SINGAPORE

The Lion City’s prices might be steep, but SANJAY SURANA says there’s plenty for thrifty tourists.

GRAB BREAKFAST at Simply Bread in Cluny Court – a whitewashed cafe that serves sticky buns, raspberry twists and smooth cappuccinos (S$7/HK$39). From here it’s a short stroll to the immaculate Unesco-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens, where entry is free and attractions include wetlands, a palm valley and a ginger garden. Continue exploring the outdoors at Thomson Nature Park, opened at the end of 2019 to help conserve the critically endangered Raffles’ banded langur.

For lunch, New Rong Liang Ge Cantonese Roast Duck Double Boiled Soup is a beloved hawker stall that debuted on the Bib Gourmand list of the Michelin Guide Singapore 2019, and serves roast meats with rice from S$2.50/HK$14.

Afterwards, squeeze in a visit to the free exhibits at Singapore City Gallery; or catch a free afternoon performance at the Esplanade theatres. You should also have enough time to join a free afternoon walking tour of Chinatown, Little India and the Malay Kampong Glam area, run by Monster Day Tours.

Bring your appetite to the Japanese buffet dinner at Kiseki (from S$40/HK$223), with a gut-busting selection of sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki and yakitori. Continue the party at Artemis Sky Bar with a 3pm-toclose Happy Hour (S$15/HK$84). TOTAL SPEND: S$64.50/HK$360