A little preparation goes a long way in making your Singapore trip smooth and enjoyable. Before you pack your bags, here are some essential tips to get you started on the right foot in the Lion City.

Pre-Travel Checklist

First things first, all foreign visitors must complete the SG Arrival Card online within three days prior to arrival. This is a mandatory electronic health declaration, and it's completely free. Be sure to use the official Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website ending in .gov.sg to avoid third-party sites that may charge a fee.

When it comes to packing, think light. Singapore's climate is hot and humid year-round, so lightweight, breathable clothing is a must. However, don't forget a thin jacket or cardigan. Malls, museums, and even the Cloud Forest conservatory are known for their powerful air-conditioning. Other essentials include:

• Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is non-negotiable.
• Umbrella: A small, foldable umbrella is a lifesaver, protecting you from both sudden tropical downpours and the intense equatorial sun.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are crucial for staying protected.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Singapore has many public water dispensers with potable water. Carrying a bottle will save you money and keep you hydrated, as convenience store water can be pricey.
• Power Adapter: Singapore uses the British BS 1363 (Type G) three-pin rectangular plug. Don't forget to pack a universal adapter.

Navigating the Lion City

Getting around Singapore is incredibly efficient. The two best options for the public transport network of MRT (subway) and buses are either purchasing an EZ-Link card or using a contactless credit/debit card (like Visa or Mastercard with the wave symbol).

• EZ-Link Card: These can be purchased at MRT stations or 7-Eleven stores. Keep in mind the card's balance must be above S$3 to enter an MRT gantry.
• Contactless Payment: Simply tap your card at the reader to enter and exit. Note that for buses, you must tap on when you board and tap off when you alight to be charged the correct fare.

While the public transport system is excellent, many of Singapore's core attractions are clustered together, making it a fantastic city for citywalk exploration. For longer distances or when you're tired, the Grab app is the most popular ride-hailing service. While most places accept cards, it's always wise to have some Singapore Dollars (SGD) in cash on hand, especially for delicious and affordable meals at the city's famous hawker centres.

Your first day in Singapore is all about diving headfirst into its most iconic sights, from the legendary Merlion to the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay. Prepare for a day of awe-inspiring architecture and breathtaking views.

Morning & Afternoon: Civic District and Marina Bay Wonders

Begin your adventure at the essential Merlion Park. This is the classic Singapore photo opportunity, where you can capture the mythical creature spouting water with the magnificent Marina Bay Sands hotel forming a perfect backdrop. The area offers panoramic views of the city skyline.

From there, embark on a leisurely walk through the Civic District. You can't miss the Old Hill Street Police Station, a historic building renowned for its 927 rainbow-coloured shutters. Continue your architectural tour with a visit to the serene, Gothic-style St. Andrew's Cathedral and the nearby CHIJMES, a beautifully restored former convent that now houses a variety of charming restaurants and cafes.

For a dose of culture, step into the National Gallery Singapore. Housed within the stately former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings, the gallery itself is a work of art. It contains the world’s largest public collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian modern art.

When hunger strikes, make your way to the lively riverfront area of Clarke Quay for lunch at Song Fa Bak Kut Teh. This famous eatery serves Teochew-style peppery pork rib soup. The meat is incredibly tender, and the flavourful broth is refillable—a custom you should definitely take advantage of. Don't forget to order some crispy youtiao (dough fritters) to dip into the soup.

Evening: The Enchanting Gardens by the Bay

As dusk approaches, head to the futuristic Gardens by the Bay. This sprawling nature park feels like a scene from a science fiction movie.

It's highly recommended to get a ticket for the two conservatories. First, explore the Cloud Forest, which features a spectacular 35-metre indoor waterfall and a misty, elevated walkway through a lush, tropical environment. Then, wander through the Flower Dome, the largest glass greenhouse in the world, showcasing exotic plants from different continents. Remember to bring a light jacket, as the conservatories are kept cool.

The perfect finale to your day is the free Garden Rhapsody light and sound show at the Supertree Grove. Find a comfortable spot, lie back, and watch as the towering, tree-like vertical gardens come alive in a dazzling, choreographed display of lights and music. Shows typically run at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM. Arrive a bit early to claim a good viewing spot for this magical experience.

Day two is a tale of two halves: a morning spent immersing yourself in Singapore's rich cultural tapestry, followed by an afternoon of adrenaline-pumping fun on the resort island of Sentosa.

