Singapore Travel Guide For Backpackers & Digital Nomads
Want to be a Singapore digital nomad? Singapore is an island city-state which is located in Southeast Asia. Though small in size, Singapore has many things to offer a visitor that can be found. If you are ever lucky enough to visit even the airport itself, you will see why Singapore is worth the visit. My personal favorite was the Art-Science Museum, where I was able to not just see the art but experience it.
Singapore at a Glace
Chinese
Singapore Dollar
ATMs, Money Changers
Chicken rice
No
Singtel | Starhub
Yes
Check CDC
C, G and M
Comfort and Citycab
November - January & June - July
+65
Yes
Yes
Yes
Cash/Card
August - October, except mid-September
999
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A Digital Nomad Guide To Singapore
In this article, I’ll guide you through all the things that Singapore has to offer. This way, you can make an informed decision about choosing your next destination as a Digital Nomad. Let’s begin!
Singapore Visa Requirements
Okay, so you have decided to make Singapore your next destination; getting accustomed to the Visa process is essential. Singapore thrives on tourism; so, getting a visa isn’t really difficult.
DO YOU NEED TO APPLY FOR A VISA BEFOREHAND?
Residents of most countries in the world can travel to Singapore Visa-free. They will be given a visa on arrival at the Singapore airport.
However, you must have all the necessary documentation complete. Make your way to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to find out if you are eligible for a visa-free entry.
DOES SINGAPORE HAVE DIGITAL NOMAD VISAS?
Unfortunately, Singapore does not offer a digital nomad visa. However, those visiting Singapore from a visa-free country or having the necessary visa can stay for up to 30 days at a time. Once your 30-day stay is complete, you must exit the country.
*If you are a resident of the USA or the EU, you can stay in Singapore for up to 90 days, Visa-free*
Although, for most digital nomads or tourists, there is a loophole. You can leave Singapore and go to a neighboring country (such as Malaysia or Thailand) for a short period every 30 days. Once you return, your 30-day stay will restart.
Most expats and digital nomads do this numerous times during their stay. It may not be the most convenient method, but it indeed works.
THE SINGAPORE ARRIVAL CARD
As of 2019, any person entering Singapore must possess a Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC). The SGAC completely replaces all other paper-based documentation needed to enter the country. You can apply for the SGAC online.
Necessary: The SGAC does NOT replace your visa. It simply relieves you of the hassle of carrying extensive paper-based documents.
EXTENDED SINGAPORE VISA
Those who want to stay longer need a valid work permit or a work holiday visa. This allows citizens from certain countries to remain in Singapore for up to 6 months at a time.
On the other hand, if you have a private limited company that meets the criteria outlined by the Ministry of Manpower, you can apply for an Entrepass. This visa is targeted toward foreign entrepreneurs.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Singapore
1. Gardens by the Bay
2. Clarke Quay
The nightlife center in Singapore where you can find live music ,bars, pubs, and dance clubs.
3. Sentosa
4. Marina Bay
5. Chinatown
Other Things to See and Do in Singapore
1. Singapore Zoo
Spanning across 70 acres of land, Singapore Zoo is home to more than 3600 mammals, reptiles, and birds. The facility is divided into 11 different zones and 12 exhibits to offer various opportunities to the visitors to get up close and personal with the wildlife creatures.2. Orchard Road
A 2.2-km shopping and entertainment avenue packed with a range of luxury malls, restaurants, and hotels. There are so many shops and restaurants located in this precinct that add glitz to make it more exciting.3. Little India
This vibrant district in Singapore is fully packed with Hindu temples, traditional restaurants, stalls, spice shops, garland stores, and more. The narrow lanes and bustling community offer unexpected opportunities to make visitors enjoy their trip to the fullest.4. Singapore Flyer
Singapore Flyer is Asia’s biggest observation wheel that offers passengers with 360-degree views of the city and beyond. It has 28 air-conditioned capsules which are capable of accommodating 28 passengers at one time.5. Jurong Bird Park
It is the first and biggest bird park in Asia. Covering over 20 hectares of land, this sanctuary is home to almost 5000 beautiful birds. People can interact with over 400 species of birds and walk into the park’s biggest free flight aviary containing hundreds of birds.6. The Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens covers almost 52 hectares of gardens and forest housing thousands of species of various plants. There are also some waterfalls, a rain-forest, and a ginger garden. This place is the first in Singapore to earn the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site.7. Merlion
Merlion is a popular Singapore landmark located near the CBD. It is a mythical creature with a lion’s head and a fish’s body which is mainly used as a national personification of the city.Typical Costs
Transportation
Different modes of transportation are available in Singapore that are efficient and convenient in their own ways. Taking a bus from one place to another can cost you around $1-$2 per trip. If you take a taxi, don’t be surprised when you are charged a base fee.. You can get the Singapore Tourist Pass that offers you unlimited travel options for one, two, or three days at affordable rates.
