Singapore, a city-state like no other, is renowned for its wealth and advancement. It offers a plethora of world-class malls, entertainment, and dining options. For those on a budget, the hawker stalls, a staple of Singapore's culinary scene, offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable food. With an efficient public transportation system, exploring the city is a breeze, even for budget travelers.
While Singapore may not be a typical backpacking destination due to its higher cost of living, it offers a unique value for money. I recommend spending a week or ten days in this vibrant city to fully immerse yourself in its offerings. The cleanliness, safety, and modern amenities make it a worthwhile destination, ensuring that every penny you spend is worth it.
For more advise and ideas for traveling in Southeast Asia, make sure to check out the Amazing Southeast Asia Blog.
Modes of Transportation
Grab: As with other countries around Southeast Asia. Grab is an excellent option for affordable local transportation. You can choose various transportation methods based on your needs, from a scooter to a small SUV.
Rail System: Singapore has an excellent rail system as part of its public transportation system to get you where you need to go in Singapore. Known as the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT): Singapore’s main form of public transportation, the MRT provides fast and efficient travel around the city. The system consists of 140 stations across 6 lines, and the lines total around 200 km. Three million people travel using this rail system daily.
Bus: Singapore's bus system is excellent, but it is always nice to have a more direct route to your destination than bus systems. Taking the bus is always a good option if you want to save even more of your travel dollar. With Singapore's extensive network of bus routes, you can get to almost any place you want to get to.
Taxi: Many regular taxi companies are readily accessible throughout Singapore, but this is usually the priciest option. Compared to other big cities around the world, taking a ride on a taxi in Singapore is much cheaper on average.
E-Scooter: Singapore is one of the few countries in Southeast Asia that offers E-Scooters. This is starting to catch on more and more in the United States, and it is a unique way to see the city.
Walking: With a well-developed network of walking paths, walking from one part of the city to another is possible. During most of my stay in Singapore, I chose to walk, even very long distances, but many won't find this appealing in terms of time efficiency, comfort, and the overall hassle of walking in a busy city. For those who don't mind spending more time and energy walking, it is possible to get pretty much anywhere in Singapore on foot.
Cycling: Cycling is becoming increasingly popular in Singapore, and there are many dedicated cycle paths.
When visiting Singapore, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the local customs and etiquette to ensure a respectful and pleasant trip. Here are the top five cultural etiquette points to keep in mind:
Show respect through polite language and gestures. Address elders with titles like "Uncle" or "Auntie."
Maintain restrained and respectful behavior in public. Avoid littering, spitting, and loud disruptions.
Wait for elders to start eating before you begin your meal. Use your right hand for eating and passing food, as the left hand is considered unclean. It is customary to show appreciation for the meal by complimenting the host on the food.
When visiting religious sites or attending formal events, it is important to dress modestly and appropriately. This often means covering your shoulders and knees. Additionally, removing your shoes before entering someone's home is a sign of respect.
When visiting religious sites or attending formal events, it is important to dress modestly and appropriately. This often means covering your shoulders and knees. Additionally, removing your shoes before entering someone's home is a sign of respect.
Singapore Dollar SGD
SDG to USD (USD 1 = SGD 1.36 as of 6/2023)
Gardens by the Bay Admission Ticket (Includes Cloud Forrest) - Book Here!
Travelers who have done extensive research before visiting Southeast Asia are likely familiar with the iconic images of Singapore's Supertrees. These towering structures perfectly showcase the seamless integration of nature and urban landscapes found in the city. With an impressive 419 ft long walkway connecting the 18 supertrees, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Singapore and its stunning skyline.
For a truly unforgettable experience, I highly recommend visiting the Supertrees both during the day and at night. At night, the Supertree Grove comes alive with a mesmerizing light show accompanied by synchronized music. The combination of classical and contemporary tunes creates a one-of-a-kind sensory experience that truly sets Singapore apart from any other destination.
