I started travelling 12 years ago and Singapore is the farthest city I’ve visited so far. I booked flight tickets only 2 months prior to my journey and couldn’t believe it until I was getting off the plane at the Changi Airport. I was reading a lot about Singapore and was looking forward to it badly. However, I was also little bit afraid. If you know something about this city, you are probably aware of its downsides. But no worries, here are your 4 tips to survive in Singapore.

Singapore is a city-state in Southeast Asia lying close to the equator. Due to its small area and high population density, there are many restrictions. And you as a visitor have to obey some of them too. For example, there is a strong car and road policy in the country. There is quota on the number of vehicles sold and the number of cars on the city roads. It is very costly to buy a car as well. In 2018 the growth cap for passenger cars and motorcycles was cut from 0.25% to zero. However, I think you don’t have to worry about this strict policy. On the other hand, there are laws you should follow in order to avoid heavy fines or even a jail time.

Probably the most known for foreigners is the ban on chewing gums. It went into force back in 1992, aimed mostly at its sale. Since 2004, exception on therapeutic, dental, or nicotine chewing gum exists. However, no one will fine you for travelling with a pack of chewing gums, but for their sale you can get arrested. And how did this started? Simply because it was too costly to clean all the chewing gums from pavements and means of public transport and repair the damage it caused. 

Except for no chewing gums, there is a general laws against littering, graffiti and spitting. In case of disobedience, you can end up with a $1,000 fine. For feeding pigeons in Singapore you will pay a $500 fine. 

There are also some “unbelievable” restrictions. For example, it is illegal to walk nude at home, urinate in the public elevator, not flushing the public toilet and playing musical instruments in public areas.

Well guys, let me tell you, knowing the local laws of a country you’re visiting can save you a lot of trouble. 😉

If you want to avoid a death sentence, I will advise you to not carrying any drugs with you 😉 In Singapore, there are over 30 offences that can end with death sentence. Drug trafficking was until quite recently among the four offences with mandatory death penalty. Today, drug possession in this city-state can range from $20,000 fines to 10 years jail time. However, if the quantity of drug is too high, you still can get the death penalty. 

Make sure you don’t possess any drugs on your arrival to Singapore. Always ensure your baggage and hand bag is closed and well on your eyes. You will minimize the risk of someone putting the drugs inside your belongings. Also, do not take any drugs before entering the country, as Singapore officials can conduct anonymous drug tests without a warrant.

I was the most afraid on the arrival to the city. As I took trips to Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, I found myself entering the country three times in one week. By this time you might know, that I survived all of them. 😀

So, these were the first two of 4 tips to survive in Singapore. They are also those most important ones.

Except for all these restrictions and laws, you will have to cope with weather conditions typical for Singapore’s climate zone. I was struggling a little bit, but if you know what to expect, you can prepare and eliminate its impact. 

Firstly, consider thoroughly when you want to visit Singapore. Ideally, avoid the monsoon seasons and heavy rainfalls that occur twice a year. The Northeast Monsoon comes in December and lasts until March. The Southwest Monsoon occurs from June to September.

Secondly, prepare for high temperatures (25°C – 31°C), humidity and abundant rainfall all year round. Even if you’re visiting during the two inter-monsoon periods, you won’t avoid rains completely. They are coming in the afternoon hours caused by surface heating during the day and sea breeze circulation. Due to Singapore’s geographical location, you don’t see many changes in climate from month to month. However, you will experience weather changes hour by hour withing a day. 

I was visiting Singapore in mid-September. Sun was rising at 7am and set after 7pm every day. It was 31°C the whole time and heavy rain came every other day, in the afternoon or evening hours. It was too humid. 

You can’t change the weather, however you can prepare for it. I can recommend you couple tricks to make your stay in Singapore more comfortable. Pack some light, breathable clothes, t-shirt from cotton. Carry enough bottled water with you all the time and drink regularly! Don’t forget sunglasses and a hat to protect from the strong sun. If you’re used to styling your hair, I have to warn you, it won’t be that easy. I straighten my hair on daily bases, yet I didn’t use my hair straightener once. It wasn’t strong enough to fight all the humidity, so I ended up curly during the whole trip 🙂

Singapore is generally known to be one of the most expensive cities in the world. According to report by The Economist Intelligence Unit, it is the most expensive city in the world since 2014. The first expensive cost to calculate with is the flight ticket. You can find the best deal upon checking different dates during the year and buy them well in advance. The second most costly expense is accommodation. To save, yet to enjoy your trip, look for budget hotels, buy a day pass for public transportation, don’t buy too much alcohol or bottled water (you’ll also help the planet :)) and avoid classy restaurants. This way you can save more money and spend them on various attractions in the city. I believe that budget of approx. 140 SGD should be enough for a day. Prepare to spend about 1000 SGD during your one week-stay. 

I believe now you are ready for your Singapore adventure! While you pick the best season for your trip and buy the flight ticket, I will prepare for you an article about the places and attractions you have to see! And, if you can’t wait, check my previous blog post on 4 Reasons to Visit Chengdu. Maybe that will become your next travel destination 😉

Love & happy travels,
RLT

P.S.: If you have any questions, different experience or suggestion, please share it in a comment below.