Is Singapore safe to travel?

Security across the island is considered very good and the crime rate is very low. Still take the usual precautions and do not leave luggage, bags or belongings unattended, especially in crowded places. On public holidays take particular care in the Little India tourist district, where the authorities keep attention and control high.

The offence of sexual harassment — "outrage to modesty" — is read very broadly and cases involving tourists are frequent: a woman can report anyone over any behaviour she found harassing, including accidental physical contact or a verbal remark. The accused is arrested immediately, released only on bail from a guarantor who must be a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, and kept without a passport and unable to leave the country for months, self-funded, until the investigation closes. Penalties run to 2 years in prison, a fine, caning or a combination.

In the rainy season, roughly September to March, but at other times of year too, violent storms — usually short — can cause accidents. Singapore is particularly exposed to ground lightning strikes, so if you are outside do not stop under trees or near pools.

From July to October the island, otherwise in line with European pollution levels, can be hit by an intense layer of smog ("haze") from the annual forest fires in Indonesia. The phenomenon has intensified in recent years and can cause health problems, particularly for children and the elderly, and lead to public buildings closing.