Singapore is a beautiful island city-state located in Southeast Asia. It is known for its vibrant culture, excellent infrastructure, and stunning attractions.
Singapore has become a popular tourist destination in recent years, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world. In this article, we will explore how big Singapore’s tourism industry really is.
The Size of Singapore’s Tourism Industry
Singapore’s tourism industry has been on a steady rise over the years. In 2019, the country welcomed a record 19.1 million international visitors.
This was an increase of 3.3% compared to the previous year. The tourism industry contributed S$27.7 billion or 4% to Singapore’s GDP in 2018.
Top Tourist Attractions in Singapore
Singapore offers a wide range of attractions that cater to different interests and age groups. Some of the top tourist attractions in Singapore include:
- Marina Bay Sands: This iconic hotel and resort features a rooftop infinity pool, luxury shopping mall, and world-class restaurants.
- Gardens by the Bay: A nature park spanning over 100 hectares with beautiful flora and fauna displays.
- Sentosa Island: A popular island resort with family-friendly attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove Waterpark.
- The Merlion: A national symbol of Singapore that stands at 8.6 meters tall and weighs 70 tons.
Singapore’s Tourism Industry Pre-COVID-19
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore’s tourism industry was thriving. In 2019, it saw record-high visitor arrivals and spending, with tourists spending an estimated S$27.7 billion on shopping, accommodation, and food and beverage. The tourism industry supported over 65,000 businesses and employed over 160,000 people.
Singapore’s Tourism Industry Post-COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on Singapore’s tourism industry, as it has on the rest of the world. In 2020, visitor arrivals dropped by 85% compared to the previous year due to travel restrictions and border closures. This resulted in a loss of S$27.7 billion in tourism receipts for Singapore.
Conclusion
Singapore’s tourism industry is an important contributor to the country’s economy. It has seen rapid growth over the years, with record-high visitor arrivals and spending prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the pandemic has significantly impacted the industry, Singapore is working towards recovery by introducing initiatives such as safe travel bubbles and digital health passports to boost visitor confidence. With its diverse attractions and excellent infrastructure, Singapore remains a top tourist destination for many travelers around the world.