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Singapore - a small country in terms of land area but one of the fastest-developing economies on the world map. Moreover, it's a multicultural nation, which makes the culture of Singapore diverse and unique. If you're planning or already on your trip to this beautiful island nation, here are essential pieces of information you can't miss to make your Singapore journey memorable.
1. Overview of Singapore
1.1 Location and Size of Singapore
According to the introduction about Singapore, it is an island nation in Southeast Asia. The precise location of Singapore is off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. The main reason it's often referred to as a city-state is because not only is it located offshore, bordered by the Straits of Malacca to the north and the Singapore Strait to the south, but it's also formed from a large diamond-shaped island and 60 surrounding smaller islands.
Singapore is the fastest-developing country in the world.
Due to its proximity to the equator, just about 137km away, Singapore's weather is influenced by a tropical monsoon climate similar to Vietnam. This is also convenient for Vietnamese tourists traveling to Singapore to avoid health issues, heat shock due to temperature differences compared to other regions.
Speaking of its area, Singapore is one of the smallest countries in Southeast Asia with a total area of only about 700km2. This area is estimated to be equivalent to the Can Gio District of Ho Chi Minh City. This shows that area is the first special point that tourists traveling to Singapore should know when visiting this country.
1.2 Singapore Population
Not only does Singapore have one of the smallest land areas in the world, but it also has a relatively small population. The exact population of Singapore today is 5,966,376 people (data as of 12/26/2022 updated by the United Nations).
Another interesting aspect about Singapore that tourists should know when planning to travel to this country is its multiculturalism. Currently, Singapore has 4 main ethnic groups corresponding to 4 languages being used in this country.
Singapore's multiculturalism contributes to enriching the country's culture.
These groups include the Chinese Singaporeans (who typically use Mandarin), the Malay Singaporeans (who typically use Malay), the Indian Singaporeans (who typically use Tamil), and the remaining group consists of Singaporeans of various origins and those coming from other countries who use English.
Moreover, English is considered the official language of this country. This is a significant advantage for Singapore in terms of tourism. Foreign tourists or Vietnamese visitors coming to explore Singapore don't have to worry too much about language differences.
1.3 Singapore Capital
Unlike other countries where the capital of South Korea is Seoul or China is Beijing, the capital of Singapore is also called Singapore.
This is also one of the unique aspects of Singapore. However, not only Singapore, some countries around the world also have the same name for their country and capital, such as Mexico and Mexico City, Panama and Panama City,... Travelers visiting Singapore should take note of this for easier information retrieval during their travels.
2. Things travelers need to know about traveling to Singapore
2.1 Weather and climate during the tourist season in Singapore
Geographical location on the world map is one of the main factors influencing the climate, weather of Singapore. Due to its tropical monsoon climate, Singapore also experiences quite a bit of rainfall, so travelers planning to visit Singapore should research the weather of this country for the best possible trip.
The best time to travel to Singapore is from around February to April in the Gregorian calendar. During this time in Singapore, the rainy season is just ending (Singapore's rainy season starts from around November to January of the following year), and the mild sunshine is very suitable for sightseeing activities. A plus point for traveling to Singapore is that this country has relatively clean air, despite its high urbanization density.
Travelers should visit Singapore during the dry season to enjoy the beauty of the island country when the weather is nice.
If travelers want to choose Singapore as the destination for their summer vacation, they can go from May to July. This is also the peak tourist season for the Lion City. At this time, the weather here is very beautiful, with bright yellow sunshine. However, tourists traveling during this season should pay attention to full sun protection and avoid dehydration, sunburn because the weather in Singapore at this time can reach over 35 degrees Celsius.
2.2 Immigration procedures for traveling to Singapore
Similar to other Southeast Asian countries, Singapore does not require visas for travelers from these countries. However, to enter Singapore, travelers need to ensure that their passport is valid for at least 6 months.
