Updated: 23/07/2020
It is rightly said that, “Travel in the younger sort is an education and in the elder, a part of experience”. While travelling as a family, we not only makes deposits in the memory banks of children but also ignite their imagination. Travelling creates memories that children cherish forever. It’s always better to travel to a kid friendly destination and Singapore is the perfect place to create memories. So here’s the Complete Guide to Singapore Family Holiday.
Singapore is an Architectural Marvel
Complete Guide to Singapore Family Holiday
What makes Singapore Special
The amazing Skyline
The Tiny Island-State of Singapore has abundant family attractions for kids. There are attractions that suit all age groups. The confluence of cultures found here and the urbanization, make Singapore a most sought after destination in Asia. No matter how many days you plan to stay here, there will always be something left for the next visit. To make the planning for your trip easier scroll further.
The Iconic Super-trees
Singapore Weather
As Singapore is near the equator, it has a typical tropical climate. The abundant rains makes it humid all the time. The weather is pretty much the same all year round. The temperatures range from 25°C to 31°C. Humidity is in the range of 70% – 80%.
The Cloud Forest
Check out the latest weather report for Singapore here
Best Time to Visit Singapore
The Fast pace City
Since the weather is the same all year round you can visit it any time of the year. However, January is the coolest month and June is the hottest. Due to the hot and humid weather it’s always better to wear light comfortable clothing. Most of the buildings and public transport are air-conditioned so you will hardly feel the heat while travelling.
Pro Tip: It’s always better to carry an umbrella or a rain gear with you to save yourself from the intermittent rain.
Culture
The first thing that will attract you in Singapore is its rich, colorful Peranakan Culture. The locally born people of Chinese and Malay heritage form the Peranakan culture. The architecture styles, cuisine, handicrafts and outfits all depict this culture. The Peranakan heritage symbolizes in brightly colored vibrant houses and shops. You can check these out at East Coast Road or Joo Chiat Road.
Cuisine
Singapore cuisine unites all of its varied cultures. According to Singaporean literature eating is their favorite time pass. So you can definitely have a great meal here. Chilly crab is the national dish of Singapore and Dancing Crab is the best restaurant to try it at. To avail great discounts up-to 20% locations click here. This coupon can be availed at all their branches and can be used for either lunch or dinner.
The Food here is an amalgamation of different Cultures
Language
As per the constitution Malay is the national language in Singapore. However English is widely spoken. Other official languages are Mandarin and Tamil.
The Streets
Visas
Visas are not required by select nationalities. The visa validity depends on the nationality. Indians do need a Visa with 30 days being the maximum duration of stay in Singapore. There is no visa on arrival for Indians, however they can opt for E-Visa. The cost of Visa is Rs. 2500/-. A valid passport for at-least six months beyond the date of departure is required to enter Singapore.
Flights
Arguably one of the best airports, Changi Airport in Singapore is also among the most busiest ones. It serves more than 100 countries so getting here is not a problem. In-fact this airport is a city in itself with its own list of attractions, dining and of course shopping.
The low-cost airlines catering to Singapore from India are Air Asia, Indigo, Malindo Air and Garuda-Indonesia. We found that Air Asia offers the cheapest fares without meals and baggage. Other airlines which operate to Singapore from India are Jet Airways, Singapore Airlines and Air India.
Pro Tip 1: You should plan early and book the flights first but not later than 8 weeks before the flight departure date although we booked our flights during an Air Asia flash sale some 8 months earlier to the flight departure date. Everything else such as airport transfers, hotel bookings, car rentals, sightseeing options, sim cards, etc. can be taken care of later once the flights are booked.
These low-cost airlines however have an extra charge for the cabin baggage which needs to be booked after you book the flights. However, you have the option to book the baggage for any one passenger only. So basically, you need to estimate the baggage required for the trip and pay only for what you need to carry. We had booked 20 kgs for one passenger only which was more than enough for us.
Pro Tip 2: Try to plan and book early and keep a lookout for flash sales and book your return airfare to Singapore as soon as you get it around INR 14,500 per person from Delhi. 20 kg Excess baggage costs INR 3,000 one way. To keep it cost-effective, try choosing flights which have a layover (Kuala Lumpur for Air Asia & Malindo) and a total duration of around 9 hours. Also, it is possible that in the absence of flash sales, the flights with a layover may be available for around INR 19,000-22000 per person.
