Ever heard of the quote "the best things in life are free,rest are too expensive!". This is quite applicable to a holiday in Singapore. Undoubtedly SNG is one of the exotic countries to visit,making it the 8th most visited International destination in Asia Pacific! Having said that it's a given fact that the tourism is also a bit heavy on the pockets ????
Anyone planning a vacation to Singapore always has a list of places to visit, most of it having an entry (Some small and some really large fees like the Universal Studios, Gardens by the Bay). So that gives us a notion of everything being pricey in this beautiful place..What most of us don't know is that there are very many places that do not have an entry fee,at the same time gives you the complete feel of the place and the culture!
Read along to know what I found when I was planning my vacation !????
1. Window shopping at the Orchard Road- less than 10 Sing $.
Get down at the Orchard MRT Station. Bangalorians can relate this to MG Road. The place has got showrooms of all the popular brands. Take a joyful walk in the evening for window shopping. The steps around the place has got very pretty lighting arrangement.If you are lucky you might find some locals performing. Also do not miss to munch on a falalfel from Shirza.
2. Finding peace at China Town
Find inner peace at Buddha Tooth Relic Temple - entry free
Located in China Town,this temple is a perfect place to know about Buddhism..The temple has more than 100 Buddha statues,both big and small. The temple architecture is a sight to behold.The ceiling of the temple is decorated with beautiful lanterns,it also has a museum containing ancient things relating to Buddha.The last floor has a giant prayer wheel.
There is no entry fee for this..Just remember that this place has got some restriction on dress, so dress accordingly. Also you can have vegetarian meal at the basement if you are visiting it around lunch time.
Retail therapy in China Town - shop till you drop !
Since you are in China Town don't miss to shop for souvenirs. You get a good variety of local items like charms,bells and Feng shui related things, hand bags, a variety of chopsticks, fridge magnets and lot more.
3. An evening in Chinese and Japanese Garden - entry free
The picturesque garden is perfect for a walk or go for a jog. This is in Jurong East and you can plan to visit it while returning from Jurong Bird Park. The garden is based on Chinese gardening art and also has a bonsai garden in it. The place closes by 6 PM. But the garden will be open for visitors.
4. The spectacular Spectra at MBS & Merlio Park - entry free
Visit to Singapore is incomplete if you don't visit the Merlion. Here is how you can plan it. Get down at Marina Bay. Walk along the Helix bridge. It is a pedestrian bridge resembling a helix,hence the name. Grab an ice cream sand wich. Do the touristy stuff at the Merlion Park. If you are visiting the Bay front in the evening do not miss the laser show - Spectra that happens on the Marina Bay Sands sharp at 8PM everyday. Also you can see the central bank district in all its glory once it is lit up in the evening.
5. See the mechanical cranes coming to life at Sentosa - free entry
The mechanical cranes' dance with the wonderful light and sounds at the waterfront in Sentosa is something I would recommend everyone to watch! The concept and story of the show is very unique. This show has no entry tickets. The show starts around 7.45 PM. Check the timing before you go. If you are going to Universal Studios, then you can watch it on your way back.
6. Enjoy the night life at Clark Quay
See the night coming to life at the Calrk Quay. The place hosts a number of pubs,bars and restaurant offering a wide variety of food and drinks. As the place is on the bank of Singapore River,there are restaurants having beautiful seating just near the river giving a very romantic feel. If you don't want to sit at one place,then grab a bottle of drink from one of the 7- Eleven stores and roam around the place.You will love the spirit of this place.
Happy travelling to you!