Escorted tours to Singapore
Language: English, Malay, Chinese, Tamil
Currency: Singapore dollar
Time Zone: SGT/GMT+7
Tipping: In Singapore it is standard to leave a 10% tip, some restaurants will add gratuity and some won’t.
Singapore - an introduction
Boasting a typical Far East contradiction between futuristic and rainforest, colonial lines and cultural mix, Singapore packs a lot into its relatively small size. It might be compact but the population is booming and the city-state ranks as the most densely populated country behind Monaco. That said, it certainly isn't an unsightly metropolis; more than 50% of its land mass is covered by greenery and more than 50 major parks and 4 nature reserves have earned it the nickname 'Garden City'.
Singapore's size and location make it a handy springboard to the rest of the region, with touring holidays here likely to incorporate the likes of Thailand and Malaysia. Time is usually included at leisure, where you can drop by the infamous colonial Raffles Hotel for a legendary Singapore Sling cocktail which was invented in the very Long Bar, do some designer shopping on Orchard Road or enjoy a sightseeing tour taking in Merlion Park, Marina Bay, Chinatown and the National Orchid Garden.
As well as a full touring itinerary and tour manager, an escorted tour to Singapore will include return flights from the UK, any internal travel plus accommodation with porterage with some meals, allowing visitors to dine out and make the most of the amazing cuisine that Singapore has to offer.
Things to do
It may only be small compared to other destinations, but Singapore is vast in terms of things to see and do here. Here are some of the most popular:
Sentosa Island
Visit the popular Sentosa Island, home to a variety of attractions and places to visit. You can reach the Island by cable car or monorail, both of which are attractions in themselves. Home to Universal Studios, Resorts World Sentosa and various beaches, there is plenty here to keep you entertained for days. For those interested in history then a visit to Fort Silosa is a must. A fort during the Second World War, it is a great place to learn about the history of the war in Singapore.
Raffles Hotel
No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to this iconic hotel, which is like stepping back in time to the colonial era. Take time to explore the whole complex including the beautiful gardens and fascinating museum and at the end of it all head to the Long Bar for its famous cocktail; the Singapore Sling.
Singapore Zoo
This 26 hectare zoo is said to be one of the best in the world with an extensive array of animals. You can wander around this vast area or take the hop on hop off tram around the zoo. There are various shows you can go and watch including an elephant and sea lion show as well as various animals feeding. For an alternative zoo experience why not join a night safari.
Orchid Road
The world famous Orchid Road is the place to come if you love shopping, home to countless shopping centres and jam packed full of designer shops. It would take you weeks, maybe even months to visit each shop on its glitzy row.
Weather
Thinking of travelling to Singapore? Check out the average temperatures for when you plan to visit courtesy of BBC Weather
Tips & Advice
One of the benefits of travelling in an escorted tour is that you'll be in the safest hands when it comes to holidaying in foreign lands. To help you have an enjoyable holiday in Singapore, take a look at these useful tips and advice provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO):
Health and Travel Insurance
Prior to travelling to Singapore you should check with your Doctor if you need any vaccinations or take preventative measures.
In Singapore the healthcare is of a high quality, but it is also expensive. Take enough medication to cover your holiday as not all prescribed medication is available. Before you leave make sure you have adequate travel insurance and access to funds which can cover the cost of any treatment abroad. Most tours offer the chance to purchase one-trip travel insurance at the time of booking.
During the wet season (December to March and June to October) there has been a rise in cases of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.
If you need to contact the emergency services, call 995 to ask for an ambulance.
Crime
As ever be aware of street crime, in particular bag snatching. Always leave valuables in the hotel safe if possible.
Local Laws and Customs
The Singapore local laws and customs are extensive and notably strict, so we advise that you check the Foreign Commonwealth Office directly for a full list of guidelines.
Entry Requirements
You do not require a visa when visiting Singapore for up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter into Singapore.
Visitors who are arriving from countries where Yellow Fever is common must have had the vaccine.
Some prescribed medication which is available in the UK is considered to be a controlled substance in Singapore. You need to apply for a permit to bring these into the country at least 10 working days before travelling.
For medicines which do not contain controlled substances you can bring supplies into Singapore, but you will need supporting documents and/or prescription from your Doctor.
Any other nationality looking to visit Singapore must contact the local embassy to check visa requirements.
Tourist Office
To find out more about Singapore visit the tourist office website at visitsingapore.com.