Insider’s Guide to Singapore & Bali

Singapore and Bali deliver the kind of contrasting energy that makes trips unforgettable. One is sleek and modern, the other is laid-back and spiritual. In Singapore, you’ll find futuristic architecture, Michelin-starred hawker stalls, and neighborhoods packed with culture, from Little India to Chinatown. It’s clean, easy to navigate and ideal for food lovers, city explorers and first-time Asia travelers. Bali slows things down with beaches, temples and jungle escapes. Ubud is known for yoga retreats and art markets, while Seminyak and Uluwatu offer stylish stays and great surfing. 

The magic happens when you combine them—city sophistication meets island soul, creating the kind of trip that satisfies both your inner explorer and your need to completely unwind. Couples, groups, and culture-focused travelers looking for a mix of city and spa will be happy here. Read on to discover where to stay and what to do for the perfect getaway to Singapore and Bali.

Need to know

A few smart moves before you go: Singapore keeps things polite and orderly, while Bali requires more caution—stick to bottled water and be selective with street food to avoid the dreaded “Bali belly.” Entry is straightforward with Bali’s visa on arrival (bring cash) and Singapore’s visa-free short stays (you will need to fill out an electronic health declaration before arrival), though you’ll need different power adapters for each destination. Most importantly, book everything in advance—from beach clubs to rooftop restaurants to surf lessons—because the best spots fill up fast in both destinations. 

Currency: Singapore uses the Singapore Dollar (SGD), while Bali uses the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash in Bali for local shops. ATMs are readily available in most tourist areas. Tipping is appreciated in Bali (5–10%) but not expected in Singapore.

Airports: 

• Singapore: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) is one of the world’s top-rated airports and is 20–30 minutes from the city by taxi or train.
• Bali: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), also known as Denpasar Airport, is the main gateway to Bali. Expect 30—90 minutes in a taxi to reach spots like Seminyak, Canggu, or Ubud. Destinations on other sides of the island can take hours.
  

Transportation: 

• Singapore: Singapore is clean, safe, and easy to navigate. Private cars can be booked, but taxis and ride-shares like Grab are reliable and widely used. The MRT (subway) system is fast, spotless, and well-connected. 
• Bali: Private transfers are recommended for most travelers, especially when heading to Ubud or further afield (your hotel can help arrange). Ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are the go-to apps here, where you can book everything from a motorbike to a car. Scooters are popular for short distances since traffic can be chaotic. 
  

Best time to visit: Singapore and Bali don’t stick to the usual Southeast Asia seasons. With a little planning, both destinations are great to visit any time of year. 

• Singapore: Sitting near the equator, Singapore stays hot and humid year-round with quick bursts of rain. An umbrella is handy, but rain rarely slows things down.
• Bali: The best time to go is May to September, which is the dry season. Sunny skies and warm weather make it perfect for the beach, surfing, and outdoor adventures. The rainy season lasts from November to March, but the short, tropical downpours usually last 10 minutes to an hour. It cools things off and it’s the perfect time to plan indoor breaks or spa time around.
  

Ideal length of stay: 

• Singapore: Three nights is perfect to explore Singapore. Think of it as your jetlag-proof intro to Southeast Asia.
• Bali: At least five nights, but a full week or more is best to soak up both the coast and jungle. Most people base themselves in the “tourist triangle,” consisting of Seminyak, Ubud, and Uluwatu.
  

Signature dishes: 

• Singapore: Hainanese chicken rice, chilli crab (often enjoyed with mantou, fried buns), laksa (a spicy noodle soup with a coconut base), satay (grilled skewers of marinated meat served with peanut sauce), and kaya toast (toasted bread with butter and kaya, coconut jam, typically paired with soft-boiled eggs).
• Bali: babi guling (Balinese-style roasted pig), nasi campur (a mixed plate of rice with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sambal chili sauce), mie goreng (fried noodles with a mix of vegetables and protein), ayam betutu (slow-cooked chicken in spiced broth), and sate lilit (minced meat skewers wrapped around lemongrass).
  

