Singapore Travel Guide

Singapore is a captivating fusion of cutting-edge innovation and rich cultural heritage. Nicknamed the Garden City, it seamlessly weaves lush greenery into its sleek urban landscape, drawing over 10 million international visitors each year. Families will find no shortage of attractions to explore, from the world-renowned Singapore Zoo and Universal Studios Singapore to the interactive exhibits at the Singapore Discovery Centre.

Cultural gems abound in vibrant districts such as Chinatown, Little India and the Arab Quarter, while the acclaimed Asian Civilisations Museum offers deeper insight into the region's diverse history. Nature lovers can escape into the tropical rainforest of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, and shoppers will delight in the luxury and variety found along the iconic Orchard Road.

As the sun sets, Singapore transforms into a lively nightlife destination, offering everything from chic rooftop bars with panoramic views to high-energy clubs pulsing with music. Sentosa Island adds yet another layer of allure, with sun-soaked beaches, entertainment venues and luxurious resort getaways.

With its dynamic blend of nature, culture and forward-thinking design, Singapore stands out as one of Asia's most compelling and complete travel destinations.

Best time to visit Singapore

Singapore has a tropical climate, characterised by hot and humid weather all year round. Although rainfall is common throughout the year, the wettest months are between November and January. The best time to visit is during its festive seasons, the best of which is Chinese New Year (occurring at the end of January or beginning of February each year).

What to see in Singapore

-Book a seat on the Singapore Flyer, one of the world's biggest Ferris Wheels, for outstanding views of the city centre.

-Visit the Gardens by the Bay, a space-age botanical gardens featuring Supertrees (mechanical tree-like structures that contribute to the upkeep of the gardens themselves), and a fine selection of exotic ferns and orchids.

-Visit Merlion Park and take a classic tourist photo with the half-lion, half-fish statue by the bay.

What to do in Singapore

-Go shopping on Orchard Road, the retail and entertainment hub of the bustling city-state.

-Experience the famous Night Safari at Singapore Zoo, where a huge variety of nocturnal animals (from tigers to tarsiers) can be glimpsed.

-Go for a picnic in the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, one of two urban rainforests worldwide.

-Take a trip to Sentosa Island, and marvel at the luxurious resorts and theme parks dotted around the small tropical paradise.

Getting to Singapore

Cheap direct flights to Singapore are available from London and there are numerous indirect flights to Singapore from the USA. Travellers should bear in mind that Singapore's incredible Changi Airport is almost a tourist attraction in itself, so they shouldn't despair if they find themselves with some time to kill before their flight.

Read

The Singapore Grip by JG Farrell and A Many-Splendoured Thing by Han Suyin.

Watch

Red Dragonflies (2011) and Chicken Rice War (2000).

Eat

Chilli crab, satay (barbecued meat served on a skewer) with peanut sauce, and the coconut milk-based curry known as laksa.

Drink

Singapore Sling cocktails at chic bars along the Three Quays waterfront area.

What to buy

Merlion key-rings and jewellery, jade carvings, bronze statues and coasters made from Peranakan tiles.

What to pack

Travellers should pack an umbrella and a lightweight rain-slicker for Singapore, as heavy downpours are a common occurrence. A light sweater is also a good idea for ultra air-conditioned buildings, even in the heat of summer.

What's on in Singapore

Singapore is at its best during Chinese New Year (January), when the streets of Chinatown are lit with red lanterns and decorated with good luck charms. The Singapore Arts Festival (May, June) is widely regarded as one of the best of its kind in Asia, encompassing dance, drama and music, and with an emphasis on creative freedom and cultural diversity. The Thimithi Festival (October) is one of the most important of the Hindu cultural calendar, and culminates in a breath-taking fire-walking ceremony in honour of the goddess Draupadi.

Did you know?

-Chewing gum is still illegal in Singapore, unless recommended through a doctor's prescription!

-Singapore is the second most densely populated country in the world (after Monaco).

-Singapore's Changi Airport has won more than 350 awards since 1981.

A final word

Singapore is a vibrant and complex country, where rich cultural traditions blend with economic prosperity and cutting-edge technology, offering visitors a dream Asian holiday destination full of both old-world charm and modern appeal.