Let’s be honest. When the name ‘Singapore’ comes up in conversation, the word that comes to mind first is always ‘expensive’. We’ve all seen the films showcasing luxury retail outlets. But here at Andari Journeys, we believe that the splendid sights, world-class food, and the vibrant culture can be experienced without going bankrupt. We know you can experience all of the culture, food, and sights of Singapore without going bankrupt!
For the first time in history, you can spend time in Singapore for an extended period of time. The island nation is a fusion of the ultra-modern and the ancient. The futuristic gardens are an experience that you will be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. The islands feel like a time machine. Here is everything that you need to know to have the time of your life in this nation.
When Should You Pack Your Bags?
Dates for visiting Singapore are flexible as it does not have seasons, it is an all year round travel destination. It is recommended to plan your trip during one of the city’s most culturally exciting times: the Chinese New Year, Deepavali and the Hari Raya festivals. While you enjoy the shows and celebrations, you will find the great advantage of Singapore’s public transport system, as it is “mercifully air-conditioned” due to the hot and sticky weather. Tips for venturing out include a small umbrella for the tropical rain, and a bottle of water to keep your self hydrated.
The Icons: Must-Visit Places to See in Singapore
If this is your first visit to Singapore, we recommend starting with the popular attractions. Marina Bay is one of the modern highlights of the area. Of course, you’ll see the famous Marina Bay Sands with the “boat” on top of it, plus the giant lotus ArtScience Museum.
However, the must see attraction there is Gardens by the Bay. You haven’t experienced Marina Bay until you have been to been to the Super tree Grove. A tip from Andari Journeys: you shouldn’t waste your money on the domes, the light and sound show is world class and completely free. For a great, little known view of the skyline, visit the Esplanade Rooftop Garden. Because of it’s peace, it’s a preferred spot to escape the crowds.
Adventure and New Frontiers: Things to Do in 2026
Exploria opened in March 2023, so it’s perfect for the latest things to do in the city. It’s the largest indoor, nature-themed multimedia in Southeast Asia. There are lots of cool activities like feeling the ground shake while a T-Rex walks past you. There are plenty of massive interactive screens to explore the deep ocean. It’s a perfect place to go if your plans for the outdoors are ruined by the rain.
If you like nature, you can do a 15-minute bumboat ride to Pulau Ubin. It’s a drastic difference from the skyscrapers. You can spot wild boars and monkeys while you ride a bike through the last traditional kampong in Singapore. You can do this for just a few dollars.
A Foodie’s Paradise (On a Budget!)
You can not discuss Singapore without reviewing the great variety of foods available. At Andari Journeys we tell our travelers to start their culinary adventure at the hawker centers, that serve as the city’s “living neighborhood dining rooms” and are not to be confused with typical Western-style food courts.
- Maxwell Food Centre is home to the famous Tian Tian Chicken Rice. Expect long lines, but the chicken is very tasty.
- Chinatown Complex is Singapore’s largest hawker hub and sells everything from famous soy sauce chicken to old-school retro desserts.
- At Lau Pa Sat, you can enjoy some evening “theatre” as you join the street food market Satay Power. The buzz, smell of grilled meat, and energy under the old Victorian construction is unforgettable.
- Local Insight: Always carry a small pack of tissues. In Singapore, placing a tissue packet on a table is how you “chope” (reserve) your seat while you go buy your food.
Mastering Transportation
Effortlessly travel from point A to point B. Taxis are expensive, while the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is much cheaper, more efficient, and goes to all the islands. Tapping credit cards and Ezlink cards works for payment. If going to Sentosa Island, take the scenic boardwalk for free views, and skip paying the monorail fee.
Final Thoughts
Walking from the CapitaSpring financial district’s vertical rainforest through multiple contrasts is the experience you get in Singapore. Little India and Chinatown offer a totally different experience. Overwhelm is a part of the journey to explore the beauty of Singapore. This city is for backpack-budget travelers to luxurious ones, everyone can feel at home. It is a joy to offer travel tips to help plan your journey. Andari Journeys will provide more tips, secrets, and destinations across the rest of the continent to help plan your trip.
