Eating Out
Singapore's culinary landscape is a rich tapestry of Malay, Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, and British influences, offering a diverse and flavourful experience. Signature dishes such as fish head curry, Mee Goreng, laksa, popiah, and satay reflect the city's vibrant food heritage. Seafood also features prominently, with prawns, crabs and oysters appearing on many menus.
At the heart of local dining are hawker centres, which are lively, open-air food halls known for their quality, variety and affordability. It's customary to secure a table before ordering; many vendors will deliver dishes directly to guests.
For a quick bite, traditional pastries, savoury snacks and the classic kaya toast breakfast are popular takeaway options. More refined dining is equally well represented, with an array of restaurants offering global cuisine and fresh seafood in stylish settings.
Shopping
In Singapore, shopping feels like a national pastime, especially during the Great Singapore Sale (May to July), when the whole island offers irresistible discounts. Orchard Road is the heart of it all, and is lined with malls filled with fashion, electronics, beauty, and more. Late-night shopping on Saturdays keeps the buzz going till 11pm.
While Singapore doesn't produce many local goods, visitors will find lovely cultural treasures: Chinese fans and seals in Chinatown, vibrant fabrics in Little India, and Peranakan art in Katong. For fresh produce and spices, visitors shouldn't miss the lively (if aromatic) wet markets.
Low import taxes mean there are good deals, especially on electronics, though shoppers should do their homework first. Most shops are honest, with strong consumer protection laws and little risk of counterfeit goods. Stores generally open from 9am to 10pm, though some tech malls such as Funan may start a bit later.
Nightlife
Singapore's nightlife is as diverse as the city itself, and is buzzing with energy, colour and culture. Whether visitors are in the mood for a Broadway-style show, live jazz, or dancing 'til dawn, there's something for every kind of night owl.
Visitors can head to one of the city's lively nightlife districts, where bars, lounges, clubs, and karaoke spots light up the evening. From beachside cocktails to chic rooftop views, the vibe ranges from laid-back to full-throttle. Music lovers will find everything from house and hip hop to live acoustic sets and international DJs.
The city is safe and easy to navigate after dark, even for solo travellers. Most venues stay open until 2am on weekdays and 4am on weekends. Taxis are easy to find, though fares rise after midnight. Travellers should note that drinking here can be pricey due to high alcohol taxes, so they should sip smart.