Many travellers consider Singapore one of the best tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. The city-state is home to diverse cultures, captivating sights, and sunny weather all year round. You’re sure to have plenty of places and activities to experience every time you visit the country.
That said, some people believe that you have to spend a lot of money to enjoy your stay there. However, the truth is that you can still have a fantastic time without burning a hole through your wallet. Don’t believe us? Here are some tips on how you can fulfil your wanderlust in the famed Lion City while on a budget:
Stay in an Affordable Hotel
Most of one’s travel budget is often allotted for accommodations. Fortunately, Singapore has many affordable options for accommodations, whether you prefer to stay near certain tourist attractions or close to Changi Airport.
Business travellers, in particular, may find it more convenient to book a room in a Singapore Changi Airport hotel. That’s because staying in a hotel adjacent to the airport can save you money and time, especially if you’ll only be in the county for a short period. Unlike checking into a hotel in the city centre, you won’t need to spend a lot on transportation going to and from the airport.
Conversely, those visiting Singapore for tourism purposes may want to check into a hotel closer to the city centre. Most airport hotels are quite far from a lot of the more popular tourist attractions. As such, unless you have a multi-day rail pass, the costs of transportation can add up fairly quickly.
Marvel at Singapore’s Natural Beauty
Why not explore the Garden City’s outdoor spaces for some fresh air and natural beauty? You’ll also be glad to know that these places don’t require any admission fees.
You won’t want to miss out on visiting the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive variety of flora. You can also pay a visit to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. It’s filled with lavish greenery and boasts a 20-kilometre network of trails and boardwalks. While you’re there, be sure to check out through the Macritchie Treetop Walk, a suspension bridge where you can gaze at a panoramic view of the forest. If you want to move farther away from the city, drop by Pulau Ubin, an island sanctuary that’s home to various kinds of wildlife.
Explore the City by Foot
Compared to expensive paid tours, exploring the city-state’s many historic sites on foot and at your leisure can be more exciting and budget-friendly.
You can visit the Civic District, which many associate with the beginnings of modern Singapore. Take a stroll and admire its historic landmarks like the neoclassical Empress Place building, Supreme Court, and the Old Parliament House. These infrastructures have been perfectly preserved and converted into museums filled with local and foreign artworks and murals. For example, the former Supreme Court building is now known as the National Art Gallery of Singapore, while the Asian Civilisations Museum can be found at the former Empress Place.
If you’re interested in learning more about the various religions in Singapore, why not make your own self-guided temple walking tour? Fortunately, you necessarily need a tourist guide to visit the city-state’s many Hindu temples, mosques, and other places of worship.
Watch Free Live Performances
After a full day of walking and sightseeing, what better way to relax than by enjoying some live performances, all without having to spend a single cent? Swing by the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre when you can, as they host free music and dance performances every weekend. Shows usually begin at 7:30 PM and end at 11:00 PM, with each one lasting around 30 to 45 minutes. Since seats are available on a first-come-first-served basis, make sure to get to the venue early to secure a great spot.
If you prefer to listen to classical music, the Singapore Symphony Orchestra holds many concerts throughout the year. Typically, the country’s flagship orchestra hosts a free concert once or twice a month.
Even if you’re on a limited budget, Singapore truly has a lot to offer. You can find affordable yet comfortable accommodations, eat scrumptious local dishes, visit public attractions for free, and immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture without using up too much of your travel budget. There is a lot of information you can look at online including the Best Singapore website.
The tips mentioned above are just a few of the many ways you can make the most of your trip without spending an extravagant amount of money. Before you visit the country, though, make sure to do your research so you know what to expect and how to shave off some of the more common costs associated with travel. After all, being well-prepared is the key to ensuring your trip is an enjoyable, hassle-free experience.
