Gardens by the Bay Singapore

How to Save Money in Singapore

By Adam Fraiel

There’s no denying that Singapore is an expensive city. It’s home to some of the most luxurious properties and facilities on the planet, so you’d expect to pay a premium. That being said, everyone wants more for their money. We’ve compiled a list of our best strategies for saving money in Singapore.

Avoid the busiest months in Singapore

While Singapore’s a year-round destination, some months are better than others. Avoid the busy months if you want to get the most out of your visit.

High Season - June-July and February. The shops are full, some attractions charge a higher entrance fee, and accommodation costs more. The weather is perfect though, so it all depends on your travel budget.

Low Season - August-November. The weather may be a little chillier, with more rainy days, but it’s still glorious. The streets are less crowded, you’ll have more room to breathe in the shops, and restaurant reservations will be easier to make. It’s the perfect time to visit for budget travelers.

September - The Formula 1 race comes to town, and it gets busy! Accommodation prices also spike.

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Visit during Singapore’s Sale Season

Visiting Singapore during the sale season can be one of the best decisions you make. Take advantage of huge discounts, explore a multicultural city, and shop till you drop. It lasts only 4 weeks from June to July and, during this time, many shops are open late and offer huge discounts.

Singapore’s shopping scene is among the best in the world, with world-class shopping malls and boutiques all around the city. You’ll find designer clothes, top fashion labels, electronics, souvenirs, and much more.

Keep in mind, this bustling city can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. If you don’t like crowds, the sale season may not be for you.

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Explore Singapore’s many beaches

A visit to Singapore isn’t complete without taking a dip at one of the island’s beautiful beaches, and it costs nothing to soak in a few rays.

Whether you prefer long stretches of white sand, secluded coves, family-friendly locations, or water sports, Singapore has just what you need. Here are some of our favorites, so you can make the most of your beach holiday.

East Coast Park is Singapore’s most popular beach, so it gets very crowded on weekends. This is where locals flock to for BBQs and beach sports. It’s also a very family-friendly beach with a playground and ample space for running and cycling.

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Changi Beach is another popular attraction for tourists. The beach is fringed by shops and restaurants, making it a glorious spot for picnic lunches. As well as beach sports and activities, you’ll also find plenty of places to chill out and relax.

Siloso Beach is a favorite with families and kids. The beach has many shaded areas and a playground, making it perfect for children to play and for parents to relax. If you’re traveling with young children, this is the place for you.

Tanjong Beach is along one of the island’s most scenic coastlines. It’s a popular spot for swimmers because of the calm blue waters, and the white sand is perfect for lounging the days away.

Make the most of Singapore’s free viewpoints

It doesn’t cost a penny to take a photo, and Singapore’s full of great viewpoints to get some insta-worthy shots. Here are three free viewpoints you should add to your bucket list.

Changi Point Ferry Terminal

This 118-year-old ferry terminal is perched on top of a cliff overlooking Changi Bay and is a great place to enjoy a sunset with your loved ones. There is also a coffee shop at this viewpoint that sells cheap food and drinks.

Mount Faber

Take a hike up to the top of Mount Faber for a spectacular view of the city below. Time it for sunset and treat yourself to one of the best views in the country. It’s also where you take the cable car across to Sentosa island, so it should definitely be on your itinerary.

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Fort Canning Hill

This heritage park in Singapore’s Central Business District offers stunning views of the Marina Bay skyline and Gardens by the Bay. It’s also home to several cultural attractions, such as the National Orchid Garden and Fort Canning Museum.

Shop around for Kids Eat Free deals around Singapore

Kids Eat Free (KEF) deals are a common marketing ploy used around the world by restaurants to attract customers. These deals usually come as a 2-for-1 or 3-for-1 meal deal where the kids eat for free with the purchase of an adult meal. However, some places offer other deals, such as free meals for children on weekends or discounted meals for kids during certain times of the day.

As Singapore’s a major touristic destination, everyone’s vying for your business. Take advantage of this, and save some Singapore dollars, by shopping around for excellent meal deals.

