The Ultimate Guide To Backpacking Singapore & What To Avoid

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Backpacking Singapore is unlike any other travel experience I’ve had! It’s a bustling metropolitan city infused with a robust green city vibe. Packed with the glamour and speed of Los Angeles, this metropolis seems like the perfect cityscape for city dwellers who love nature.

Yet simultaneously, the MRT (the public transportation system) is efficient, green, and immaculately clean. The street aroma is intoxicating as its home to a multitude of cultures and cuisines. There’s Malaysia to its north and Indonesia further south, as well as other nearby South East Asia countries: Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines.

In fact, Singapore’s diverse culture is made up of four different communities — Malay, Chinese, Eurasian and Indian. This is seen throughout this beautiful country by communities such as Little India, China Town, an abundance of tasty Hawker stalls, restaurants, and vibrant street paintings.

To say the least, Singapore is a green vibrant city-state, unlike any other city and country. It’s rare and radiant with all the unique charisma. It also has incredible food! As a vegan-ish and gluten-free traveler, I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of options to eat for travelers with food allergies.

If you’re planning to go backpacking in Singapore, here were our highlights of the best things to do in Singapore, where to eat, and where to eat for vegan travelers.

Side note: For vegan travelers, there are a considerable amount of options to eat in this city. It does take some effort to find them, but they are delicious! If you’re looking for more vegan travel guides, here are some of my most popular vegan travel guides for Europe: Barcelona, Sofia and Kiev.

Because Singapore is super clean, I’ve included a travel list of what to avoid so you can feel fully prepared in planning your trip to this unique country.

Feel free to jump ahead!

Visiting Singapore

We spent 6 days visiting Singapore, with one of those days visiting Malaysia. If you’re traveling to Singapore from the U.S., I highly recommend giving yourself more time than you think, as it’s a long flight and jet lag is a thing. The first day I was extremely jet lagged, and found the best way for combating this was traveling slowly and practicing wellness travel — although it took a minute to realize I was jet-lagged (whoops!).

Not everyone gets jet lagged though, but give yourself a day or two to adjust before diving into the fun activities and attractions Singapore has to offer. Your body and mind will thank you.

Here’s a couple things to keep in mind when traveling to Singapore.

It’s walkable

The first thing you need to know is the city is one hundred percent walk-able. Singapore is actually one of the smallest countries in the world. It’s smaller than state of Rhode Island! There’s nothing quiet like roaming and wandering through unknown streets following wherever your spirit or stomach leads you.

While the city is walk-able, the public transportation system, known as MRT, is very efficient and easy to use. We used it everyday to get into the city. It’s also pretty cheap. Taxis are also inexpensive, compared to other cities we’ve visited. They work great for shuttling you around the city and for delivering food in case you want to eat in. Keep in mind the taxis in Singapore do have a slightly different name, they’re called Grab.

Because the city is so walk-able, it makes backpacking in Singapore very easy. Make sure to pack good tennis shoes like these Nike trainers or Chacos, which are excellent travel shoes for summer attire and walking.

It’s hot and humid

Another important thing to note when backpacking Singapore is the heat and humidity are intense. As soon as we showered to cool off from the heat, we were immediately met with insatiable sweat dripping out of every surface on our bodies.

Prepare for the heat and humidity by packing light. Think light tee-shirts, blouses, shorts, skirts, dresses and sandals. Although it’s hot outside, ducking indoors to almost any business is sure to provide the welcome relief of air conditioning. Singaporeans always have the air blasting inside any building to give everyone relief from the heat and cool down.

We traveled with an Osprey day-pack, while visiting the city. It’s great for carrying water-bottles, light weight jackets (for when it’s cold inside the buildings), and any souvenirs we purchased.

Stay hydrated while traveling

Additionally, make sure you’re staying hydrated is too! In fact, Evan and I always do our research to ensure the new wellness destination we’re traveling to location has drinkable water. In Singapore, it’s safe to drink the water, so you can easily use your reusable water bottle throughout the city.

