Is Singapore Safe? A Mecha, But Be Wary of Laws

When my wife Sarah and I told our friends we were planning a week-long trip to Singapore, we got some interesting reactions. Our parents immediately started worrying about "strict laws" and "caning for chewing gum." Meanwhile, our more well-traveled buddies raved about it being "the safest place on Earth." Talk about mixed messages! So, which is it? Is Singapore a rule-happy dystopia or a crime-free paradise?

As a couple of 40-something remote workers from Florida with a penchant for food and an eye for safety, we decided to find out for ourselves. We spent 7 nights exploring the Lion City, eating our way through hawker centers, and yes, even chewing gum (spoiler alert: it's not actually illegal). I'm going to share how we assessed Singapore's safety before our trip and our honest, on-the-ground experiences during our stay.

By the way, I might be pushing 45, but in my mind, I'm still that bright-eyed 29-year-old who first started globetrotting (don't burst my bubble, okay?). With visits to 6 continents and 32 countries under my belt, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the wilds of Zimbabwe, I've developed a pretty good sense for sussing out a city's safety vibe. So, let's dive into how Singapore stacks up, shall we?

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we even set foot in Singapore, we did our homework. Here's our pre-trip safety checklist and how Singapore measured up:

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

First things first, we always check the U.S. Department of State travel advisories. They use a scale from 1 to 4, with 1 being the safest and 4 being a hard "nope."

1 = Exercise normal precautions (white)2 = Exercise increased caution (yellow)3 = Reconsider travel (orange)4 = Do not travel (red)

Sarah and I have a personal rule: we only visit places rated 1 or 2. Life's too short for orange or red adventures, you know?

So, how did Singapore fare? It's sitting pretty with a Level 1 advisory. That's right, the same level as Canada or New Zealand. The State Department basically says, "Exercise normal precautions," which is just fancy speak for "Don't be dumb, and you'll be fine."

U.S. Department of State Check: PASS

02 - Latest News

Next up, we always scan recent news to get a feel for what's happening on the ground. Are there protests? Political unrest? Any uptick in crime targeting tourists?

For Singapore, the news was refreshingly... boring. The biggest headlines were about economic growth, tech innovations, and the occasional debate about local policies. No red flags here.

One interesting tidbit we found was that Singapore ranked 2nd in the 2023 Global Law and Order Index. That's pretty impressive, right? It's like the valedictorian of safety, just behind Switzerland.

We also stumbled upon a stat that made us feel pretty good about our choice: Singapore has one of the lowest intentional homicide rates globally at 0.2 per 100,000 population. To put that in perspective, it's about 30 times lower than the U.S. rate. Looks like our chances of starring in a real-life crime drama were pretty slim.

Current News Check: PASS

03 - Community Forums

Lastly, we always check out what other travelers are saying. TripAdvisor forums and Reddit threads can be goldmines for recent, real-world experiences.

The consensus on Singapore? Overwhelmingly positive. Most travelers raved about feeling incredibly safe, even when walking alone at night. The few complaints we saw were mostly about the heat (which, as Floridians, we felt pretty well-prepared for) and the prices (okay, that one made us a bit nervous).

One comment that stuck with me was from a solo female traveler who said she felt safer walking around Singapore at 2 AM than she did in her hometown at 2 PM. That's a pretty strong endorsement!

Community Forum Check: PASS

With all three of our pre-trip safety checks giving Singapore a thumbs up, we felt pretty good about our decision. But the real test would be our on-the-ground experience. Let's dive into that, shall we?

First Hand Experience in Singapore

Alright, now for the juicy part. Did our research match our real-life experience? Short answer: Yes, and then some. But let's break it down by neighborhood, shall we?

Marina Bay

Marina Bay is like Singapore's crown jewel, all glitz and futuristic glamour. It's home to the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel (you know, the one that looks like a ship perched on top of three skyscrapers) and the Gardens by the Bay with its Avatar-esque Supertrees.

We spent our first day here, jet-lagged but wide-eyed. Even at 5 AM (thanks, time difference), we felt completely at ease walking along the waterfront. The area was well-lit, with a visible police presence and plenty of other early birds out for jogs or tai chi.