Enjoy happy hour savings in Singapore’s many pubs and bars

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Singapore’s not the cheapest place to go for a bar crawl. With a high tax on alcohol, plus goods and service tax, your bar bill can quickly spiral out of control. If you want to enjoy a tipple in the sunshine, you’ll want to shop around for a happy hour deal.

Luckily they’re plentiful, all over the city. Some, like Al Capone’s Ristorante & Bar, run all day, while others have specific hours, usually ending by 8 PM. Depending on the deal, you could save up to 50% on your entire bill.

The promotions are always changing, so do a quick online search when you land to find the best deals around.

Sample Singapore’s delicious and varied street food

Singapore’s a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population and a myriad of cultures, which is reflected in the street food that’s on offer. Singapore cuisine is a blend of traditional Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European cuisines, and the food scene here is constantly evolving to reflect new tastes and preferences.

Hainanese chicken rice: This is a popular dish in Singapore, which originated from Hainan Island in China. This dish usually comprises poached chicken served with rice cooked in chicken broth, ginger, and garlic. Hainanese chicken rice is usually served with chili and soy sauce, and it’s common street food in Singapore.

Bak kut teh: A soup dish that originated in China. The ingredients include pork ribs, knuckle, belly, and tendon, and Chinese herbs such as ginseng.

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Chilli crab: A popular dish in Singapore and Malaysia. The ingredients usually include crab cooked in a thick, spicy chili sauce.

Laksa: This dish usually comprises coconut milk, rice noodles, lemongrass, shrimp, fishcakes, egg, prawns, bean sprouts, and chili paste.

Roti prata: This popular flatbread originated in Malaysia. It’s usually eaten with curry. You can eat it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Singapore’s food scene is diverse, and it’s one of the best in the world. There are thousands of food stalls with hundreds of different dishes to try. Be adventurous and indulge in the variety of food halls and street vendors.

A top tip, which applies to any city around the world, is to go where the locals go. If you see a food stall surrounded by locals, that’s a sign the food is both delicious and reasonably priced.

Download local apps for food delivery around Singapore

If you’re in Singapore for any length of time, you can download apps for ordering food deliveries. This is handy if you’re in town for an extended period, or maybe it’s a rainy day and you don’t want to leave the comfort of your hotel.

Here are some of the food apps you can download for Singapore:

FoodPanda

This food-delivery app lets you order food from over 500 restaurants in Singapore. FoodPanda delivers your food from restaurants to the location of your choice in Singapore, whether you’re at home or in your workplace.

Deliveroo

Deliveroo is a food-delivery app that lets you order food from over 800 restaurants in Singapore, including fast food, salad, coffee, dessert, pasta, and pizza delivery. Deliveroo delivers your food from restaurants to the location of your choice in Singapore, whether you’re at home or in your workplace.

GrabFood

GrabFood is a food-delivery app that lets you order food from a vast range of eateries, including hawker fare to Michelin restaurants. GrabFood delivers island-wide and even lets you order up to 2 days in advance.

It’s also worth checking online when you’re in Singapore to see if there are any active promo codes. There’s usually a discount on your first purchase, and various promotions depending on the time of year.

Get a local prepaid SIM card for cheap calls and data in Singapore

While there’s Wi-Fi in most cafes and bars, it can make your trip that much easier, safer, and less stressful if you have data on your phone. Checking opening times, directions, and even language translations can all save you headaches while you’re out and about exploring.

While you could pay for an expensive data roaming package through your domestic provider, it’s usually much cheaper to pick up a local prepaid SIM upon arrival.

There are 3 big network providers in Singapore: SingTel, M1, and StarHub. They each offer a tourist SIM and are all available at Changi Airport when you arrive. Shop around between them to find the best deal based on your time in Singapore, if you’ll be traveling to nearby countries, and your expected data usage.

The benefits of getting an EZ Link Card in Singapore

The EZ Link Card is Singapore’s contactless transport card you can use to travel on public transport. It’s handy for tourists because it’s one card for use on all buses, trains, and MRTs.

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With all the EZ Link services available, it makes navigating Singapore a breeze, plus it’s much cheaper than taking taxis everywhere. All you need to do is scan your EZ Link card at the nearest station or bus stop and hop on.

