My First Solo Adventure to Singapore: Navigating the Customs and Embracing the Experience
My recent trip to Singapore was an absolute delight! Despite a few minor hiccups, I've fallen head over heels for this vibrant city. If only I had more time, I'd definitely explore even further!
A Solo Traveler's Tale: Facing the Immigration
As a solo female traveler, I experienced the usual immigration questioning. They grilled me on why I was traveling alone, my purpose for visiting, my itinerary, and who I was meeting. My advice? Stay calm and answer confidently. Knowing basic English is crucial; otherwise, you might find yourself on the next flight home! Thankfully, my Korean boyfriend was flying in to meet me. I presented my entire travel plan, including flight and accommodation details for my boyfriend, which ultimately eased their concerns. Phew, I was so nervous!
Getting There: Scoot's Smooth Departure
I flew with Scoot, departing around 6 PM. The flight was a breezy 1 hour and 40 minutes. I snagged a fantastic deal on Trip.com a month in advance, paying around $130 for the round trip. Scoot offers a generous 10kg carry-on allowance, which was perfect for my trip. While my return flight was with VietJet (notorious for delays), I highly recommend Scoot for their excellent service and punctuality. We boarded early and departed right on time, enjoying a remarkably smooth flight.
Arrival and Essentials: Food, Currency, and Connectivity
Upon landing, I grabbed a bite at the airport. Toast Box is a must-try; their offerings are genuinely delicious. I exchanged my currency in Vietnam and opted for an eSIM, purchased through the Gigigo app. For my social media browsing and messaging needs, this data package cost less than $5 and conveniently worked across Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Navigating Singapore: EZ-Link vs. Contactless Payments
I purchased an EZ-Link card for $10, which included my initial MRT fares. You can also use it for Grab rides. However, if you're staying for a short period, I'd suggest skipping the card altogether. Simply using your Visa for contactless payments is incredibly convenient and the conversion rates are quite reasonable.
An Airport Overnight: Waiting for My Love
Since my boyfriend's flight was delayed, I opted to stay at the airport overnight rather than check into a hotel.
Culinary Adventures: Tian Tian and Maxwell
My food explorations led me to the famous Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and the bustling Maxwell Food Centre. Both are incredibly affordable, with prices ranging from $3-$5, offering a wide array of delicious local dishes. I highly recommend a visit!
Journey to Malaysia: Bus from Woodlands
After my Singaporean escapades, I hopped on a bus to Woodlands, Malaysia – a quick 5-minute journey. I chose Grab for this short trip to Woodlands to avoid the MRT's frequent stops. From Woodlands, I boarded a bus to Malaysia, conveniently using my EZ-Link card for the fare.
This trip was a fantastic personal experience, and I hope my insights encourage you to explore Singapore yourself! A big thank you to everyone in the group whose recommendations helped me discover so many wonderful eateries.
