Modern Singapore is a remarkable cultural melting pot. In the shadow of futuristic skyscrapers, Indian temples rub shoulders with Malay mosques, Chinese shrines and colonial churches. The same cultural fusion can be seen in the city’s fabulous restaurants, where chefs blend Indian and Malay spices and Chinese cooking know-how. Little wonder this is Asia’s most popular stopover!

Taxis

Air-conditioned taxis offer a welcome respite from the heat and humidity, but note that empty taxis can be difficult to find at peak times. As driving speed is strictly regulated in Singapore, it’s wise to avoid last-minute dashes to the airport. Taxis are metered and tips are not expected. To book a cab by phone, call Comfort & CityCab (tel: 6552 1111), Premier Taxis (tel: 6214 8880) or SMRT Taxis (tel: 6555 8888).

Climate & best time to visit Singapore (country)

Located just north of the equator, Singapore has a tropical climate and stays hot and humid throughout the year. Temperatures average around 31º C (88º F) during the day with little seasonal variation, although it’s slightly cooler in December and January, and hottest in April and May. Temperatures are unlikely to dip below 23º C (74º F) at night; the lowest temperature ever recorded was just over 19º C (66º F).

Singapore receives a considerable amount of rainfall – approximately 2340mm annually. Although there are no distinct wet or dry seasons, the region is affected by two different monsoons. The Northeast Monsoon generally takes place from December to March and is accompanied by more frequent rain, particularly from November to January.

Conversely, the Southwest Monsoon produces a marginally dryer climate from May to September. Despite the slightly lower overall precipitation levels, particularly from June to August, the Southwest Monsoon is characterized by its early-morning rainstorms; these often persist for one or two hours then taper off for the afternoon. Even these drier months experience a fair amount of rain (around 150mm each month), so be prepared for unpredictably wet weather any time of the year.

The beginning and end of the two monsoon seasons are not well defined, but are separated by the shorter inter-monsoon periods of April/May and October/November, during which months afternoon and evening rain showers are likely. These showers are typically sudden and heavy, but often only last for a short time.

The region is extremely humid, with humidity levels usually between 70% and 90%; often the air is muggiest in the early morning, abating somewhat in the afternoon. On rainy days it is not unreasonable to expect the humidity to reach 100%. When visiting, be sure to drink enough water and seek frequent refuge from the sticky heat indoors. March and September are particularly humid and often very uncomfortable.

Thunderstorms are also a very regular phenomenon, occurring on roughly 40% of all days year-round but particularly common during the Southeast Monsoon. In fact, this small city-state has one of the highest rates of lightning activity worldwide.

Despite the unpredictability of the weather, Singapore experiences as much brilliant sunshine as it does rain, and therefore makes for a delightful beach destination. If sunbathing happens to be interrupted by an unexpected shower, there is at least a plethora of indoor entertainment.

As Singapore’s weather does not vary drastically throughout the year, tourism in the area is relatively steady year-round. The weather can be erratic and unpredictable, so it may be best to plan a visit based on the festival season rather than the climate; some of the nation’s most notable are the grand celebrations of Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival and the Art Festival. Accommodation prices rise significantly during the Formula One racing.

Internet

Internet cafes throughout Singapore provide public access to internet and email services. Most hotels and hostels offer Internet access, but there is also a free city-wide Wi-Fi service called Wireless@SG. Visitors can register either online or by telephone.

Shopping Centres

Orchard Road is shopping central, with a string of shimmering multi-storey megamalls selling the world’s top brands. ION Orchard and 313@Somerset lead the pack, but don’t overlook the nearby Tanglin Shopping Center for cultural souvenirs and antiques. For electronics, point your GPS device towards Sim Lim Square (Rochor Canal Road), Funan DigitaLife Mall (North Bridge Road) or the Mustafa Center (Syed Alwi Road).

Laws relating to jaywalking, littering and chewing gum are strictly enforced in urban areas.

Smoking is widely discouraged and illegal in enclosed public places (including restaurants). Dropping a cigarette end in the street or smoking illegally can lead to an immediate fine.

Other Risks

Before leaving home, visit a doctor or travel health clinic for advice on health risks. Vaccinations against tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended.

The risk catching of malaria in Singapore is extremely low, but as in many urban areas of South East Asia dengue fever can be a concern. This disease is spread by the Aedes genus of mosquito, and symptoms include a rash, fever, headaches and pain in muscles and joints. In a small percentage of cases, the disease can become life-threatening. There is no vaccine and so the risk can only be minimised by reducing exposure to mosquito bites. Covering up is a good idea, as is use of a repellent – most local brands include only citronella, so DEET-based repellent (which is generally more effective) should be brought from home if required.