Singapore may be small but it’s SEA’s big guns when it comes to commerce and modern flavors. It is expensive and chic yet diverse and culturally rich. Thailand on the other hand is traditional yet more open, heavy on culture yet uber-touristy.
Singapore
Singapore is a tiny nation that is smaller than many large cities around the globe. But despite its modest size and relatively recent age, this city-state has managed to leave its mark on the world with some top honors.
It is a city-state that is overflowing with noteworthy sights, thrilling events, and a ton of day trips for the entire family. Almost everyone has seen a picture of the Merlion, the city’s symbol, and the neighboring Marina Bay Sands. Both of which provide spectacular views of Singapore’s famed skyline.
The extraordinary cultural diversity of this tiny country is showcased in Chinatown and Little India. They’re both major shopping and dining destinations in their own right.
What Makes Singapore Unique?
Multiculturalism
On top of its wealth of Asian ethnicities and cultures, you can also find quite a handful of other western people here. Being business-oriented, most of the micronation’s wealth is dependent on multinational businesses. With investments and businesses here and there, waves upon waves of people from all over the world come to Singapore. This further drives the country’s multicultural identity.
With quite an ensemble of cultures comes great diversity of charms. Expect to see an interesting array of gastronomy, traditions, and art. Even the language is a perfect blending and coexisting. However, with it being a business-oriented country, English is highly-used but with a twist.
A Singaporean twist of English, or rather a dialect of the language is widely used. Singlish or Singaporean English is a result of the micronation’s many cultures trying to speak English to each other. Some words have a relatively close resemblance to English yet holds a completely different meaning.
The Merlion
The Merlion, a legendary animal with a lion’s head and a fish’s body, is famous in Singapore. It is one of the emblems of Singapore, which was formerly designed by the Singapore Tourism Board. This resulted from the effort to give the nation a sense of identity worthy of a marketing ploy.
The Merlion has evolved into a sort of emblem and one of the most sought-after Singaporean souvenirs. It is made of half fish, representing Singapore’s marine and commerce heritage, and a lion head, for the reasons, already mentioned.
Although there are other Merlion statues throughout the nation, the most well-known one is in Merlion Park. It is directly across from the Marina Bay Sands Hotel.
Marina Bay Sands
This is the stuff of almost every tourism promotional material in Singapore. The icon of all icons, the Marine Bay Sands is an imposing hotel in Singapore bay. One of the most well-known luxury hotel resorts in Singapore is the Marina Bay Sands, if not the most. It was regarded as the world’s most expensive standalone casino property to be developed back in its launch in 2010.
It features a five-star hotel with three major towers and the highest and largest infinity pool in the world. Anyone visiting Singapore undoubtedly wants to take a picture at the Marina Bay Sands pool. But the entrance is restricted to hotel guests, so you will need to make reservations.
The Marina Bay Sands complex includes a convention center, a mall, and numerous restaurants run by famous chefs. You may also attend a show at the theater or see the light and music show at the esplanade near Marina lake every evening.
Gardens by the Bay
Without a question, Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s most well-known attractions. Thousands of people visit each day, and the illuminated blue, purple, and red Supertrees are a sight to behold. At night, they light up in an incredible show of music and light.
The gardens are one of the most photographed locations in Singapore. The massive area is home to a variety of sections, smaller gardens, exhibitions, plants, and flowers. It even has an abundance of photo opportunities. But if you arrive in the morning, you might still get it to yourself.
Thailand
Over 35 million tourists visit Thailand each year, making it one of the most popular travel destinations. One of Southeast Asia’s gems is the “Land of Smiles.” Thailand is well-developed and offers a wide range of modern conveniences thanks to a growing tourism sector.
It is still wild enough to provide off-the-beaten-path adventure and once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunities. Thailand will not disappoint, whether you come for the world-class beaches in the south or the mountain villages in the north. This Southeast Asian treasure has something for everyone, whether you’re a thrill seeker, a culture vulture, a beach bum, or a foodie.
What Makes Thailand Unique?
The Iconic Thai Culture
When we think of Thailand, we imagine a whole burst of quirky colors, old temples, parties, friendly people, elephants, and good food. The Land of Smiles, as it is lovingly monikered, is a whole array of wonder and charm. It is arguably the most touristy country in all of Asia, with good reasons, of course.
Thailand owes its fame and reputation to its interesting and loud culture that seems to be catching everyone’s attention. From the overt displays of its religion and the honoring and preservation of its history to the language and general attitude.
Religion
Theravada Buddhism is the official religion of Thailand and is practiced by more than 95% of the people. It is important to many facets of Thai culture. Thailand is actually so closely associated with the faith that it is frequently referred to as “The Land of Buddhism”. Many people come from all over the world to study its teachings.
