Beyond being an economic powerhouse in Southeast Asia, Singapore is also a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of cultures, stunning attractions, and delectable cuisine. From a vibrant nightlife to convenient cross-country connections, Singapore offers a unique destination experience that’s sure to close your end-of-year holiday with a bang.
To ensure that your adventure in the Lion City is nothing short of extraordinary, here are 8 tips for Filipinos to make the most out of your visit.
Image credit: Nicole Geri via Unsplash
When going on a trip, it’s important to put time and effort into booking everything in advance – from tickets to accommodations.
For one, booking tickets early ensures cheaper and affordable rates, seat availability, and comfort. Hot tip, if you decide to visit Singapore during their festival seasons, you’re more likely to get deals when you shop for items or go for concerts and events. Visit Singapore during Chinese New Year and you’ll be in for shopping treats, with warehouse and factory sales happening across the country. Definitely a steal in our books!
Image credit: Lastminute.com
Booking accommodations early also means more time to strategize on which location works best for your trip.
This is even easier when you book for travel insurance that offers bundle deals worth more than S$150 such as 10% off booking accommodations, ensuring cheaper accommodation bookings for rooms right in the heart of the country, with the transportation just a stone’s throw away.
Remember, the early bird gets the worm.
Image credit: TravelHealthPro
In a foreign land, being prepared is your best ally and travel insurance is the arsenal you will need in any sort of journey. Depending where you are, you could end up spending a lot of money if you travel unprepared.
Unforeseen events, from misplaced luggage to unexpected accidents, can certainly happen. And while Singapore boasts top-notch healthcare and seamless airline experience, it can cost you a lot more to fix the damage that can be averted by simply being prepared for it.
This is why getting travel insurance is your shield. They can cover medical emergencies and accidents, trip cancellations, baggage loss or delays, and can even provide personal pocket money for inconveniences caused by flight delays. Won’t it be good if there is global teleconsultation in case if the kids fall ill in the middle of your trip?
Having travel insurance is a small investment that’ll ensure your safety and make for a stress-free travel experience.
Image credit: Singtel
For some of us, getting roaming SIM cards – especially with data – isn’t the most budget-friendly option. Using a tourist SIM card while you’re in Singapore will ensure a cheaper and much more convenient use of your mobile services.
Singapore boasts a country-wide 5G network, so you won’t have to worry about signal loss. SIM cards are easily accessible at convenience stores and at Changi Airport itself, so you can get one upon arrival.
Alternatively, some travel insurance bundles offer a tourist SIM card with up to 100GB worth of data for free. Certainly cheaper than getting it at the airport.
Image credit: HL Assurance
A highly connected country, Singapore has a seamless public transportation system that can get you literally anywhere in the country – without exorbitant cab fares. That’s why you should get yourself a Singapore Travel Pass or an EZ-Link card for easy commuting. These cards offer rides on any of the public transportation systems, including buses and trains.
Navigate the city’s wonders without the hassle of individual fares. A travel pass is a cheaper and convenient way to immerse yourself in the city’s many attractions – and to experience city life as a local.
While getting an EZ Link card would cost you SGD10 (~P414) which includes only SGD5 (~P207) of stored value (with SGD5 (~P207) as a non-refundable card cost), check out this travel insurance bundles that offer a Singapore travel card worth SGD18 (~P744) to get you started, which you can conveniently top up at any local bus or train station during your trip.
Your Singapore trip will not be complete without a visit to the most iconic landmark and attractions in Singapore. Sure, the famed Merlion and the imposing Marina Bay Sands should be in your list if it’s your first time visiting the Lion City. But did you know that it is home to the biggest bird park in Asia?
The Bird Paradise which houses 3500 birds across 8 aviaries – and you can visit it for free with the purchase of travel insurance. Just like that, you have saved SGD48 (~P1,994) and added an iconic site on your list.
Other must-see iconic landmarks include The Gardens By The Bay with its renowned flower domes, Sentosa Island and the massive SEA Aquarium and Universal Studio Singapore, and of course, The Singapore Flyer.
If you’re more of a nature buff or traveling with family, try the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Singapore Botanic Garden or check out the open-concept zoo in Singapore Zoo. For a taste of the country’s vibrant culture, visit the alleys of Haji Lane, Chinatown, and Little India. Bask in history at the National Museum of Singapore, the preserved shophouses in Katong, and even the Raffles Hotel.
Image credit: The Income Blog
Another great thing about Singapore is that it’s a convenient starting point to venture into other countries. Particularly, Malaysia.
A road trip away, this is a chance to experience two destinations in one journey as Malaysia is just one border crossing away. Imagine making a road trip playlist with your family and friends as you experience an entirely new country.
This is where car rentals come in handy. While it may be fun to take the bus commuting route, traveling privately in a car is arguably better, especially if you’re a group of friends. It’s more convenient and you instantly have somewhere to chill and listen to music while waiting to get through immigration.
With travel insurance bundles, you can maximize your savings with offers of up to 10% discount on car rentals.
Image credit: Solent Stevedores
And if you’re all for spontaneity, you can opt for the many cruises available in Singapore and just go with the flow.
Hainanese Chicken Rice at Maxwell Hawker Center in Singapore
Image credit: Nauris Pūķis via Unsplash
One of the many highlights of visiting another country is trying out its cuisine. For Singapore, this is particularly important as Singapore is a country of amazing food and foodies.
If this is your first time in the country, you should try out the country’s iconic dishes such as Hainanese Chicken Rice, Chili Crab, and Laksa. For affordable eats, hawker centers (food stalls) are aplenty for delicious local eats that match Michelin star restaurants.
Racines The Restaurant
Image credit: Sofitel Singapore City Centre
And if you decide that you want something a little more fancy or as they call it in local lingo, atas (high class) dining, travel insurance promos can get you a discount at fancy food spots such as Sofitel Singapore City Centre.
Either way, Singapore has lots to offer when it comes to food.
Image credit: Carson Arias via Unsplash
When visiting another country, it’s important to pay respect to the country you’re visiting.
Being that Singapore is known for its strict laws and regulations, be mindful of the law and make sure to adhere to them. A particularly near country, littering and even chewing gums are strictly prohibited. Some habits, like smoking, can only be done around certain approved areas. In the city centre, they’ve even created specified smoking spots.
You can also enhance your travel experience by learning a few Singaporean slang words and phrases such as shiok (“awesome” or “superb”) and pai seh (apologetic response).
This way, you can communicate (somewhat) effectively with the locals. It’s a bonus if you impress them.
Image credit: HL Assurance
Singapore is a vibrant city with something for every traveler. By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a smooth and unforgettable journey while making every moment of your visit count.
Travel insurance, advanced planning, and cultural respect are key elements that will enhance your holiday trip experience in Singapore. With a good plan, you might even save money along the way.
Happy travels!
Also, check out things to do in Singapore for Filipinos and a guide to concerts in Singapore. For more guides and things to do, visit The Smart Local Philippines.
Cover image adapted from: The Income Blog, Nauris Pūķis via Unsplash, Lastminute.com, Jeyakumaran Mayooresan via Unsplash
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