Introduction: Starting from February 9, 2024 (Chinese New Year’s Eve), Singapore will implement a mutual visa exemption policy for Chinese passport holders! Combined with the visa-free access to Thailand and Malaysia, the “Singapore-Malaysia-Thailand” trio is now truly a “pack your bags and go” destination.

Singapore’s appeal lies in its safety, culinary diversity, Chinese-friendly environment, modern infrastructure, year-round summer climate, and multicultural charm. While hotel prices have risen, Singapore remains a top-tier travel destination. Based on extensive on-the-ground research, this guide covers the latest attractions, logistics, and insider tips to help you plan a seamless trip.

1. Top Attractions by Zone

1.1 Marina Bay Area

Key Highlights:

• Marina Bay Sands (MBS): A landmark integrated resort featuring a hotel, shopping mall, museums, and the iconic SkyPark Infinity Pool (exclusive to guests). Don’t miss the ArtScience Museum with interactive exhibits for families.
• Gardens by the Bay: Visit both day and night to witness the Supertree Grove Light Show (free at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM). The Cloud Forest and Flower Dome showcase stunning botanical displays.
• Merlion Park: Singapore’s symbol, offering panoramic views of Marina Bay.
• Singapore Flyer: A 165-meter observation wheel with 360° city vistas. Avoid weekends for shorter queues.
• Duck Tours: Amphibious vehicle tours combining land and water routes.

1.2 Clarke Quay & Chinatown

Must-See Spots:

• National Museum of Singapore: Immersive exhibits tracing Singapore’s history from colonial times to independence.
• National Gallery Singapore: Housed in restored colonial buildings, featuring Southeast Asian art.
• Fort Canning Park: A lush green oasis with the viral “Tree Tunnel” photo spot.
• Chinatown: Explore Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, traditional shops, and vibrant street art.

1.3 Multicultural Districts

• Kampong Glam: Malay-Muslim heritage area with Sultan Mosque and colorful Haji Lane.
• Little India: A sensory explosion of spices, temples (e.g., Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple), and street art.
• Joo Chiat/Katong: Peranakan (Straits Chinese) neighborhood with pastel-colored shophouses and laksa eateries.

1.4 Sentosa Island

Top Activities:

• Universal Studios Singapore: Compact but packed with thrilling rides like Transformers: The Ride and Revenge of the Mummy.
• S.E.A. Aquarium: One of the world’s largest, featuring over 100,000 marine creatures.
• Skyline Luge: Southeast Asia’s only gravity-fueled luge track.
• Beaches: Palawan Beach connects to Asia’s southernmost point via a suspension bridge.

Transport: Take the Sentosa Express monorail, cable car, or taxi.

1.5 Nature & Wildlife Zones

• Singapore Zoo: Open-concept habitats with free-ranging orangutans and pygmy hippos.
• Night Safari: The world’s first nocturnal wildlife park (book timed entry slots).
• River Wonders: Home to giant pandas and Amazonian species.
• Jurong Bird Park: Asia’s largest avian sanctuary with flamingos and penguins.

1.6 Shopping: Orchard Road

A 2.2-km stretch of luxury malls like ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City, and Paragon. Tax refunds (7% GST) apply for purchases over SGD 100.

2. Food Guide: Savor Singapore’s Flavors

2.1 Hawker Centers

Affordable local gems:

• Maxwell Food Centre: Try Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice (Michelin Bib Gourmand).
• Lau Pa Sat: Famous for satay skewers and hokkien mee.
• Old Airport Road Food Centre: Don’t miss da dong prawn noodles and rojak.

Etiquette: Use tissue packets to “chope” (reserve) seats. Return trays after meals.

2.2 Signature Dishes

• Chilli Crab: At Jumbo Seafood or Long Beach.
• Laksa: Coconut-based noodle soup at 328 Katong Laksa.
• Bak Kut Teh: Pepper-infused pork rib soup at Song Fa.
• Kaya Toast: Breakfast staple at Ya Kun.

2.3 Trendy Cafés & Bars

• MO Bar: Ranked among Asia’s top 50 bars (Mandarin Oriental).
• Long Bar: Birthplace of the Singapore Sling cocktail (Raffles Hotel).

3. Transportation Tips

• EZ-Link Card: Reloadable card for buses/MRT (SGD 5 deposit).
• Grab: Ride-hailing app with fixed fares.
• Big Bus Tours: Hop-on/hop-off routes covering major landmarks.

Airport Tip: Arrive 4–5 hours early to explore Jewel Changi’s indoor waterfall and gardens.

4. Accommodation Recommendations

• Luxury: Marina Bay Sands, Capella Singapore, Raffles Hotel.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Fort Canning (historic charm), Village Hotel Katong.
• Budget: Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel (Chinatown).

5. Essential Travel Tips

• Language: English is widely spoken; Mandarin works in Chinatown.
• Weather: Lightweight clothing + umbrella (rain/shade).
• Etiquette: No chewing gum, strict no-smoking zones, and fines for littering.
• Free Activities: Gardens by the Bay light show, Sentosa beaches, and heritage trails.

6. Day Trips & Extensions

• Johor Bahru (Malaysia): LEGOLAND® Malaysia (90-minute drive).
• Bintan Island (Indonesia): Resorts like Banyan Tree (55-minute ferry).
• Desaru Coast: Beachfront retreats like One&Only Desaru.

Official Resources:

• Singapore Tourism Board: www.visitsingapore.com
• Changi Airport Guide: www.changiairport.com

With this guide, you’re ready to dive into Singapore’s vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, and cutting-edge attractions. Happy exploring! 🌟

Note: Prices in SGD; 1 SGD ≈ 0.74 USD.