Morning: A Journey Through Cultures

Dedicate your morning to exploring the city's vibrant ethnic enclaves, each offering a unique atmosphere.

• Chinatown (牛车水): Wander through streets lined with traditional shophouses, visit the majestic Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and browse the bustling street market. For an authentic and affordable meal, dive into the famous Maxwell Food Centre. Here, you can queue for the legendary Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and cool down with a bowl of silky smooth Lao Ban Soya Beancurd.
• Kampong Glam: Next, head to the historic Malay-Arab quarter. The stunning golden dome of the Sultan Mosque serves as the area's focal point. Afterwards, get lost in the colourful and trendy Haji Lane, a narrow alley celebrated for its eclectic mix of independent boutiques, quirky cafes, and vibrant street art.
• Little India: Just a short journey away, Little India offers a complete sensory experience. The air is filled with the scent of spices and incense, shops overflow with colourful sarees, and the streets buzz with energy.

Afternoon & Evening: Thrills on Sentosa Island

To reach Sentosa, take the MRT to HarbourFront station. From there, head to the 3rd level of the VivoCity shopping mall to board the Sentosa Express monorail for a quick ride onto the island.

Your main destination here is Universal Studios Singapore. While compact, the theme park is packed with exciting attractions. Don't miss the immersive TRANSFORMERS The Ride: The Ultimate 3D Battle and the thrilling high-speed indoor rollercoaster, Revenge of the Mummy. To optimize your visit, download the official Universal Studios Singapore app to check real-time queue lengths for all rides.

After the park, experience the Skyline Luge, a unique gravity-fuelled ride where you navigate a winding downhill track on a three-wheeled cart. It's an exhilarating activity suitable for the whole family. To get to the starting point, you'll take a scenic chairlift ride up the hill.

As the afternoon winds down, relax on one of Sentosa's sandy beaches. Palawan Beach is famous for its picturesque suspension bridge that leads to a small islet marking the 'Southernmost Point of Continental Asia'.

For dinner, return to the mainland for a quintessential Singaporean feast: chili crab. It is highly recommended to book a table in advance at a renowned seafood restaurant like Jumbo Seafood (the Clarke Quay outlet is a popular choice). Prepare to get your hands dirty as you savour the succulent crab meat in a rich, sweet, and spicy gravy, best enjoyed with a side of deep-fried mantou buns.

On your final day, discover a tranquil green space hidden in the city's heart before concluding your trip at what is arguably the world's most spectacular airport.

Morning: A Walk in the Park

Start your day with a trip to Fort Canning Park, a historic hilltop that offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle. The park's most famous feature is the Tree Tunnel, an underground spiral staircase that provides a stunning photo opportunity as you look up towards a large, framing rain tree. This spot is incredibly popular, so it is highly advisable to go early in the morning to avoid a long queue of fellow photo-seekers.

After your morning walk, treat yourself to a traditional Singaporean breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast. This beloved local chain is famous for its kaya toast sets. You'll get slices of crispy, thin-toasted bread slathered with kaya (a sweet coconut and egg jam) and a slab of cold butter, served alongside two soft-boiled eggs. The local way to eat the eggs is to crack them into a saucer, add a dash of dark soy sauce and a sprinkle of white pepper, and stir before dipping your toast or sipping it directly.

Afternoon: Jewel Changi Airport - A Destination in Itself

Make sure to allocate several hours before your flight to explore Changi Airport, as it's a world-class attraction in its own right. The crown jewel is, of course, Jewel Changi, a breathtaking nature-themed entertainment and retail complex linked to the terminals.

The undeniable centerpiece is the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall, which cascades 40 metres from an oculus in the glass-domed roof. It's a mesmerizing sight from every angle. For a truly unique view, ride the free Skytrain between Terminals 2 and 3. The train passes directly through the Jewel complex, offering a cinematic perspective of the waterfall and the surrounding Shiseido Forest Valley, a scene that many liken to the futuristic city in the movie Zootopia.

Beyond the waterfall, you can explore the various attractions at the Canopy Park on the top level, including whimsical gardens, giant slides, and bouncing nets. Jewel Changi also provides a final opportunity for souvenir shopping. Pick up some world-renowned tea from TWG Tea or a delicious, fragrant pandan chiffon cake from Bengawan Solo to take a taste of Singapore home with you. It’s a spectacular end to an unforgettable trip.