WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Singapore

Location

Climate

Singapore is a destination of choice for tourists from all over the world. Whether you're interested in cultural events, public holidays or simply taking advantage of the best times of the year to travel, this guide will help you plan your stay in Singapore.

Understanding Singapore's climate to choose the right time to travel

To choose the right period for your trip to Singapore, it's essential to understand its climate. Located near the equator, Singapore enjoys a tropical climate with high temperatures and constant humidity throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 31°C, with humidity close to 80%.

Seasons in Singapore: high and low season

High season (December to June)

Singapore's high season generally runs from December to June. During this period, hotels and tourist attractions are often busier and prices can be higher. It's also the time of year when the climate is mildest, with pleasant temperatures and generally sunny weather. The high season also coincides with many cultural events and local festivities, making this period particularly attractive to tourists.

Low season (July to November)

Singapore's low season runs from July to November. During this period, prices of hotels and tourist attractions are generally lower, which can be interesting if you're traveling on a budget. However, the weather can be less kind, with more frequent precipitation and high humidity. If you're prepared for these weather conditions, the low season offers the advantage of less crowded tourism and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Major cultural events in Singapore

Singapore is rich in cultural events throughout the year. Here are some of the most notable events:

• Singapore Arts Festival (SAF) This annual event, held between May and June, features an eclectic selection of shows, exhibitions and artistic performances.
• Chinese New Year Chinese New Year: celebrated according to the lunar calendar, usually in January or February, Chinese New Year is a festive and colorful time when Chinese traditions are honored. Festivities include parades, lion and dragon dances, and fireworks.
• Festival of Light i Light Marina Bay Marina Bay: usually held in March, this luminous art festival transforms the Marina Bay district into an open-air exhibition gallery, with innovative interactive light installations.
• Singapore National Day (August 9) Celebrations commemorating the country's independence include an impressive military parade and a large-scale air show.
• The Hari Raya Puasa Ramadan: celebrated after the fasting month of Ramadan, this Muslim holiday is punctuated by prayers, festive meals and convivial moments with friends and family.

Public holidays in Singapore

It's important to take public holidays into account when planning your trip to Singapore, as some stores, restaurants and tourist attractions may be closed or operate on reduced hours. Here are some of the main public holidays:

• New Year's Day (January 1)
• Chinese New Year (January or February)
• Good Friday (the Friday before Easter)
• Labour Day (May 1st)
• Vesak Day (full moon day in May) This Buddhist holiday marks the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha.
• Hari Raya Puasa (end of Ramadan)
• Deepavali (October or November) The Hindu Festival of Lights: nicknamed the "Festival of Lights", this Hindu celebration is marked by illuminations, prayers and festive meals.
• Christmas (December 25)

As a major economic hub in Southeast Asia, Singapore attracts thousands of immigrants and tourists from all over the world every year.

Singapore immigration statistics

Singapore is a cosmopolitan nation, welcoming large numbers of foreigners to work, study or live in the country. According to Singaporean government data, Singapore's total population in 2020 was around 5.7 million, of which almost 40% were non-permanent residents.

Geographical origin of immigrants

The majority of immigrants to Singapore come from neighboring Asian countries. These include:

• Malaysia
• China
• Indonesia
• India
• Philippines

However, there is also a significant proportion of immigrants from other parts of the world, such as Europe, Oceania and North America.

Immigration and naturalization rates

The rate of immigration to Singapore has increased in recent years due to the country's economic growth and changing immigration policies. In 2020, the total number of immigrants arriving in Singapore was estimated at around 29,000, an increase of almost 10% compared to 2019. As far as naturalization is concerned, it is interesting to note that only a small percentage of immigrants become Singaporean citizens each year. This is because naturalization criteria are strict, including residency, employment and language proficiency requirements.

The most popular visas in Singapore

There are several types of visa available to foreigners wishing to come to Singapore, depending on their intentions and personal circumstances. Here are the most commonly requested visas:

Employment Pass

The work visa, or Employment PassThis visa is intended for highly qualified and experienced professionals who have received a job offer in Singapore. This visa is valid for an initial period of two years and can be renewed thereafter.

Long-Term Visit Pass

This visa allows foreigners to stay in Singapore for an extended period, usually up to one year. It is often requested by people wishing to join their spouse or family in Singapore, as well as by international students.

Entrepreneur Visa (EntrePass)

L'EntrePass is designed for foreign entrepreneurs wishing to set up and run a business in Singapore. To be eligible, it is necessary to present a sound business plan and have sufficient funds to finance the venture.

International tourism figures for Singapore

Singapore is also a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors every year. In 2019, the country welcomed 19.1 million international tourists27.1 billion in tourism revenues.

Main tourist markets

Singapore's main tourist markets include :

• China
• Indonesia
• India
• Malaysia
• Australia

These five countries accounted for nearly 50% of tourist arrivals in Singapore in 2019.

Recent tourism trends

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry in Singapore, as in the rest of the world. In 2020, international tourist arrivals fell by almost 85% compared to 2019Tourism revenues also declined accordingly. However, with the gradual implementation of measures such as "travel bubbles" and vaccine distribution, Singapore's tourism industry is hoping to bounce back gradually over the next few years.

Key tourism sectors in Singapore

Tourism in Singapore is supported by several key sectors, including :

• Hotels
• Catering
• Tourist attractions
• Events and conferences
• Shopping

These sectors will continue to play a vital role in the post-pandemic recovery of Singapore's tourism industry.

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