You'd think a tiny nation the size of an average American city would be easy to know at a glance, but Singapore specializes in defying expectations. Home to the world's best airport, some of Asia's most stunning architecture, and a delicious food scene that borrows from its neighbors' top culinary traditions, Singapore offers a complete travel experience disproportionate to its size. And because fully vaccinated travelers can now visit Singapore without having to quarantine, we're thinking a trip to the Garden City is in order.
Things to Do
The territory around Singapore offers a diverse variety of activities that belies the nation's small size. Singapore's different, distinct neighborhoods represent various aspects of the national experience: ancient shops rubbing elbows with hipster outlets (Joo Chiat and Tiong Bahru), hotel and shopping mall hotspots with the world's most premium brands (Orchard Road), and a skyline straight out of the Jetsons (Marina Bay and its landmarks like the Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer). And be sure to see Singapore's greener side: The city has more than 350 parks and four nature reserves, which make up about 8,000 acres of the country's real estate.
What to Eat
There's a reason this country's one of Southeast Asia's best cities for street food. Singapore's wide-ranging food reflects the multicultural mix of the Singaporean populace. At most Singapore hawker centers, Indian biryani stands jostle Western food booths and noodle stalls. Prices are low ($5 buys you a big meal) and you can even order a Tiger Beer to go with your meal for only a little extra.
Where to Stay
There's a Singapore hotel for every budget, though you should expect that accommodations around here lie on the high end price-wise compared to the rest of Asia. For four-star and higher hotels, check out your options in Marina Bay and Orchard, among them historic hotels like the Raffles Hotel and newfangled wonders like the Marina Bay Sands. Balestier Road, Katong, Joo Chiat, and Little India are better known for their backpacker and budget digs.
Your Packing List
Visitors to Singapore at any time of the year should prepare for rain, bringing quick-drying, lightweight clothes, a waterproof jacket or windbreaker, and an umbrella. Don't bring a raincoat; the humidity makes them miserable to wear.
Do bring a lightweight jacket or sweater for extended periods spent in air-conditioned interiors.
Due to the humidity, wear loose and light summer clothing when in town.
If you're traveling on business, smart casual is often accepted, unless you're attending a formal business dinner. Jackets and ties are still expected for business meetings, with the odd exception here and there.
Huahine, known as "The Garden of French Polynesia," is one of the most natural, tranquil spots in the Society Islands archipelago. Roughly halfway between Tahiti and Bora Bora, visitors here won't find the large international resorts that punctuate the country's more popular destinations—but the island's abundance of natural beauty and friendly local residents make this one of the dreamier corners of the South Pacific.
You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the TripSavvy newsletter.
