Travel

You’ve probably enjoyed some of the advantages of Singapore’s geographical location, which makes it an excellent gateway to travelling in Asia.

What has changed in recent years is the boom in tourism experiences that our neighbouring countries offer, and the numerous top-class hotels and spas that have opened up in tandem. You can also take advantage of Singapore’s superb air, sea and land connectivity to easily explore the rest of the world.

Fresh ideas

ASEAN’s richest heritage sites and exotic destinations are all easily accessed from Singapore. Unusual holidays include the romantic Banteay Srei, the ‘Citadel of Women’ in Cambodia, and the Tubbataha Reef in the Philippines.

Being at the crossroads of the world means no destination is considered too exotic, whether in the ger camps of Mongolia, a luxury safari in Africa, or a longhouse in Borneo.

Also gaining popularity are volunteer vacations and Eco-tours, which give visitors a chance to make a positive impact on our world.

Trains

The legendary Eastern & Orient Express plies between Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, up to Vientiane, for an opulent way to visit our neighbours.

Cruises

Singapore is port of call to many international luxury liners, including those from the Cunard Line, Silversea, Holland American Line, P&O Princess Cruises, and the Royal Caribbean International, which will bring you anywhere from the Antarctic to the Pacific coast.

Alternatively, cruise to nowhere over a weekend with Star Cruises, or hop on to a ferry over to Malaysia or Indonesia for that diving expedition or golfing weekend.

Within ASEAN, you can embark on traditional cruises along local rivers to get up close to the people and culture of the country.

Flights

The new Terminal 3 at Changi International Airport is worth a good stroll through to understand why we have the best airport in the world. From here, board one of the 80 airlines serving more than 180 cities in over 50 countries and experience the efficiency and service that we’re renowned for.

We all love a bargain: Budget airlines operating here often present special offers as low as SGD 1 (excluding taxes and surcharges) for a one-way flight, usually online, but they run out fast so you have to act quickly. Websites like www.NToGo.com also consolidate promotions by leading airlines.

You can also charter a private flight at the refurbished Seletar Airport.

Travel Agents

About 80% of the travel agencies in Singapore are accredited with the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS). Though most of these offer packaged tours, there are several which specialise in excursions off the beaten track.

Customs and Excise

Duty-free concessions on alcohol (one litre each of spirits, wine, and beer) are available for returning travellers, excepting those from Malaysia . There is no relief for the import of tobacco products, which have to be declared and duty- and GST-paid.

An updated list of controlled and prohibited items can be found on the Singapore Customs website.