Thailand’s version of Buddhism differs from that of other Buddhist countries. It has been influenced by numerous foreign cultures. Local beliefs have been somewhat affected by Hindu practices and traditional Chinese beliefs. Although, Thai Buddhism owes a lot to animist views.
While traveling in Thailand, you will come across many reminders of the religion, which is an important part of many Thais’ daily life. These include Buddhist sculptures and imposing temples. A Buddhist monk will almost certainly be present during your visit as there are over 300,000 practitioners in the area.
They are easily recognized by their characteristic orange and yellow robes. And they are frequently spotted in the cities and villages near the temples soliciting alms and giving blessings.
The Land of Smiles
Thais are renowned for being amiable, helpful, and kind. Locals will go over and above to assist you despite the language barrier. Whether it’s by recommending restaurants or giving you directions. Because of their friendliness, the nation is known as the “Land of Smiles.”
You’ll notice how welcoming and approachable everyone is wherever you go. This even includes the residents on the street, the police, the taxi driver, and the waiter at the restaurant. The “Sanuk” manner of living is also well-known in Thailand.
Sanuk, a Thai term that is sometimes translated as “fun,” actually means much more than that. Sanuk is a fundamental part of life in Thailand, not just mindless entertainment. It is a trait that embodies playfulness, joy, humor, and social harmony.
This characteristic may be what makes Thai people naturally hospitable and what draws tourists to the country.
Thai Street Food
Thailand is renowned for its delectable food, which has a wide range of flavors and textures. Despite being recognized for its potent, aromatic components, there are many different flavors to choose from, thanks to Chinese, Indian, and even Western food influences.
Try some of Thailand’s delectable street cuisine if you’re there. You should include trying Thai street cuisine on your bucket list. No Thailand experience would be complete without sampling any, if not all of the iconic food on offer, from the restaurants to the street.
Here are some of the most iconic street food dishes you might want to try:
- Tom yam (hot and sour soup)
- pad Thai (stir-fried noodles)
- som tam (green papaya salad)
- Khao niao ma Muang (mango sticky rice)
- Khanom bue ang (Thai crepes)
- guay teow (noodle soup)
- khao pad (fried rice)
- gaeng keow wan
There are delicacies that one must not miss when visiting Thailand (green curry). The majority of these may be found around the nation at eateries and even at various street food stands.
Parties Galore
Thailand is the place to go if you’re looking for a party in Southeast Asia. Certain regions of Thailand will be right up your alley if you prefer rowdy nightlife. Thailand can be a genuine sanctuary for partygoers, from the Full Moon Parties on Koh Phangan to the walking alleys of Pattaya, Krabi, and Phuket where bars and clubs abound.
While some aspects of Thailand’s nightlife have given the nation a negative rep. This picture barely touches the surface of what is available in Thailand after dark. Think GoGo Bars and massage parlors in red-light districts.
Overall, Thai nightlife offers inexpensive beverages, loud music, delicious snacks, and spacious dance floors. Expect to party late into the morning.
Backpackers from all over the world travel to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party, which is considered a rite of passage. Tens of thousands of travelers congregate on Haad Rin Beach every night to dance. You can dance electronic rhythms and partake in what began as a modest beach party in 1985.
Many travelers use Bangkok’s Khao San Road as their point of entry into Asia. Bars, clubs, street parties, restaurants, and retail establishments line the whole length of the street. Khao San Road is restricted to vehicular traffic at night so that patrons can freely walk from one bar to the next on foot.
The Islands and Beaches
There are 1,430 islands in Thailand. With more than 1,500 miles (2,414 km) of coastline, the Southeast Asian country is home to an abundance of stunning tropical beaches. You can anticipate having a wide range of choices.
The southern islands are surrounded by the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, which are renowned for their amazing lengths of fine white sand, clear waters, and fresh sea wind.
Koh Samui
In the Gulf of Thailand, the well-known resort island of Koh Samui offers beautiful beaches. You can also expect a wide range of entertaining activities. This global beach resort draws a diverse range of visitors. You can find budget tourists sleeping in basic coastal cottages all the way to the wealthiest of vacationers in opulent resorts.
On the island of Samui, there are three main beach towns, each of which offers a unique experience. Chaweng Beach’s commotion is followed by Lamai Beach’s boisterous yet laid-back vibe then Bophut’s Fisherman’s Village’s classic vibe. Koh Samui stands out among Thailand’s islands for continuing to draw a variety of tourists.
Koh Pangan
Between Koh Tao and Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand sits the comparatively small island of Koh Phangan. However, it has every tropical island paradise amenity you could ask for.
