Singapore – The city we long for every single day
Why Visit Singapore?
Singapore is more than just a transit hub; it is a captivating fusion of tradition and futurism, a place where cutting-edge innovation meets deep-rooted cultural heritage. For many, it is the “City in a Garden,” a unique city-state where skyscrapers are draped in emerald greenery and the streets are so clean they practically shine. Our first Asian destination left such an impression on us that we find ourselves longing to return every single day.
Fun fact: Singapore is one of the world’s only city-states and is known for being extremely clean and highly modern.
From Athens to the Jewel of Asia
Our adventure started with an 11-hour flight from Athens via Scoot, Singapore Airlines’ low-cost carrier. Even before landing, we had stories to tell. Due to a broken seat, we were separated despite our pre-booked extra-legroom seats. However, the crew compensated us with an entire row of three seats in the economy cabin, allowing us to take turns sleeping comfortably. It was a reminder that even with budget travel—tickets can be found from Europe starting at just $300—Singaporean hospitality starts in the air.
Upon arrival, Changi Airport—voted the world’s best for the 13th time in 2025—immediately lived up to its reputation. The entry process is a marvel of automation. While the system is strict (a single typo on the mandatory online SG Arrival Card can halt your progress), the self-service kiosks make it easy to rectify errors in minutes. With a 90-day visa-free stay for many tourists and an electronic Visit Pass sent straight to your email, the transition from the plane to the city is fast, smooth, and entirely stress-free.
Basic Facts at a Glance
- Capital: Singapore (city-state)
- Region: Southeast Asia
- Population: About 5.9 million
- Official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, Tamil
- Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD)
- Time zone: UTC+8
Climate and Best Time to Visit
- Climate: Tropical, hot and humid year-round
- Best time: February–April and July–September for slightly drier weather
Fun fact: Singapore’s weather is consistent throughout the year, with temperatures typically around 26–32°C (79–90°F).
Iconic Landmarks: Where the Future Lives
No visit to Singapore is complete without witnessing its architectural marvels. The Marina Bay Sands (MBS) is the undisputed icon of the skyline. Its three 55-story towers are crowned by the SkyPark, a 200-meter-high platform featuring a lush garden and the world’s most famous infinity pool. While the pool is for guests, the observation deck offers panoramic views for everyone. Inside the mall, the Rain Oculus—a massive 22-meter glass funnel—collects rainwater into a mesmerizing whirlpool that drops several stories.
Just a flower-lined bridge away lies Gardens by the Bay. This 101-hectare park is home to the Supertrees, artificial structures that collect rainwater and generate solar energy. The nightly Garden Rhapsody light show is pure magic. For a deeper dive into nature, the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest conservatories are engineering wonders, the latter featuring a breathtaking 35-meter indoor waterfall that remains etched in our memories.
For those seeking a more historical green space, the 160-year-old Singapore Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO World Heritage site) provides a cooling sanctuary. The National Orchid Garden within its grounds displays thousands of species, including “VIP hybrids” named after visiting world leaders.
A Vibrant Cultural Melting Pot
What truly captivates visitors is the peaceful coexistence of cultures. With a population comprising 76% Chinese, 15% Malay, and 7.5% Indian residents, Singapore is a rich tapestry of religions and traditions. Walking through the streets, you might find a Buddhist temple, a mosque, a Christian church, and a Hindu shrine all within the same neighborhood.
In districts like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam, the air is thick with the scent of incense and spices. We often found ourselves stepping into temples to light incense and soak in the “delicate silence” that offers a stark, beautiful contrast to the bustling city outside. This spirit of “Racial Harmony” is a core national value, celebrated through diverse festivals like Deepavali and Chinese New Year.
Navigation and the Green Philosophy
Singapore is a tiny island, spanning only 735 km², which necessitates strict regulation of car ownership. The Certificate of Entitlement (COE) can cost upwards of S$100,000, making private cars a true luxury. This has birthed one of the world’s most efficient public transport systems. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and bus networks are impeccably clean and punctual. Navigating is simple: English signs are everywhere, and you can simply tap your contactless credit card at the gantry for fares typically ranging between S$1.28 and S$2.57.
This efficiency is mirrored in the city’s urban planning. Since the introduction of the Green Mark scheme in 2005, Singapore has transformed into a model of sustainability. Vertical gardens, green roofs, and plant-covered facades ensure that nature is never more than a glance away. Even the older public housing estates are maintained with incredible discipline, reflecting a society that prizes order and beauty.
Beyond the Mainstream: Islands and Shopping
Singapore is actually an archipelago of 64 islands. While Sentosa is the famous tourist playground—home to Universal Studios, casinos, and man-made beaches—other islands offer different charms. Pulau Ubin preserves the rustic “kampong” (village) life of the 1960s, while St. John’s Island is a favorite for local fishers and picnickers.
When it comes to shopping, the experience ranges from high-end luxury on Orchard Road to the delightful chaos of the Mustafa Centre in Little India. Open 24/7, Mustafa is a labyrinth where you can find anything from electronics to groceries at surprisingly competitive prices. For a different vibe, the Suntec City Mall houses the record-breaking Fountain of Wealth, a symbol of prosperity at the heart of the city.
Safety and Practical Information
Singapore is consistently ranked as one of the world’s safest cities, characterized by an exceptionally low crime rate and a highly efficient police force. This security allows travelers to explore freely, even late at night. To ensure a smooth trip, remember that Singapore uses Type G power sockets (three-pin) and offers some of the fastest public Wi-Fi globally through “Wireless@SGx”.
Communicating is effortless as English is the primary language for business and signs. Regarding etiquette, tipping is not required or expected, as most establishments include a 10% service charge. Finally, be mindful of local regulations: strict laws against littering, smoking in prohibited areas, and chewing gum are vigorously enforced to maintain the city’s famous cleanliness and order.
A Culinary Obsession
In Singapore, food is the national language. The heart of the gastronomic scene is the Hawker Centre. These communal food courts are so culturally significant they were added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2020.
We explored the local flavors with mixed results but high enthusiasm:
- Hainanese Chicken Rice: The national dish—simple, fragrant, and comforting.
- Satay: Perfectly charred skewers served with a rich peanut sauce.
- Kopi & Teh Tarik: The local coffee and “pulled” tea that provide a silky caffeine kick.
While the spicy, coconut-based Laksa proved a bit too bold for our palates this time, it gives us the perfect excuse to return and be braver next time.
Fun fact: Singapore has more Michelin-starred hawker stalls per square mile than any other country.
Final Verdict – Is Singapore Worth Visiting?
Pros:
- Ultra-modern city with world-class attractions
- Extremely safe and easy to navigate
- Diverse cultural experiences in a compact area
Cons:
- Expensive compared to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries
- Very urban; natural landscapes are limited to parks and nearby islands
Verdict:
Singapore is perfect for travellers who love urban exploration, food adventures, and multicultural experiences. Compact, clean, and highly efficient, it offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition that is rare in the world.
