Singapore

Why Singapore

Singapore packs an absurd amount into a tiny island — Gardens by the Bay looks like a sci-fi movie set, the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool is an engineering marvel, and the hawker centers serve some of the best food in Asia for under $4 a plate (several have Michelin stars). Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam each feel like different countries within a 15-minute walk. The MRT system is spotless and goes everywhere. It's pricier than Southeast Asian neighbors but cheaper than you'd expect for a city this polished.

Top Experiences

• Gardens by the Bay & Cloud Forest — The Supertree Grove light show is free nightly, but paying for the Cloud Forest dome (indoor waterfall and elevated walkways) is absolutely worth it.
• Hawker Center Food Tour — A local guide walks you through Maxwell, Lau Pa Sat, or Old Airport Road hawker centers, explaining the dishes and ordering the best from each stall.
• Sentosa Island Day Pass — Beaches, Universal Studios, S.E.A. Aquarium, and the Skyline Luge all on one island connected by monorail from the city.

Where to Stay

Marina Bay and Clarke Quay areas put you near the action at $100-200/night for quality hotels. Chinatown has excellent mid-range options at $70-120/night with character. Bugis and Little India are budget-friendlier at $50-90/night. Hostels run $20-35/night. Pro tip: Singapore hotels often have much better rates on weekdays than weekends.

Flight Tips

Fly into Changi Airport (SIN) — consistently rated the world's best airport, with a butterfly garden and rooftop pool during layovers. Direct flights from NYC (Newark), LA, San Francisco, and Seattle on Singapore Airlines. Book 6-8 weeks ahead. Singapore is tropical year-round (28-32°C), but avoid November-January for the heaviest monsoon rains.