Languages and key phrases: Singapore’s official language is English. In Bali, you’ll hear Bahasa Indonesia and the local Balinese language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Bali: selamat pagi (good morning), terima kasih (thank you), permisi (excuse me), and tidak / ya (no / yes).
  

What to wear: Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing made of cotton and linen. In Bali, be respectful when visiting temples by covering your shoulders and skipping short shorts. Singapore is generally casual, but smart-casual is a good choice for dining and upscale spots.

• Raffles Singapore
• Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
• Grand Hyatt Bali
  

Singapore

Image courtesy of Raffles Singapore

Sleek, walkable, and endlessly dynamic, Singapore packs rooftop bars, buzzing hawker centers, tropical gardens, and cultural neighborhoods into one easy-to-explore city. 

Where to stay

Raffles Singapore: Iconic luxury and heritage make this a lavish yet timeless experience in the heart of the city. Spacious suites with elegant décor, experiential dining, and the bar that created the original Singapore Sling make this a classic pick to stay at.

• Our Accor Preferred partner perks include a £75 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  

The Warehouse Hotel: Chic and laid-back, this restored warehouse blends contemporary style with a touch of Singapore’s industrial past. Sleek rooms, minimalist décor, river views and relaxing spaces at the pool and bar make this a stylish base.

• Our partner perks include welcome drinks, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  

The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore: This high-end escape by the waterfront offers contemporary rooms with panoramic views of Marina Bay and the iconic skyline. The rooftop bar, unforgettable fine-dining, and prime location make it a great place to stay.

• Our Perks include a £75 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  

The Standard Singapore: Bold, cheeky, and full of character, The Standard Singapore brings the brand’s signature irreverence to the tropics. Retro-futuristic rooms, vibrant design, and just the right dose of playful rebellion, right near the Botanic Gardens and Orchard Road.

• Our Secret Agent partner perks include a food & beverage or experience credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  

Ubud

Image courtesy of Capella Ubud

Bali’s soul lives in Ubud, where jungle views, rice paddies, and temples set the tone. It’s calm, creative, and a little bit mystical. Yoga and wellness retreats are woven into daily life, but expect to stay once you’re here, there’s one road in and out.

Where to stay

Capella Ubud: This ultra-private, tented camp in the jungle feels like a storybook. Each “tent” has outdoor saltwater plunge pools, handcrafted antiques, and canopy beds that open to the rainforest. Expect personalized rituals, firepit storytelling, and gourmet dining.

• Our Perks include a £75 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  

COMO Uma Ubud: A serene hillside hideaway that balances wellness and understated style. Just outside Ubud’s center, you can explore the town’s culture and cafés but retreat to peaceful jungle views. It’s thoughtful and quietly upscale, with just enough soul to make it stick.

• Our Perks include a £15 hotel credit, departure gift, and an upgrade whenever possible.
  

Canggu

Image courtesy of COMO Uma Canggu

Canggu is Bali’s barefoot-cool playground, where surf breaks meet smoothie bowls and the dress code is “whatever works on a scooter.” It’s casual, creative, and packed with cafés, co-working spots, and laid-back beach clubs.

Where to stay

COMO Uma Canggu: Set right on the beach, expect sleek, modern suites (some with private lagoon access), daily surf sessions, and fresh, health-conscious menus. There’s a light, youthful energy here, thanks to their sunrise yoga, coconut lattes, and live DJs by the pool.

• Our Perks include a £75 hotel credit, complimentary welcome drink, an upgrade, and late check-out whenever possible.
  

Hotel Tugu Bali: Steps from the beach but worlds away in atmosphere, this soulful stay blends centuries-old Indonesian antiques with suites that feel like art galleries. It’s moody, transportive, and perfect for sunset cocktails or quiet mornings in the lotus pond spa.

Seminyak

Image courtesy of The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali

Seminyak serves up sunsets, surf, and energy. It’s Bali’s party hub, with beach clubs and packed streets. A little gritty, a lot lively, this is the spot for social stays, not quiet escapes.

Where to stay

The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali: Located in Seminyak, this is classic Bali at its most refined. This hidden sanctuary is a polished beachfront experience with tropical gardens, Balinese architecture, and exceptional service where you can slow down right in the heart of it all.

