For those that don’t know me, I’m Josie (Romney), a travel blogger and content creator, and apart from Australia, Singapore is where my expertise lies.
I have visited more than 10 times, up to 2 weeks at a time, stayed all over and done many things, from exploring the offshore islands and northern wetlands to Universal Studios and Gardens by the Bay.
I have over 30 blog posts about Singapore over on my website and I run a Facebook group called Singapore Stopovers, both of which can help you plan.
You are welcome to contact me and ask any questions you may have.
We are lucky to have a local Bookcrosser, Felicia (Phoenixfj), helping us to organise the convention too, so invaluable local knowledge.
We will include a few more general planning pages, such as this one about food and this one with some hotel suggestions as we get them written.
In the meantime…
This is an extract from one of my blog posts.
Things to Know Before you go to Singapore
Singapore is hot and humid year-round
Thanks to Singapore’s location almost right on the Equator, the temperature doesn’t change much.
Rain is common, but it is usually only for a short time and rarely all day, so if you see it forecast, it likely won’t interrupt your plans too much.
Year-round you can expect temperatures around 30°C (86°F) with high humidity, so pack light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated.
Sunglasses and sunscreen are musts! I also like to always pack an umbrella (for rain and shade) and a little handheld fan.
The MRT is clean, fast, and easy to use
The train system connects almost every part of the city. It’s safe, air-conditioned, and easy to navigate, even for first-timers.
Use your credit/debit card, grab a Tourist Pass or EZ-Link card for seamless travel.
Don’t disregard buses either. They can sometimes be quicker depending on the route, and you can use the same transport card as the MRT.
Hawker centres are a must
This is where the best food in Singapore lives. Meals are cheap, safe, and incredibly tasty. Michelin-rated meals for under $10? Yes, please.
Lau Pa Sat is a good starting point for first-timers. Maxwell Food Centre is also very popular – but there are more than 120 hawker centres in Singapore now, so try out some of the others too.
“Chope”-ing is real at hawker centres
Locals often reserve seats by placing tissues, drinks or umbrellas on tables – this is called “chope”-ing.
Don’t move someone’s chope, even if no one is sitting there!
Also, always clear your table once finished eating. There are clearly mark tray-return trolleys in every hawker centre.
Remember to only put halal options on that trolley. If unsure, use the non-halal location instead.
You can drink the tap water safely
The tap water is clean and safe to drink, so you don’t need to buy bottled water. Carry a reusable bottle to fill up as you go.
You can download and use the Mymizu app to find places to fill up your water bottle (this works worldwide)
Tipping isn’t expected
Restaurants and hotels usually include service charges in the bill. There’s no need to tip, though rounding up change is always appreciated.
As a typical Australian, getting a tip out of me is like getting blood out of a stone, and in Singapore I do only tip when the person has gone above and beyond – and this seems to be the norm.
Dress modestly for temples and mosques
If you’re planning to visit religious sites, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Some places provide shawls or wraps at the entrance.
I’ve seen options at the entrances of Sultan Mosque and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – but even at others less visited, be mindful that you are doing the right thing.
Use Grab instead of Uber
Uber doesn’t operate in Singapore, but Grab is the go-to ride-hailing app. It’s reliable, safe, and often cheaper than regular taxis.
I will only use Grab when I visit if I’m not using public transport.
For an approximate on costs, it’s about $25-30SGD from the airport to Chinatown.
Singapore is culturally diverse
You’ll experience a unique mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. English though, is widely spoken, but you’ll also hear local “Singlish” – a fun blend of languages.
English is one of four official languages, so all signage and information will be in English – and often the other three languages too.
It’s the common language of education and government so almost everyone speaks at least enough to get by.
Singapore can be as expensive – or affordable – as you make it
Yes, you can splurge on rooftop cocktails and designer shopping, but you can also eat like a queen for under $10 at hawker centres and stay in budget-friendly hotels.
It’s all about the balance – save in one place so you can splash out in another.
You won’t see everything in 2–3 days, and that’s okay
Singapore may be small, but it’s packed with things to do. Don’t try to cram it all in.
Pick a few key experiences, leave some breathing room, and know that it’s a place worth coming back to again (and again).
Trust me – I’ve been more than ten times and I still have a very long list! I recommend 5 days as a good starting point, but even more is better if you can manage it.
You might not need a visa, but you will need to fill in the SG Arrival Card (SGAC)
Most travellers don’t need a visa for short visits (please do your own research based on your passport), but everyone needs to complete the SGAC online before arriving.
It’s quick and easy to do within three days of your trip – just don’t forget, or you’ll be scrambling at the airport.