Exploring Singapore: A Guide to Local Tour Operators and Independent Travel Options
When planning a trip to Singapore, one can choose from a variety of travel options, ranging from guided tours to independent exploration. Here, we discuss the top-rated local tour operators in Singapore and also highlight the benefits of independent travel.
Top Local Tour Operators in Singapore
While not a tour operator itself, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) provides resources and information about various licensed tour operators, helping you make informed decisions about your local tour options.
ToursByLocals: Personalized Cultural Tours
ToursByLocals offers personalized tours led by local guides, providing unique insights into Singapore's culture and attractions. This allows for a more intimate and enriching experience compared to impersonal tours, making your trip more memorable.
Singapore Walks: Heritage and Culture Exploration
Singapore Walks, specializing in walking tours, covers various themes including heritage and food. These tours offer a chance to experience the local culture and cuisine firsthand, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Red Dot Payment: Local Experience Tours
Red Dot Payment offers guided tours focusing on local experiences and attractions, such as city tours and specialty tours, making sure you discover the genuine Singapore.
Hello Singapore Tours: Customized Itineraries
Hello Singapore Tours provides customized tours that cater to different interests, including food tours and shopping, ensuring that your trip aligns perfectly with your preferences and passions.
Dooky Tours: Immersive Themed Tours
Dooky Tours engages visitors with its informed and entertaining tours, including city tours and specialty experiences. These tours are designed to captivate and educate, making your trip informative as well as fun.
Benefits of Independent Travel in Singapore
While guided tours can be convenient, independent travel in Singapore offers a plethora of benefits. Most of the big hotels have their own travel desks, allowing you to book directly on-site at the hotel. This ensures you get personalized deals and the chance to explore areas that may not be well-known to pre-booked tours. Additionally, going directly to the hotel travel desk is usually more cost-effective than pre-booking tours in India.
24 or 48 Hours Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours
A popular independent travel option is using a 24 or 48 hours Hop-on Hop-off bus tour. This allows you to tour the entire city at your own pace and leisure. The bus itself offers pamphlets of various tour attractions, such as Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, Universal Studios Singapore, Marina Bay Sands, Hippo River Cruise, Singapore Zoo, and Night Safari. This self-guided approach provides a more immersive and authentic experience of Singapore's diverse attractions.
Efficient Public Transportation
Singapore boasts a well-connected public transportation system with metro and bus services. The ease of travel makes it simple for independent travelers to navigate the city, explore different areas, and experience the local flavor without being restricted to pick-up and drop-off points. This allows for a more relaxed and self-paced exploration of the city, ensuring that you have the time to truly immerse yourself in the local experience.
Helpful Local People
People in Singapore are known for their friendliness and helpfulness. Whether you need directions, recommendations, or just a friendly chat, locals are always willing to assist. This makes independent travel a more pleasant and enriching experience, as you get to interact with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the city.
Conclusion
Choose the travel option that best suits your interests and preferences. Whether you prefer the personalized experience of a guided tour or the freedom and flexibility of independent travel, Singapore offers a wide range of options. By exploring the city at your own pace, you can make the most of your trip and create lasting memories.