My favorite reusable water bottle that I like to pack is my mint green Hydro Flask. It comes it various different colors like black, yellow, red, white, blue and more, so don’t worry if the color green is not your thing.

Backpacking Singapore can be expensive

The last thing to note when backpacking in Singapore is, it’s an expensive city. Many of the attractions, services, and foods can be pretty pricey. In addition, the city has a famous shopping road, Orchard Road, which is surrounded by over a mile of boutiques, mega malls, and luxury stores. While the stores and ambiance it creates are quite dazzling, it can be really easy to run up a big bill there! We leisurely strolled through this area but stayed clear of the temptation.

On the other hand, Singapore does also affordable activities, eateries and experiences too. You can save money and find tasty food at Hawker centres, China town, Little India and Haji Lane. You’ll also find Singaporeans dining here too!

Related post: How to Stay Healthy and Fit While Traveling

Best things to do when backpacking Singapore

Here are the best things to see when backpacking in Singapore for a couple of days! There’s more than what I’ve listed below of things to do in Singapore, like visiting Sentosa Island and the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, but these were our favorites so I’ve included them in this travel guide. Besides, they’re easy to do when your short on time when backpacking in Singapore.

The ArtScience Museum

Basically, I was born to visit the ArtScience Museum! The museum space collides my favorite two things, which is why this was our first stop in Singapore. I studied neuroscience and chemistry in school, yet I’m sitting here trying to master the art of travel blogging. (Interesting how that worked out! Insert a wink for the irony).

The famous ArtScience Museum is found within the famous Marina Bay Sands. It’s the epic collision and crossroads between alluring art and the technological advancements of science. It’s a one-of-a-kind museum, with various hands-on exhibitions, galleries, and events. The exhibitions do change frequently, so check here to see whats currently on display.

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The rotating exhibits we experienced while there were Wonderland, depicting the birth and transition of Alice and Wonderland over the years (there was even an Alice and Wonderland maze within the museum), and Floating Utopia, showcasing a playful artworks of floating objects.

However, Future World is a permanent exhibition. It’s hands down one of my all time favorite museums. Inside is a vivid cornucopia of delightful art pieces that come to life with technology, creating it’s own magical realm. Picture hopscotch with vibrant lights and fruit that pop as you jump on them, or a forest of enchanting lights that twinkle and gleam based on the hour of the day. This is what’s awaiting within the museum.

If you love science and art, or you’re a big kid at heart, be sure to add Future World to your explorations.

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is a grand Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. The vibrant colors and marvelous architecture makes it stand out in the city. Our first time walking past it, I was stunned by its beauty and was drawn in to learn more about its rich history.

It’s located in Little India, and makes for a wonderful afternoon in this city-state learning about Hinduism. Simply grab lunch in Little India, then head over to the temple to explore the grounds and learn more about its history, culture and traditions.

There’s about thirty more temples to explore in Singapore, with the oldest Hindu temple being The Sri Mariamman Temple, in Chinatown.

Bask in the colors of Arab Street & Little India

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Arab Street, also known as Haji Lane, is probably one of the most colorful streets in the city-state. It’s brimming with brilliant hues of red and yellow, as the tones of blueish-green sing throughout the street-scape. This is absolutely my favorite street to endlessly meander down and enjoy the lucid colors that make this charming city shine bright.

There’s vivid murals, multicolored walls and restaurants painted various shades of the rainbow. The chairs are brightly colored, creating some impressive photo ops to post later on the gram. At the center of all this color and life is the jewel of the Arab Street district, the stunning Sultan Mosque. With round domes topped with gold, this is the main mosque in the city for adherents to Islam.

In Little India, you’ll find multicolored murals coated with splashes of vibrant colors. There are butterflies, flowers, people and animals all painted with a unique innovative spin that come alive the longer you gaze.

If you want to see more street art in Singapore, see this post: Gorgeous Murals in Singapore.