• Our Perks include a £75 food & beverage credit, complimentary 50-minute massage, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  

Alila Seminyak: Beachfront, breezy, and quietly stylish, this modern resort nails the laid-back luxury vibe. Earthy neutrals, infinity pools overlooking the waves, and a scene that leans more spritz-at-sunset than full-on party. Ideal for a little calm along this buzzy stretch of coastline.

• Our Hyatt Privé partner perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  

Uluwatu

Image courtesy of Six Senses Uluwatu

Uluwatu is Bali on a cinematic scale with temples, big waves, and clifftop resorts. It’s remote, windswept, and wildly beautiful, ideal for sunset cocktails and slower, scenic days.

Where to stay

Six Senses Uluwatu: Six Senses Uluwatu is all about cliffside serenity with serious style. This eco-conscious retreat blends Balinese soul with modern design. Private pools, panoramic views, and a spa that feels like a sanctuary, it’s remote in the best way.

The Apurva Kempinski Bali: Sleek and sprawling, this cliffside retreat in neighboring Nusa Dua is a newer standout with bold Indonesian architecture and ocean views. From private plunge pools to an underwater dining room, it’s like staying in a modern Balinese palace.

• Our perks include a £75 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  

Cruises

Image courtesy of Aqua Expeditions

Cruising through Southeast Asia offers a seamless way to explore vibrant cities, remote islands, and culturally rich landscapes. 

Singapore

Cruising in Southeast Asia is taking off, and Singapore’s ultra-modern port is leading the charge. It’s now home to three mega ships, including the much-anticipated Disney Adventure set to debut late 2025. Whether you’re starting or ending your cruise here, Singapore pairs beautifully with a 3- to 4-night sailing or a longer itinerary around the region. Consider adding on a river cruise through Cambodia and Vietnam aboard Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Mekong.

Bali

Bali is not only a sought-after port of call but also a gateway to the rest of Indonesia. Stops often include places like Lombok and Komodo, blending island culture with natural beauty. For a boutique-style, all-suite experience, Aqua Blu by Aqua Expeditions delivers thoughtful design and personalized service. For something even more private, Silolona Sojourns offers fully crewed yacht charters, while Rascal Voyages’ Wakatobi Launch Voyage combines barefoot luxury with world-class diving in remote, untouched waters.

Aqua Expeditions: Blending small-ship intimacy with big adventure, ships are design-forward with all-suite rooms, personalized service, and curated itineraries. Whether it’s the Mekong or the Indonesian archipelago, every journey feels immersive, exclusive, and well-crafted.

• Our Perks include one 60-min massage treatment per person, based on double occupancy.
  

History and culture

Singapore and Bali may share Southeast Asian geography, but the two have distinctly rich experiences. From Singapore’s futuristic skyline to Bali’s jungle-framed temples, both offer a profound glimpse into how the past and present coexist.

Singapore began as a humble fishing village before evolving into a vital British trading post in the 19th century. Its strategic location turned it into a melting pot of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian cultures. Neighborhoods like Little India, Kampong Glam, and Chinatown are culturally distinct. A walk through these enclaves reveals colorful shophouses, temples like the Sri Mariamman and Thian Hock Keng, and mosques such as Sultan Mosque. 

Meanwhile, Bali is Indonesia’s only Hindu-majority island, steeped in ritual and spirituality. Travelers often encounter locals placing canang sari (flower offerings) at doorways and temples, a sign of gratitude and harmony with the gods. Bali’s history stretches back to ancient kingdoms, but what stands out today are processions for temple festivals, cremation ceremonies (ngaben), and dances like the Barong and Kecak that reenact mythical battles between good and evil. 

Cultural celebrations & events

• Chinese New Year (January / February, dates vary): Singapore comes alive with red lanterns, lion dances, and festive feasts, most vibrant in Chinatown.
• Nyepi – Balinese Day of Silence (March, Bali): Bali comes to a complete halt as it observes this sacred Hindu holiday marking the New Year. 
• Hari Raya Puasa / Eid al-Fitr (dates vary): Celebrated in both destinations, especially Singapore’s Kampong Glam, look for colorful bazaars, family feasts, and crowds.
• Galungan & Kuningan (Bali, every 210 days): Spiritually significant holidays celebrating ancestral spirits, with temple ceremonies and ornate penjors. Expect some business closures.
• Bali Arts Festival (June to July): A month-long celebration in Denpasar showcasing traditional music, crafts, and dance.
• Singapore Food Festival (July): A must for food lovers, celebrating everything from traditional hawker fare to creative culinary twists on Singaporean classics.
  