So, be sure to plan your visit to the Supertrees accordingly, ensuring you get to witness the daytime beauty of these architectural marvels and the enchanting nighttime spectacle that will leave you in awe.
Gardens by the Bay:
Hours: 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM daily
Cost: Free Admission (to the gardens, not the skywalk)
Evening Light Show:
Hours: 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM daily
Cost: Free admission
OCBC Skyway Hours
Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily
Cost: USD 10.00 for adults and USD 6.00 for kids 3-12 years old
Gardens by the Bay Admission Ticket (Includes Cloud Forrest) - Book Here!
I recently visited the Cloud Forest in Singapore, and I have to say, it's one of the most impressive architectural wonders I've ever seen. Once you step inside, you're completely transported to a world of vibrant colors and beautiful flowers from all over the globe. It's a sensory overload that will leave you feeling both exhilarated and at peace.
To get to the top of the Cloud Forest, you take an exciting elevator ride that leads you to walkways with breathtaking views. As you make your way back down, you'll see the second-largest indoor waterfall in the world, which is truly a mesmerizing sight. The power and beauty of nature are on full display here.
If you're looking for a break from the city and a chance to reconnect with nature, the Cloud Forest is the perfect place. It's a serene sanctuary that transports you to an outdoor environment, surrounded by nature's beauty. It's also conveniently located near other major attractions in Singapore, including the famous "supertrees."
While it may not be the most budget-friendly activity in Southeast Asia, I have to say that the Cloud Forest experience is worth every penny. The journey it offers, surrounded by breathtaking beauty, is truly something special. If you get the chance to visit Singapore, don't miss out on this unique and awe-inspiring attraction.
Hours: 9 AM until 9 PM
Entrance Fee:
USD 28.00 for adults
USD 15.00 for children 3-12
For more information click here.
Singapore is famous for its hawker centers, and there are over 100 centers in the city, each containing many different vendors. At the hawker stalls, you will find flavors of Asia and dishes inspired by the west. I had my share of Chicken Tika Masala, which I had been craving during my time in Singapore, but while you are in the city, I recommend trying some unique dishes from Singapore.
One of Singapore's most famous dishes, if not the most famous, is Hainanese Chicken Rice, and the Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken stall is one of the most famous locations selling this dish. You will find their food stall at the Maxwell Food Centre right on the edge of Chinatown in south Singapore. Look for the blue overhead sign shown in the picture to the left. This HUGE hawker center alone contains over 100 individual stalls. With so many stalls to choose from, you may visit more than one food stall while you are there. There is something for everyone to enjoy.
Maxwell Food Centre Hours: Everyday 8:00 AM - 2:00 AM
I'm a budget traveler, so staying at a 57-story-high SkyPark is not in the cards. This resort has a lot to like. Rooms start at around $900 per night at this massive 2,500-plus room hotel. If you have the money to spend while you are in Southeast Asia, why not visit the region's most iconic resort?
One of the things that you will enjoy is the rooftop infinity pool which is nearly 500-foot-long, offering some breathtaking views of the city. Marina Bay Sands Resort also offers restaurants, bars, and a shopping mall. I highly doubt anyone who stays at this resort doesn't enjoy their time, but for me, it was something to enjoy from the outside, at least for now.
Book direct here
Spectra at Marina Bay Sands is probably one of the most, if not the most, impressive water light show in the world. The show is complete with orchestra music, laser lights, and images projected onto a wall of water that shoots up to form a liquid projector screen. Eighteen separate fountains shoot up as high as 20 meters and are lit by LED lights. The show is visitable from both sides of the bay, making it easy to enjoy.
I viewed the show from the side nearest the Marina Bay Sands shopping mall since it is closest to the water jets. It gets very crowded during the show, so show up early to find a good viewing spot. In a city that isn't always the most affordable in Southeast Asia, you will find that this free source of entertainment will create one of the best memories of the city.
