Right, so I visited Singapore recently this month. I feel its like a Lego city with too much perfection. Being from a Developing Nation, I liked the look of the city. Here are some tips for you if you happen to visit this city.
- All backpackers, it is advisable that you purchase, 'LifeStraw' which can save you lot of money. Singapore water is clean. Drinking water from any tap (unless specified not to drink) is fine. If you're still jittery, you can use Lifestraw. Mind you water can get expensive.
- Before you board your plane, take a print out of MRT (Rail transport) map, and keep some SGD coins with you, they will be very handy
- Now, if you're a smoker, you're not permitted to carry cigarettes with you, except for one which you're currently using and is open. You'll still have to declare this at Customs. What if you don't declare? Chances are that, if you get caught, brace yourselves for a hefty fine (Fine count 1). But how on earth, will Customs / someone from local authorities catch you? All cigarettes sold in SG have a distinct Duty paid mark, which you won't find on the ones you are carrying.
- Where can you smoke? Any where, as long as you're not standing under a roof. Most public places have an ash tray erected. Just watch out for one and once you puff away, throw the butt in the bin else brace yourselves for a fine (Fine count 2)
- Now, while traveling in MRT, or any other public transport, please do not eat food or drink water, you'll be fined (Fine count 3). You can comfortably travel in MRT from airport to most parts of SG
- Do not carry chewing gum unless you've valid medical reasons under SG law. You ignore - You pay, guess what - Fine (Fine count 4)
- Where do you stay, you can get backpacker accommodations for a bed at a reasonable price. I would suggest, Boat Quay (Pronounced as 'Boat-Kee'). It is a beautiful place and you can walk your way to most places from Boat Quay.
- If you've landed early, be prepared to stand in front of your Inn. Most of them open only by 9 AM. If you get hungry in between, there is a McDonald's which is open 24*7
- Most Inns provide breakfast - Bread and spreads (Make yourself). Should you prefer for smaller meals, walk up to Chinatown and you can purchase 500 gms of Almonds (for about 10SGD) and a Big packet of Oat chocolate bars (for about 5 SGD), you can munch them for energy
- If you're looking to have good food at cheaper rates, look for hawker centres, like Maxwell. The chicken rice there is quite famous. You can try Makansutra close to Boat Quay. Or any other centers.
- If you want to visit pubs, looking for Hep ones, visit Clarke Quay (Pronounced 'Clarke-Kee). They are a little expensive but worth the experience. Please wear a shirt (esp for men) and carry your Passport to avoid any disappointments. If you would like to visit pubs - inexpensive ones, try Boat Quay.
- Do you have to leave tip at Hotels? Well, the charges are most of the times included in the bill. If you're really satisfied, please spread the happiness :)
- If you're going to Casino (Marina Bay Sands), please always carry passport. I do not see any point in spending money there, better, just take the lift, go to 57th floor, enjoy the view with a beer!
- If you're planning to visit Sentosa, Universal studios is a must visit. If you feel like roaming around in the island, carry water bottles along (or Lifestraw). You can soak in the Sun.
- I felt Singapore Duty free goods at Airport are cheaper than most other Airports. Since goods are sold in SGD and not USD you can actually save money
- If you'd like to go for shopping, Chinatown is the best. Mustafa stores in Little India is good too
- You can save up to 3 SGD by not booking cabs through phone call or apps
- Things to try, 'Chilli Crab' (Ask for Sri Lankan Crab), Singapore Sling (local drink), Chicken Rice, Tropical Fruits
- In case you happen to travel by 'Singapore Airlines' (Just in case) they have some offers for their passengers. Do check with the Airlines
- If you want to cross the road, look for Pedestrian Crossing
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