Accommodation
Unlike other Southeast Asian destinations, accommodation in Singapore isn’t cheap. You’ll pay about $12 per night for a bed in a hostel. Most of the dorm rooms have amenities like free bedding, free Wi-fi, and TV. You can also get a room in a 2-star hotel that offers TV, free Wi-fi, separate bathrooms, air conditioning, and free breakfast for $33 per night. The mid-range hotels will cost you around $80 per night.
Food
In Singapore, all kinds of food can be enjoyed, especially Chinese and Indian cuisine. You can get Chinese and Indian food for around $6 per meal. There are many low-cost restaurants and stalls available all across Singapore where you can enjoy a meal for as low as $4. If you go to casual restaurants, expect to pay around $15 per person. You also have the choice to cook your own food but this will cost you around $55 per week.
Activities
Generally, activities in Singapore are a bit expensive. There are many attractions that require no entrance fee like Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Singapore Botanical Gardens. However, there are places that do charge around an average $15-$45 entrance fee, the Singapore Zoo for example is $35.
Cost of living in Taiwan
Although a small country, Singapore is undoubtedly one of the more expensive countries in Asia.
Housing costs in Singapore are 2% greater than in New York City. Monthly budgets for a single adult range from $2000 to over $5000 per month.
The primary contributor to this hefty budget is the high housing costs in the city. Cost for daily food and beverages, then follow this. Alcohol in Singapore is also quite pricey. So, a night out with too much drinking could put you off budget.
For a Digital Nomad, the following budget should be significant:
- Accommodation: $1000-1500 USD
- WorkSpace: approx $400 USD
- Food: $1200 USD
- Transport: $100 USD
- Leisure: approx $400-500 USD
Singapore is a must-visit destination for those who can afford this price tag. Furthermore, although accommodation can be expensive, other costs can be significantly reduced.
Instead of eating at restaurants, grabbing meals from street hawkers will significantly reduce food expenses, otherwise you will find yourself paying $15-$30 a meal.
The city is relatively compact, so travel costs are also low, especially if you occasionally walk
Suggested Budget
How much does it cost to travel around Singapore? Take a look at this section below for the suggested daily budget when visiting Singapore 2020:
Budgeting Tips
Do you want to visit Singapore but don’t want to spend a huge amount of money? Check out the following tips that will keep money in your pocket and smile on your face:
1. Use public transport
Taking public transport may cost you around $7 per day with a Singapore Tourist Pass. This way, you’ll get unlimited rides on buses as well as trains.2. Avoid bottled water
Tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. So, take bottles with you and refill them whenever you are around a water fountain or some shop.3. Enjoy happy hour deals
Alcohol costs a lot so it is better to drink during happy hour using deals offered at various restaurants and enjoy their buy one, get one free offer.4. Take free walking tours
There are some companies in Singapore that offer free tours around the city. These free tours are a great way to explore the city and learn about the culture and history of Singapore.5. Eat cheap
Eat from food stalls to save some money, there are many great options in the Chinatown area.6. Use free Wi-fi
Most of the places in Singapore like cafes, libraries, clubs, restaurants, and malls have free Wi-fi. So, you can always use this service without spending your money service without spending your money.6. Visit free attractions
Singapore is full of attractions and activities that require no entrance fee.Food In Singapore
One thing about Singapore that you simply don’t need to worry about? Finding good food!
If you’re a foodie like me, you know that food can often make or break your entire experience. In Singapore, you’ll find just about any time of cuisine that your heart desires.
One of the many advantages of the city being full of different cultures is that you can find authentic cuisines anywhere. From Indian curries to Chinese soups, this city has it all.
While Singapore has some Michelin-star restaurants with high-quality food, to truly experience the best foods, you must make your way to the street hawkers. These street hawkers not only serve the most delicious food but are also a lot easier on your pocket.
Here are some of the best food places to try in Singapore.
- Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
- Location: Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur Street #01–10/11, Singapore 069184
- Cuisine: Chinese
True Blue Cuisine
- Location: 47/49 Armenian Street, Singapore 179937
- Cuisine: Peranakan
Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice
- Location: Chinatown Complex, 335 Smith Street #02–197/198/199, Singapore 050335
- Cuisine: Chinese
Hjh Maimunah Restaurant
- Location: 11 & 15 Jalan Pisang, Singapore 199078
- Cuisine: Malay
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh
- Location: 11 New Bridge Road #01–01, Singapore 059383
- Cuisine: Chinese
The Blue Ginger
- Location: 97 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088518
- Cuisine: Peranakan
Alliance Seafood
- Location: Newton Food Centre, 500 Clemenceau Avenue North #01–27, Singapore 229495
- Cuisine: Singaporean Seafood
Muthu’s Curry
- Location: 138 Race Course Road #01–01, Singapore 218591
- Cuisine: Indian
Best Areas In Singapore For Digital Nomads
Singapore is a small city, so you will always be a short bus or train ride away from downtown, regardless of where to stay. However, the prices of various neighborhoods depend primarily on their proximity to Downtown.
If you have the budget for it, then here are the best neighborhoods to stay in during your visit:
- Central Singapore
- Newton
- Orchard
- Queens Town
- Kallang
- Bukit Merah
Although gorgeous, renting apartments in these neighborhoods come with a hefty price tag. However, these neighborhoods are relatively modern and luxurious. They are also only minutes away from downtown Singapore so travel time gets cut short.
I believe Kallang provides the best value for your money among these neighborhoods. It is closer to the central area and is comparatively cheaper as well.
NEIGHBORHOODS ON A BUDGET
If you have a tight budget and can’t afford these high prices in central neighborhoods. The following neighborhoods should be your next option:
- Punggol
- Chua Chu Kang
- Bukit Panchang, Woodlands
These neighborhoods are further away from downtown. However, they come at a much more reasonable price tag.
Living here can significantly increase travel times. However, Singapore has a very efficient and well-developed public transport system. So, commuting shouldn’t be a huge hassle.
Where To Stay
Singapore may not be a huge country but has an extensive range of accommodation choices. Whether you are traveling for the first time or a veteran traveler, Singapore has accommodation for every budget level. The following are my top recommendations for places to stay in Singapore:
Kallang
Dream Lodge
Little India
The Inn Crowd Backpackers Hostel 2
Sentosa Island
Capella
Chinatown
TBD
Clarke Quay
TBD
Other
TBD
COLIVING SPACES
Not only are coliving spaces cheaper, but they also give you a perfect opportunity to intermingle with others like you.
I interacted with other digital nomads in Singapore, and most still claim to be friends with their coliving roommates. The apartments are already fully furnished and often have basic amenities. So you don’t need to stress over spending more money and time on them.
Coliving.com offers a wide array of options in Singapore for you to choose from. These options can vary based on your budget, preferred residence area, and general aesthetic.
Here are the top 3 coliving spaces in Singapore:
1. WANDERLUST
This boutique property is in Little India and is a 5-minute walk from the Jalan Besar metro. That makes traveling within Singapore a lot easier. Since it is in Little India, the property is surrounded by beautiful shops and rich culture and food.
Moreover, Wanderlust also offers complimentary wifi and laundry services. They also have a dipping pool and a rain shower, ideal for washing away all your stress at the end of a long day.
- Price: Rent varies from about $950- 3800 USD (depending on your requirements).
2. LYF FUNAN
Lyf Funan is the largest coliving company in Southeast Asia. This space adds a more playful touch to the whole coliving concept. It hosts multiple social and community events to allow its residents to interact with each other.
Lyf Funan comes equipped with fast WiFi, a community gym, and a shared kitchen. It is ideal for tourists and digital nomads looking to rent out daily.
- Price: Rent starts from $70 daily (including utilities).
3. HMLET
Hmlet has over 80 properties across its various locations, with 35 properties within Singapore. One of Hmlet’s properties is at Cantonment road, a 10-minute walk from the famous Orchard Street.
The space is sleek and modern, with complimentary wifi, a fully equipped kitchen, and a shared social lounge. Hmlet is also quite flexible with its monthly lease, which starts at a minimum of 3 months.
- Price: Monthly rents vary from $690-3800 USD (depending on your requirements).
4. COMMONTOWN
Commontown is arguably the most diverse coliving space in Singapore. It has 18 properties within Singapore for you to choose from, and the lease starts from a minimum of 3 months.