Sunday-Thursday: 8:00 pm & 9:30 pm
Friday & Saturday: 8:00 pm, 9:30 pm, & 11:00 pm
Fort Canning Park is a historical site in Singapore and is a source of outdoor enjoyment for Singaporeans and tourists alike. This site is famous for its WWII-era tunnels. It also holds special significance to Malay nationals because it contains a shrine of Sultan Iskandar Shah, the last monarch of the old kingdom of Singapura. In this area, archaeologists have even unearthed artifacts that date back to the 14th century.
It is another example of the seamless blend of Singapore's effort to infuse outdoor places in this heavily populated metropolitan area. In addition to the historical sites, there are plenty of green spaces, six unique gardens, and beautiful scenic walking trails. Located just off of the famous Orchard road, this historical park is conveniently located, and it will offer a friendly solace from the hustle and bustle of the big city.
Overall, zoos in this region of Asia have less-than-stellar conditions for the animals that inhabit them, so I recommend doing your research. The Mandai Singapore Zoo is one of the few exceptions. Here you will find over 4,200 animals of over 300 different species inhabiting a lush tropical rainforest. Elephants of Asia, Primate Kingdom, and Reptopia are just three of the 11 zones that make up the zoo. There are also educational events, shows, tours, and animal feeding opportunities to enjoy.
The Singapore Zoo is something I love about this incredible city. Growing up near Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, I fell in love with zoos early in my life. Seeing all the different animals from around the world helped fuel my passion for travel later in life. I still remember dreaming about traveling to faraway places like Asia and Africa during those visits. I'm happy that I was able to make those dreams a reality. Make sure to enjoy this fantastic zoo when you visit Singapore. It is worth it.
To learn more about the Singapore Zoo, click here.
Tickets:
SGD to USD conversion as of (September 2022)
Adult - SGD 48 or USD 33.44
Child - SGD 33 or USD 22.99
Senior - SGD 20 or USD 13.93
(All tickets include tram service)
First established in 1822, Chinatown Singapore has become an essential fixture in the city with a diverse mixture of things to see and do. It consists of 5 precincts:
Whether you want to shop, dine, or explore, you will find that this area has a lot to offer. There are also plenty of events throughout the year to help attract travelers to this area as well. You might also enjoy one of the many free or paid tours that Chinatown provides, creating an informative experience for travelers and helping them get the most out of their visit.
To learn more about Chinatown Singapore, visit here.
Visitor Centre Info:
Address
2 Banda Street, Singapore 059962 (Behind Buddha Tooth Relic Temple)
Opening Hours
Daily: 10:00-19:00
Contact
+65 6534 8942
Recognized as Singapore's inaugural and presently sole UNESCO World Heritage site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens stand as an awe-inspiring testament to the magnificence of this remarkable city. Established in 1859 by the Agri-Horticultural Society of Singapore, the botanic garden was pivotal in cultivating agricultural advancements in Singapore and the surrounding region. As stated on Singapore's National Park website, its early years witnessed the Gardens' significant contributions through collecting, cultivating, experimenting, and disseminating potentially beneficial plant species.
Over time, the Singapore Botanic Gardens has evolved into a captivating destination that attracts locals and tourists, offering abundant natural beauty to revel in. With its vast array of plant species, sculptures, art galleries, and museums, visitors are treated to a multifaceted experience. Notably, a guided garden tour focusing on a different section is offered every Saturday, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the diverse facets of the park. When visiting Singapore, indulging in an afternoon amidst the splendors of this botanical haven is an exceptional way to immerse oneself in nature. As they say, spending time outdoors rejuvenates one's mood, and the Singapore Botanic Gardens will uplift your spirits and leave a lasting impression.
Opening Hours
5 am to 12 midnight daily
Admission
Free
Location
1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
Singapore is a large and modern metropolis, so there is no shortage of places to shop. Here you can find some of Southeast Asia's most opulent shopping malls. One of my favorites is the Marina Bay Sands Mall, right in the heart of the action near the Marina Bay Sands Resort. This colossal mall offers fantastic dining, an enormous amount of retail stores, and some unique characteristics that set this mall apart.