Read also: How to Book Cheap Flights – 7 Insights
Getting Around
Its one of the safest countries to travel
Getting around Singapore is very easy. The public transport is so good that you need not rent a car. In-fact we comfortably managed our 8 Day in Singapore by MRT and Bus only, including to and from the airport. We had a kid in a stroller still we could easily manage it. All the places are so well-connected that all you need is a map and a bus schedule to get around the City.
If you plan to use the public transport often during your stay or if you plan to keep visiting Singapore often, then, buying a EZ-Link card is worthwhile. The card costs 10$ with a 5$ stored value. It is recharged easily at any 7-Eleven stores. Card validity is 5 years. It is similar to the Nets FlashPay travel card which also gives discount on select food outlets at Sentosa.
However, for a tourist, the better option would be a Singapore Tourist Pass. This pass provides unlimited travel via MRT, LRT and basic bus services. This pass also gives discounts on many tourist’s attractions. The cost is 10$ for 1 day, 16$ for 2 days and 20$ for 3 days.
Taxis
Traffic is well organised
Taxis in Singapore use meter with the fares being slightly on the higher side. It can come out to be cheaper than a MRT if travelling in a group. Taxis are usually hard to find especially in a crowded area or in peak times. You could even book a private car charter for your sightseeing at Singapore.
By Rail
The Metro Map (PC- Online)
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and LRT (Light Rail Transit) make up Singapore’s transit system. They are affordable, reliable and cover almost all the main attractions of Singapore. Moreover, these are also stroller friendly. It’s perfect for families with kids. All the lines are seamlessly integrated. There is also a Changi Airport Extension that is very convenient for airport transfers. Just get a map freely available all over the city and your local commute is taken care off.
Various travel cards such as Ez-link card, Nets FlashPay travel card or the Singapore tourist pass make local travel extremely convenient in Singapore.
Buses
It’s easy to travel around
Buses are slower than MRT’s but you get to see the City better while using them. We used buses to visit the Jurong Bird Park and the Mandi Area that houses the Zoo, and Safari. The bus schedule that shows the bus timings, stops and terminal number is easily available at any bus terminal.
Various travel cards such as Ez-link card, Nets FlashPay travel card or the Singapore tourist pass can be used seamlessly for all basic bus services in Singapore.
Sim Card
It’s always a better idea to have a local number to stay connected in a new country. Sim cards are cheap and you can pre-book and collect it at the airport itself. There are counters at the airport where you can collect it before exiting the airport.
Places to visit in Singapore
Sentosa
The Fun never stops here
Dive into the fun-filled Sentosa Island for an awesome family friendly experience. There is so much happening in Sentosa and with so many options to choose from you are spoiled for choice. Sentosa is an island off Singapore’s southern coast. It is just 15 minutes from Singapore City.
To reach Sentosa, take the North-East Line or Circle Line and alight at the HarbourFront MRT Station. From there, you may either take the Sentosa Express located at the 3rd level of VivoCity shopping mall (Lobby L, Level 3), or take a leisurely stroll down along the Sentosa Boardwalk into Sentosa.
Whether your looking for thrills, wildlife or family attractions Sentosa has even more to offer. The Sentosa Fun Pass is affordable with great discounts and offers 19 attractions; making sure that you are not strapped in your choice of fun.
Pro-Tip: Sentosa Token FUN Pass comes in 55, 80, or 120 tokens! Depending on the number of activities you would like to do at Sentosa, you may choose the token accordingly. Our kiddo loved the following activities at Sentosa. Also, you can plan your route with the Sentosa map to avoid backtracking.
