Singapore questions, answered

Most asked

1. How many days do I need in Singapore?

   Visitors stay about three and a half days on average, and that's a good target for a first trip.

2. Is Singapore expensive for visitors?

   Hotels are the expensive part, with rooms averaging about S$274 a night at licensed hotels in September 2026, while a plate of chicken rice averages about S$4.

3. Can I tap a Visa, Mastercard or Apple Pay on the MRT and bus?

   Yes, contactless Visa, Mastercard, American Express and NETS cards work at the gates and on buses, and so do phone wallets such as Apple Pay.

4. Does it rain every day in Singapore?

   It rains on about 171 days a year, roughly every other day, and a day counts as rainy from just 0.2mm.

5. Do I need to book Universal Studios Singapore, or can I buy at the gate?

   Yes, you can buy Universal Studios Singapore tickets at the gate, but they are subject to availability, and the park encourages booking before you arrive.

6. What does a tissue packet on a hawker centre seat mean?

   A packet of tissues on a seat means someone has choped it, the local word for reserving a spot, so look for another table.

7. What is there to do in Singapore with a toddler?

   Start with free water play: the Far East Organization Children's Garden has a Toddler Play Zone for ages 1 to 5.

8. What is there to do in Singapore at night?

   Start with the free light shows at Marina Bay, then eat late at Lau Pa Sat, where the satay carts take over the street.

9. When is the best time to visit Singapore?

   The best time to visit Singapore is the driest stretch, late January to early March, with February the driest month.

10. Is chewing gum illegal in Singapore?

    Importing and selling chewing gum are banned in Singapore, except gum registered as a health product, such as dental gum.

11. Is Singapore safe for tourists?

    Singapore is safe for visitors: violent crime and theft are rare, and the police say crime remains under control.

12. How do I get to Pulau Ubin, and how much is the bumboat?

    To get to Pulau Ubin, take a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal beside Changi Village, a 10-minute crossing that typically costs S$4 each way.

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