The property has a basic kitchen, a common room area, fast WiFi, and maintenance services.
- Price: Rent ranges from $980-1880 per month (Commontown requires a one-month security deposit as well)
5. FIGMENT
Figment provides its tenants with much more unique coliving spaces. These boutique coliving spaces are located within shophouses in Singapore.
Although more unconventional, this place is vibrant and aesthetic. Figment provides free WiFi and cleaning and laundry services.
- Price: Monthly rent is approximately $1130 (including utility bills)
Nomad Networking
Most people here are hard working individuals who stick to their close friends. You can however find some groups through meetup.com and on facebook
Meetup.com
| Singapore Entrepreneurs Network |
| Singapore Entrepreneur Hub |
| Singapore Start-Up Club |
| Working in Singapore |
| Singapore SMEs |
| Singapore Expats Group |
| All About Singapore – Expats |
Other
Nomad Coworking And Working Spots
You cant be a digital nomad without wifi. So below are some spots where one can work comfortably. Don’t forget to check my nomad lunch break section for places you can still visit and/or work from during lunch. #nomadworkspace
Gardens by the Bay
Marina Bay
Chinatown
Other
TBD
Below are the top 3 coworking spaces in Singapore:
1. THE HIVE
The most distinct feature of Hive is its remarkable customer service. It has two locations within Singapore. It has multiple locations worldwide and a single membership that applies to all Hive locations.
The Lavender office contains photographer booths and private offices, allowing its guests to capture some beautiful professional shots.
- Location: The Hive Lavender, Level 6, Vanguard Building, 1 Kallang Junction, 339263, Singapore
The Hive Carpenter office contains a rooftop bar and focuses more on socializing and interactive experiences.
- Location: The Hive Carpenter, 36 Carpenter St, 059915 Singapore
- Price: Monthly hot desk rent starts from $172/month
- Timing: Monday-Friday; 8:00am-6:30pm
2. THE WORKING CAPITOL (TWC), SINGAPORE
TWC was named the best coworking space in Singapore by the Huffington Post. It’s located in a 3-story shophouse and was once a biscuit factory.
- Location: 1 Keong Saik Road, 089109, Singapore
- Price: Monthly rent starts at $79/month
- Timing: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-6:00pm
3. WEWORK
WeWork provides its guests with a more generalized coworking space across all its locations. They have various offices in numerous countries. So, a WeWork membership is also ideal for digital nomads.
- Price: Office rentals start from as low as $68/month and can go up to $550/month (based on your requirements)
- Timing: Monday-Friday; 9:00am-6:00pm
Nomad Lunch Breaks
Balancing work and exploring can be tough, here are some activities or places you can visit during a lunch hour. You will see the words hotspot, wifi, or break which indicates what you can use to work there, or if you cant and its time for a work break. #nomadlunchbreak
Kallang
TBD
Chinatown
TBD
Marina Bay
TBD
Clarke Quay
TBD
Sentosa Island
Capella
Wifi & Internet In Singapore
Once you land in Singapore, one of the very first things you need to do is to get a tourist SIM card. The connection is excellent everywhere, regardless of where you are in the city. You can grab these SIM cards from any local kiosk. The airport itself has SIM card vending machines as well.
The kiosks accept any major credit card. ATMs are everywhere, so paying for the SIM should not be a hassle. Data packages on the SIM card start for as little as $22 per month.
The following companies are pretty widespread and have reliable connections within Singapore:
- Singtel: One of the top operators
- M1
- Starhub
Getting Around Singapore
Singapore has an organized transportation system that consists of trains, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing apps. Let’s discuss each in detail.
Trishaws
Trishaws (like rickshaws) aren’t famous in Singapore now, but can be seen along some of the tourist routes. You’ll pay around $40 for a 30-minute ride.
Car Rentals
If you don’t like spending hours using public transport to go from one place to another, you can rent a car. Various car rental options are available in Singapore which normally costs you around $50-$70 for the five-seater cars per day (plus insurance).
Ride Sharing
The most popular transportation mode in Singapore is a taxi which can be used especially to visit places that are not accessible by public buses. All cabs are metered here and you can expect to pay more if you book a ride during peak hours. Taxis can be taken from the roadside or seen queuing outside of shopping malls or tourist attractions. Grab is the preffered booking app.
Trains
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the fastest mode in Singapore to travel around. This network is very extensive and many of the sightseeing spots are located within walking distance from an MRT station. To use the MRT, you should get a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) with which you can travel for the entire day for $7, two days for $12, and three days for $15. I recommend getting an EZ-Link Card or a Singapore Tourist Pass.
