Singapore Health & Safety

Singapore is a unique country unlike any other Southeast Asian destination. With its history of colonization by the British, the country is considerably more developed than many of its neighbours and consequently health and safety issues are less of a concern here.

Levels of hygiene are high in public dining establishments with state authorities keeping a close eye on matters of this nature. Tap water is safe to drink and ice offered in beverages in public eateries is not considered to pose any risk. Visitors from well developed countries are no more likely to fall ill from bacterial sources here than they are at home. Contracting a viral illness here is also unlikely although dengue fever, which is spread by mosquitoes, has been known to be a problem in recent years. Be sure to spray yourself liberally with insect repellant before going out, irrespective of the time of day (dengue fever carrying mosquitoes tend to bite during the day).

The standard of healthcare in public hospitals is high and visitors unfortunate enough to take sick during their stay will be well taken care of.

Crime levels are low in Singapore and few visitors experience any problems during their stay. Petty crime does exist, however, and visitors are advised to take basic precautions to avoid making themselves soft targets for local miscreants.

Keep money and valuable personal effects in hard to reach places to deter pickpockets and avoid flashing expensive jewelry in busy public places. Wear bags in a manner so as to reduce the chances of them being grabbed by opportunists and keep them close at hand when in bars or restaurants.