In the heart of the mall, you will find a superb waterfall that flows from a glass globe. You watch the glass globe fill up, and once it does, the waterfall begins. The process keeps repeating for the enjoyment of shoppers. Another unique feature is a canal of crystal clear water where guests can ride in boats that run through the center of the mall and around the perimeter of the waterfall.
This unique mall is sure to provide a fun and enjoyable experience for all visitors, even if spending time in a western-style mall isn't at the top of your list of things to do in Southeast Asia.
Marina Bay Sands Mall Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Location: 10 Bayfront Ave · Near Marina Bay Sands Resort and the ArtScience Museum
Additional Info: For further information, click here.
Move over Eye of London. Singapore has its own mammoth Ferris wheel called the Singapore Flyer. In fact, at 165 meters tall, it is 30 meters higher than the Eye of London. From 2006 until 2008, the Singapore Flyer was even the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. It is now the third largest in the world, behind the Dubai Eye in the UAE and the High Roller in Las Vegas, Nevada.
While I have taken a ride on the Eye of London, I still need to ride on Singapore's observation Ferris wheel. During my visit to this beautiful city, I enjoyed the Singapore Flyer, brilliantly lit up at night with Singapore's incredible skyline in the background. With Marina Bay Sands, Cloud Forest, Super Tree Grove, and the city skyline all nearby, this will be at the top of my list when I return. The views of Singapore look incredible from the ground. I imagine a view at 165 meters is even more breathtaking.
There are various options on how you want to enjoy your experience on the Singapore flyer. Tickets start as low as SGD 40 for adults, including admission to the Singapore time capsule (see link for more details). Tickets can go up to thousands of dollars for dining and private capsule options. However you want to enjoy your experience, you will surely see a brilliant view of the city, which is what it is all about.
Hours: daily 2:00 pm - 10:00 pm (last admission at 9:30 pm).
Entrance Fee:
Adults: SGD 40.00 (USD 29.44 as of 12/2022)
Childing 3-12 years SGD 25.00 (USD 18.40 as of 12/2022)
Seniors 60+ SGD 25.00 (USD 18.40 as of 12/2022)
One of the best activities to do in Southeast Asia is shopping. Singapore has the best of both worlds in that respect. You can take advantage of the affordable food and goods at more low-cost shopping centers such as the Chinatown Night Market. On the other hand, you can shop at some of the world's most opulent malls, such as the Marina Bay Sands Mall. The shopping district on Orchard Road leans more toward the latter.
There are many upscale stores, restaurants, and coffee houses to take advantage of on this 2.5-meter (1.6-mile) long stretch of road in Central Singapore. Similar offerings and retail locations are grouped to enhance the shopper's experience. One of the most notable stores on Orchard road is the department store Tangs which opened there in the 1950s.
Among other characteristics, the area separates itself from other surrounding areas with its unique architecture and art installations. Its many amenities make Orchard Road an exciting place to visit, even if you want to skip the shopping.
Flower Dome Singapore is a very popular tourist spot situated in Gardens by the Bay, a natural park located in Singapore. It is a huge glass greenhouse that holds a variety of plants and flowers from different regions and climates.
It consists of various themed gardens like the Mediterranean Garden, Australian Garden, South African Garden, and more. Each garden provides a unique botanical experience, enabling visitors to explore different landscapes and ecosystems all in one place.
This indoor guarden also features seasonal floral displays and exhibitions that change periodically throughout the year to showcase a variety of themes and installations. Visitors can admire the stunning flowers and learn about their unique characteristics and significance.
Besides the flowers, the Flower Dome also offers educational programs and workshops, which focus on gardening, sustainability, and conservation. There are also dining options available within the attraction, which allow visitors to enjoy a meal while surrounded by the lush greenery.
In conclusion, Flower Dome Singapore is a must-visit place for nature enthusiasts and people who appreciate the beauty of plants and flowers. It offers a peaceful and immersive experience in the middle of the city, allowing visitors to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a serene and scenic environment.
