Hong Kong or Singapore

Question

I want to go to Thailand, but the airline tickets there are too high. Instead, I can either fly to Hong Kong or Singapore, and then to Thailand (that will save me about $500 per person).

I’ve never been to Hong Kong or Singapore, but wouldn’t mind spending a night or two to explore there as well. Which should I pick?

Answer

Both Hong Kong and Singapore are excellent choices for a short stopover en route to Thailand, but they offer very different experiences. Your choice depends on what kind of city experience you want in the limited time you have.

Hong Kong:

Compact city with a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional markets.
Easy to explore in a day or two: Victoria Peak, Star Ferry, Tsim Sha Tsui promenade, and Mong Kok markets are highlights.
Excellent food scene: dim sum, street food, and international cuisine.
Efficient public transport and an easy airport transfer via Airport Express or taxi.
Dynamic harbor views and night lights, which are iconic for quick sightseeing.

Singapore:

Clean, modern, and highly organized city-state, ideal for a relaxed short visit.
Top sights include Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Merlion Park, and Chinatown or Little India for cultural flavor.
Extremely easy to navigate with the MRT system.
Great food scene with hawker centers offering local specialties like laksa and chicken rice.
Less crowded than Hong Kong for sightseeing, more manageable with a short stay.

Decision factors:

If you want a bustling, energetic city with iconic skyline views and a more “classic” Asian metropolis vibe, Hong Kong is preferable.
If you prefer a cleaner, more organized city where you can see major attractions comfortably without rushing, Singapore is ideal.
Flight times and connections to Thailand may also influence your choice, as both cities have excellent air links, but Singapore might offer slightly cheaper onward flights on budget carriers.

In summary, for a short 1-2 night stopover, both cities are doable. Hong Kong is best if you enjoy lively street life and city views, while Singapore is better for a smooth, structured visit with easily accessible iconic sights.

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