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Also, the food in Arab Street is tasty as well. We found a cute vegan shop here and it had the best passion fruit chia seed pudding of my life! The best vegan food I think was in this area, Chinatown and other Hawker centres.

Visit the Merlion Lion

I’ve been told this fascinating statue is the mascot of Singapore. Legend has it Merlion depicts the tale of the Malay prince who sailed across the sea stumbling across the island, Singapore. There he met an enchanted lion, then changed the named of the island city to “Lion City” which translates to Singpura.

With this in mind, the statue is beautiful and it’s located in a dazzling area that’s extremely fun to explore on foot. It’s near the Marina Bay Sands, and about 20-25 minute walk from Lau PaSat, a delicious food centre in the city.

Roam through China Town

Imagine… the lingering smell of scrumptious Hawker stalls selling various buns such as pumpernickel, spinach, pumpkin, pork and et cetera. This is what abundance you’ll find journeying through China town. It’s a foodie haven!

There’s a plethora of dishes to devour and options for any diet — vegans, vegetarians, meat lovers, Singapore noodle fanatics (trust me if you try this dish, it will change you’re life!), and fruit connoisseurs. It’s also home to one of the cheapest Michelin-star dishes.

While you’ll find hearty meals at Hawker stalls, you’ll also find the exact opposite from freshly squeezed juices to build-your-own smoothies, fresh fruit and more. Drinking your greens is a simple wellness hack I love to incorporate while traveling, and China town is the best place to make sure that happens.

That’s not the only wellness travel tip I love to integrate with my travels, but you can read more about easy wellness travel tips here.

Overall it’s really easy to stay well and recharge while backpacking Singapore, especially when you’re dining in Chinatown!

Eat at the worlds cheapest Michelin-star restaurant

Make your way to the delicious Hawker Chan to get a taste of a world class Michelin-starred meal. The dish — chicken and rice — is exactly as it sounds, a simple yet delicious dish that has been awarded an Michelin star for its pungent flavor.

Forget the fancy dinner spread, and head to Chinatown or find Hawker stall to grab this chicken rice dish. It’s 3 Singapore dollars, which is around $2.25. I’m not lying when I say the cheapest!

There’s a total of three locations in the city.

Here’s what the famous chicken rice dish looks like! It comes with a soya sauce that I believe you can add yourself and some other tasty sauces. Its also served with cucumbers and an egg.

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Wander around Gardens By the Bay

Gardens By The Bay — a magical enchanting lush forest, brimming with colorful lights, giant trees, and the largest person made cascading waterfall. In short, it’s a dreamy futuristic paradise for nature lovers and city dwellers. We visited Gardens By The Bay multiple times during our 5 day trip.

It never grew old! Each time we witnessed something new and exquisite from this breathtaking artistry of plants and nature. Inside you’ll find numerous walking trails, an indoor conservatory, and a fascinating walk amongst the clouds.

Inside the gardens, there are several attractions, both paid and free. The free attractions include all nine of the outdoor gardens:

• Supertree Grove
• World of Plants
• Sun Pavilion
• Serene Gardens
• Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lake
• Heritage Gardens
• Bay East Garden
• The Canyon
• Far East Organization Children’s Garden

Each of these gardens were distinctive with their own personality and flair. From voluptuous lawns to lush greenery, beautiful sculptures and picturesque ambiance, I highly recommend a visit to the gardens. My favorite were the Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lake, Supertree Grove, Serene Gardens and Bay East Gardens.

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On the other hand, the paid attractions within the gardens include the following below:

• Flower Dome
• Cloud Forest
• Floral Fantasy
• OCBC Skyway
• Supertree Observatory

Cloud Forest was stunning! If you love sensuous greenery, and giant cascading waterfalls, add Cloud Forest to your Singapore bucketlist. In fact, here’s some beautiful quotes about waterfalls to inspire your trip to this spectacular fantasy realm.

Each Garden By The Bay tickets starts at around $8, then increases based on which exhibits you want to explore.