In addition to visas and passports, travelers also need to pay attention to other health issues to enter Singapore, such as: Vaccination passports to prove that they have been fully vaccinated against Covid 19 according to regulations (fully vaccinated travelers will not be quarantined or tested for Covid 19 upon arrival in Singapore), fill out and submit immigration and health declaration forms online through the official website of Singapore's immigration authority.
Travelers will have an easier time entering Singapore if they have a vaccination passport.
Furthermore, travelers should remember to bring round-trip air tickets and carefully research what is not allowed in luggage when traveling to Singapore to facilitate the immigration process.
2.3 Most Prominent Cultural Attractions in Singapore
Thanks to its diverse population, Singapore is seen as a unique melting pot of cultures, especially Asian cultures. Below are some destinations that travelers should visit to learn more about Singaporean culture;
2.3.1 Sri Mariamman Temple
This temple is built according to Hindu religious beliefs. When traveling to Singapore, visitors will admire the characteristic South Indian architecture meticulously designed in every detail here.
This is one of the oldest temples in Singapore. Sri Mariamman Temple was built in the mid-19th century entirely of coconut palm wood. A few years later, the temple was solidly rebuilt using coconut palm wood.
The architecture of the temple is one of the most impressive features.
Not only because it is one of the oldest temples in Singapore, but also because this temple has special features such as being dedicated to the goddess Mariamman - the goddess believed to cure all diseases in mythology, and the architecture of the temple is based on various characters from the myths of India.
However, travelers visiting Singapore need to research what to avoid before visiting this temple to avoid any trouble.
2.3.2 Chinatown in Singapore
Chinatown, also known as the Chinese district, is one of the must-visit places when traveling to Singapore. The majority of people living in this area are of Chinese descent. Therefore, it's no surprise that this neighborhood is often filled with red hues from the characteristic Chinese lanterns at night.
Explore the vibrant Chinatown in Singapore.
In addition to admiring the glittering space of the Chinese district, travelers can also enjoy famous street foods here. Chinatown is divided into 4 areas that visitors should explore to learn more about China and the Chinese community in Singapore:
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Central Heritage Quarter: includes houses arranged with the distinctive ethnic characteristics of the first Chinese immigrants to Singapore.
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Ethnic Enclave Quarter: visitors can admire a 3D model of the lives of Chinese people in Singapore many years ago in an extremely authentic way.
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Chinese Cuisine Quarter: perhaps all tourists know that China has a very distinctive culinary culture. Visitors can enjoy Chinese dishes prepared by Singaporeans in this district. Some dishes that visitors should try are Char Kway Teow, Rojak, carrot cake, ...
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Chinese Night Market: Here, tourists can admire the bustling atmosphere and shop for souvenirs as there are many stalls selling typical Chinese items. Some items that tourists can buy are masks, lanterns, traditional costumes, ...
2.3.3 Little India in Singapore
With nearly 10% of the population being of Indian origin in Singapore, it's not surprising that there is a Little India (or Indian Quarter) with a rich Indian cultural atmosphere. Similar to the Chinatown Chinese district, tourists can visit Little India to experience Indian culture.
Firstly, tourists can admire many Indian temples when visiting this district. Some temples that tourists should try to visit are Sri Veeramakaliamman, Sri Srinivasa Perumal temple, or Ten Tang Niah's house,...
The vibrant Little India district with colorful rows of houses.
Moreover, when traveling to Singapore in Little India, tourists can easily purchase traditional Indian items such as Sari dresses, sparkling decorative accessories, or Henna tattoos at Little India Arcade.
Tourists should also not miss trying Indian cuisine when visiting Little India in Singapore.
2.3.4 Changi Prison
For tourists interested in delving into the history of Singapore, Changi Prison is a must-visit destination. This prison was built by the Japanese during their wartime occupation of Singapore in the past.
From a facility that once held over 70,000 prisoners of war, Changi Prison is now divided into areas: active prison compounds, a church area, and a museum open to visitors. Tourists can also see name-tagged cards of former inmates while exploring the museum.
