Teacher Trekker

To put it simply I found Singapore to be extremely expensive and ranks as the most unnecessarily overpriced country on the planet I’ve visited thus far. There is a silver lining. Savvy travelers can save money a number of ways by following my Quick Guide to Saving Money in Singapore. In addition to following the suggestions outlined in that article there are many free, cheap, or discounted activities to partake in and attractions to see that won’t break your budget. Whether you are looking for culture, history, nature or a combination of the three there are ample opportunities to reduce your spending while taking in the sights, sounds and flavors of Singapore. Below is a detailed list of the 5 Ways To Do Singapore On The Cheap.

# 1 – Explore the Ethnic Enclaves

In many ways Singapore can be viewed as a microcosm of Asia. As you make your way around the tiny island country you will encounter a number of neighborhoods that embody the culture and cuisine of the ethnic minorities that dominate these areas, specifically Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam. Each are unique in their own right and dedicated to the the preservation of their ethnic heritage. The neighborhoods are full of businesses dedicated to serving ethnic dishes and selling authentic and/or imitation goods. Whether you are just passing through on your way to your next attraction, looking for lunch or dedicating some time specifically to explore one or more of theses districts your time will not be wasted.

If you are looking for more detailed information about these neighborhoods please refer to the full article: Singapore’s Ethnic Enclaves

# 2 – Wander Around a Mall, or 2 or 3 or 4 or….

Singapore could be considered the land of the malls. They are everywhere. They’re above ground and below ground. At the street level it was easier to navigate the streets using the malls as sight markers than the street signs. Once inside you could walk around these behemoth complexes for what feels like hours and ends up being miles at a time. They have every want and need you could imagine. Perhaps it is better to pose questions.

What do you need? Need a haircut, manicure, massage or medication? Go to the mall! Do you need to go food shopping? Go to the mall! Do you need new clothes? Probably not, but what do you want? Do you want new clothes, shoes, sports equipment? Go to the mall! Looking for a casino, an ice skating rink, even schools? Go to the mall! Are you hungry? What type of cuisine? Will that be at a restaurant or food court? Guess where you can find that and much much more… at a mall close by.

What malls are worth visiting do you ask? When people write Top 10 lists about the best malls you know there are dozens to choose from. Honestly, I’m not a huge fan of massive malls and had little intention of purchasing anything other than essentials at the grocery store, pharmacy and food court. My exploring led me to Suntec City after a hot evening celebrating SG50. The next day brought me near the Marina Bay Sands Mall where I stopped for dinner and not the gondola ride. I had little desire to visit any others on my last day. They all felt very “same same, but different” to me. I’ll save Orchard Street for my next trip to Singapore.

The malls are all very well air conditioned and often allowed me to avoid the heat while walking to my next destination. Along the way I encountered a plentiful amount of interesting architecture and art throughout the complexes. They have everything you need and more than enough that you want all at your fingertips. Be frugal and only purchase essential items. You’re here to walk around and save money not go on a shopping spree.

# 3 – Visit One or More of the Many Gardens & Parks

For such a small island that is covered with massive mall complexes and tall standing modern skyscrapers there is a significant portion of the land dedicated to gardens and parks. Here are some suggestions:

The Singapore Botanical Gardens is only one of three gardens recognized by UNESCO and is the only tropical garden on the list. The garden dates back to 1859 and today is viewed as “an outstanding example of a British tropical botanic garden which has also played a key role in advances in scientific knowledge, particularly in the fields of tropical botany and horticulture, including the development of plantation rubber.” There is a herbarium, frangipanis, sculptures, fountains, a visitor center and the National Orchid Garden. Tours are available that teach about local foliage and orchids. See if there are any free concerts or operas at the bandstand.

It was extremely out of character for me to not visit the Singapore Botanical Gardens UNESCO Site considering it was only a short metro ride away from anywhere I was during the course of my 3 days. I was short on time and the site’s lack of historical significance deterred me from making my way there, but I will if and when I visit again.

Transportation Info: Get off at the Botanic Gardens MRT Station (CC19/DT9)

If you’re looking for something more modern you may consider Gardens by the Bay, one of Singapore’s main attractions since its opening in 2012. Made on 250 acres (101 hectares) of reclaimed land the park contains three waterfront gardens with many attractions most of which are free admission. Visitors have access to Bay East Garden, the Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes, the Heritage Gardens, the World of Plants, the Sun Pavillion, the Far East Organization Children’s Garden, and finally the Supertree Grove. Make sure to visit at dusk to catch the free environmentally conscious solar powered laser light show. There are fees to access the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome Conservatories, as well as the OCBC Skyway, but can easily be skipped unless you are a true horticulturalist. Try your best to come early enough to walk around Gardens by the Bay during the daylight hours and then get a good seat for the first of the lightships at the Supertree Grove.

Transportation Info: Get off at the Bayfront MRT Station (CE1/DT16)

Below is a list of some of the many parks, gardens and nature based attractions throughout Singapore you may consider visiting. (The starred locations were places I was able to briefly visit during my trip.)

• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum Rooftop Garden
• Bukit Batok Nature Park
• Bukit Batok Town Park (Xiao Guilin)
• Changi Point Boardwalk
• Chek Java
• JalanBesar Heritage Trail*
• Kallang Park*
• Labrador Nature And Coastal Walk
• MacRitchie Treetop Walk
• Marina Barrage
• The Meandering Southern Ridges
• Merlin Park
• Punggol Waterway Park
• Sisters Islands Marine Park
• Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
• Toa Payoh Heritage Trail
• Woodlands Waterfront Park

No matter where you go in Singapore’s urban expanse you will encounter gardens and parks rich with local and regional flora that will take your mind off of the hectic metropolis that surrounds you. Maybe you want to just hang out at the park or take a leisurely stroll. I would suggest that you compare the above mentioned locations and make your decision based on interests and proximity.

# 4 – Appreciate the Arts, Culture & History

Despite Singapore’s size the country has a plethora of museums and heritage institutions that can give locals and tourists a deeper understanding and appreciation for the culture and history of Singapore and Asiatic people in general. The city contains four national museums that are maintained by the government’s National Heritage Board. The National Museum of Singapore focuses on the history of the country. The Singapore Art Museum includes collections of contemporary art from Singapore and throughout Asia. The Asian Civilizations Museum is located at the Empress Place Building and includes exhibitions about the ethnic groups that were so influential in the development of Singapore. It’s sister museum the Peranakan Museum is housed at the Old Tao Nan School and specializes in Peranakan culture.

In addition to the national museums there are many other independently owned and operated exhibitions, galleries and museums spread out across Singapore. With over 7,000 pieces the Singapore Art Museum houses the largest permanent collection of Southeast Asian contemporary art on the planet. If you like architecture consider a visit to the Singapore City Gallery. It has tracked the physical transformation of the Singaporean landscape over the last 50 years and provides a good background into the land reclamation process that continues to take place in the island nation. Both are also free on Friday evenings. I’ve heard good things about the Singapore Philatelic Museum which traces the postal history of Singapore and its stamps.

Inside the very recognizable large lotus flower structure at Marina Bay Sands is the ArtScience Museum. There is a permanent collection that focuses on the weaves mediums and subjects including architecture, art, design, media, science, and technology. The museum also features many temporary exhibits from museums around the world.

Overall, the museums throughout Singapore are quite affordable. They range in price from S$5 to S$15 ($3.5 to $10 USD). If you are interested in visiting a number of museums or making a repeat visit to one of them then consider saving a few dollars by purchasing a three day pass that will cost you S$20 (approx. $15 USD). There are discounts for children, students and senior citizens. Teachers may also be able to get a discount, but I make no guarantees. Remember to carry your I.D. card whether you are a student or educator and ask if their is an educational discount even if it is not listed. For more detailed ticketing information, museum times and transportation advice please go to the particular museum’s website.

# 5 – Get Your Blood Pumping – Walking & Working Out

Another great way to spend your time while minimizing your costs is getting your heart pumping. That can range from walking to sports and weightlifting. For anyone who is willing to build up a sweat then here are a few ideas you may be interested in.

If you’ll looking to just take a leisurely stroll you may consider looking into the gardens and parks section above, but a number of the ideas below may also be of interest to you. Some of the parks even have basic workout equipment. If you are willing to spend an extended period of time on your feet you may want to consider hiking Mount Faber or the MacRitchie Treetop Walk. Just looking to jog or ride your bicycle then consider Punggol Waterway Park. If you are looking for culture and history you may be interested in walking the Little India Heritage Trail or exploring for the 8 Merlions around Singapore. Another option if you visiting during the weekend is to go on a free walking tour with Singapore Footprints.

Maybe you are looking for something a little more adventurous. Head over to Bukit Timah Nature Preserve and ride on the oldest Mountain Bike Trail in Singapore. If you or any children you are with enjoy action sports make sure to head over to the Somerset Skate Park where you can not only ride ramps, but you can write on them too. This is only places where graffiti is legal so artists may be interested in visiting there also, but you’ll need to supply your own paint.

Finally, anyone looking for a more intense workout that includes weightlifting and various forms of gymnastics and other gnarly strenuous activity consider visiting one of the many Crossfit affiliates located throughout Singapore. There are boxes (gyms) all around the country. Check locations and schedules for each box and determine what works best with your schedule. Always call a head prior to going. Keep in mind, there may be a gym fee. For more information please read my How to Choose A Crossfit Affiliate While Traveling or Crossfit Across Singapore articles.

Conclusions

Based on the information provided above it is clear that despite Singapore being an extremely expensive country there are many attractions and activities that will not be a burden on your bank account. An exploration into the ethnic enclaves can lead to great meals and interesting window shopping. Speaking of shopping make sure to visit some of the malls, but limit your spending to essentials. If you’re interested in more active pursuits consider taking a walk, jog or bike ride at one of the many parks and gardens. If you’re looking to escape poor weather then make sure to visit one of the museums and take in some art, culture and history. Spend some time doing research so that you can find activities that fit with your lifestyle and take advantage of the many free or discounted opportunities throughout Singapore. Finally, make sure to check my Quick Guide to Saving Money in Singapore for more general ways to decrease your spending. Stay Frugal and Happy Trekking!