Top 10 Singapore Travel Tips: Hawker Food, Strict Laws, and Saving Money
“Singapore is a concrete jungle, but one where the leaves are perfectly swept.”
Singapore is a marvel of urban planning. It’s spotless, efficient, and lush with greenery. However, it is also notoriously expensive compared to its neighbors like Thailand or Vietnam. Plus, it has a reputation for strict laws that can terrify first-time visitors.
But don't worry—you don't need to be a millionaire to enjoy it. Here is your essential guide to eating Michelin-star food for $5, navigating the laws, and exploring the Lion City like a pro.
1.
Eat at "Hawker Centers" Not Restaurants
This is the golden rule of Singapore. Restaurants are expensive, but Hawker Centers (open-air food courts) are legendary. They are clean, regulated, and serve the best food in the city.
The Hack: Visit Maxwell Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat. You can get a plate of world-famous Hainanese Chicken Rice for $5 SGD. It’s authentic, safe, and delicious.
2.
The "Choping" Culture (Tissue Packets)
If you see a packet of tissues on an empty table in a food court, do not sit there.
The Rule: Locals reserve tables by placing a packet of tissues, an umbrella, or a water bottle on the seat or table. This is called "Choping." Respect the code. If you move it, you will face a very angry Singaporean holding a tray of hot noodles.
3.
Don't Bring Chewing Gum
The rumors are true. The import and sale of chewing gum are banned in Singapore to keep the streets clean.
The Rule: While you likely won't get arrested for having a pack in your pocket for personal use, do not try to sell it, and absolutely never spit it out on the street. The fines for littering are astronomical. Just leave the gum at home.
4.
Alcohol is Very Expensive (Duty-Free Hack)
Singapore has high "sin taxes" on alcohol. A beer at a bar can cost $15-$20 SGD.
The Hack: Maximize your alcohol allowance at the Duty-Free shop in Changi Airport before you pass through customs upon arrival. Also, look for "Happy Hour" deals in Clarke Quay, or buy drinks at 7-Eleven for a fraction of the bar price.
5.
Tap Water is Safe to Drink
Unlike much of Southeast Asia, you do not need to buy bottled water here.
The Hack: The tap water in Singapore is perfectly safe and meets World Health Organization standards. Bring a reusable bottle and fill it up at your hotel or public water coolers. It saves you money and reduces plastic waste in this eco-conscious city.
6.
Public Transport: Use Your Credit Card
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is world-class. You don't need to buy a specific tourist pass unless you are traveling excessively.
The Hack: You can simply use your foreign contactless credit card (Visa/Mastercard) or Apple Pay directly at the gate. It’s the same price as the local EZ-Link card without the hassle of buying and topping up a separate card.
7.
Gardens by the Bay: What's Free vs. Paid
The futuristic Supertrees are the icon of the city.
The Hack: Entering the Gardens by the Bay outdoor gardens and seeing the Supertrees is 100% free. You only pay to enter the cooled conservatories (Cloud Forest/Flower Dome) or to walk on the OCBC Skyway bridge. The nightly "Garden Rhapsody" light show is also free to watch from the ground.
8.
Prepare for the Humidity (and AC)
Singapore is 1 degree north of the equator. It is hot and humid year-round.
The Tip: Dress in light, breathable fabrics (cotton/linen). However, malls and cinemas have freezing air conditioning. Always carry a light jacket or cardigan if you plan to spend time indoors, or you will be shivering within minutes.
9.
Don't Just Stay in Marina Bay
The Marina Bay Sands area is iconic but sterile.
The Hack: Explore the cultural neighborhoods to see the real soul of Singapore. Visit Kampong Glam (Malay heritage, cool murals), Little India (colorful temples, spicy food), and Chinatown. They are vibrant, walkable, and offer great photo opportunities.
10.
Changi Airport is a Destination
Don't rush to your hotel immediately, and don't arrive at the airport just 2 hours before your flight.
The Tip: Jewel Changi Airport is a massive complex connected to the terminals featuring the world's tallest indoor waterfall (The Rain Vortex). It’s stunning. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring Jewel itself.
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