Hours: daily 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Cost: Singapore Resident · Adult. $35 · Senior Citizen (60 yrs old and above). $30 · Child (3-12 yrs old). $27. (Included with cost for Cloud Forest)
For location and more information, click here
Located in the Chinatown district of Singapore, the Buddha Tooth Temple and Museum provides a great museum experience for those who visit. Constructed in 2007, the temple and museum feature Tang-styled Chinese architecture, which fits nicely with its surroundings in Chinatown. It is one of the most appealing temples you will see in Singapore. The temple is four stories high with a rooftop containing the "Ten Thousand Buddhas Pagoda" and a lovely garden that compliments the pagoda's beauty.
The third floor is where you will find the Buddhas of the World Museum. On the fourth floor, guests can view the "Buddha Tooth" relic housed in a stupa made from 320 kg of gold. Discovered from the rubble of a collapsed stupa, the tooth is 7.5 cm long, which is too long to be a human tooth. Regardless of the true origin of the relic, this beautiful temple provides a large amount of art and history that creates an informative and enjoyable experience for your time in Chinatown.
Hours: Daily 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free (donation optional)
Additional Information: click here
One of my absolute favorite activities is going to art and natural history museums. Exploring room after room of art and history awakens my curiosity, ambition, and optimism. Seeing the life works of artists who poured their soul into their work gives me a sense of urgency to work on myself and continue to improve my talents, although I am about the least artistic person I know. Visiting museums is a way to dive deeper into a country's past and present in a way that enriches the travel experience.
The National Gallery of Singapore is a large and impressive museum with incredible artwork. It is also very informative with a fantastic layout. The museum's galleries include Between Declarations and Dreams: Art of Southeast Asia Since the 19th Century and Siapa Nama Kaum? Art in Singapore Since the 19th Century. My favorite exhibit is Living Pictures: Photography in Southeast Asia which explores 150 years of history through photos. As a Southeast Asia Travel enthusiast and admirer of photography as an art medium, this exhibit is delightful and memorable.
The National Gallery Singapore offers tours and a gallery explorer museum app, making a museum that is easy to navigate for its patrons. They also have many activities and events for people of all ages. As a vast and modern city, Singapore has many museums to visit. It would be challenging to enjoy them all during one visit to the city, but if you want to experience some fabulous and world-class art, add the National Gallery Singapore to your itinerary.
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Entrance Fee: SGD 20 (USD 14.87 as of 1/3/2023)
*Free for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents*
Additional Information: click here
Officially conceptualized in 1972 by Singaporean artist Lim Nang Seng, the Merlion monument at Merlion park epitomizes the nation of Singapore and was sculpted by Lim Nang Seng. This statue is the most famous depiction of this national symbol, standing 8.6 meters high and made of cement. As the name suggests, the figure depicts a half-fish, half-lion creature. The half-fish represents Singapore's history as a fishing village, and the lion represents the city's original name Singapura which means "lion city."
Today you will see this mythical creature depicted in advertising and other forms throughout Singapore. As an important national symbol, stop by Merloin park while in Singapore to see the most famous depiction. If you stop by at night, you will see it beautifully lit up, and you will be able to avoid the daytime heat, which is always a bonus in Singapore. Merlion Park is located along Fullerton Road, just across Marina Bay from the ArtScience Museum and Marina Bay Sands Resort.
Gardens by the Bay offers more than Cloud Forest and the "Super Trees." The park extends end to end over half a mile from Marina Bay southwest to Marina Boulevard. In addition to some lovely landscaping, you will also find some stunning artwork. One such piece is a large "floating" baby named Planet by Marc Quinn, depicting the artist's son. This 2008 ten-meter painted steel and bronze sculpture was first shown at Beyond Limits, a contemporary art show, in Chatsworth House, England, during the year of Planet's completion.