2.3.5 Sultan Mosque
Sultan Mosque is regarded as one of the largest religious structures in Singapore. With its vast area, the prayer hall of Sultan Mosque can accommodate up to 5000 people at once. Furthermore, this mosque was constructed during the reign of the first Muslim ruler in Singapore in the 19th century.
Hence, it can be said that this is one of the significant structures of Islam, specifically, and of religions in Singapore in general, that tourists should visit.
The architecture bears the strong Indian style of Sultan Mosque.
2.4 Unforgettable Fun Places to Explore in Singapore
Besides sightseeing and taking Instagram-worthy photos at famous spots in Singapore, tourists can also indulge in entertainment at various amusement parks. In Singapore, there are numerous theme parks offering top-notch entertainment options that tourists can never get enough of. Some amusement parks worth mentioning include:
2.4.1 Universal Studios Singapore
This is the most famous amusement park in Singapore that cannot be missed in any travel article about Singapore. It can be said that this park is similar to famous amusement parks in the United States. Here, tourists can experience all kinds of entertainment activities from exploring the street cultures of major U.S. cities to experiencing thrilling rides.
Universal Studios Singapore is a must-visit destination when exploring Singapore.
Tourists can try out exciting rides here such as the world's tallest dueling roller coaster Battlestar Galactica with a height of 42.7 meters, or explore ancient Egypt with the Mummy ride, and experience the world of dinosaurs with Rapids Adventure and Canopy Flyer in the Lost World area,...
Not only does Universal Studios offer heart-pounding rides, but it also features impressive sci-fi experiences and realistic effects at attractions like Light Camera Action,...
2.4.2 Adventure Cove Waterpark
After indulging in the thrills of the dry park, Adventure Cove Waterpark is the next exciting destination that tourists should not miss. Especially on sunny days, visitors can immerse themselves in the cool water and enjoy fun-filled activities, offering a fantastic experience in Singapore.
This water park is one of the largest water parks in Singapore and ranks in the top 10 highest-quality water parks in Asia. Adventure Cove Waterpark is located on Sentosa Island - one of the four largest islands in Singapore. Tourists exploring Singapore can combine a visit to Adventure Cove Waterpark with other tourist attractions on Sentosa Island.
Travelers visiting Singapore can opt for this water park for a family getaway.
Some of the thrilling rides that adrenaline junkies should try include Riptide Rocket, Dueling Racer, Whirlpool Washout, Ray Bay, Big Bucket Treehouse,... Gentle rides for those who prefer a more relaxed experience include BlueWater Bay, Splash Works, or Rainbow Reef,...
2.4.3 Canopy Park
What sets Canopy Park apart from other parks is that it's designed and built within the premises of an airport. Travelers only need to touch down at Changi Airport - hailed as one of the most beautiful airports in the world - to explore this park.
Here, a cool green space is designed with lush trees and waterfalls, allowing travelers to relax during their airport layovers. Inside the park, there's a 25-meter-long glass bridge where visitors can admire the entire tropical garden below, which is quite unique.
If travelers are accompanied by children, this park is a great suggestion for kids to immerse themselves in nature. Most of the trees in Canopy are designed and trimmed into unique animal shapes, providing a positive learning environment for children to explore the natural world.
Experience something truly unique at Canopy Park.
Visiting Canopy Park in the evening is even more wonderful. With enchanting twinkling lights and exciting activities like exploring the Mirror Maze, bouncing on the net floor about 25 meters above ground level, or spiraling down the Discovery Slide, visitors will surely be enchanted by this unique park.
2.4.4 Wild Wild Wet Water Park
Another water park suggestion besides Adventure Cove Park is Wild Wild Wet Water Park. This was the first water park built in Singapore.
Here, visitors can experience a wide range of underwater games from thrilling water slides to gently immersing themselves in artificial waves, perfect for relaxation.