Activities

From iconic temples and vibrant markets to jungle treks and rooftop bars, Singapore and Bali offer no shortage of culture, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.

Singapore

• Singapore Changi Airport: Start your adventure at Changi Airport with an indoor waterfall, butterfly garden, and tropical spaces, it’s a destination in and of itself.
• Wildlife: Have breakfast with orangutans at the Singapore Zoo. Visit the Night Safari, River Wonders, or Jurong Bird Paradise with a multi-park pass.
• Sentosa Island: Head to Singapore’s play island for Universal Studios, S.E.A. Aquarium, beach clubs and Resorts World. Great for kids, but also has adults-only escapes.
• Little India: Wander through Little India’s buzzing streets, filled with temples, spice markets, and vivid murals. Pause for a sweet milk tea or quick bite at a hawker center.
• Food tours: Join a food tour to taste local legends, from chilli crab to Michelin-starred hawker stalls. Skip the tourist zones and head to Tiong Bahru or Geylang.
• Drinks: Cap things off with a tea tasting or rooftop cocktail at one of Singapore’s design-forward sky bars, the perfect way to toast the city skyline.
  

Bali

• Temples: Uluwatu Temple is a classic, clifftop with Kecak fire dances lighting up the dusk. For a more peaceful experience, head to the serene lakeside Ulun Danu Beratan.
• Beach club: Spend the day sipping cocktails and soaking up the scene at staple Potato Head in Seminyak, while COMO Beach Club and Savaya bring sleek design and views.
• Crafts: Ubud is the creative heart, but Celuk is known for silverwork and Mas is famous for wood carving. Find hands-on studio visits and the chance to meet local artisans.
• Canggu: Whether you’re learning to surf or just lounging with a coconut, Canggu’s laid-back vibe makes it a favorite for beach lovers and surfers alike.
• Bike ride: Cycle through rice paddies and green landscapes of Ubud or Sidemen, an easygoing, scenic way to connect with Bali’s rural rhythm and everyday village life.
• Mount Batur: Trek up Mount Batur to see panoramic views from the summit at sunrise. Afterward, unwind in the nearby hot springs for a well-earned soak.
• Scuba diving and snorkeling: Menjangan Island offers calm waters and vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling, while experienced divers can venture to Nusa Penida for a chance to spot the elusive mola mola (sunfish).
  

Dining

From cutting-edge tasting menus to casual neighborhood favorites, these showcase each destination’s bold flavors, global influences, and distinctive dining scenes.

Singapore

• Burnt Ends: A lively open-kitchen spot serving modern Australian barbecue.
• Cloudstreet: Creative tasting menus where Sri Lankan spices meet Australian finesse. 
• Marguerite: Seasonal, sustainable fine dining tucked inside Gardens by the Bay.
• Candlenut: Chic and heritage-rich, this is elevated Peranakan done right. 
• FOC Restaurant: Design-forward and energetic Spanish spot delivering top-notch tapas. 
• Thevar: Where Indian flavors go haute cuisine.
• Maxwell Food Centre: One of Singapore’s most iconic hawker halls.
  

Bali

• Apéritif (Ubud): Elegant fine dining in a colonial mansion, serving European-inspired tasting menus with local flair.
• Locavore (Ubud): Inventive tasting menus reimagining Indonesian flavors with sustainable ingredients.
• Room4Dessert (Ubud): Jungle-set dessert destination with whimsical creations.
• Milk & Madu (Ubud and Canggu): Bright, all-day café known for Aussie-style brunch, wood-fired pizzas, and family-friendly vibes.
• Mason (Canggu): Stylish yet casual spot for wood-fired meats, seafood, and craft cocktails.
• Sa’Mesa (Canggu): Lively, communal Italian-inspired dinner party with a surprise tasting menu.
• Sardine (Seminyak): Open-air French-Balinese seafood restaurant set in rice paddies.
• Ijen (Seminyak): Bali’s first zero-waste eatery, serving flame-grilled sustainable seafood in a minimalist setting.
• Merah Putih (Seminyak): Architecturally stunning space service luxe, contemporary Indonesian cuisine.
• The Cave by Chef Ryan Clift (Uluwatu): Multi-sensory tasting menu served inside a dramatic limestone cave.
  

