Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (SMRT)

Best Way to Travel in Singers

What can you add to the many superlative reviews of one of the best (if not the best) mass rapid transport system in the world. The only complaints you may hear will come from the locals who want less crowded, better aircon and better carriages, etc. Which would be the normal reaction from locals anywhere.

I visit Singapore regularly and yes there may be times when it is overcrowded (peak hours) and the aircon struggles with packed people, but I think many would agree it is the best way to get around Singapore.

Most if not all the main attractions, hotels and shopping malls are in close reach of a MRT station. So are Changi Airport and the Marina Bay Cruise Centre. Changi Airport is reachable on the East West Line with a transfer at Tanah Merah. Terminals 2 and 3 are easily accessible. The station sits in between both. Important to remember that Terminal 2 is ahead of you in the direction of travel, while Terminal 3 is behind you. If you don’t follow this you’ll exit at the wrong gates and have to double back, either by going up the escalators to the concourse above and walk all the way back or go through the gate again and lose part of your fare.

The Marina Bay Cruise Centre is close to the North South Line terminus at Marina South Pier station. The same line that passes through the Orchard Road shopping strip.

Ticket prices aren’t the cheapest in the world if you’re travelling once or twice. If like me, you’re there regularly, buy an EZ-link card once and recharge it. They take years to expire. Or if you are a tourist and you only need it for 1, 2 or 3 days buy the Singapore Tourist Pass. This gives you unlimited travel on all forms of public transport. Remember it starts from first use then goes for 24, 48 or 72 hours. After expiry the card can be returned. If you don’t want to keep it for future use or as a souvenir the initial $SGD10 deposit will be refunded. You can still use the pass after expiry by recharging at normal rates. Easy as pie.

For more information on the SMRT visit the SMRT Trains website.