In 2013, an anonymous donor gave the statue to Singapore, where it is now permanently displayed in the Gardens by the Bay. You can stroll through the park any time of day to enjoy this lovely and fascinating art surrounded by the beautiful landscaping in Gardens by the Bay. As I walked through the entire park, I happened to stumble upon the artwork, and it left an impression on me. I love going to art museums and studying the work of talented artists. With the baby's right hand depicted on the Planet being the only source of support for the entire artwork, it gives the illusion that the baby is floating. I highly recommend walking through the park at Garden's by the Bay and making sure to find this outstanding piece of art during that walk.
Entrance Fee: Free
Hours: 24 hours daily
Visiting Universal Studios Singapore is not something I would do while visiting Southeast Asia, but that is a matter of preference and the type of travel I'm looking for. Living in the U.S., there are plenty of theme parks to visit which is one reason I would only include this on my itinerary since I travel to see and experience things that I wouldn't be able to in my home country. Still, this fun-filled theme park is great for families or those with money and time visiting Singapore. If I ever find myself in Singapore for an extended amount of time, it may be something that I would add to my itinerary because the park does look like a lot of fun.
Step into this Universal Studios Singapore, and you are greeted with six themed zones, each creating a unique and exciting experience for park guests. Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, The Lost World, and Far Far Away all offer thrilling experiences for guests. Within these zones, you will find various rides, interactive shows, and other attractions to enjoy.
One of their most popular attractions, Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon, is a pair of dueling rollercoasters in which the riders pick a side, and the coasters race toward each other at various times during the ride. If roller coasters don't suit you, then there are still plenty of attractions to choose from. Universal Studios Singapore is bound to create an enjoyable experience for travelers who enjoy theme parks.
Hours:
Daily 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entrance Fee:
(Foreign Tourist)
Children 4-12: 61 SG
Ages 13+: 82 SG
(Singapore Resident)
Children 4-12: SG 58
Ages 13+: SG 73
The Mandai Night Safari is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Singapore. It is the world's first nocturnal zoo and is run by Wildlife Reserves Singapore. The Night Safari is located in the Mandai rainforest area and spans over 35 hectares (86 acres). The zoo is designed to mimic a natural rainforest habitat and is home to a diverse range of nocturnal animals.
Visitors can explore the Night Safari by walking or taking a tram ride that takes them through different geographical zones, from the Himalayan foothills to the Southeast Asian rainforest. The park is divided into different zones, each representing a specific habitat and the animals that live in it.
The Night Safari is popular for its opportunity to observe animals and their nocturnal behaviors. Many animals, such as big cats, tapirs, and different species of deer, are more active at night, and visitors can observe them without disturbing their natural behaviors. Live shows and cultural performances add to the overall experience.
The Mandai Night Safari offers a unique and thrilling experience for visitors to Singapore. It provides a chance to see and learn about nocturnal animals in their natural habitats, while enjoying a fun and immersive evening adventure. Whether you prefer to explore the park on foot or take the tram ride, the Night Safari is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Photo Credit: Mandai Night Safari
Hours: Daily 7:15 AM - 12:00
Fees: Purchase tickets, check fees, and view additional information here
Reference:
$ Usually under USD 20.00
$$ Usually USD 20.00-30.00
$$$ Usually over USD 30.00
$ Century Service World - This hostel is well located. Each room at the hostel comes with lockers and shared bathroom facilities. Some units include complimentary linen and towels.
Extra Perks: Bar and restaurant on site.
Located Near: Chinatown
$$ CapsulePod@Aljunied - The cozy sleeping pods in this hostel feature outlets. With an 8.8 out of 10 on booking.com, you can't go wrong.
Extra Perks: storage in the room, shared kitchen
Located Near: Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre is 3.1 miles.
$$$ The Pod at Beach Road Boutique Capsule Hotel This immaculate and clean hostel features beds that include privacy curtains and storage.
Extra Perks: Breakfast buffet, air purifiers
Located Near: Suntec City
Nearby Public Transit: Subway Bugis MRT Station (0.3 miles)
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