Some must-try games at the Wild Wild Wet Water Park of Singapore: Free Fall, Vortex, Royal Flush, and the Shiok River,...
2.5 What's Singaporean Cuisine Like? - Must-Try Dishes for Travelers
Thanks to its multicultural and multi-ethnic diversity, Singapore boasts a diverse culinary culture with various types and origins of dishes. Especially for Asian cuisine, travelers visiting Singapore should not miss out.
Singaporean cuisine is incredibly rich and diverse.
Some dishes that travelers should add to their must-try list when traveling to Singapore:
2.5.1 Spicy Chili Crab and White Pepper Crab
These are dishes that travelers can find in many places when visiting Singapore. After cleaning the crab, the chef prepares it with spicy chili and ripe tomatoes for a tempting red crab dish. Conversely, in the white pepper crab, travelers will only find normal white crab, but the special point lies in the peppery taste.
2.5.2 Carrot Cake
Carrot cake originally comes from China, but later it became a specialty of Singapore and Malaysia. Carrot cake sometimes doesn't have the orange color as people might think. The reason is that it is made from eggs, pickled radish, and white radish flour.
2.5.3 Wanton Mee Noodles
Originally from Hong Kong, Wanton Mee Noodles later became one of the specialties of Singaporean cuisine. Wanton Mee is dry noodles mixed with dumplings, char siu pork, sweet sauce, and a small bowl of soup on the side.
2.5.4 Bak Kut Teh Pork Rib Tea
This is a dish considered purely Singaporean, so travelers should try it when visiting the Lion City. The main ingredient of this dish is pork ribs stewed with spices, creating a broth that looks like the color of tea, hence called Pork Rib Tea.
2.5.5 Dim Sum
While this dish originates from mainland China and Hong Kong, it is a popular breakfast choice in Singapore. Dim Sum is beloved by locals and sold everywhere, making it an indispensable dish for Singaporeans. Travelers should try Dim Sum when visiting Singapore.
2.5.6 Bak Chor Mee Noodles
Bak Chor Mee Noodles consists of chewy noodles topped with generous portions of minced meat and mixed with spicy sambal sauce that will leave a lasting impression on travelers. Moreover, visitors can also request the chef to prepare this noodle dish in a dry mixed version for a unique experience.
2.5.7 Laksa Noodle Soup
Laksa Noodle Soup, especially the curry version, is highly popular in Singapore. The main ingredients for this dish include noodles or vermicelli, coconut milk, fish, shrimp, blood cockles, and crispy tofu.
It can be said that this dish is a culinary masterpiece of cultural fusion in the cuisine of various nations in Singapore. It is a combination of similar dishes originating from countries such as China, Malaysia, Peranaka, and more.
The most famous dish in Singapore that travelers should try.
2.5.8 Roti Prata
Many may not know, but this popular breakfast dish in Singapore actually originated from India. It's a grilled flatbread with multiple layers and is often filled with ingredients like onions, eggs, mushrooms, or chocolate,...
2.5.9 Fried Oyster Omelette
Surely many Vietnamese travelers have tried this dish in Vietnam before coming to Singapore. Made from oysters, eggs, and fried potato starch together. The special point of this dish lies in the unique chili vinegar sauce exclusively for fried oyster omelette.
2.5.10 Fish Head Curry
Fish head curry originates from India but takes on a unique flavor when it comes to Singapore. The reason for this uniqueness is because Singaporean curry is a blend and balance of Indian and Chinese curry, resulting in a very distinctive taste.
All the information above is essential for any traveler visiting Singapore whether on a tour or traveling independently. Singapore - a country not only renowned for its economy but also for its unique multicultural heritage. Therefore, everyone should visit the Lion City at least once in their lifetime to experience these unique aspects. Travelers looking for advice or booking experiences for 2024 Singapore tours can contact the Mytour 24/7 hotline at Mytour to receive special discounts.
