My first full day in Singapore was a remarkable introduction to a country known for its efficiency and modernity. After an early morning flight from Malaysia, I landed at Changi Airport, ready to explore this advanced city-state.
Changi Airport: A Glimpse into the Future of Travel
Having spent six hours exploring Changi during my transit to Malaysia, I already had a good sense of its layout. However, my arrival immigration experience was truly astounding. Singapore boasts a contactless immigration process that felt incredibly advanced—a simple scan of my e-passport, a quick camera look for facial recognition, and fingerprint scans, then the gate opened without any human interaction. It was smooth, efficient, and a testament to Singapore’s technological prowess, making entry an absolute breeze.
Navigating Singapore’s Smart Transit (and a few lessons learned)
After clearing immigration, my first task was to exchange some Malaysian Ringgit for Singapore dollars. While I planned to use my card, having some cash was prudent. Opting for a more economical approach than a Grab, I decided to take the bus to my hostel. This proved to be an insightful, if initially confusing, experience.
Singapore’s bus system is highly structured: enter through the front, tap your NFC-enabled card, and exit through the middle, tapping again. The city itself was impeccably clean, with orderly traffic and a beautiful, almost “stage-like” appearance. However, relying on Google Maps alone for bus routes proved tricky as buses follow their own fixed routes, not always the most direct for personal destinations. After a couple of missteps and finding the helpful “SG Bus” app, I eventually learned the system’s nuances. It was a funny, yet valuable, lesson in adapting to new public transport systems!
Checking into Bits & Sports Hostel in Little India
My destination was the Bits & Sports Hostel, located in the vibrant district of Little India. Upon arrival, I was surprised by the 3 PM check-in time, a bit later than what I was used to from other hostels. While waiting in the lobby, I took the opportunity to rest on a small sofa and observed a diverse group of travelers, including some fellow Bangladeshis. The hostel itself was impressive, offering amenities like a basketball court, PS5, and a large world map for guests to pin their origins. They also provided beautifully laid out itineraries and tips for exploring Little India.
The heat outside was intense, making a midday stroll challenging. I quickly learned that Singapore’s sun is no joke, and it’s often best to plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.
A Culinary Detour: North Indian Flavors and Kaya Toast
Hunger soon led me to a nearby restaurant for a late lunch, where I opted for a North Indian meal. This proved to be a genuinely satisfying experience, featuring basmati rice, a huge fried egg, vegetable gravy, and a generous piece of chicken curry. The flavors were robust and comforting, a welcome contrast to some earlier meals. An iced Milo perfectly complemented the meal, costing just two dollars.
Later, I met up with a faculty member from my university at Toast Box in City Square Mall. He introduced me to the famous Kaya Toast with kaya jam and soft-boiled eggs, a delightful local breakfast. Our conversation stretched into the evening, providing valuable insights and local tips for my upcoming days.
Evening Exploration: Mustafa Centre and Little India’s Charms
As night fell, I ventured into Mustafa Centre, a sprawling retail complex often referred to as “Mustafa City.” It’s a treasure trove of electronics, watches, clothes, and souvenirs. I compared prices to Changi Airport, noting slight differences, and considered purchasing a Marshall TWS headphone, which was significantly cheaper here than in Bangladesh.
Wandering through Little India at night was a charming experience. The two-story buildings, festive lanterns, and bustling streets created a unique ambiance. Despite the late hour, many shops were still open. The area felt distinct from Dhaka and Malaysia, with an incredibly clear night sky and visible stars, highlighting the intensity of Singapore’s daytime sun. After a long day of travel and exploration, I returned to my hostel, ready for more Singaporean adventures.
Traveler’s Tip:
Embrace contactless systems in Singapore – they are incredibly efficient! For transportation, download local bus/metro apps as Google Maps might not always provide the most direct bus routes in a complex city.
Hydrate frequently and consider an umbrella for sun protection during midday explorations, as Singapore’s heat can be intense.
My first day in Singapore was a fantastic introduction to a vibrant country, filled with efficient travel, cultural immersion, and incredible food. Stay tuned for more adventures!