Singapore Planning

Singapore is a fabulous destination to visit, and if you haven’t been to Asia before, an easy introduction.

I (Josie) have visited many times in the past, have a family member who lives there, write about it extensively on my website and run a Singapore destination Facebook group.

And since it’s a convenient stopover location, almost all our Australian and New Zealander travellers have more than likely spent at least a short amount of time there too.

If Singapore is all new to you, this section will help you to plan your trip, for the convention and any sightseeing days you want to include.

Some of the sections will include all the information here, others will link to their own pages, because there’s just too much to include here.

Getting There

Brief practical information such as:

  • Nearest airport
  • Approximate travel time from airport to venue
  • Public transport basics
  • Whether attendees need cash or can mostly use cards

(Then link to your more detailed Singapore essentials page.)

Visa & Entry Information

This is important for an international event.
Include:

  • Reminder to check visa requirements
  • Link to official Singapore immigration information
  • Passport validity reminder

Money & Payments

  • Currency
  • Cards widely accepted
  • Hawker centres may still prefer cash or local payment apps
  • ATM availability
  • Tipping culture (or lack of it)

Getting Around

This will probably be one of the most useful sections.
Include:

  • MRT system overview
  • Using contactless credit cards on public transport
  • Taxis and Grab
  • Walking in Singapore
  • Airport transport options

Where to Stay

You mentioned accommodation will be separate, but you could still include:

  • Brief overview of different areas
  • What each area is good for
  • Approximate travel times to convention venue

For example:

  • Chinatown
  • Bugis
  • Marina Bay
  • Orchard
  • Little India

Food in Singapore

Singapore is a huge foodie destination – I often feel like all I do is eat when I visit, and I promise that is not a bad thing!

It’s really easy to get a cheap and delicious more, or splash out at a Michelin-starred restaurant – and everything in between.

I absolutely recommend hawker centres, but if you’re a bit hesitant, don’t worry, we can give you all the best hints and tips.

Start off over on our Food in Singapore page, written by our local member Felicia, which will give you the basics, including what to try and where, info for vegetarians, spice levels at late night eating, and of course, some etiquette.

For further info, you can head on over to my website and read about more food to try and the hawker centres I recommend, especially for first-time visitors.

Attractions & Experiences

A simple overview with links to more detail later if needed:

  • Gardens by the Bay
  • Marina Bay
  • Haw Par Villa
  • Sentosa
  • Singapore Botanic Gardens
  • Museums
  • Neighbourhoods like Chinatown and Kampong Glam

Safety & Local Laws

Visitors often appreciate this.
You could mention:

  • Singapore is very safe
  • Strict laws
  • Jaywalking and smoking rules
  • Drugs laws
  • General respect and cleanliness expectations

Connectivity

  • SIM cards
  • eSIMs
  • Airport Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs/adapters

Language & Culture

  • English widely spoken
  • Multicultural society
  • Respectful behaviour in religious sites
  • Queue culture
  • Hawker centre tray return expectations

Suggested Length of Stay

This is very useful for convention attendees planning flights.
You could suggest:

  • Minimum stay for convention only
  • Recommended extra days
  • Singapore as a base for other Asian destinations

Day Trips & Stopovers

You could inspire people to extend their travels:

  • Johor Bahru
  • Batam/Bintan
  • Malacca
  • Cruises
  • Other Southeast Asia connections

Accessibility & Mobility

Very useful and often forgotten.
Include:

  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Walking expectations
  • Public transport accessibility
  • Heat/humidity considerations

Communication

  • WhatsApp/Facebook group links
  • Official email contact
  • How updates will be shared during the convention

What to Pack

A short version only:

  • Lightweight clothing
  • Umbrella
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Portable charger
  • Reusable water bottle

(Then link to a fuller Singapore page later.)

Local Etiquette

A small section can be reassuring for first-timers:

  • Singapore is very safe
  • Respect local laws
  • Air-conditioned venues can be cold indoors
  • Hawker centre etiquette basics