As for attractions, we loved:

• The ArtScience Museum (the Future World exhibit is a must-see)
• Watching the free light show at the Supertree Grove
• Splurging on cocktails at Ce La Vi for that Instagram-worthy view

One safety tip: Be prepared for security checks at major attractions. They're quick and painless, but it's good to know in advance.

Is Marina Bay Safe? YES, ABSOLUTELY

Orchard Road

Orchard Road is shopping central. Think of it as Singapore's Fifth Avenue, but cleaner and with better food options.

We visited during the day and early evening, and it was buzzing with activity. The wide sidewalks were packed with a mix of locals and tourists, all taking advantage of the air-conditioned malls to escape the heat.

Some highlights:

• ION Orchard for high-end window shopping (and the free observation deck on the 56th floor)
• TANGS for a more local department store experience
• Food Opera at ION Orchard for a fancy take on the hawker center concept

Safety-wise, the biggest risk here is to your wallet! But seriously, while it was crowded, we never felt unsafe or worried about pickpockets. Just use common sense and keep your belongings close in busy areas.

Is Orchard Road Safe? YES, JUST WATCH YOUR SPENDING!

Chinatown

Chinatown was where we really felt like we'd stepped into the Singapore of old. The narrow streets, the shophouses, the mix of temples and trendy bars – it's a feast for the senses.

We explored Chinatown both during the day and at night, and the vibe was consistently lively but never threatening. The crowds can get pretty thick, especially around the street markets, but it never felt dangerous.

Our favorite spots:

• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (pro tip: check out the rooftop garden for a quiet moment)
• Chinatown Complex Food Centre for some of the best (and cheapest) food in Singapore
• Tea Chapter for a traditional tea ceremony experience

One thing to note: Some of the smaller alleys can be a bit dark at night. We never felt unsafe, but if you're uncomfortable, stick to the main streets which are well-lit and busy until late.

Is Chinatown Safe? YES, BUT STAY ALERT IN CROWDS

Little India

Little India was a riot of colors, smells, and sounds. It's less polished than other parts of Singapore, which gives it a more authentic, gritty feel.

We visited during the day and early evening, including during a Hindu festival which made the area even more lively than usual. The crowds were intense, but in a fun, energetic way rather than a threatening one.

Don't miss:

• Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple for a glimpse into Hindu culture
• Tekka Centre for amazing Indian food and vibrant wet market
• Mustafa Centre for a 24-hour shopping experience like no other

Safety-wise, Little India felt a bit more chaotic than other areas, but not unsafe. Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas, and you'll be fine.

Is Little India Safe? YES, BUT STAY VIGILANT IN CROWDS

Sentosa Island

Sentosa is Singapore's playground – a resort island full of beaches, theme parks, and attractions. It's connected to the mainland by road, monorail, and cable car.

We spent a full day here, and it felt like we'd stepped into a different world. The vibe is very family-friendly and touristy, with a heavy security presence.

Some highlights:

• Universal Studios Singapore (shorter lines than the U.S. parks!)
• S.E.A. Aquarium for an impressive underwater experience
• Tanjong Beach for a quieter beach experience

Safety on Sentosa is top-notch. The biggest risks are sunburn and overspending. Do follow posted safety guidelines at beaches and attractions.

Is Sentosa Island Safe? YES, VERY FAMILY-FRIENDLY

Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay is party central in Singapore. It's a riverside area packed with restaurants, bars, and clubs. We visited in the evening to check out the nightlife scene.

The area was lively but not rowdy. We saw a visible police presence, and many venues had their own security staff. The riverside promenade was well-lit and felt safe to walk along, even late at night.

Our picks:

• 1-Altitude for spectacular views and drinks
• Jumbo Seafood for the famous chili crab
• Clarke Quay Central for a mix of shopping and dining

For safety, the main thing to watch out for is your own alcohol consumption. Drinks can be strong and expensive, so pace yourself. Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps for late-night travel.

Is Clarke Quay Safe? YES, BUT DRINK RESPONSIBLY

Now, let's talk about getting around this garden city.