You’ll have soaring palm trees, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs teeming with exotic species. Not to mention, it also has lush jungles with cascading waterfalls, all set off by a picture-perfect turquoise sea.
The center of the island, which is covered in thick tropical vegetation, is known for its picturesque, lengthy white-sand beaches. And that’s on top of more than 20 neighboring dive locations.
The famed Full Moon Party, also known as the Black Moon Party, is Koh Phangan’s greatest claim to fame. On New Year’s Eve, the Full Moon celebrations draw between 10,000 and 30,000 revelers.
Hua Hin
Hua Hin may have begun as a peaceful beach village, but it has since developed into a bustling port city. This little village turned tourist hot spot is a fascinating beach, dining, and shopping destination. it is situated on the Gulf of Thailand, two and a half hours south of Bangkok (and another world away).
The best activities in Hua Hin are typically designed for family outings by the water. Hua Hin is in fact thought of by the majority of Thais as a romantic and opulent gateway vacation spot. This perception dates back to roughly 100 years ago when members of the Royal Family and the wealthy used to spend their summers here.
Hua Hin today has a large number of gorgeous beach homes, villas, and a few attractive old summer palaces as a result.
Which Is Better – Singapore or Thailand?
If you want a jam-packed vacation, Thailand is the best option. Not only it is one of the best vacation destinations in Southeast Asia, but it also has a slew of draws Singapore can’t offer. From beaches to uber-cheap street food, Thailand is every traveler’s dream destination.
While you can get away with the cosmopolitan and cultural features of Singapore, Thailand offers more than that. It has a richer history, a more vibrant culture, plus a slew of islands and beaches in between. A great deal cheaper in costs are Thailand’s final nail against Singapore.
FAQ
Singapore vs. Thailand Economy
When it comes to the economy in terms of total GDP, Thailand is much bigger with 505B USD. Singapore, with its size, is 364.2B USD. However, when it comes to GDP per capita, Singapore is considered to be the more prosperous one with 65,000 USD, while Thailand has 7,300 USD.
Thailand Power Plugs vs. Singapore Power Plugs
Types A, B, and C are the four plug types used in Thailand. Plug type A is characterized by having two parallel flat pins. Plug type B by having two parallel flat pins plus a grounding pin, and plug type C by having two round pins. 50Hz and 230V supply voltage are used in Thailand.
On the other hand, Singapore uses plug types C, G, and M. The plug of type C has two round pins. While the plug of type G has three rectangular pins arranged in a triangle, and the plug of type M has three round pins. 50Hz and 230V supply voltage are used in Singapore.
Singapore and Thailand Time Difference
There is no time difference between Singapore and Thailand.
Is Singapore in Thailand?
Singapore sits outside of Thailand. It is located south, with Malaysia in between.
Is Thailand Close to Singapore?
Thailand is relatively far from Singapore. They’re both located on the same peninsula, with Malaysia standing between them.
Singapore to Thailand Distance
Singapore is approximately 1,016 miles or 1,635 kilometers from Thailand, directly.
How Far Is Thailand From Singapore by Plane?
By flight distance, Thailand and Singapore have a 1,016-mile distance (1,635 kilometers) between them.
Singapore to Thailand by Road
It is possible to travel to Thailand by road, whether you’re taking public transport or driving a car yourself. However, average speeds will bring you more than a day as you have to brave the 1,000+ mile distance. Plus, you also have to drive through Malaysia as well.
Singapore to Thailand by Bus
You can take a bus from Singapore to Thailand via bus operators such as Sri Maju and Siame Lane Tour. However, the travel will take around 30 hours or so.
Driving From Singapore to Thailand
You can drive from Singapore to Thailand. However, the distance is more than a thousand miles so you can expect to drive around for more than 24 hours.
Singapore Driving License in Thailand
A Singaporean driving license is accepted in Thailand. This also applies to other ASEAN countries such as the Philippines, Brunei, and Malaysia.
Thailand to Singapore Train Fare
There are no direct routes that will take you from Thailand to Singapore. You have to take several stops in Malaysia, depending on the route. The total fare can hit around 1,000 USD.
Singapore to Thailand by Ship
There are no ships that will take you to Thailand from Singapore, however, there are cruises available. These cruises include a few other stops across Southeast Asia.
Singapore to Thailand by Cruise
You can find several cruises around Singapore to Thailand. Cruise lines that offer this experience include the Royal Caribbean, Oceania Cruises, Silversea Cruises, and Holland America Line.
Singapore to Thailand Cruise Ship Price
Cruises can vary depending on the route, stops, and the cruise line itself. Most prices start around 800 USD or so.