Add-on destinations

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

If you’re planning a trip to Singapore or Bali, it’s easy to extend your adventure with getaways across Southeast Asia. These add-on destinations offer everything from buzzing city life to remote island escapes.

Singapore

• Malaysia (1-hour from Singapore by flight or land): Stroll the heritage-rich streets of Penang, unwind in Langkawi’s jungle retreats, or dive into the vibrant energy of Kuala Lumpur for skyline views, street food, and shopping.
• Cambodia (2-hour flight from Singapore): Siem Reap offers a gateway to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat, while the laid-back southern coast is ideal for a quieter beach escape.
• Thailand (2-hour flight from Singapore): Head to Bangkok for bustling night markets, rooftop cocktails, and golden temples. Or fly to Phuket or Koh Samui for sun-soaked beaches, luxury stays, and world-class wellness.
• Vietnam (2.5-hour flight from Singapore): From the riverside charm of Hoi An to the cool buzz of Hanoi and the limestone beauty of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam is a seamless mix of culture, coast, and cuisine.
• Laos (3-hour flight from Singapore): Serene and soulful, Luang Prabang is all about golden temples, misty mountains, and a slower pace. Perfect for unplugging and soaking up tradition.
  

Bali

• Lombok (30–60 minute flight from Bali): A laid-back alternative to Bali with quiet beaches and rich local culture. Hop on a short boat ride to the Gili Islands for world-class snorkeling, diving, and island time. Gili Meno is calm and romantic, while Gili Trawangan has a livelier pulse.
• Sumba (1-hour flight from Bali): Remote and rugged, Sumba is home to the iconic NIHI Sumba, an eco-luxury haven with wild horses, private surf breaks, and untouched coastline. Combine it with a stay at Capella Ubud for the ultimate jungle-to-sea honeymoon.
• Komodo & Flores (1-hour flight to Labuan Bajo): From here, set sail to spot wild Komodo dragons, snorkel vibrant reefs, or embark on a liveaboard adventure through unspoiled islands. It’s luxe, wild, and wildly memorable.
• East Java (1-hour flight or ferry from Bali): Trade the beach for breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater promise sunrise hikes, surreal views, and cinematic scenery.
• Yogyakarta (1.5-hour flight from Bali): Java’s artistic and spiritual soul. Explore ancient temples, including sunrise at Borobudur, then retreat to Amanjiwo, an architectural masterpiece surrounded by rice fields and serene stillness.
  

If not Singapore and Bali…

If you’ve already explored Singapore or Bali and want something with a similar vibe but a fresh twist, these destinations could be in order. Think cosmopolitan cities, coastal escapes, and design-driven stays, each with their own distinct energy.

Bangkok & Phuket, Thailand: Bangkok hums with rooftop bars, stylish hotels, and nonstop street life. Pair it with Phuket for white-sand beaches, island-hopping, and everything from laid-back luxe to all-out indulgence. Perfect if you’re after both buzz and beach.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Dramatic, tropical, and full of rhythm. Rio mixes city energy with beach culture, lush mountain backdrops, and samba spirit. Ideal for travelers chasing scenery, soul, and a little sparkle.

Capri & the Amalfi Coast, Italy: More Mediterranean than tropical, but the glamour is unmistakable. Boutique stays, sea-view lunches, and a chic crowd make this a dream for those who love Bali’s slower, stylish side. Be ready for tons of pasta instead of poke.

Cape Town, South Africa: Coastal cool meets natural wonder. Cape Town blends modern dining, wine country escapes, and design-forward hotels with easy access to mountains, wildlife, and adventure.

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