Singapore by Foot and Public Transport

One of the things that struck us most about Singapore was how incredibly walkable it is. The sidewalks are wide, well-maintained, and often sheltered from the sun and rain. We found ourselves walking far more than we expected, despite the heat and humidity.

During our week-long stay, we walked extensively through Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Chinatown, and Little India. Even late at night, the streets were well-lit and felt safe. In fact, we often saw families with young children out and about well past 10 PM, which is a pretty good indicator of safety in my book.

The only time we felt slightly uncomfortable was when we accidentally wandered into a less touristy area near Little India late one night. The streets were darker and emptier, but we simply retraced our steps to the main road and were back in familiar territory in no time.

As for public transport, the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system in Singapore is a dream. It's clean, efficient, and incredibly easy to navigate. The stations and trains are well-monitored, with security cameras everywhere. We used the MRT extensively, including during rush hour and late at night, and always felt safe.

A few tips for using public transport safely:

• Get an EZ-Link card for convenient travel on buses and MRT
• Stand behind the yellow line on MRT platforms
• Be mindful of priority seating for the elderly and pregnant women
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially during rush hour

We did use Grab (Southeast Asia's equivalent of Uber) a few times, mainly when we were tired from a long day of exploring or when we were running late for a dinner reservation. The experience was always smooth and felt very safe. The cars were clean, the drivers professional, and the app even shares the driver's details and car info with a contact of your choice for added security.

Here's where we used Grab:

• From Changi Airport to our hotel (after a long flight, it was worth the splurge)
• Late night return from Clarke Quay after a few drinks
• To Gardens by the Bay when we were running late for our Cloud Forest tickets

Is Getting Around Singapore Safe? ABSOLUTELY YES!

Recommended Itinerary

Based on our experiences, here's a 3-day itinerary that balances exploration with safety:

Day 1: City Center and Marina Bay

• Morning: Explore Marina Bay area, visit ArtScience Museum
• Afternoon: Gardens by the Bay, including Cloud Forest and Flower Dome
• Evening: Supertree Grove light show, dinner at Satay by the Bay

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

• Morning: Visit Chinatown, including Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
• Afternoon: Explore Little India, lunch at Tekka Centre
• Evening: Night Safari at Singapore Zoo

Day 3: Beach and Shopping

• Morning: Visit Sentosa Island, relax at Tanjong Beach
• Afternoon: Shopping on Orchard Road
• Evening: Dinner and drinks at Clarke Quay

This itinerary sticks to well-traveled areas and uses a mix of walking and public transport. For the Night Safari, we'd recommend using Grab or a taxi for convenience and safety.

Final Thoughts

So, is Singapore safe? In our experience, it's not just safe – it's one of the safest big cities we've ever visited. The low crime rate, efficient public services, and overall sense of order create an environment where you can relax and enjoy your trip without constantly looking over your shoulder.

That said, no city is 100% crime-free, and it's always wise to take basic precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps for late-night travel
• Respect local laws and customs (yes, that means no littering or jaywalking!)
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy

One thing that really stood out to us was the efficiency of Singapore's policeforce. They have a high public satisfaction rate of 96%, which speaks volumes about their effectiveness and community relations.

We were also impressed by the extensive network of security cameras throughout the city. Singapore has over 90,000 police cameras installed across the island. While this level of surveillance might make some uncomfortable, it undeniably contributes to the city's low crime rates and quick response times to any incidents.

One aspect of safety that often goes overlooked is road safety. Singapore has made significant strides in this area, with a road fatality rate of just 2.1 per 100,000 population, one of the lowest in the world. As pedestrians, we always felt safe crossing roads, with drivers generally being courteous and following traffic rules.

It's worth noting that Singapore takes a very strict stance on drugs. The country has a zero-tolerance drug policy, with severe penalties for drug-related offenses. As tourists, it's crucial to be aware of and respect these laws.

Another factor contributing to Singapore's safety is its low level of corruption. The city-state ranks 5th globally in the 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index. This means you're unlikely to encounter issues with corrupt officials or law enforcement, which can be a concern in some other Southeast Asian countries.

