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Embark on a journey of self-discovery with our comprehensive review of independent travel in Singapore. Get ready to immerse yourself in a plethora of fascinating experiences, ensuring unforgettable moments in the Lion City. These experiences will crystallize into beautiful memories you'll cherish forever.
1. When is the Best Time to Embark on Independent Travel in Singapore?
Singapore boasts a tropical climate characterized by monsoon winds and year-round sunshine, with average temperatures hovering around 32 degrees Celsius. Thanks to Singapore's warm climate, alongside self-guided exploration, you can also book a trip to Singapore at any time. Most trips are largely unaffected by weather conditions.
Based on experienced travelers' insights, it's advisable to avoid peak seasons for shopping when embarking on independent travel in Singapore. These periods typically span from June to August and extend from Christmas into the following year.
Experience the allure of independent travel in Singapore amidst its dazzling, night-time cityscape.
During the mentioned period of self-guided travel in Singapore, you're likely to snag direct discounts of up to 50% or even purchase items at their original prices. Additionally, if you're keen on relishing delectable cuisines, don't miss the opportunity in April, when food festivals abound in this vibrant city.
Alternatively, if your intention for traveling to Singapore is purely recreational, feel free to set foot on the Lion City at any time throughout the year. However, it's advisable to be mindful of Singapore's seasons to conveniently plan your itinerary. The hot season in Singapore typically spans from March to August, while the rainy season falls between September and December.
2. What to Prepare for Independent Travel in Singapore?
In the following guide, you'll discover what you need to prepare for your Singaporean adventure. Proper preparation ensures a smoother and more enjoyable journey.
2.1. Packing Essentials for Your Singaporean Journey
Are you wondering what items to pack for your self-guided trip to Singapore, ensuring hassle-free customs clearance?
According to the insights from numerous seasoned travelers, it's advisable to bring along essential items for your independent travel in Singapore. These include sunscreen, sunglasses, a flashlight, a power bank, and more. Additionally, don't forget to pack a universal adapter, as Singaporeans typically use three-pronged sockets.
Note that Singapore's climate is quite similar to ours, so you should monitor the temperature and choose appropriate clothing. Moreover, remember to pack modest and elegant attire for visits to temples or sacred places.
Prepare your luggage accordingly based on the insights from independent travel reviews in Singapore.
If you opt for independent travel in Singapore, ensure you have the following essential documents: a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure, Singapore dollars, and other necessary identification documents. Additionally, consider making copies of your ID and passport to safeguard against lost luggage or unforeseen circumstances. This will enhance the experience of a 4-day, 3-night Singapore tour.
2.2. Exchanging Currency for Your Singapore Trip
In the realm of independent travel in Singapore, you can exchange your currency for Singapore dollars upon arrival for convenient payments when needed. Currency exchange services are available at Hanoi's Ha Trung Street or select banks. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can exchange currency at gold shops along Le Thanh Ton Street in District 1 or Le Van Sy Street in District 3.
Remember to exchange foreign currency when traveling to Singapore.
According to independent travel reviews in Singapore, you can also easily exchange currency in Singapore at the following locations: People's Park Complex (1 Park Road), The Arcade (Raffles Place), or Mustafa Centre (145 Syed Alwi Road),...
2.3. Booking Cheap Flights to Singapore
According to independent travel reviews in Singapore, the primary mode of transportation from Vietnam to Singapore is predominantly by air. The flight duration from Hanoi to Singapore is approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, from Ho Chi Minh City it's around 2 hours, and from Da Nang it's about 2 hours and 50 minutes.
Currently, several Vietnamese airlines operate routes to Singapore. These include Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air,... Additionally, there are also some foreign airlines offering cheaper flights to Singapore, such as Cathay Pacific Airways, Singapore Airlines,...
It's advisable to book your tickets early to ensure a pleasant flight experience.
A handy tip for snagging cheap tickets is to keep an eye out for promotional periods. Additionally, it's wise to purchase tickets early, ideally 3 to 4 months in advance. Alternatively, opting for overnight flights can yield significant savings. For added convenience, if you're in Da Nang, you can book a 4-day, 3-night tour to Singapore from Da Nang | Explore the Lion City through Mytour.
