Hello peeps!
After roughing it up in Indonesia, I finally went back to civilisation and I did it in style - Singapore style :)
Singapore was everything I hoped it would be and even more, so much so, I am actually thinking about getting a job there after my travels! Maybe it was the contrast of being in a mega-city after the smaller scale of the places I had been in Indonesia, or perhaps being in swept by the clean and safe feeling I got as soon as I landed, or the fact that the city reminded me of a warmer version of London - whatever it was, I truly fell in love with this fascinating city.
Not everyone I have met enjoyed Singapore as much as I did. I guess it is a matter of personal preferences. Let's get into the technical stuff about this city state and maybe you will understand why I want to move in :)
1. Getting there
After roughing it up in Indonesia, I finally went back to civilisation and I did it in style - Singapore style :)
Singapore was everything I hoped it would be and even more, so much so, I am actually thinking about getting a job there after my travels! Maybe it was the contrast of being in a mega-city after the smaller scale of the places I had been in Indonesia, or perhaps being in swept by the clean and safe feeling I got as soon as I landed, or the fact that the city reminded me of a warmer version of London - whatever it was, I truly fell in love with this fascinating city.
Not everyone I have met enjoyed Singapore as much as I did. I guess it is a matter of personal preferences. Let's get into the technical stuff about this city state and maybe you will understand why I want to move in :)
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| First glimpse of Singapore on the way from the airport |
1. Getting there
Changi is the only international airport in Singapore. Alternative flight free options into the country are the ferry from Indonesia's Pulau Batam to Singapore Harbourfront or the bus/train from Malaysia.
I flew in from Jakarta with Air Asia but Singapore is a hub in South East Asia so many airlines fly there.
No visa required with a European passport - you will simply get a stamp allowing you to stay up to 90 days in the country. No need to provide proof of onward journey to get your stamp.
Check on skyscanner for an idea of airlines going to Singapore and prices. Also check on other sites as skyscanner doesn't always show low cost carriers. From around South East Asia, Air Asia offers very cheap flights to and from Singapore.
For all the destinations, I made sure to check out the reviews on Trip Advisor and was never disappointed with a choice made based on these.
I flew in from Jakarta with Air Asia but Singapore is a hub in South East Asia so many airlines fly there.
No visa required with a European passport - you will simply get a stamp allowing you to stay up to 90 days in the country. No need to provide proof of onward journey to get your stamp.
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| Singapore skyline from the bay |
For all the destinations, I made sure to check out the reviews on Trip Advisor and was never disappointed with a choice made based on these.
2. Accommodation
E.X.P.E.N.S.I.V.E!!! Even hostel dorms are very expensive so your stay in Singapore will definitely set you back a fair bit on your travel budget.
I stayed at Wink Hostel in Chinatown, a 5min walk from the MRT station. A touch more upmarket than your average hostel in town, but super clean and safe. The dorm beds are pods that give maximum privacy. The staff is just great and food courts are within walking distance. You can arrange for tickets to a number of attractions from their front desk.
2. Things to do
There are a number of attractions in Singapore so you will be snapping away for your whole stay although to be fair - you are more likely to spend most of your time eating, so diverse are the cuisines on offer all around town!
I went to the following places:
- Raffles Terrace: a peaceful oasis in the hustle and bustle of the city. I tried to gate crash an outdoor performance of Othello, but was kindly but firmly turned back to the gate by the smiling lady :)
I really enjoyed walking through the spice garden though.
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| The Sands, the Durian and the Wheel of Singapore |
- Marina Bay Sands: this iconic sight of the Singapore skyline is worth checking for the breathtaking views of the city. Go to the bar in Tower 1 - it is free to go up, and the drinks are surprisingly cheap.
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| A night to remember |
- Night Safari: no flash photography allowed so you will leave with plenty memories but not so many pictures. Still, I would say it is very worth the trip.
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| Restaurants, hawker centers, street food - you name it, they have it! |
- Food courts: yes, I include these in the sights because eating is almost a hobby in Singapore and there is so much on offer, even the fussiest eater will be satisfied!
4. Good to know
- Currency is the Singapore dollar, SGD. ATM are everywhere although I haven't noticed many money changers.
- Electricity is 220V, with the 3 pins system like in the UK.
- Tap water is OK to drink. Food is OK to consume everywhere.
- Mosquitoes are present, but not a complete nuisance. I got bitten a few time so keep your mosquito repellent handy, preferably DEET 50%. Air con is everywhere, so mosquito nets are not necessary.
- The whole city feels safe so no need to be paranoid about getting your stuff stolen. That's not to say you should don't flash money or expensive gadgets, specially at night, but then again local people are likely to have more up to date gear than you ;)
- Best to keep PDA to a minimum as Singapore remains a fairly traditional place. It is just that people don't normally get physical in public. LGBT peeps will not face any trouble, but just like straight couple, are advised to keep a PDA to a minimum.
- Shorts and skimpy tops not an issue. Keep it decent though.
- Shorts and skimpy tops not an issue. Keep it decent though.
- Doctors and hospitals - never had to use them so cannot comment.
- I didn't buy any souvenirs however fellow backpackers have advised to go to little India for a better deal compared to Chinatown.
So - That was my experience in Singapore. I did it on the cheap, but if you're looking to splurge a bit, there are many many many things for you to enjoy over there too.
I enjoyed the city so much, I will be going back for a few days end of June!
Enjoy!
:)
So - That was my experience in Singapore. I did it on the cheap, but if you're looking to splurge a bit, there are many many many things for you to enjoy over there too.
I enjoyed the city so much, I will be going back for a few days end of June!
Enjoy!
:)
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| From Singapore, with love... |
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