TravelManagers John Lengacher and Brett Ray recently arrived back from Singapore with some on the ground insights into the latest easing of travel restrictions.
So what’s it like travelling in Singapore right now?
Brett Ray says that “Masks are mandatory inside and they take social distancing very seriously. At the Sofitel City Centre, they have giant teddy bears on couches in the lobby and lounge areas to encourage social distancing”.
“In the MRT [Mass Rapid Transit], there were signs reminding people not to talk, so as to not spread germs,” Lengacher adds.
“Visitors must download the Trace Together app, and QR code check-in is required everywhere. Group sizes are limited, and you wouldn’t share a gondola on the cable car with a stranger.”
Yet despite the restrictions, the pair reported that Singapore is 100 per cent open for visitors, and despite being surprised at how quiet the city felt at times, they say it felt like an ideal time to visit.
“There are some great deals around on hotels and attractions, and we felt as though we had the place to ourselves,” Lengacher reports.
For Ray, the biggest challenge was keeping up with the restrictions around the pandemic.
However, from 1 April, the Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP) and arrival testing will not be required anymore, making travel to Singapore easier for all vaccinated travellers.
“That said, the rules for visitors to Singapore have changed twice since we travelled less than a fortnight ago,”
“It really highlights the importance of working with a personal travel manager who can advise on the latest requirements and guide you through these uncertain times,” Ray added.
Lengacher says his customers will take reassurance from his learnings, given many of them are still understandably hesitant about overseas travel in the current environment.
“A lot of clients remain quite nervous about international travel, so it’s very helpful to be able to provide a first-hand account about travelling in COVID times”.
“Given that from 17 April people returning to Australia won’t need a Covid test, I’m hopeful we’ll see a steady increase in bookings from here on,” Lengacher concluded.
To get the latest updates on travel to Singapore, head to www.visitsingapore.com