3. Key Considerations for Immigration Procedures during Independent Travel to Singapore
For immigration procedures in Singapore, you'll need essential travel documents such as your passport, flight tickets, and accommodation details according to your itinerary.
However, according to independent travel reviews in Singapore, immigration clearance in Singapore can be quite challenging, especially when traveling independently. Therefore, thorough preparation with multiple documents is crucial, and it's also advisable to learn some basic English phrases for easier communication with customs officials.
When visiting the Lion City, it's important to note that you should not carry more than 7,000 USD and avoid bringing items that could cause harm, such as metals, children's toys, animals,...
4. Key Transportation Modes for Independent Travel in Singapore
Once in Singapore, you'll have a plethora of transportation options to choose from. Depending on your itinerary, destination, and personal preferences, you can select the most suitable mode of transportation.
If you're unsure about the best means of transportation, refer to independent travel reviews in Singapore regarding the following transportation options:
1. Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)
MRT stands for Mass Rapid Transit. According to independent travel reviews in Singapore, the MRT system is the fastest and most convenient mode of transportation in Singapore. It's highly suitable for independent travelers exploring Singapore.
The MRT system is the most advanced in Singapore.
With an extensive MRT network spanning the country and connecting to famous attractions, it's incredibly easy for you to explore and discover. If you're exploring the Lion City for a short period, it's advisable to purchase single-trip MRT tickets. However, if you're staying for 5 – 6 days and require frequent transportation, consider buying the EZ Link card priced at $12, available at major stations.
2. Bus
Buses are the largest mode of transportation in Singapore, operating daily from around 5:30 AM until midnight. This mode of transport is ideal for cost-saving purposes.
Experience the cityscape while traveling by bus.
Additionally, you can also utilize night bus services such as Nite Owl and Night Rider. However, the cost may be higher, ranging from 1.50 SGD to 3.00 SGD. Ticket prices depend on the distance traveled, averaging between 67 cents to 1.58 SGD.
3. Taxi
According to independent travel reviews in Singapore, taxi fares in this island nation are quite expensive, especially during peak hours. Taxis in Singapore come in 3 types: regular, Chrysler, and Limousine.
The initial taxi fare per kilometer ranges from 3 – 5$, with subsequent kilometers costing 0.5$. Traveling by taxi during off-peak hours, from 6 AM to 9:30 AM and 6 PM to 9 PM, as well as on public holidays, incurs approximately 25% extra charges. However, taxi rides between midnight and 6 AM incur an additional 50% surcharge.
Conveniently book taxis through mobile applications.
Moreover, Singapore also has Grab, similar to Vietnam. During peak hours, the fares increase. Additionally, if you have children but no baby seat, drivers often refuse to take you.
Here's a tip if you're using taxis or Grab in Singapore: it's best to wait for a ride in designated areas where vehicles usually stop. Since vehicles typically adhere to designated parking spots, it's unlikely you'll catch a taxi or Grab along the roadside.
5. Key Hotel Recommendations for Independent Travel in Singapore
Singapore, the Lion City, has long been known as one of the most expensive countries in the world. Therefore, hotel prices in Singapore are quite high.
For an affordable trip to Singapore, it's best to opt for dormitory rooms (rooms with 2 – 3 beds or one bed per person). You can rent homestay rooms at some hostels. However, choose hostels located opposite bus stops or MRT stations for easier transportation.
Selecting the right hotel based on independent travel reviews in Singapore.
With independent travel reviews in Singapore, you can choose budget hotels or 3-star hotels. If you're looking for hotels, you can consider the following options: Lion Peak Hotel Hamilton, Ibis Singapore Novena, Hotel NuVe Stellar, and more.
6. Top Attractions for Independent Travel in Singapore
What does Singapore have in store for us to explore and enjoy? Let's take a look at some of the famous tourist attractions on the island nation!
6.1. Merlion Park
According to the experience of independent travel reviews in Singapore, Merlion Park is always the first stop on the journey. The Merlion statue is what people often mention when talking about traveling to the island nation of Singapore.
Initially, the Merlion was designed as the symbol of the Singapore Tourism Promotion Board. However, it quickly gained recognition worldwide and became regarded as an iconic symbol of the country.
The park is a major attraction for tourists in Singapore.
The Merlion statue at Merlion Park has attracted many Singaporean tourists to visit and take photos. It is also the most popular tourist attraction in Singapore, especially since admission is free.
