Quick Glance At Singapore
Travel Cost : ★★★★☆
Population
5.8 million population, where 4.03 million are residents. 76.2% of the citizens are ethnic Chinese, 15.0% Malay and 7.4% Indians.
Language
Four official languages in Singapore: English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil. Malay is the national language, but most of the communications in Singapore are done through English, the main working language. English is the main medium of education, and students are also taught second languages of Malay, Mandarin or Tamil.
The national anthem (Majulah Singapura) is in Malay language as well!
Currency
Singapore Dollars. As of January 2020, 1 US$ = 1.35 SGD. If you're traveling from Malaysia, Malaysians often assume the currency rate of 1 SDG to 3 MYR, but the rate has been increasing for decades now, so who knows when it will hit 1:3.5?
Electricity
Type G socket. Standard voltage in Singapore is 240V, standard frequency is 50Hz. Same as Malaysia.
Transport
MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and public buses are the main public transports in Singapore. The combination of both of them can bring you to literally anywhere you want in the island, since almost every corner is connected. For most of the attractions in Singapore, like Marina Bay Sands, Changi Airport, Gardens by the Bay, etc, taking the MRT is enough. If you prefer sightseeing, or you dislike changing MRT lines, then public buses can be an option for you. Google Maps is well-integrated with the public transport system in Singapore, so just check with the Google Maps app and you'll have a clear idea of how to use the public transport.
Accommodation
When it comes to Singapore, there is something for everyone. Backpackers? Well, they've got budget hostels with bunk beds and cheaper hotels. Looking for luxury travels? There are plenty of luxurious hotels available throughout the country, especially in Orchard Road and Marina Bay area. In short, Singapore is not a destination made only for the rich people, it's one of the hottest tourism spots in the world for a reason!
Festivals in Singapore
Singapore is a lively city, and there are of course a lot of festivals going on throughout the year. I believe that this article here can tell you more about the festivals in Singapore!
Foods in Singapore
I've gotta admit that I'm incredibly bad when it comes to writing on foods. I never really spend months in Singapore to try all the dishes, and to be frank, Singaporean cuisines are so similar to Malaysia. Here are the best dishes in Singapore that'll leave you craving.
Things to Do in Singapore
Marina Bay - Marina Bay is one of the coolest places in Singapore for night views. At Marina Bay, you can see the iconic Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion landmark with the amazing bank towers showcasing amazing city lights as backdrop. Seeing Marina Bay Sands will make you wonder how the heck did they manage to build that structure. Note that there are also light shows at 8 pm daily.
Gardens by the Bay - This is yet another architectural wonder in Singapore that makes you go crazy. Inside the compound, there are Flower Dome, OCBC Skyway, Supertree Grove, Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes and more to keep you excited.
Botanic Gardens - One of the most well-maintained botanical gardens in the world. With clear map, signboards, and well-preserved infrastructures, you'll surely enjoy all your time spent in the compound. Don't miss out their unique Orchid Garden which showcases all kinds of orchids which will keep your eyes busy the whole time.
Changi Airport - Voted as the best airport in the world, Changi Airport is a must-visit in Singapore, especially if you're not flying into or out from Singapore. The most impressive attraction, The Jewel opened in the airport not so long ago, and I highly recommend you to visit it. Singapore never fails to amaze you when it comes to architecture! The airport is also huge enough to have plenty of attractions and things to do to keep you busy for a half-day.
Sentosa Island - The famous Sentosa Island has been one of the major attractions in Singapore for decades. In Sentosa Island, you can also find Universal Studios, Butterfly Centre, skydiving arena, man-made white sandy beaches, the Segway course, and more theme parks. Definitely a great place to spend a day or several days in!
Orchard Road - Orchard Road is kinda like the luxurious street in Singapore. Filled with underground shopping centers and luxurious shops at the surface, Orchard Road is not to be missed during your Singapore trip. Even if you're not going to spend money, spending some time exploring around Orchard Road is highly recommended as well! It's crowded most of the time, especially on the weekends.
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Singapore NYE 2020 Countdown Fireworks at Marina Bay
On 31st December 2019, I went to Marina Bay, Singapore and photographed the new year eve’s countdown fireworks in Jubilee Bridge. Enjoy the photos, let me know what you think!