Looking back, traveling to Singapore in 2017 & 2018 was my second country to visit after South Korea. Similarly, I traveled here for training/business/work purposes, hence, roaming around and visiting tourist places was limited. Nevertheless, I am still privileged because I was selected to attend training in this country. On top of that, I was able to grasp some of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore, like the Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, & Universal Studio. It is truly one of the most modern cities in the world, with stunning structures, several theme parks and high buildings.
About Singapore
Singapore is one of the most developed countries in Southeast Asia and in the world, also known as the “Lion City”. It is located about 137 kilometers north of the equator, off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. This modern city and a progressive country is one of the top tourist destinations in Asia.
- Official Name: Republic of Singapore
- Language: Chinese, English, Malay, Tamil
Tip: Utilize the English Translation App in case you have difficulty.
- Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD). 1 SGD is around PHP 43.6, and 1 USD is around 1.34 SGD
- Weather in Singapore-Tropical
Among Filipinos, it is considered one of the most popular international destinations to travel to and enjoy near the Philippines, and it is about three and a half hours flight from Manila, with no time difference in the time zone.
Requirements in entering Singapore from The Philippines
Good news for Filipinos who are traveling to Singapore, no visa is required, and you can stay up to 30 days with visa-free (tourism & business purposes only). However, please note that certain documents are required to be presented in the immigration when visiting Singapore, and strict immigration policies should be followed. As you know, your journey starts in the Philippines, so make sure you prepare all this documents before your departure to avoid offloading in NAIA.
- Passport– Should be Valid for 6 months from the date of travel
- Flight Booking- A copy of a return flight ticket reservation to prove that you intend to return to the Philippines after your visit. Make sure it’s within the 30 days of your stay. (Book your flight in advance to avail cheap airfare; You can choose from Cebu Pacific, PAL, or Air Asia)
- Proof of Hotel Accommodation– confirmed hotel booking where you will stay in Singapore
- Tour Itinerary– Better to show a confirmed booked activities/tickets in Singapore for assurance; ex; activities book in Klook like tickets in Universal Studio.
- Pocket Money– Usually, immigration will ask how much money you have for your trip, so better to prepare cash depending on how many days you stay. Also, bring a credit card, if you have one, with the statement of account balance as an additional document.
Note: Although rare, please also prepare 3 months bank statement in case it’s your first time to visit Singapore and traveling alone, for assurance purposes. We have a saying that it’s better to be ready than be shocked. If it’s your first time, the officer will be concerned about how you will finance your travel.
For other nationalities, please check online for your visa eligibility in Singapore
Additional Tip:
- Be genuine in answering all the questions of the immigration officer, then, everything will be fine. As for my experience, everything is smooth as long as you have all the documents prepared.
- Bring USD or PHP and change it at the international airport in Singapore upon arrival.
- Electronic Arrival Card- On October 2018, foreigners traveling to Singapore are required to fill up an electronic arrival card in advance via a website or app. For more information, please visit www.gov.sg
Where to book Tours/Activities in Singapore
The most popular site to book tours or tickets like Universal Studio is in the Klook website. Highly recommended, you can easily book online. Just visit the site and reserve your slot. Ensure to book in advance before your departure for confirmation.
Sim Card: You can buy a SIM card at the airport to stay connected. Wi-Fi is available in hotels but while traveling outside, it’s better to have internet for security especially if you are alone, and also while using google map. If you are a group, it’s good to rent a travel pocket Wi-Fi and split the cost to save money.
Transportation
From the Changi Airport, you can take a train, taxi, bus or hire a private car for airport transfers. While in the city, it is recommended to ride a train, so for convenience, purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass Card with the option of a 1, 2 or 3-day pass available in Klook website.
Tip: Use Google Maps whenever you are not sure where you are going.
Where to stay in Singapore
You can find lots of hotels available on Agoda.com or Booking.com, from standard to medium to luxury, depending on your budget. It is suggested to book near the MRT station with nearby restaurants, convenient stores and money changer to easily go around. Near China Town, to be precise.
Things to do & Tourist Places to Visit in Singapore
Indulge yourself in the Amazing Marina Bay
One of the most famous places to visit in Singapore is probably the Marina Bay. Whenever we talk about Singapore, it is always in the background of what we see in everyone’s posts. Just by looking the High buildings and modern structures in this place, you get a luxurious atmosphere. If you want to experience the true luxury, book a one-day hotel in Marina Bay Sands and have a spectacular view from the rooftop with an amazing infinity pool.
Merlion Park
Another popular place to visit near Marina Bay is Merlion Park. Here you will find one of Singapore’s Iconic statues, resembling a half-fish, half-lion mythical creature that symbolizes Singapore’s Prosperity.
Experience Universal Studio
Another popular tourist attraction that is filled with thrills and adventure is the “Universal Studio”. Enjoy and have fun on the thrilling rides, and watch the most amazing shows and performances that you will ever experience in your life. Oh, don’t forget to take a photo of the iconic Globe Universal Monument at the entrance.
Walk in the Gardens by the Bay
Oh, who would not fall in love with the gardens by the bay? It is a nature park set at the heart of Singapore downtown with 1.5 hectares, and home to a diverse collection of 1.5 million plants from different continents of the world.
Relax in Sentosa
It is undoubtedly one of the best places to relax while in Singapore. It is an island resort located off the southern coast of Singapore’s main island , and it is a must-visit place. Avail the Sentosa Fun Pass at the Klook website if you want to experience unlimited fun at this place.
Roam around China Town
If you are looking for a place to experience the best food in Singapore, then visit China Town. Souvenir’s shop and shopping mall are also available here, making it the best spot to book your accommodation.
Visit Little India
Another famous tourist location ranking alongside China Town is Little India, featuring a vibrant cultural enclave with temples and mosques, street art and brightly painted shop houses.
Cost and Description
This cost is based on traveling from Manila. It’s a 4-days and 3-nights itinerary with a choice of sites to visit.
| Description | Cost (PHP) (Updated as of 2024) |
| Flight from Manila to Singapore & Singapore to Manila | 5000 |
| Hotel Accommodation (3 nights) | 5000 |
| Universal Studio Ticket | 3400 |
| Gardens by the bay Ticket | 436 |
| Food | 2000 |
| Transportation (Including the Singapore Tourist Pass around PHP 800) | 3000 |
| Singapore Cable Car Sky Pass (Optional) | 1293 |
| Total | 20,129 |
Please note that this budget is per person and updated as of 2024 prices. If you want to save more, book in advance, especially the airfare ticket.
Additional Tip: If you are planning to visit multiple attractions, it is suggested to book Singapore One Pass-Multiple Attraction in Klook to save money with an option of the number of attraction passes to choose; for example, a 2 pass cost around PHP 3,618. For more info, Please visit Klook website.
So, have you been to Singapore? Please share your thoughts, I would love to know your experience.
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