telunas Private Island is chill. After all, there is no WiFi so there is no need to ever stare at your computer or phone while here. I couldn’t believe the fact that I was able to start and finish a book here without ever worrying about who was emailing me or posting to Instagram. I would highly suggest bringing a Kindle with some books already downloaded.

Of course, there are other things to do at Telunas. We hung out at almost all day every day at the pool, listening to soothing music and drinking iced coffees. Or you can always jump into the sea from the dock (we did this many times). There’s also an activity center with stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, beach volleyball, badminton, cornhole, table tennis and so much more.

Every day Telunas organizes an activity suitable for all. Sometimes that may be a village tour, a waterfall trek, or a local craft-making session. I also noticed there is a kids center for families which gives parents some much-needed relaxation and time off and lets all the kids meet some new friends! All activities are included in the price at Telunas.

The Wellness at Telunas Private Island

Telunas may possibly be the most relaxing place on earth, so you can bet there is an overwater spa to enjoy. We couldn’t help but book ourselves a couples massage at the overwater suite while the sunset. I highly recommend doing the same. Make sure to book your treatment in advance as there is only a couple of masseuse on staff.

Overall Impressions of Telunas Private Island

I loved everything about our stay at Telunas. Honestly, we were due to spend a week in Singapore, but I opted to escape to the beach for some peace and quiet for four days instead. The staff, the property, and the rooms exceeded my expectations and I hope we can return someday. I mean where else can you get overwater bungalows similar to The Maldives without Maldives pricing?

If you have an open and flexible schedule consider traveling to Telunas during the week. The place fills up on weekends with Singaporeans and ex-pats after a city escape!

Looking back now our time at Telunas was a highlight of our entire 2018. Before arriving, I didn’t realize there wouldn’t be any WiFi, but it actually allowed us to put down the laptops and read a book while listening to the sound of the ocean next to my favorite person.

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