Watch the light show at Gardens By The Bay

Stay until nightfall to admire the Garden Rhapsody when the Supertree Grove brightly lights up for an unforgettable experience of Singapore that’s synced with beautiful music under the midnight night.

The experience was surreal, and replete with a romantic milieu for a memorable night in Singapore. During the show, these supertrees illuminate like giant beacons swaying to music. Sitting at height of 164 feet, with 68 surround sound speakers, you’ll want to lay down to soak in the entirety of the moving show. Bring a blanket to relax on the grove floor while admiring the astonishing sound show.

This was one of our favorite experiences in Singapore as it almost felt like stargazing on a futuristic planet. For more information about how to plan a visit to, read this post — Guide to the Light Show at Gardens By The Bay.

Showtimes start at 7:45pm and 8:45pm daily, and last about 15 minutes. The shows get full, so try to get there early to grab a good seat.

Try durian and chendol

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If you’re backpacking Singapore or there for a long vacation, you can’t leave the country without first trying the famed durian fruit. The odor is potent and it’s banned from being consumed on public transportation due to its strong aroma.

However, this fruit is a crowd favorite and extremely popular among locals. I’ve even seen locals devouring durian with gloves to make sure the smelly scent doesn’t seep into their fingers.

I’ve also been told the best time eat a durian is right before it ripens, as the smell and flavor intensifies immensely then.

You can also enjoy durian in a bowl of chendol. It’s vegan-friendly and a yummy Singaporean dessert that layered high with sweets. The base layer consists of brown sugar and coconut milk, then sweet red beans, green strips are added on top. After you can opt for a generous portion of creamy durian, or skip altogether.

While I loved chendol, I’m not the biggest fan of durian, but I’m so happy I tried it! The texture was fine, but I couldn’t get pass the taste so I had a bit of hard time finishing the durian. My advice is to try it and chendol! There’s plenty of people who love it, I just happened to be one of the ones who don’t.

Unwind in the world’s tallest infinity pool

Have you seen Crazy Rich Asians?? Well, this is the incredible hotel from in the movie. The one with a futuristic surf board on top of three beautiful standing towers. Located at the top of this hotel, the Marina Bay Sands, is the worlds highest infinity pool.

Highly recommend a visit if you have the time! Tickets are sold at the bottom of the hotel, and the line can warp around the building especially around dinner time as tourist and locals make their way up for drinks and dinner. It goes fast though.

Get there early and grab your camera for the ultimatum scenic view of Singapore.

Watch the light show at Marina Bay Sands

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While the light show at Gardens By The Bay is both ravishing and sensational, that’s not the only light show in town. Marina Bay Sands also has a stunning light show that will leave you awestruck in the city’s natural effervescent heartbeat. With glitz, the elements of the water, and inspirational music, this light show felt liked we entered a dream.

It reminded me of the light show at California Adventure, but you’re in Singapore! Instead of Disney clips, you’ll find abstract art, sentimental music and feelings of bewilderment and astonishment as the suns sets on another day.

I highly recommend seeing the light show at both Gardens By The Bay and Marina Bay Sands as they’re extremely different.

In addition to its fabulous show, Marina Bay Sands is also home to the Art Science Museum, a luxurious shopping center, lavish hotel and a yummy food court. After visiting Future World, we were starving and ended up exploring the food court, Rasapura Food Court.

The food was amazing, dishing out generous portions of traditional Singaporean food. One of favorite dishes we tried when visiting Singapore were the Singapore noodles — a heavenly mixture of noodles, veggies and (sometimes) meat in a pungent yet slightly savory sauce.

Devour Hokkien Mee & other noodles

Just look at the goodness in the picture above. I’m not entirely sure of the name of this specific noodle dish, but I believe its Hokkien Mee. Restaurants throughout the city will serve this dish with various spins, but the main ingredient never changes.

The dishes main ingredient is the flat eggs noodles. Add on mung bean sprouts, bell peppers, cabbage and whatever other goodies the chef chooses, then stir-fry them.

