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Singapore, known for its stunning skyline, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine, has long been a dream destination for travellers. However, the perception that this country is an expensive place to visit can often deter budget-conscious travellers. The good news is that with some smart planning and a few insider tips, you can explore Singapore without breaking the bank. Here's a look at enjoying all this marvellous country offers without burning a hole in your pocket.
Lau Pa Sat Food Hawker Centre is a must-visit place in Singapore, not only because it is one of the most popular food markets in the country but also because here, a hearty meal can come for as cheap as S$5. Located in the financial district, Lau Pa Sat offers various local delicacies under one roof. You can easily reach Lau Pa Sat with a short walk from Raffles Place MRT station, situated on the corner of Boon Tat Street.
Inside the market, you'll find numerous stalls selling local delicacies. All you have to do is walk around and see what interests you. Hainanese chicken and rice is a safe and delicious choice, and it's considered one of the must-eat food items when in Singapore. Another dish you shouldn't miss is satay, so it's best to visit Lau Pa Sat after 7 pm. Right behind the building, you'll discover Satay Street, where you can safely enjoy the popular barbecued dish out in the street. Every evening, the road is closed to traffic, and there are plenty of tables where you can savour your meal.
On a tight budget? Do not take taxis. The Mass Rapid Transit, or MRT, is one of the best ways to get around the country. A tourist can purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass contactless smartcard from selected TransitLink Ticket Offices and Singapore visitor centres or get EZ Link or NETS Flash Pay cards from any TransitLink Ticket Office or Passenger Service Centre. Or just get a ticket for a single trip from General Ticketing Machines (valid only for 30 minutes plus the travel time) and avoid the pain of wasting extra time at the ticketing offices. MRT is fast, cheap, and covers a vast network of destinations for a very reasonable cost.
When you are on a budget and can't get generous with time, go sightseeing that's free and doesn't involve standing in queues. One such attraction is the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the 159-year-old tropical garden outside Orchard Road Shopping District. And it's almost free. The National Orchid Garden requires an entry fee, but apart from that, the rest of the garden has free entry and is open from 5 a.m. to midnight every day. The National Orchid Garden has a collection of thousands of species of orchids. Inside the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a small tropical rainforest, around which a walk can be refreshing and educational. The entry fee to the National Orchid Garden can cost you S$5.14.
Most travellers suggest not to shop when on a budget, and we can understand why. But we also know that's not one hundred per cent correct because keeping the challenge of staying within S$100, the best bet would be Bugis Street, where most things come in the range of S$5-10. Mustafa Centre is cheap but is big too. 24/7 convenience stores are great for souvenir shopping; under that budget, you can get many things, from gifts to food.
While Singapore has its fair share of luxurious hotels, plenty of budget-friendly options exist. Consider staying in hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels in areas like Chinatown, Little India, or Geylang. These neighbourhoods offer affordable accommodations without sacrificing comfort or cleanliness.
Alternatively, you can explore options like Airbnb or Couchsurfing to find more budget-friendly places to stay. Keep an eye out for special deals and promotions, which are common in Singapore's competitive hospitality industry.