Topping up your card balance is simple, with machines at any MRT station, bus interchange, or selected convenience stores around the city. You’ve got plenty of other options to top up, including via debit cards, credit cards, cash, or via the official app on your phone.

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Wide view - green and pink blossom of trumpet trees with row of skyscrapers on horizon
Blog

Singapore in March

You must have seen the Merlion - half lion, half fish - the symbol of Singapore? Created in 1964 to represent the city’s growth (from a humble fishing village to a powerful beast), its constant spout of water represents good luck and prosperity. Happily it’s your good luck to visit Singapore in March! With children busy at school the world over, it’s a great time to take advantage of affordable fares and enjoy an adult break. Why is March the best time to visit Singapore? Here’s why, including... • Weather in March in Singapore • Cherry blossom in Singapore • Singapore Jazz festival • St Patrick’s Day in Singapore • Adult activities in Singapore • Outdoor activities in Singapore March weather in Singapore Early spring in Singapore is perhaps the best time for sight-seeing. As the north-east monsoon peters out and temperatures start to climb, March sees the least amount of rain, the lowest humidity and the most sunshine. Pleasant dry weather - without the extreme heat and humidity of summer? And less crowds too? It’s a win all round. Sakura Matsuri at Gardens by the Bay If you hanker for Hanami (the traditional custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers), visit Singapore in March to experience the unforgettable sight of the Sakura Matsuri Floral Display. In Japan, cherry blossom (Sakura) has long been a national obsession, representing renewal - but also symbolic of the fleeting nature of life - and attracting both locals and tourists to witness the beauty of the delicate blooms. In recent years however, more and more visitors have also flocked to Singapore where the heavy rains of the preceding month and the springtime heat bring about the perfect conditions for blossom to bloom. The refreshing pink blooms of the local trumpet trees line the roads and everywhere else. But for the main event and the most Insta-worthy photo opportunities, don’t miss the magical displays at the Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay. Catch cherry and peach blossoms in mankai condition (that’s full bloom!) and be entranced by the canopy of picture-perfect pink and white blooms that drift down in perfect pastel clouds. For lovers of Japanese culture the exhibition goes all out, with a host of other traditional displays. Pose for photos by majestic red torrii gates and alongside cute Tokidoki cartoon characters. Be wowed by wagasa (colourful umbrella displays). And ensure your shots are framed by perfectly placed marumado (traditional circular windows). Remember that’s all in addition to the breathtaking displays in the Cloud Forest and Floral Fantasy areas, so you’re guaranteed a fabulous day, fuelled by flower power! Singapore Jazz festival From bloomers to crooners, the annual International Jazz Festival (otherwise known as ‘SingJazz’) is another reason to visit Singapore in March. But whatever you dooby-dooby-do, don’t be put off by the title, as in recent years Marina Bay Sands has played host to world-renowned artists from all sorts of genres - hip-hop-jazz, acid-jazz, soul-funk, reggae - and more. Groove on down for three nights of al-fresco entertainment and, whilst you’re about it, take time to kick back at one of the best rooftop bars in Singapore. Live life like a celebrity at the luxurious CÉ LA VI Skybar, where an All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass from Go City lets you savour a complimentary drink along with sweeping views from the 57th floor. St Patrick’s Day in Singapore Singapore’s inclusive multi-cultural community means there’s always a different festival or holiday to celebrate and the Irish national day on March 17th is no exception, with enthusiastic ex-pat pub-crawls and a colourful parade (led by an inexplicably non-Irish convoy of Harley-Davidsons!) If you’ve the luck of the Leprechauns you might be around to enjoy the two-day St Patrick’s Day Street Festival held on the streets of Boat Quay. Wear green (even the Singapore River is dyed green for the occasion) and get ready for folk music, Irish dancing and hearty Irish stews washed down with gallons of Guinness. If that’s given you a taste for the hard stuff - or you’re simply taking advantage of a grown-up vacation - don’t stop at the black gold (as Guinness is often known). Singapore