The second main ingredient is the sauce — a savory, fragrant and appetizing brown sauce, samba sauce, that coats the entire dish. While each chef has their own take on this prized sauce, it’s typically made with soy sauce (double check the restaurant to see if they can make it gluten-free), sugar, curry powder, and pepper.

Honestly we ate as much noodles as we could in Singapore! It was both aromatic and always satisfying.

Here’s a list of some popular noodle dishes in Singapore. They range from egg noodles, to thin rice noodles (Vermicelli noodles), and more.

• Mala Xiang Guo – stir-fried noodles with spicy peppers (Sichuan and chili peppers)
• Laksa – coconut soup with noodles
• Char Kway Teow – stir fried flat rice noodles
• Bee Hoon – stir fried Vermicelli noodles with veggies

Explore the Changi Airport

When we were first planning our trip from Singapore to Barcelona, we didn’t think about spending an extended time at the airport. Normally we arrive within the recommended time before a flight, or we’re at airport for a long time due to a layover, or canceled flight.

The Singapore Changi Airport is an airport you’ll want to intentionally plan ahead to witness. We were told by one of the many airport vendors that the airport was designed to be a hub spot for Singaporeans to shop, dine, relax and enjoy, as well as… an airport. That’s why you’ll see locals shopping around while tourists are getting prepared for their next flight.

Besides being a dwelling for planes, the airport offers various attractions and eateries. In fact, it’s been rated as the best airport for eight straight years. Inside is a ginormous cascading waterfall in the Jewel terminal, which is also one of the largest indoor waterfalls.

There’s a forest surrounding it where you can easily wind through with luggage, and various shopping experiences to enjoy throughout the airport — hello retail therapy!

On the highest floor of the Jewel terminal is the Canopy Park. Here you’ll find a more trails, a kids playground and walk able sky-nets suspended high above the ground for the adventure seekers.

There’s also an IMax theater and an underground food court filled with exquisite food options and desserts.

Things to avoid when backpacking Singapore

Besides the breathtaking views and ambiance in the city, there are a couple things you need to know when backpacking to Singapore. Here’s a few tips and rules to keep in mind when exploring the city.

Leave your gum at home

It’s illegal to chew gum in Singapore, period. Don’t do it. Don’t pack it. Just leave it at home, or if you’re traveling and absolutely need gum during your vacation, you’re going to have to wait until you arrive at your next destination. You won’t find any gum being sold in stores or in the airport.

There’s a reason why Singapore is an extremely clean, litter-free city.

Bringing drugs

This was a big one for me as I’ve lived and traveled with chronic pain for years. Whether it’s prescription drugs or over the counter, I highly recommend being cautious about what drugs you bring with you to Singapore. I’m no expert on this, so talk to your doctor, do your research, and read more about this specific rule here.

Don’t sit at a table with tissues on it

One custom in Singapore is to leave a pack of tissue on a table to reserve your seat. You’ll see this all over the country, especially at the Hawker stall areas when they’re busy. So if you see a prime seating spot, but notice tissue on it, that spots been claimed. Look around and snag another table that’s free of tissues.

Not flushing the toilet

Singapore is an extremely clean city and for good reason. Their laws are made for creating the optimum green space and vibe throughout the country. Flushing the toilet is another law that eloquently adds to the clean ambiance of Singapore, along with no gum, no vandalism and no litter. So please flush the toilet when visiting Singapore, and don’t follow this rule “If its yellow let it mellow, if its brown flush it down” — just flush everything down.

Jaywalking

Did you know jaywalking is illegal in the U.S.? Well, it is. It’s also illegal to jaywalk in Singapore. In the states you may get away with frown depending what city and state you live in or it may equate to a fine. Nonetheless, its a rule Americans share with Singaporeans, so if you’re visiting Singapore be mindful of innocently crossing the street.

That’s it for the best things to when backpacking Singapore! What’s the first thing you want to experience in this magical city?

More resource for backpacking Singapore

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