There’s more to Singapore than futuristic architecture, spotless streets, and high-rolling city slickers. Beneath that shiny veneer Singapore has spark; lots of it. Though it may be considered one of the world’s most expensive cities, the lure of this multi-cultural melting pot is swiftly turning it from a stopover en-route to Asia’s grittier cities, to a must-visit destination for backpackers and tourists alike. With plenty of free or cheap things to do and an extensive, efficient public transport service, it’s surprisingly easy to do Singapore on a budget. Not convinced? Let us show you how…
Singapore’s reliable subway system, the MRT, will whisk you from Changi airport to most central locations within 30 to 45 minutes. And from there you’ll be suitably located to explore all of the island’s historical charm and modern style. It’s worth investing in a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) to enjoy unlimited rides on the MRT, LRT (light rail transit), and all bus routes. An STP is available as a one-*, two-, or three-day option and is ideal for the intrepid traveller on a budget.
You can purchase an STP from all major TransitLink Ticket offices within MRT stations. Once you have it, travelling around the city is hassle-free and convenient. There’s no need to top it up once purchased, just swipe in and out whenever you travel. You’ll spend less time queuing and more time immersing yourself in all that Singapore has to offer. The majority of attractions and neighbourhood hotspots are easily accessible and close to MRT stations. And the efficient service means you can visit every nook of the island by day and night, no matter the length of your visit.
The MRT operates between 5.30am and midnight. Just imagine… you could be eating roti for breakfast in buzzy Little India, lose yourself in the atmospheric temples of Chinatown by morning, devour delicious plates of local cuisine at a bustling hawker centre for lunch, hit the shops of Orchard Road or explore one of Singapore’s many green spaces (like the Botanic Gardens or Gardens by the Bay) in the afternoon, before finishing off your day with a cold beer and sandy toes at one of Sentosa’s many beach bars. With so much to see and do, your STP will become the travel buddy you’ll be sorry to leave behind.
*1-day coverage of the day pass begins from your 1st usage of the pass to the end of public transport service for that day