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Singapore can be one of the most expensive cities in Asia for holidaying. With accommodation prices at par with those in the US and the UK and almost the double in comparison to other countries in Asia, it becomes essential to look out for ways to save your pounds in every way possible.
Here are top five ways to save money during your Singapore holiday:
Buy a CEPAS/EZ-LINK Card
Singapore has an excellent network of MRT and LRT trains as well as local buses. The EZ-link card covers all routes on the bus and train network and helps you save by offering discounted prices for journeys as you only pay for the distance you travel as against a flat fee on regular tickets. Moreover, they help commuters save time as they don’t have to wait in ubiquitous queues for tickets. The card can be bought at all train stations for S$12, inclusive of S$5 security fee.
Ditch the Bottled Water in Favour of Tap Water
It is natural for tourists travelling from the UK to feel more at ease drinking mineral water for the fear of hygiene while travelling in Asia. Though, it is not advisable to drink water from the tap in most countries in Asia, Singapore is a pleasant exception to the rule. The price of bottled water starts from S$2, making it wiser to drink from the tap water for budget travellers.
Head to Food Halls and Affordable Markets When Hunger Strikes
Due to a multi-cultural population, Singapore has a great variety of cuisine, most of which is accessible even to budget travellers. When looking for cheap eating options, explore the food courts as well as hawker and street stalls in the city. For just as much as S$4-6, you can savour a delicious and complete meal in the Chinatown and Little India areas of Singapore. In fact, like the most of Southeast Asia, the local street food is also one of the city’s major draws for many tourists.
Include Free Experiences in Your Itinerary
There’s plenty to Singapore beyond the thrilling world of Sentosa, the glittering malls of the Orchard Road, and the bustling nightlife at the Clarke Quay; thankfully, some of these experiences can be had for absolutely no money. Plan a trek to the Southern Ridges, or watch a movie under the night sky with MovieMob Singapore, fly kites at the Marina Barrage or explore the hidden beaches of the city from where the sunset is as glorious as it is from the best skyscrapers in the city.
Avoid Getting Fined
Singapore is often referred to as the ‘fine city’, a fact that speaks for both place as a leading tourist destination and its notorious image as the city that levies heavy fines in conditions of non-adherence to laws. From not using crosswalks, riding a bike on pedestrian-only paths, from carrying/eating chewing gum, snacks or drinks on the MRT to failing to flush public toilet, there is a long list of reasons for which you can be fines heavily in the city. Do read about these laws before making your travel plans, and ensure strict adherence to them as no mercy is shown to defaulters by the police.