Beach Station
- iFly Singapore – The Teaser, 1 skydive (90 tokens)
- KidZania Singapore – 3 hrs TranZit PaZZ (25 tokens)
- Wings of Time – Premium Seat (20 tokens)
Imbiah Lookout
- Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom – Admission + Bird Feeding (20 tokens)
- Madame Tussauds Singapore – Admission + Images of Singapore Live + Marvel 4D Cinema (30 tokens)
- Mega Adventure Park – MegaBounce (10 tokens)
- Sentosa 4D AdventureLand – One-Day Unlimited Adventure Pass (40 tokens) – Desperados in 4D, Extreme Log Ride, Journey 2 – The Mysterious Island
- Tiger Sky Tower – Single Ride Child (10 tokens); Single Ride Adult (15 tokens)
Resorts World Sentosa
- Adventure Cove Waterpark – Admission Child (30 tokens); Admission Adult (35 tokens)
- S.E.A. Aquarium + The Maritime Experiential Museum + Typhoon Theatre + Royal Albatross Dockside Visit (15 min) – Admission Child (40 tokens); Admission Adult (50 tokens)
Universal Studios
Kiddo with her Favorite Bumble Bee
This place is a must visit even if you are not a movie buff. Universal Studios is divided into 7 themes of New York City, Sci-Fi City, Lost World, Far Far Away, Ancient Egypt, Hollywood and Madagascar. Each theme has its own array of rides, restaurant, shopping and street entertainment.
Pro Tip: It’s a good-sized park so better to book discounted tickets online and reach early so that you can cover maximum attractions since it closes at 6 pm. The Express Pass is a good option as it reduces the waiting time.
Imp. Note: Even if you have any time constraints, DO NOT MISS the Transformers ride in the Sci-Fi city. It’s one of a kind experience.
Also Read: 9 Reasons Why not to Visit Universal Studios, Singapore
Madam Tussauds
If clicking selfies with stars is your thing then Madam Tussauds is just the place for you. Yes! The famous wax museum is in Singapore too and believe me its one of the best. Moreover, Marvel fans rejoice. This is Asia’s only Marvel 4D museum where you get to experience action with Marvel stars. Having a Skip The Line Klook ticket works wonders here as you get more time to click pictures without crowds.
Singapore Zoo
Lazing Around
The rain-forest themed zoo housing more than 300 animal species, is fascinating for kids and adults alike. The freely roaming animals and interactive sessions with them make it an experience to cherish.
The impression of a zoo what we had in mind was that of animals caged and alone in an enclosure that in no way resemble their natural habitat. so here we were in a bit of shock. This was nothing like that in fact Singapore Zoo was more like an interactive experience with the animals.
We bought our discounted tickets online, which was very convenient and the booking confirmations came instantly.
Also Check Out: Singapore Zoo – A Complete Family Experience
Singapore River Safari
The main attraction here
This river themed zoo and aquarium is dedicated exclusively to the rain-forest region. This park depicts the 10 different ecosystems of the world. Its main feature is the river boat ride called the Amazon River Quest, which takes you to close to 30 wildlife species of the Amazon river. The star attraction at the River Safari are two giant pandas a male and a female which are kept in a completely different enclosure.
Pro-Tip: This park is between the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari so all these three attractions can easily be clubbed together on a single day. You will also save on the tickets if you do so.
Singapore Night Safari
The exciting Night Safari
There is something mystifying about nocturnal creatures. Amiable as well as wild. Imagine visiting these creatures in their own private enclosures in complete darkness. The Singapore Night Safari does just that and the results are enthralling.
Pro Tip: You need an entry ticket to enter the Night Safari and it is advisable to book your tickets online to save time and energy as you can then skip the long ticketing queues. We bought our discounted tickets online, which was very convenient and the booking confirmations came instantly.
Also Check out: Singapore Night Safari – A Family Night Out
Jurong Bird Park
The very pretty pink flamingos
Birds, Birds and more Birds. Jurong Bird Park is Asia’s largest Bird Paradise. It houses around 5000 birds over 400 different species in open spaces. This is a fun activity for young and old alike. Try not to miss the interactive shows that are entertaining as well as informative.
Pro Tip: It’s advisable to book the tickets beforehand to avoid the long queues. The park area is huge so there is quite an amount of walking involved so its better to take a tram ride which is a part of the ticket. This way you can cover more exhibits in less time.
Gardens By the Bay
The Magical Super Trees
One glimpse of this place and you are transported to a futuristic Sci-Fi world. This place cannot be explained it has to be experienced. The Flower Dome, Super-tree Grove, Cloud Forest, OCBC Skyway, Heritage Garden and Art Sculptures will keep you mesmerized. The Supertree Grove is awe-inspiring and try not to miss the Garden Rhapsody show here. This is must visit for kids to show them the amazing flora our Earth has on offer.