is also famous as the home of Tiger Beer, the golden draught served in over 60 countries.You can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Tiger Brewery and learn the secrets of the production process which involves 200 quality checks. Then try your hand at pouring the perfect pint before tasting complimentary locally-brewed beers at a beer appreciation session in the Tiger Tavern. If you’re feeling really sophisticated, what could be classier than sipping on a ‘Singapore Sling’ in the bar where it was invented? Clink cocktails in the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel, or sashay out to the lushly-landscaped courtyard of the Raffles Arcade. The iconic gin-based cocktail (which also includes cherry brandy and Benedictine) was created by Mr Ngiam Tong Boon, a bartender at the Raffles Hotel, back in 1915, but, over 100 years later, you can still enjoy the same standards of service, stunning surroundings and drinks to die for. Chin chin! A J Hackett Sentosa Giant Swing It may be that you need some of that Dutch courage for one of the best adult activities in Singapore - the AJ Hackett Skypark. Back in the 80s New Zealander AJ Hackett recreated a Pentecost Island ritual where islanders threw themselves off wooden platforms with a vine tied to their ankle and, after he shot to fame jumping off the Eiffel tower, bungy-jumping was born. You can bungy jump in Singapore too if you dare - or (for over-14s and not for the faint of heart) pick up a ticket for the AJ Hackett Sentosa Giant Swing. Strap in safely then swoop, screaming, towards Silosa Beach at 120km/h. To get your breath back, soak in the scenery and snap some selfies, as you stroll the 40km walkway of the Skybridge, with see-through sections to get your heart racing all over again. Outdoor activities in Singapore Its location right on the equator means it's often so hot and humid in Singapore that during the summer months any prolonged activity outdoors can feel like hard work. Which is why comparatively mild March is a great time to get out to see and do. Puzzle Hunt Singapore A Puzzle Hunt activity is one easy way to discover different parts of the city whilst having fun at the same time. Whether you take on the challenge as a couple, a group or a family, it’s an immersive combination of ‘choose your own world’ role play and outdoor escape room, where the outcome of the adventure depends on the choices you make along the way. Puzzle Hunt in Chinatown will see you scouring the streets for clues, whilst learning about Chinatown’s history, heritage and hawker culture (the 260 stalls in the Chinatown Complex Food Centre combine community with unmissable culinary treats.) There are different brainteasers to battle when you Ransack Little India, searching for a hidden treasure chest whilst discovering the area’s unique landmarks. Or, maybe you’ll choose to look and learn amongst the sprawling lawns and nine gardens of Fort Canning Park, with a military themed Ransack Fort Canning puzzle experience. Wherever you choose to explore, you’ll see the sights whilst finding out fascinating facts at your own pace and claim a prize at the end. What are you waiting for? Nature Kayaking at Pulau Ubin If you’re looking for a respite from the city’s hustle and love to get back to nature, another classic Singapore experience to pull in before the humidity hits is a kayak tour of Pulau Ubin. Just a 15 minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, this verdant island off Singapore’s northeast coast feels like half a world away and is one of only two remaining kampongs (traditional villages) in Singapore. Embrace the tranquility of the open water as you paddle past a natural paradise of lush greenery and thriving mangroves, looking out for kingfishers, herons, otters and more flora and fauna. Explore the coast and the island’s mangroves over a four-hour adventure towards Ketam Island. On land, for the adventurous, hiking and mountain bike trails criss cross the island. Maybe you’ll visit the weathered temples and shrines, or simply relax in the peaceful coastal surroundings. Remember there are no ATMs so take along enough money to rent a bike, enjoy a traditional meal, or quench your thirst with a coconut. Bliss. We hope you’ve enjoyed our whistle-stop tour of just some of the sights and sounds that await you in Singapore in March - and all year round. To make sightseeing easier, why not download the Go City app to keep track of all your adventures? Happy travels!
Jo Cooke
Singapore Marina Bay Sands hotel
Blog

What is Singapore Best Known For

From cocktails to cleanliness, we've rounded up Singapore's most famous associations.
Adam Fraiel
NYE
Blog