6.2. Marina Bay Sands
According to self-guided travel reviews in Singapore, this is an ideal destination for enjoyment and checking in. Marina Bay Sands features luxurious hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, theaters, museums, and other entertainment complexes.
Bustling, modern, and vibrant are the words used to describe Marina Bay Sands. It's not just a bay with clear, blue waters, but it also represents the urban life and development of Singapore.
The enchanting and magical scenery of Marina Bay Sands.
When visiting this free tourist spot in Singapore, you can stroll around the bay, admire the skyscrapers, and take photos. Additionally, you can enjoy the dazzling water music performances at Marina Bay.
6.3. Gardens by the Bay
Ranked among the most checked-in free tourist spots in Singapore, Gardens by the Bay attracts over 30,000 visitors daily. Situated in the heart of the city, Gardens by the Bay comprises three main areas: Bay Central, Bay East, and Bay South.
Gardens by the Bay is famous for its towering 'supertrees' reaching heights from 25m to 50m, forming an enchanting illuminated forest art installation at night. This is one of the highlights in the 4D3N Singapore Tour from Hanoi: Complete Fun in the Lion City by Mytour.
Transform into a princess amidst the vast natural wonderland.
According to the self-guided Singapore travel review of many experienced travelers, the evening is the best time to fully appreciate the spectacular colorful light effects. Entry to the park is free, but if you wish to visit the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, tickets must be purchased.
6.4. Helix Bridge
The next destination frequently mentioned in self-guided Singapore travel reviews is the double helix bridge - Helix Bridge. It connects two landmarks, the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands. This is the world's first pedestrian bridge with a double helix structure inspired by the DNA.
A bridge with a unique design found only in Singapore.
This place is known as the nighttime paradise of the island nation of Singapore. As night falls, the bridge becomes most enchanting. Therefore, make sure to capture some Singapore travel photos during this time.
6.5. Universal Studios
According to the self-guided Singapore travel reviews, one of the must-visit destinations here is Universal Studios. Here, you can have fun and feel like you're wandering into the kingdom of superheroes.
Currently, Universal Studios is divided into sets representing 4 prominent locations on the planet: Hollywood, Orlando, Japan, and Singapore (referred to as USS).
Self-guided Singapore travel review with an intriguing destination.
In each zone, you'll participate in games and dress up like actors accompanied by documentary footage. Additionally, you'll easily capture many beautiful photos to preserve memories at this location.
6.6 Jewel Changi Airport
Over the years, Changi Airport has been recognized as one of the safest airports in the world. The airport continues to innovate to provide passengers with the most exciting experiences. And the factor that makes Changi Airport increasingly memorable to travelers is Jewel.
A modern airport with impressive design at Changi.
Jewel is a complex located near Singapore's Changi Airport. Jewel is designed like a large island with the special highlight being the stream flowing directly at the center. Moreover, you'll be amazed to know that Singapore is covered by a giant primeval forest.
6.7. S.E.A Aquarium
S.E.A Aquarium in Singapore is currently known as the largest artificial aquarium in the region. The aquarium is now home to over 100,000 marine creatures and 20,000 different coral species.
According to the self-guided Singapore travel review, to minimize waiting time while purchasing tickets, you should register for online tours to reduce costs. When you arrive here, you just need to scan the QR code to enter.
Stroll through the stunning S.E.A Aquarium.
Walking here, you'll feel like you're wandering in a vast underwater world. You'll be able to directly observe many marine creatures. Especially the precious species such as: Manta rays, Hammerhead sharks, giant Moray eels, lobsters, and crabs.
Not only will you explore, but you'll also learn more about the lifestyles of marine creatures through the aquarium's guides. Additionally, you'll be able to navigate the historical flow to discover many mysterious stories of the ocean shipping industry through over 400 artifacts displayed in this museum.
6.8. Singapore Art Museum
The science and art museum is the next destination you shouldn't miss. With self-guided Singapore travel reviews, this science and art museum is one of the places where you can get really 'deep' photos in the collection.
The dazzling and magical space of the science and art museum.
To visit the museum, just head to the Marina Bay Sands area with over 20 exhibition halls showcasing masterpieces of science, art, and culture. Although the admission fee to the museum is quite 'pricey' (about 402,000 VND), it will definitely be worth it. And you'll have thousands of 'instagrammable' photos with different angles.
