Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) in Singapore: How Are Travel and Leisure Activities Affected?

From 16 May to 13 June 2021, Singapore will enter Phase 2 (Heightened Alert). Singapore’s multi-ministry taskforce announced the news on 14 May 2021, citing the recent increase in local COVID-19 infections as the reason for the stricter measures. 

However, there has been some confusion over whether leisure and travel activities can still continue during this crucial period. Read on to find out if you can still go for a staycation, visit Gardens By The Bay, or hop on a cruise in Phase 2 (Heightened Alert)!

Also read: New COVID-19 Rules in Singapore: What You Need to Know

Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) in Singapore: Impact on travel and leisure

1. Staycations

Image credit: The Fullerton Hotel Singapore Official Facebook Page

Yes, you can still go on your staycations in Phase 2 (Heightened Alert)! But expect the implementation of strict rules during your stay. These include:

1. A maximum of two guests are allowed per hotel room, unless the guests are all from the same household.
2. Dining in is restricted at the hotel’s food and beverage (F&B) establishments.
3. Gyms will be closed.
4. While swimming pools will be open, guests are only allowed in groups of two. A distance of at least 3m should be maintained between each group. 
5. Massage and beauty treatments will be restricted if they require masks to be off. 

Want to cancel your staycation? Fret not –– the Singapore Tourism Board has announced that all bookings made for this period can be changed or refunded (subject to terms and conditions). Bookings made using SingapoRediscovers vouchers may also be refunded. 

That being said, some hotels have implemented restriction-friendly themed staycations, too. M Social Singapore has come up with the Art Jamming Staycation Package, inclusive of an in-room art jamming box. They also have a Mixologist Staycation Package, where guests will enjoy an in-room cocktail station with cocktail recipes to try out. 

Other hotels have also begun customising exclusive menus for delivery and takeaway from their F&B establishments.

Also read: Enjoy Second Night Complimentary Stay and More With HSBC

2. Cruises

Image credit: Dream Cruises Official Website

Cruises are still allowed to continue. However, the operating capacity for cruises has been reduced to 25%. Other rules put in place for cruises are:

1. A maximum of 2 guests per cabin are allowed.
2. Dining in restaurants onboard is not allowed. Delivery and takeaway services will be available.
3. Shows and attractions onboard will also have their capacity reduced to 25%.
4. Any activity requiring masks to be taken off will be cancelled. 

You may also choose to reschedule your cruise bookings to a later date, or exchange it for credit that can be used in the future.

Also read: Super Seacation at S$199: 7 Ways to Make the Most of Your World Dream Cruise Getaway!

3. Attractions

Image credit: Resorts World Sentosa Official Facebook Page

Attractions such as Gardens By The Bay, the Singapore Zoo, and Universal Studios Singapore will still be open to the public in Phase 2 (Heightened Alert). The stricter measures put in place for attractions are:

1. The operating capacity limit will be reduced to 25%.
2. Only groups of 2 will be allowed to visit the attractions.
3. Without Pre-Event Testing (PET), shows at these attractions can only allow 50 audience members. With PET, up to 100 people may be allowed.
4. Tours can go on, with only 20 people per tour group. You can only join the tour group in groups of 2. Intermingling between groups is not allowed.
5. Dining in is restricted at any F&B establishments. You may choose to takeaway or opt for delivery. 

In response to the new rules, the validity dates of attraction tickets will be extended. 

4. Travel

Image credit: Shawn Ang 

Stay at home notices and travel bans

With Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) restrictions in place, all arrivals from abroad will need to serve a 21-day Stay Home Notice (SHN) at dedicated facilities. This is with the exception of travellers from Australia, Brunei, China, and New Zealand. Additionally, long-term pass holders and short-term visitors who have visited Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka in the last 14 days are prohibited from entering or even transiting in Singapore.

Singapore-Hong Kong Air Travel Bubble (ATB)

Booked a flight ticket in anticipation of the Singapore-Hong Kong Air Travel Bubble (ATB)? The Singapore-Hong Kong ATB was originally set to begin on 26 May 2021. 

However, Singapore’s transport ministry announced on Monday, 17 May 2021 that the Singapore-Hong Kong ATB would be postponed in light of the increase in local COVID-19 cases. According to the Ministry of Transport, both countries will monitor the situation closely and make a decision about the new launch date towards the end of Singapore’s Phase 2 (Heightened Alert).

Also read: Phua Chu Kang Features in a COVID-19 PSA Video to Remind Others to Get Vaccinated

While it might be frustrating to see the many restrictions in Singapore with Phase 2 (Heightened Alert), the government’s swift response to the rise in community infections is definitely commendable. 

As always, remember to mask up and wash your hands! The situation will definitely progress positively if we all work together to combat COVID-19.

Featured image credit: Marina Bay Sands | Official Website