A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Singapore: The Essentials
Helpful travel tips, real-life insights, and what to expect when you’re exploring this futuristic jungle of a city.
Summer is officially here, and while most people are busy planning their next escape, I’ve been thinking about a trip I took last year—a whirlwind four-day getaway to Singapore in late August that completely redefined what I thought a city could be.
It was my first visit to this tiny island nation, and within moments of stepping off the plane at Changi Airport, it felt like I’d landed in a sci-fi utopia. Ultra-modern yet deeply rooted in nature, Singapore dazzled me in the most visceral way. Surreal was the only word my mind could muster to describe that first impression. The entire city seems to rise out of the jungle rather than replace it.
Singapore isn’t just efficient or clean or mindfully designed (though it’s all of those things). It’s a city built on the belief that urban life and nature don’t have to be at odds; they can coexist and be in constant conversation. The vision here isn’t simply greenery in the city, but a City in a Garden, a concept that plays out everywhere, from vertical forests to airport waterfalls to tree-lined MRT stations.
In this blog post, I’m sharing everything I learned as a first-time solo traveller to Singapore, from travel tips to practical advice on navigating the city. If Singapore’s on your radar, or even just an idea floating somewhere in the back of your mind, I hope this gives you a solid place to start.
(And if you’re wondering where I went and what I saw, that’s coming up in the next post!)
✈️ What You’ll Need to Enter Singapore
Before you book your flight, it’s worth checking if you need a visa to enter Singapore. If you’re travelling with a Canadian passport, you’re in the clear for short visits. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
The only form I had to complete was the SG Arrival Card (SGAC), which includes a brief electronic health declaration. It can be filled out online within three days before your arrival. The process is quick and painless, and you’ll receive an email confirmation right away.
Upon arrival, Singapore customs will also take your biometrics (fingerprints and a facial scan) which are used again when you exit the country.
🚆 Getting Around Like a Local
Singapore’s public transportation is everything you’d hope for: clean, efficient, and surprisingly easy to navigate.
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), which covers most of the city, became my main way of getting around. I assumed I’d need to buy a stored-value card, but it turned out I could just tap my bank card at the gates. If you’ve added your cards to your digital wallet, Apple Pay or Google Pay works just as well.
Fares typically range from S$0.99 to S$2.50 per ride, depending on distance. If you want to estimate your route in advance, there’s a handy fare calculator on the official website.
For places that are less walkable or outside MRT coverage, I used the ride-sharing app Grab throughout my trip, including to and from the airport, and found it super user-friendly with reasonable fares. The app also gives real-time pricing and route tracking, which is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
One thing I didn’t get around to was taking the bus. Singapore has double-decker buses, which totally reminded me of London. Next time I go back, that’s definitely on my list!
💳 Should You Carry Cash?
Most of Singapore runs smoothly on contactless payments. I used my credit card almost everywhere, including at convenience stores and shopping centres.
That said, you’ll want to carry a bit of cash, especially if you plan to eat at hawker centres or grab breakfast from kopitiams (traditional Singaporean cafés). Many smaller, family-run stalls are still cash-only. I brought around S$100 for my four-day trip and didn’t spend all of it, but it was helpful to have on hand for small purchases.
☀️ The Weather: What to Expect
I visited Singapore in late August, when the heat and humidity are in full swing. Daytime temperatures hovered around 33°C and brief downpours are common during that time of year.
If you prefer a slightly cooler climate, aim for a visit between February and April. But regardless of when you go, come prepared. Lightweight, breathable clothing is a must. Sunscreen, a small umbrella, and a reusable water bottle will go a long way in keeping you comfortable while exploring the city.
📶 Mobile Data and Charging
For mobile data, I used Airalo to purchase a regional eSIM and had a great experience. I chose a 5GB plan to cover both Singapore and my next stop in Bali, and still had 3GB left by the end of my travels. The setup was quick and didn’t require swapping out physical SIM cards, which made everything much simpler.
Singapore uses the British-style Type G power plug, so make sure to bring a compatible adapter if you’re arriving from a country that uses different sockets. That said, many hotels are now equipped with USB charging ports for phones and laptops, so you may be able to get by without a converter in a pinch.
💰 Is Singapore Really That Expensive?
Singapore has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities in the world, and when it comes to the cost of living, that probably holds true. But as a visitor, I think it really depends on how you like to travel and what you’re looking to get out of your trip.
If your idea of a great time includes cocktails at swanky rooftop bars, soaking in that infinity pool view at Marina Bay Sands, shopping at luxury malls, or hitting up theme parks on Sentosa, then yes, you’ll definitely be spending a fair bit.
But if you’re more into wandering neighbourhoods, checking out free public spaces, and eating like a local, you can absolutely do Singapore on a more modest budget.
🗣️ Language, Culture, and Communicating with Ease
One of the most convenient things about Singapore is that English is widely spoken. Most signs, menus, and public announcements are in English, and nearly all the locals I interacted with could communicate in it to some degree. I occasionally used Mandarin at hawker centres, which helped in a few spots, but it wasn’t essential.
That said, Singapore is incredibly multicultural, with Chinese, Malay, and Tamil also spoken across the country.
💵 Should You Tip?
Tipping isn’t expected in Singapore. Most restaurants and cafés include a service charge in the final bill, so there’s no need to calculate a tip or fumble for loose change. If you do want to tip for exceptional service, it’s appreciated, but definitely not required.
🎟️ Booking Experiences in Advance
Some of Singapore’s major attractions are extremely popular for good reason. Places like Gardens by the Bay and the SkyPark Observation Deck at Marina Bay Sands draw a steady stream of visitors year-round.
To save time and avoid standing in long lines under the sun, I’d recommend booking tickets for these sights in advance. Not only does it streamline your day, but you’ll often find bundle deals or timed entry slots that help you plan your itinerary more efficiently.
I’ll share more details on what’s worth booking and what can be spontaneous in the next blog post when I walk through everything I saw and did.
🌃 Is It Safe to Walk Alone at Night?
One of the things I appreciated most about Singapore was how safe it felt, even after dark. I often wandered the city in the evenings, whether to grab a late meal or just take in the skyline, and not once did I feel uneasy or on edge.
It goes without saying that basic common sense still applies. Stick to well-lit areas, keep your belongings secure, and trust your instincts. No city is entirely risk-free, but Singapore comes remarkably close. As a solo traveller, that peace of mind made a big difference in how freely I could explore.
In my next post, I’ll take you through all the places that made this trip memorable—from the hawker centre food stalls that completely won me over, to the cozy little cafés I lingered in, to the colourful, eclectic neighbourhoods I wandered through as I got to know the city. Singapore is full of contrasts and surprises, and I’m thrilled to share the stories, sights, and bites that brought it all to life for me. Stay tuned!