Bus
Bus is the most economical mode of transportation to get around in Singapore. The bus system is quite wide and efficient and covers the majority of the places in Singapore. You can pay the fare in cash, with the EZ Link pass or use the Singapore Tourist Pass on the buses. Expect to pay 1$-2$ for a single trip.
Airlines
If you ever have the opportunity to fly into Singapore or have a layover here, you will be amazed by its airport. Don’t take my word for it, a quick google search will amaze you.
Resources
When To Visit Singapore: Weather And Seasons
Singapore is a year-round destination with average temperatures of 27-degree throughout the year. The best time of the year is from the months of February to April when there is relatively less rainfall than other times of the year. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit Singapore from July to November.
Pros And Cons Of Living As A Digital Nomad In Singapore
Pros
- The WiFi connection is fantastic. Singapore’s WiFi connection has been rated one of the fastest in the world.
- The city is spotless and organized.
- English is widely spoken and understood. So no communication barriers.
- Tap water is perfectly clean and drinkable.
- Public transport is extensive and very clean.
- A wide variety of authentic cuisines to satisfy your cravings.
- Great shopping destination. Singapore often contains products that are sold out elsewhere. Plus, most items are comparatively cheaper here than in the rest of the world.
- Although an Asian country, it has a very Western vibe to it. You will find people of all ethnicities living here.
CONS
- It’s significantly more expensive, so you’ll need a heavy budget for your stay. Especially compared to its neighbor, Malaysia, which is considerably cheaper.
- Air quality significantly decreases during the haze season. Visibility also decreases.
- It’s humid throughout the year.
- Alcohol can be pretty expensive here as well.
- Except for US and EU citizens, Singapore does not allow foreigners to stay for over 30 days. So, digital nomads must exit the country every 30 days.
Common Questions About Being A Digital Nomad In Singapore
Singtel and Starhub have affortable tourist sim cards with very generous data plans starting with around 2 weeks validity.
How To Stay Safe and Aware of Scams
Singapore is a safe destination to travel even for solo travelers. But you should remain alert and aware of your surroundings whether you are visiting a place for shopping, eating, or sightseeing. Read the the following tips on how to stay safe in Singapore:
1. Social behavior scam
Some cases have been reported of tourists and expats getting accused of touching women inappropriately in public places or pubs. They are asked a huge amount of money for settling the issue in order to avoid police charges. So, avoid crowded places to stay away from such problems.2. Credit card swap
When you give your credit card to pay a bill at the restaurant, some of them return the wrong credit card covered in a receipt. So, it is best to never let your card out of sight.3. Fake monks
Like many other Asian destinations, fake monks and nuns approach the travelers asking for alms. Note that Buddhist monks don’t beg for money or trouble people. If this happens to you, report the local police immediately.4. Pick-pocketing
Beware of pick-pocketing thieves and keep all your valuables at such a place which is not easy to reach. Avoid using bags or purses with long chains to keep yourself from becoming a target of a thief or gang.5. Taxi cab
Most of the cab drivers in Singapore charge more for rides than the actual price you agreed upon. It is better to ask for a receipt after every ride you take to avoid any fraud.6. Travel Insurance
It is important to purchase good travel insurance as it protects you against theft, injury, illness, or any other thing that goes wrong.Packing List
Still wondering which things should you exactly carry along on your trip to Singapore? Below are some considerations specific to Singapore:
2 Pairs of Shorts
2 long sleeve
8 pairs of underwear
Medicine: Tums, Aspirin, Pepto , Antibacterial Cream, Hydrocortisone cream
2 Pair of jeans
Flip flops
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, floss, shampoo and body wash
Locks: Some hostels provide locks for a fee, so bring your own
Swim Trunks
Comfortable Sneakers
Quick dry towel
Laundry Bag
3 shirts
8 pairs of socks
Dedorant
Hand Sanitizer
Power Bank
Umbrella
Sun Glasses
Sun Screen
Light water repellent jacket
Sunhat
Water bottle
Mosquito repellent
Travel adapter
Money belt
Final Thoughts: Is Singapore Good For Digital Nomads?
Singapore is a highly modernised society. There are towering sky scrapers, with cafes and shops. While there are also nature reserves throught the country. Singapore is an expensive place even for nomads, so prepare and plan! Still this country is a great starting point for those who wish to travel through asia.