7. Self-Guided Singapore Travel Reviews: What Food to Try?
In general, Singaporean cuisine is quite diverse. For example, in Singapore, you'll find food courts everywhere, from shopping malls to subway stations. These places offer a wide variety of delicious dishes from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
Enjoying Singapore's famous frog dishes.
According to self-guided Singapore travel reviews, you should remember that Singapore doesn't have popular breakfast eateries like Vietnam. Additionally, there aren't too many enticing dishes in Singapore. However, you can choose some typical seafood dishes in Singapore such as:
- Chilli Crab: This dish is Singapore's national treasure, ranked 50th among the world's most famous seafood dishes by CNNGo. The price typically ranges from 35 to 50 SGD per serving.
- Hainanese Chicken Rice: This dish embodies the essence of the Lion City and can be found everywhere in Singapore. Prices range from 3.5 to 10 SGD, depending on the restaurant.
- Frog Porridge: This is a famous specialty of Singapore. You can enjoy this famous frog porridge dish anywhere in Singapore. The price ranges from 12 to 17 SGD.
- Dim Sum: This is a famous dish originating from China. When you come to Singapore, you'll get to taste many famous dim sum dishes like dumplings, spring onion pancakes, rice rolls, dumplings, meatballs, etc.
- Satay Skewers: This is a famous street food in the Lion City. Grilled meat is made from various types of meat such as chicken, pork, lamb, etc.
8. Self-Guided Singapore Travel Review on Bargain Shopping Experience
According to self-guided Singapore travel reviews, don't forget to spend some time visiting a few famous shopping centers to indulge in shopping. You should come here around June to August or Christmas time. Because during this period, each shopping mall and major store will have extremely shocking promotional programs.
Some famous shopping destinations in the Lion City you can visit are Orchard Road, City Hall & Marina Bay, Chinatown,... Additionally, you can also consider the following addresses for good bargain shopping in Singapore:
- Bugis Area: This place has over 800 stalls offering a variety of cosmetics, jewelry, clothing, electronics, and beauty services.
- Mustafa Centre: This is where various items ranging from clothing to cosmetics, electronics, snacks, and affordable food converge.
- Lucky Plaza: A place with affordable items suitable for many low-budget people such as fashion accessories, clothing, perfume, watches, sunglasses,...
- Far East Plaza: This is a bustling shopping district with jewelry, electronics, and fashion items.
9. Self-Guided Singapore Travel Review: What to Keep in Mind?
When traveling to Singapore, you need to pay attention to some things to ensure a smooth and fulfilling journey. This will also help you avoid any unexpected incidents.
9.1. Things to Do
Pay attention to neat, polite, and modest attire when visiting Singapore, especially in sacred areas. However, if you're going to the beach, it's even more advisable to dress modestly.
Selected Dos According to Self-Guided Singapore Travel Review.
Based on self-guided Singapore travel review, when visiting sacred areas like temples and shrines, it's advisable to leave your shoes outside. Another thing is that after shopping in Singapore, returning the receipts can get you a 7% tax refund at the airport.
9.2. Things to Avoid
You should avoid littering as Singapore is renowned as the cleanest city in the world. If caught littering in this country, you could be fined up to 5,000 SGD.
Smoking is strictly prohibited in public places such as cinemas, trains, buses, elevators, or amusement parks. Violators smoking in public places will be fined 500 SGD.
Warning signs prohibiting actions are visible in many areas of the Lion City.
One self-guided Singapore travel review to remember is not to chew gum in Singapore. This is considered a legal offense and you will be fined 1,000 SGD along with over 10 hours of community service.
You absolutely should not discuss political matters, religious conflicts, or racial discrimination in this country.
Avoid bringing durians to crowded areas as the smell may affect many people. When in Singapore, you'll come across signs prohibiting durians in many places.
Note that you are also not allowed to eat or drink on the subway. Therefore, you must have your meal before boarding or after getting off the train. Eating or drinking on the Singapore subway will result in a fine of 500 SGD.
With all the insights from self-guided Singapore travel reviews, you'll have an incredibly comprehensive journey exploring the Lion City. If you want to roam freely, then quickly contact Mytour at Mytour to receive an amazing Singapore travel itinerary!
