Using nonparametric, semiparametric, and parametric estimation techniques, this paper investigates the presence of long memory in tourist arrivals to Singapore from 11 countries and 4 geographical regions. Empirical analysis of the monthly data from 1978 to 2012 shows that tourist arrivals to Singapore from all countries and regions are subject to long memory behavior. Analysis of the impulse response functions derived from an autoregressive fractionally integrated moving average model shows evidence of persistence in tourist arrivals. Our analysis suggests that visitors consider Singapore as a long‐term tourism destination and like to return to Singapore to relive their experiences.