Travel to the tiny tropical island of Singapore to experience its sumptuous hotels and unbeatable shopping, plus some of the most inspired cuisine imaginable. It’s a sophisticated and mesmerising place with a thriving contemporary art scene. Here, you can shop until you drop, enjoy awe-inspiring modern architecture and immerse yourself in an extraordinary melting pot of cultures. It’s also home to one of the largest and most beautiful orchid gardens in the world – and that’s just a taste of the attractions waiting to be discovered.
Tradition is very much part of a visit to Singapore, a multi-cultural city shaped by so many different countries. Among the island’s attractions, you can stroll along the colourful streets of Little India, explore Singapore’s Colonial heart, home to the Merlion and the Esplanade Theatre. Visit Chinatown with its unique shops, explore the city’s oldest Hindu temple, the magnificent Sri Mariamman Temple, and enjoy lush greenery in Gardens by the Bay, home to a million plants and flowers as well as the tallest indoor waterfall in the world.
Why visit Singapore?
- The shopping is unbeatable.
- You will never see such a variety of orchids like the ones that grow here.
- Dining out is a foodie’s delight, with a melting pot of cultural cuisines, traditions and flavours to taste.
- You can have your fill of adventures, from skydiving in the largest wind tunnel in the world to travelling on the steepest zipline in Southeast Asia.
- The nightlife is vibrant and exciting, with numerous dance clubs and some of the best bars in Asia.
- Kids enjoy a variety of activities, including Jurong Bird Park, Singapore Zoo, Universal Studios and Sentosa Island.
With its fascinating history, this international trading port and first-world destination is ideal for an exciting holiday. Whether you’re coming to experience its magic with friends, the kids or just the two of you, let us book your Singapore holiday package now.
Singapore offers so many different exciting activities for young and old, from adventures on Sentosa Island to enjoying a spectacular pyrotechnics display at the SEA Aquarium. Go behind the scenes at Universal Studios theme park, with its cutting edge rides, shows and attractions and become part of the famous movie, Crazy Rich Asians, as you visit its filming locations. There’s also the luxurious Raffles Hotel, famous Merlion Park, the ultra-modern Marina Bay Sands and lush Gardens by the Bay.
Enjoy panoramic views across Singapore’s Southern Islands from The Sky Tower, unmatched shopping in a choice of modern malls, and savour traditional dishes from a variety of street stalls. Visit one of the world’s largest orchard gardens and embark on a night safari at the 40-hectare Animal Kingdom Park, watching wild animals engaging in their fascinating nightly rituals. Singapore offers unmatched adventure and so many different activities.
Things to do in Singapore
- Take a trishaw ride, pedalling along colourful streets with their iconic mix of old and new.
- Spend the evening club-hopping at Clarke Quay.
- Enjoy a swim and panoramic city views at the Marina Bay Sands’ infinity pool.
- Explore the red and gold 19th-century Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown.
- Go shopping for fashion along the famous Orchard Road.
- Get lost in the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay.
- View Singapore from a different perspective as you ride the 165-metre Singapore Flyer Ferris Wheel.
- Shop in the quirky stores and boutiques in Haji Lane, one of the narrowest streets in the city.
- Sip on a Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel.
- Visit the pastel-coloured shophouses in the red light district of Geylang.
Singapore is a delightful choice for a holiday. Whether you’re on a family holiday with the kids, enjoying a romantic getaway, spending time with friends enjoying the nightlife and the food, or are stopping over before heading to another Asian destination.
When is the best time to visit?  Â
- Singapore has a tropical climate, and the temperature doesn’t vary much throughout the year, with high humidity, high temperatures and plenty of rain.
- Average temperatures are between 28 and 31 degrees Celsius.
- February and March are good times to visit. April to May is the hottest time of the year, and November to January is the wet monsoon season.
Getting there Â
- There are frequent flights from South Africa to Singapore.
- Flight duration from South Africa to Singapore: 10 hours & 25 minutes.
Do I need a visa? Â
- South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Singapore for a period of up to 30 days.
- Passports should be valid for 6 months after travel.
What time is it? Â
- Singapore is 6 hours ahead of South Africa.
Money matters Â
- The official currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD).
- Major credit cards are accepted in hotels and most shops. However, smaller retailers request cash payments.
- Bureau de Change is found at the airport and shopping malls. You can also change money at most hotel receptions.
- ATMs are found in most shopping malls.
- Tipping is an accepted custom in Singapore. It is expected that you tip local restaurant staff, luggage porters, drivers and guides, but not mandatory.
Language & phrases Â
- Singapore has 4 official languages: Malay, Tamil, Mandarin Chinese and English.
- English is therefore widely spoken & understood.
Culture & religion Â
- Buddhism is the major religion in Singapore. Other religions: Taoism, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam.
- When visiting sacred sites and temples, dress conservatively. (See ‘What to pack’).
- Be aware: smoking is strictly permitted only in designated areas.
- Chewing gum is prohibited in Singapore.
Health information Â
- It is safe to drink water from the tap in Singapore.
- Check with your travel clinic about recommended vaccinations.
What must I pack?
- Depending on when and where you visit, lightweight clothing for summer, warm clothing for winter, rain gear and beachwear if relevant. Choose items that can be layered.
- Dress modestly when visiting sacred sites – no shorts or tank tops. Legs & shoulders must be covered. Long, loose pants and long-sleeved cotton shirts are best.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses for summer holidays.
- Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
- Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
- Camera.
- Travel adaptor.
Getting around
- Taxis and buses are easily accessible and a subway (MRT) pass can be bought at all MRT stations.
What can I do to be a responsible traveller?
- Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
- Avoid single-use plastic; rather take fabric shopping bags with you and use refillable water bottles (when local drinking water is available).
- Respect each other's cultures and customs and avoid imposing your beliefs.
- Do not support animal encounters and wildlife activities that are harmful or unethical.
Safety tips
- Always have a map (or app) on hand, especially when travelling at night.
- Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
- Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables and watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers when out and about.
What do I do in an emergency?
- If passports or valuables are stolen, report the theft to the hotel/police immediately.
- Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.