Now, let's address some common misconceptions about safety in Singapore:

1. "Singapore is a totalitarian state with no personal freedoms."Reality: While Singapore has strict laws, personal freedoms are generally respected, and the quality of life is high.
2. "Chewing gum is completely illegal."Reality: The sale of chewing gum is restricted, but it's not illegal to chew gum brought in for personal use.
3. "You'll get caned for minor offenses."Reality: Caning is reserved for serious offenses. As a tourist following basic laws, you have nothing to worry about.
4. "It's unsafe to drink tap water."Reality: Singapore's tap water is perfectly safe to drink and meets WHO standards.
5. "Singapore is boringly sterile and lacks character."Reality: The city has vibrant neighborhoods, rich cultural heritage, and a thriving food scene.

Speaking of food, let's talk about food safety for a moment. Singapore is a food lover's paradise, and part of what makes it so great is the high standards of food hygiene. Even at hawker centers (open-air food courts), which might look a bit chaotic, the food safety standards are strictly enforced. We ate everything from high-end restaurants to street food, and never once had any issues with food-borne illness.

For those with specific safety concerns, here are some additional tips:

• Solo Travelers: Singapore is great for solo exploration. Many hostels and social events cater to solo travelers.
• Women: Singapore is considered one of the safest cities for women travelers. Exercise normal precautions, especially at night.
• Families: Very family-friendly with numerous safe attractions for children. Stroller-friendly sidewalks and family rooms in malls are common.
• LGBTQ+ Visitors: While same-sex relationships are not legally recognized, Singapore is relatively tolerant. Public displays of affection (regardless of orientation) are generally frowned upon.
• Travelers with Disabilities: Singapore has made significant efforts to improve accessibility, with most public spaces and transport options being wheelchair-friendly.

One thing to be aware of is the weather. Singapore's tropical climate means it's hot and humid year-round, with frequent brief rain showers. While this isn't a safety issue per se, it can lead to discomfort or heat-related illness if you're not prepared. Always carry water, wear sunscreen, and don't be afraid to duck into one of the many air-conditioned malls for a break from the heat.

In terms of emergency services, it's good to know that Singapore has excellent healthcare facilities. The emergency number for an ambulance is 995, and for police, it's 999. For non-emergency ambulance services, you can call 1777.

Some reputable hospitals in Singapore include:

• Singapore General Hospital: +65 6222 3322
• Tan Tock Seng Hospital: +65 6256 6011
• National University Hospital: +65 6779 5555

For U.S. citizens, the contact for the U.S. Embassy in Singapore is +65 6476 9100.

In conclusion, our week in Singapore left us feeling not just safe, but genuinely impressed with the city's approach to public safety and order. It's a place where you can focus on enjoying the incredible food, diverse cultures, and unique attractions without constantly worrying about your safety.

Is Singapore safe? Based on our experience and research, the answer is a resounding yes. It's not just safe – it's a model for urban safety that many other cities could learn from. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple like us, or a family with kids, Singapore offers a secure environment to explore, indulge, and create lasting memories.

Just remember to pack your sunscreen, respect local laws and customs, and come with an open mind (and an empty stomach – trust me, you'll want to try everything!). Singapore might surprise you with its perfect blend of order and excitement, tradition and innovation. It certainly surprised us, in the best possible way.

About Us

Hey there! We're West and Sarah Parker, a couple of food-loving, safety-conscious travelers from Florida. West here – I'm a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate who's spent two decades as the secret weapon of the jet-set elite, crafting bespoke adventures that redefine luxury travel. Now, at 45, I'm a resident writer for Town & Tourist, combining my razor-sharp insights with unparalleled industry connections to deliver experiences that even the most discerning globetrotters can't help but rave about.

Sarah and I believe that the best travels are safe travels. We're all about finding those perfect spots where security meets adventure, and where you can indulge in amazing food without worrying about, well, everything else. Our goal? To help everyone travel better and safer, turning those dream vacations into reality without any of the nightmares.

We're firm believers in win-win situations. By reading our articles, you get insider tips and safety insights, and we get to relive our adventures and share our passion for exploring the world. So come along for the ride – we promise it'll be safe, delicious, and absolutely unforgettable!