According to the most recent survey by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Singapore still holds the title of the most expensive country in the world for 3 years in a row.
For visitors who would like to enjoy Singapore in an inexpensive way, there are plenty of tourist destinations you can visit without draining your pockets. For a day, I was around Singapore and spent less than 20SGD. Here is what I did. But before I did my epic DIY Budget travel to Singapore, I made sure to prepare for my international travel and made myself aware of how to confidently handle my travel to Singapore.
Explore Arab Street
This district offers Mediterranean treasures from exotic food to sophisticated Persian carpets. Here, you can find beautiful silk, fabrics, Indonesian batiks and Muslim clothing. Although Arab street is allocated for the Muslim minority in Singapore, you can find everyone from all walks of life indulging to its unique characteristics of culture, cuisine, and history. The glass shops are beautiful and restaurants are tempting, but pricey. *Check out the Arab Street colorful graffiti which is located a block away from the main street and the most historical mosque , Masjid Sultan located at Muscat Street and North Bridge Road.
Wander Around Bugis
The renowned Bugis Street was a top tourist destination during the 50’s to the 80’s and was known as the red light district of Singapore flooded with transgender during the night. After the redevelopment of Bugis, the bustling nightlife was cut-off and was changed to a shopping destination. At present, it is swarming with shoppers, tourists, merchants and temple goers. Chinese and Hindu temples are around the area too, worth visiting.
One of the busiest place in Singapore which radiates life to its visitors is Chinatown. Food, shopping, temples, colorful Chinese decorations, and hotels are everywhere. For first timers in Singapore and budget travelers, I would like to suggest to book accommodation in Chinatown since the place is very convenient, food is affordable and cheap souvenirs are available.
The aroma of Indian incense welcomes its visitors once you step out on the streets of Little India. The same as Arab Street and Chinatown, Little India has its own distinct identity of culture, religion and food. Its colorful and lively streets spark enthusiasm to curious visitors who would like to see its distinctiveness. Do not forget to visit the colorful Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple at Serangoon Road and witness its vibrant religion.
The boat cruise at Singapore River is so relaxing that you would like to sit down and have a drink. It is less crowded during the day, only a few shops and restaurants near the river are open although malls are open during regular hours. Quark Bay is known to be most lively during the night, bars and disco clubs are open for party goers who lighten up the sit back ambiance to life.
Probably the most expensive place in Singapore. Marina Bay Mall houses the most expensive shops in the country. If you are lucky, you will find celebrities shopping around with their expensive Louie Vuitton or Channel. Take pleasure and stroll around the breezy Marina Bay outside the mall while waiting for the light show.
Wait for the sunset and be captivated by the light show at Marina bay. Every evening, around 20: 00, a spectacular light show would take your breath away. For me, the experience will complete your visit to Singapore. You can choose to watch either the light show at Marina Bay or watch the super trees illuminate at Gardens by the Bay which I guarantee, both are magnificent. And yes, you can enjoy it for free.
Where I stayed:
The Shophouse on Arab Street
Address: 48 Arab Street
Singapore 199745 SG
Telephone: +6590601284
Dormitory Type
Free Breakfast and Wifi
Expenses:
- Train Ticket: I didn’t purchase the Singapore Tourist Ticket which cost 10SGD unlimited day use. I purchased the regular ticket that I was able to use 6 times and gave me a discount of .10 cents .
- . Food: If you like Chinese food, Chinatown is the best option, affordable and definitely good food.
From Arab Street to Bugis, it is a 15-min walk, you only need your legs and a map for that. You do not need to purchase a sim card to have internet connection. Hotels have wifi and you can get a map for free at the airport.
Fare – 1.60 * 6 = 9.60 – .10 = 9.50SGD (335.00php)
Food / Water = 8.00SGD ( 209.00php)
Total – 17.50SGD (612.30php)
*Expenses depend on your itinerary.*
Bugis street market is great. Maybe next time you can try some of the nature walks. There are some good ones around and don’t cost anything.
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Yes, I agree. I didn’t have enough time to explore Singapore. I only stayed for a day. Next time for sure. Thank you. 🙂
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