New Years Eve in Singapore

By Mia Russell Singapore shimmers with bright lights and buzzing energy and is one of the best places to ring in the New Year. With extravagant fireworks displays, dazzling parties, and glittering celebrations, Singapore packs a punch when it comes to saying goodbye to one year and welcoming in the next. From fabulous fine dining at some of the world’s best restaurants to sipping cocktails at the top of the Marina Bay Sands, here are some ideas for celebrating New Year’s Eve in Singapore. Marina Bay Marina Bay is where it all happens on New Year's Eve there’s no better way to ring in the New Year than from the SkyPark Deck on the top of the Marina Bay Sands. Based on the 57th floor, this stunning spot offers the most incredible views of the sunset-silhouetted cityscapes and Marina Bay. Book a table at the CÉ LA VI SkyBar to get front-row seats of the breathtaking fireworks to display at the stroke of midnight. Enjoy a five-course menu with standout dishes and use your pass to enjoy a free drink. Watch the fantastic Share the Moment light projection show that illuminates the façades of the Fullerton Hotel Singapore and the Merlion hotels while resident DJs will be spinning dance-hall-infused hits all night long. Star Island Say hello to the new year with a musical extravaganza of live entertainment and spectacular fireworks at Star Island. Expect 80 minutes of dazzling lights, sound, and color with larger-than-life pyrotechnics, world-renowned DJs on the decks, and specially designed-fireworks. There is also plenty of pre-show entertainment and family-friendly activities at the Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza, including food and drinks booths and meet-and-greets with some of Sanrio’s most beloved characters. The Great Bay Fiesta Join the family-friendly festivities at the Great Bay Fiesta. Taking place at the Bayfront Event Space for the entire month of December, you’ll find a host of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy from a circus show and a food festival to a colorful carnival. Feast on delicious local and global fare from 35 different food stalls and take a trip back in time on Flying Dumbo and Bumper Cars rides at the Great World Carnival. Make snow angels and build your own snowman; try ice skating, ice bowling, and ice curling; and watch acrobats perform death-defying stunts at the Great Cirque des Cascades. Skechers Sundown Festival Hit the beach for an epic New Year countdown event and dance your way into the new year. Head to Palawan Beach Sentosa for Skechers Sundown Live, a one-night music event featuring headline DJs and other Asian acts. There’ll also be loads of family-friendly activities like face painting, scratch art, film screenings, and a food village. Make your way to Sentosa Island with a fun ride on the Singapore Cable Car and use your pass to soar over Singapore’s skyline to the island. LAVO New Year’s Eve Party For a glitzy and glamorous countdown party, head to LAVO Italian Restaurant & Bar at the Marina Bay Sands. Located on the 57th floor of the luxurious hotel, the restaurant serves contemporary Italian-American cuisine and an inventive craft cocktail menu against a backdrop of spectacular views of Singapore’s glimmering city skyline. Relax over post-dinner drinks in the luxurious lounge to the tunes of international DJs before the midnight countdown in Marina Bay. Watch the fantastic Share the Moment light projection show illuminates the façades of the Fullerton Hotel Singapore and the Merlion hotels, followed by the world-famous fireworks display Singapore is famed for. Party at the MARQUEE Welcome to the new year with an unforgettable carnival experience at one of Singapore’s nightlife superstars: MARQUEE. Spread over three floors with 30-meter-high ceilings, the mega club features a giant indoor Ferris wheel, three-story slides, and four thematic bars. Party to a line-up of highly talented resident spinners and international DJs against a backdrop of stunning visuals and state-of-the-art lighting. 665°F and Mr. Stork at Andaz Singapore Take to the sky to ring in the new year with award-winning cuisine, fine wines, and spectacular views at 665°F and Mr. Stork at Andaz Singapore. Begin the evening with a special New Year’s Eve five-course tasting menu at sky-high steakhouse 665°F at Andaz Singapore. Feast on delectable bites like Boston lobster, Kaluga caviar, blue cod bouillabaisse, and winter black truffles. Sip the world’s finest champagnes and pair your meal with a selection of curated wines. After dinner, head up to Mr. Stork to soak up Singapore’s iconic skyline against a backdrop of tunes from a live DJ.
Cara Merren

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