Weekends in Singapore are an exciting time as bustling crowds flock to attractions, eateries and malls. However, the large numbers also mean massive taxi queues at popular locations. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the busiest pickup points and the typical wait times you can expect. With the right tips, you can minimize time spent waiting to grab a Maxi Cab Singapore.
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Orchard Road on Saturdays
The prime shopping strip in Orchard Road transforms into a lively weekend bazaar. Large groups visit establishments like Tang Plaza,ION Orchard and 313@Somerset. The taxi stand right outside Orchard MRT sees long queues from afternoon till late evening.
On busy Saturdays, expect to queue 30-45 minutes before a cab arrives. Try walking a little further down Orchard Road towards Ngee Ann City. The taxi stand there tends to be less busy, with average waits of 15-25 minutes. Another alternative is pre-booking a Maxicab Singapore to ensure timely pickup.
Marina Bay Sands on Sundays
The integrated resort and its attractions pull massive crowds every weekend. The taxi stand right outside the resort’s hotel surge with people looking to head home after fun activities. At dusk, queues routinely stretch over 100 metres.
Sundays frequently see hour-long waits before a taxi turns up. For hassle-free transport, alight a few stops before Marina Bay station on the Circle Line. Walk a short distance to Raffles Place, where taxi availability is better with queues of 30-45 minutes on average. You can also request for drivers on the app and track their arrival in real time for prompt pickup.
Chinatown at Night
Visiting the historical ethnic enclave after sunset means lively food markets and vibrant celebrations. However, it also means swarms leaving at once when festivities wrap up. The Smith Street and Telok Ayer taxi stands then see some of the longest queues citywide.
Expect well over an hour of waiting on weekends, with queues spilling onto surrounding streets. Your best bet is to book a ride home in advance over the phone before the celebrations begin. Alternatively, catch the MRT a few stops away at Raffles Place or Promenade MRT instead of squeezing into the jam-packed taxi queues in Chinatown.
Clarke Quay on Fridays
The trendy riverside strip throngs with party-goers enjoying live music and drinks at outdoor haunts. Once the night draws to a close, swarms flock to the taxi stand at Empress Place. The area transforms into a chaotic mess of shouting cab-hailers.
Fridays regularly see 1-2 hour queues snaking around the building before a taxi finally arrives. Give yourself ample time to wait it out or consider walking 200m away to Boat Quay. Waits are slightly shorter there at around 45minutes on average. You can also request private hire cars like Maxi Cab Singapore to bypass the madness altogether.
Reducing Your Wait Time
As an island city-state, taxis are crucial weekend transport for Singapore residents and visitors alike. While busy hotspots will invariably see lengthy queues, some planning ahead and flexible alternative options can help minimize wait times. Keep the above tips in mind for your next fun-filled weekend around Singapore!
Max isn’t your ordinary auto blogger. He’s your friendly neighborhood gearhead, here to guide you through the automotive maze. His blog is like a conversation with a buddy who’s always got the latest auto scoop.
