Ten top things to do in Singapore on a budget
Steamy metropolis has a lot to offer for those looking to not break the bank
As Asia’s busiest stopover hub, Singapore has a reputation for being expensive, but it is possible for those travelling on a budget to enjoy what this vibrant, steamy metropolis has to offer – especially now low-cost flights are operating from the UK.
With fares starting from £179 each way, Norwegian’s new route from Gatwick is set to make trips to this citystate more affordable than ever.
Here are a few exciting ways to experience the city like a local without breaking the bank... 1. SEE WHAT NATURE HAS TO OFFER
Don’t be fooled by the concrete jungle of skyscrapers – Singapore has an abundance of lush green areas.
Founded at its present site in 1859, the UNESCOlisted Singapore Botanic Gardens is a free-to-visit green sanctuary, which is home to more than 10,000 flora species. For an additional SGD$5 (£3).
Beat the crowds (and heat) and goe at the beginning or end of the day – the gardens open 5am-midnight daily. Visit sbg.org.sg 2. HEAD OVER TO THE TIGER BALM GARDEN
If wacky floats your boat, the Tiger Balm Garden, also known as Haw Par Villa gardens, is a must-see.
It boasts over 1,000 statues and 150 scenic dioramas presenting morality tales and scenes from Chinese mythology - the most famous one being the surprisingly graphic Ten Courts Of Hell, depicting the punishments that sinners endure.
There are only three of these hellish gardens in the world, so it’s worth making the effort to this oddball theme park on a hill in Pasir Pajang. Admission is free, and the garden is open daily from 9am-5pm.
3. SAMPLE THE STREET FOOD SCENE
Eating out is a national past time in Singapore, with some of the best value meals to be found at hawker centres (food courts) dotted around the city.
There are more than a hundred to choose from, housing close to 6,000 food stalls, and for as little as SGD$5 (£3), you can sample an eclectic mix of Malay, Indonesian, Korean, Indian, Thai, Japanese and Vietnamese dishes.
4. TUCK INTO THE WORLD’S CHEAPEST MICHELIN-STAR MEAL
Aside from the scrumptious street fare, the city also offers the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred meal.
Located in Chinatown Complex on 335 Smith Street, the Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken