Affectionately known as the ‘Lion City’ and ‘Garden City’, Singapore is a sovereign island country that is so much more than the sum of its innumerable attractions. There is no place like it! This vibrant Asian destination boasts a splendid blend of Malaysian, Indian, Chinese, Arab, and English cultures, of course with the Singaporean twist. This is the place where foodies, explorers, adventure seekers, culture shapers, and socializers meet. I went there as a solo backpacker and undoubtedly, was left with unlimited jaw-dropping experiences. The delightful culinary experiences, state-of-the-art accommodations, and exciting nightlife here are exactly what globetrotters yearn for.
Singapore is a small country, but still, there is so much to see. My travel guide comprises travel tips to help you plan your solo trip to Singapore.
Sentosa Island
The sunny island of Singapore, Sentosa Island is popular for its serene beaches and a dizzying array of attractions including the world-famous Universal Studios. There are over 30 tourist attractions on this lush green island and some of my favourite ones include iFly Singapore, Fort Siloso, Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, Tanjong Beach, and Scentopia. There are a number of adventure activities available here thus bringing all of the thrill, skill, and mega chill! Entry to the island is free of cost and it is a whole day trip. However, there are charges for certain attractions and activities.
iFly Singapore
Price: SGD 109 (₹6,200 for 2 dives)
Located on Sentosa Island, iFly Singapore is one of the world’s largest indoor skydiving wind tunnels. It spans 16.5 feet wide and 56.5 feet tall, almost five storeys high. Here, I experienced true free-fall conditions (just like a real skydive!) in a vertical wind tunnel. The time it takes for each skydive is like falling through the air from 12,000 to 3,000 feet! With an 18-feet tall acrylic glass wall, the wind tunnel offers a spectacular view of the South China Sea. I grabbed the chance to really fly via this simulated skydiving experience in Singapore.
Gardens By The Bay
Ticket price for OCBC Skyway: SGD 10 (₹600)
This horticultural treasure trove is set in the heart of Singapore’s downtown. Home to a diverse collection of more than 1.5 million plants, this mythical enchanted forest has plants from every continent except Antarctica. There are different types of attractions here such as Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, Floral Fantasy, Supertree Observatory, etc. I chose to explore OCBC Skyway, which is a 128-meter-long aerial walkway suspended between two Supertrees at 22 meters above the ground. The highlight of this place is Garden Rhapsody, which is the one-hour-long signature light and sound show. The best part is that it’s free of cost!
Marina Bay Sands
If you appreciate luxury, visit Marina Bay Sands to experience it in the truest sense. This gigantic marvel comprises three 55-story hotel towers! Speaking of extravagance, the lavish suites and hotel rooms are indescribable. However, anyone can enter this architectural wonder absolutely free of cost, irrespective of whether you are staying there or not. If you like playing cards, then there is a huge casino for you as well, where you can enter for free. I know nothing about casinos but I went there anyway to simply experience it and it was totally worth it!
However, there is an admission fee for the Observation Deck. Don’t forget to enjoy exclusive food and drinks at its restaurant and rooftop bar when you are up there.
Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay which is popular for its stunning waterside restaurants is the best place to enjoy the nightlife in Singapore. When the sun goes down, the bars and clubs begin their live music sessions. Flowing at the heart of Clarke Quay, the Singapore River provides the central artery for its happening nightlife. You can also go for boat tours up and down the entire length of the river. Nearby attractions include The Asians Civilisations Museum, Statues of Sir Stamford Raffles, Fort Canning Park, Hong San See Temple, and many more. The gorgeous Clarke Quay is a must-visit in Singapore at night.
Chinatown
An ideal blend of old and new, Chinatown in Singapore is popular for its historic temples and traditional medicinal halls as well as bold new bars and trendy lifestyle shops. My hostel was located here, so I got ample time to explore the entire place. The shops selling souvenirs are unlimited here. And so are the restaurants! The heritage of Singapore, which was once an enclave for the country’s Chinese immigrant population, is frequented by backpackers like me who want to explore the tapestry of cultural diversity.
Big Bus Tour
Ticket price: SGD 47 (₹2,700 for 2 days)
Valid for two days, this hop-on hop-off bus is the perfect way to explore all the tourist attractions in Singapore. In addition to that, you can see a lot from this fully guided open-top, double-decker bus with free Wi-Fi. Singapore’s soaring skyscrapers, contemporary shopping malls, traditional temples, markets, and historic colonial sites will swoon you over. Its route covers all the major tourist attractions along with Botanical Gardens, Little India, Arab Street, Boat Quay, Sultan Mosque, and many more. Join the popular night tour and watch the setting sun along the city skyline.
How Much Did My Solo Trip To Singapore Cost?
Accommodation:
₹1,500 per night at these hostels:
- Chic Capsule Otel
- Backpackers SG
Round trip flights: ₹20,000
Entry tickets : ₹9,500
Including conveyance, food, shopping, I spent around ₹40,000 on this trip, without compromising on my comfort and safety at all.
Just 31 miles wide and 17 miles long, you can get around the entire place easily via the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) or Singapore Tourist Pass.
Here’s a glimpse of my Singapore solo trip: