This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Singapore City.
Singapore is one of the cleanest, most well-tended cities Southeast Asia has to offer. Technically Singapore is a city-state, a tiny area at the southern tip of Malaysia, but it's a major gateway into the Far-Eastern world. Singapore is very well set up for backpackers with a number of excellent quality hostels.
While prices are higher than in much of Asia, so is the quality — you really do get what you pay for. Most Singapore hostels are situated in two main areas — Little India and Chinatown. Both of these areas are bustling centers with markets and international influence which are impossible not to fall in love with. Tucked away down side streets you'll find independent, well-run little hostels where a plethora of well-traveled and interesting people hang out.
These areas are also great for cheap, ethnic food and the fragrant night markets and local restaurants will sate any appetite. It's not difficult to get a room in Singapore, but as with any major backpacker destination, if you have your heart set on some place in particular then do book in advance. Rooms are more scarce over Chinese New Year in February when many people flock to the city, so if you are planning to visit over that week, booking in advance is essential.
Hostel names and the Singa Game
There is one thing that it is important when looking for a hostel in Singapore city. There are many hostel chains that, when you book one hostel, will send you to a different one. As names are very similar it is difficult to notice at the very first moment.
I would try to avoid those hostels, as per my experience I was sent to a very different hostel, and ruined my first hostel experience in Singapore. Read the hostel reviewers experience carefully. When you have mixed feelings, better avoid that place.
