Currency and Economy of Singapore

Singapore’s climate is typically that of a tropical rainforest – warm and pleasant throughout the year. The temperature oscillates between 22 to 35 °C (72 to 95 °F). April and May are very hot and humid, though the gardens of Singapore do help keep some parts cooler. The rains pelt down between November to January, so you’ll need to be armed with a raincoat or an umbrella.

Pressure and temperature remain uniform throughout the year. The humidity remains steadily high, at 79% in the morning and 73% in the afternoon throughout the year. Bush fires occur in neighboring Indonesia, which cause a haze over Singapore, during the months of July to October. Evenings, though humid, are pleasanter. Singapore has many tours and excursions for people during the evenings and nights, to take advantage of the pleasanter atmosphere.

Humidity levels can be as high as 90 degrees plus during the summer. Throughout the year, the humidity remains steadily high, mornings at 90 plus and around 60 in the afternoon. There’s usually a light wind coming in from the ocean during the summer, which helps mitigate the effects of the at-times unbearable heat and humidity.

Monsoon occurs twice a year. The first is the Northeast Monsoon, occurring from mid-November to early March. Rain can be moderate to heavy during this period. Heavy rain can go on for 3 days at a stretch, without a break. The month of February is drier than December and January, during the monsoon season. Winds blow at speeds of 30 to 50 km/h (19 to 31 mph) during January and February, making it impossible to walk on the streets. December and January, especially, can be very cloudy with frequent afternoon showers.

The second, Southwest Monsoon occurs from June to September; though it rains sufficiently during this period, the rains are not as severe as during the Northeast Monsoon. In between monsoon seasons the rain volume is low and sporadic.

Strangely, it rains more towards Singapore’s western side than towards the eastern side. This is because the Bukit Timah Hill breaks the clouds, keeping the eastern side sunny and the western side wet with rain. Though this doesn’t make a great deal of difference to travelers, those who are comfortable in drier temperatures might prefer to stay on the eastern side.

In Singapore, dining can be an expensive affair. However, there are several fabulous inexpensive restaurants here, as well as budget eats. Singapore is also full of hidden foodie gems, especially in China Town, Little India and Orchard Road, so do explore them. Being a land of multiple cultures, Singapore offers every imaginable cuisine on the planet. For each cuisine type, there’ll be several posh restaurants, food stalls and little eateries by the roadside.

Melting Pot Of Foodie Cultures

Singapore is a foodie’s paradise, no doubt about it. There’s a restaurant or eatery for everyone’s budget. You needn’t worry that by not spending thousands on a meal, you’re compromising on the ingredients or quality of the meal. Not in Singapore. Singapore’s food offerings are sumptuous, hearty and well-made, no matter where you eat or how much you pay. Singapore’s food scene is heavily influenced by various cultures – Chinese, Indian, Arabic, Thai, Indonesian, Pakistani, Japanese, European, Vietnamese, Korean, Burmese and others.

Best Way To Find The Right Eatery

The best way to find a great and cheap eatery is to head out into the city on foot. Follow your sense of smell, and you’re likely to come across hidden foodie gems tucked inside a small street somewhere. You’ll find smart cafes serving comfort food, great coffee and homemade cakes. You’ll find BBQ buffets from Korea, offering entirely affordable, best quality meat. Sushi houses are plenty, offering simple Japanese meals made with premium ingredients. Fusion food such as fusion tapas are available in some restaurants, along with other delicacies served on conveyor belts. Fresh seafood is always available at super affordable prices.

Drinks Galore

Singapore is famous for its great quality but cheap drinks and lovely cocktails. There are bars on every street, and in shopping malls and near beaches. Ask your hotel’s management to recommend good watering holes nearby and head there. Many bars and pubs offer special drinks and discounts during city-wide events and party nights. Ladies nights are popular, with every bar setting aside at least one evening a week for ladies-only service. Singapore doesn’t have any restriction on drinking, though the rules against drinking and driving and public misbehavior are very strict. Always drink within your limit and be respectful to the city’s laws. Be sure to enjoy yourself!