Singapore Flyer
The Lighted up Ferris Wheel
A 45 minute Ferris wheel ride shows us incredible obstructive view of Singapore. The ride is much more exciting after sunset when the city’s skyline lights up in spectacular colors. Enclosed in a glass capsule, all the main attractions like F1 Race Track, Marina Bay, DNA Helix bridge and the Super trees can be seen. What’s more… You can even book a personal capsule and have a romantic dinner.
Legoland
The Famous Attraction of Legoland
Technically, Legoland is in Johor Bahru, Malaysia but Changi Airport to Johor Bahru distance is only about 40 kms. Taxis are readily available. There are even buses that regularly ply to and fro. Malaysian Visa will be required since there will be immigration at Singapore as well as in Malaysia. If you have visited Disneyland or Universal Studios, this park is also built on similar lines with segments consisting of different attractions. But the difference is that it all involves Lego. So you have characters, castles, kingdoms, spacecrafts (in fact, a whole galactic universe) and a mini-land made only out of Lego. I loved to see Lego characters, people, animals, dragons, vehicles at very nook and corner of the park. The main characters dressed in costumes parade the park at particular timings for a meet and greet session.
Little India
The Carvings on the Temple
In case you are missing India, head over to Little India and you will be transported back to “India” (not Literally). This buzzing ethnic place shows us the cultural side of Indians settled in Singapore. It’s known for its shopping too especially the Mustafa Shopping Centre. The Sri Veeramalaiamman Temple, though difficult to pronounce is worth visiting here. If you fancy Indian food, then be prepared to be spoilt for choices here. This was our place to go when my kid craved for a Dosa.
China Town
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Like Little India this is another ethnic part of Singapore. China Town stands apart from rest of Singapore as it displays its rich culture in the form of ornate Chinese temples, the decorated streets in red and gold and the flavor of the food sold in old shop-houses lining the bustling streets. this place looks best at dusk with the Chinese lanterns swaying in the breeze. Apart from the tasty local food you can shop for some interesting Made In China Wares too. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a must visit here.
Jewel Singapore Airport
Yes. We know we have added an airport as an attraction. But we are talking about the Jewel Changi Airport. Undoubtedly Singapore Airport is one of the best airports around. With Jewel opening in 2019, its taking the airport experience to a completely different level. Jewel houses the worlds tallest indoor waterfall- Rain Vortex as its centerpiece. Apart from 100’s of luxury shopping and dinning options Jewel also boasts of a forest valley, canopy park and bridge, numerous gardens along with a hedge and mirror maze. Isn’t this amazing or what! Want to experience this with a discount ticket? Do not forget to click here. This ticket offers free entry to many star attractions like the Canopy Park, Canopy Bridge and Manulife Sky Nets. What’s best is that on this ticket you can select the package according to your interest.
Clark’s Quay
The Spectacular Clark’s Quay
Clark’s Quay is known for its stunning collection of waterside restaurants and bars and clubs. The walk along the waterfront amidst the glittering lights is a lovely experience. This historical landmark is built on the banks of the Singapore River and a boat ride is a perfect way to experience this City especially the famous Merlion Statue.
Places to Stay in Singapore
Singapore has a huge variety of staying options available that suit all the budgets. From the luxurious Marina Bay to a cozy homestay Singapore has it all.
We found the Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Riverview well suited for our needs. Located in the heart of Singapore, this hotel is within 2 km of Singapore River, Chinatown Heritage Center and the major attraction, Clarke Quay. Chinatown Station & Clarke Quay Station is about a 15 minutes walk only. Its 3 restaurants provided much required variety to our fussy kiddo. We especially loved the seafood at the Irodori Japanese restaurant. Otherwise the food at the River Garden Coffee house was immensely satisfying. The outdoor pool was an instant hit with our little one. Free area shuttle service made our commute to the metro stations very comfortable.
Book Your Stay
Book Your Stay in Singapore or Check out the Hotel Prices Here
Hope you find this Complete Guide to Singapore Family Holidays of use to you. Do let us know about your stay in Singapore or if we are missing something, please contact us or comment below and I will update this blog soon. Your comments and/or feedback are wel/come.
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