You´ve probably heard a lot about Singapore's reputation for being expensive (well deserved, it must be said). But there are quite a handful of rewarding things to do that won't even cost even a penny!
With a stunning skyline, Singapore is famous for its panoramas, and this massive resort complex gives you a sweeping, thoroughly eye-popping look at that (above). Come especially for the sunset and stay for the the impressive 8 pm water-and-light show, projecting images projected on the surface of the lake below.
After SkyPark, a less than 15-minute stroll will take you to this 105-hectare (260-acre) park consisting of three waterfront gardens and most memorably marked by a series of towering "SuperTrees" which cost nothing to wonder at and wander among, as well as witness the spectacular Garden Rhapsody light-and-sound show; there´s also a free-of-charge family zone/play area. There are, however, modest admission fees to the observatory atop the tallest tree, as well as the pair of enormous conservatories, Flower Dome (the world´s largest glass greenhouse) and Cloud Forest.
The three sandy strands on Singapore´s leisure island stretch across two kilometres of coastline, connected by a free tram. Palawan is best for families; Siloso, is the liveliest; and Tanjong is the quietest and most laid back. If you do want to shell out, there are plenty of activities, including water sports, bungy jumping, "Skyslides," a zipline, water-jetpacking, and more. There´s also a fun boardwalk which especially comes alive after dark with music, bars, and restaurants.
Singapore Really Really Free Market
Yes, in this world icon of global free market capitalism, this pop-up flea market is literally free, where community-minded locals give away products such as books, CD´s, toys, and food as well as skills like hair cutting and singing. Times and venues are announced on the group´s Facebook page.
Founded in 1859 and located at the edge of the Orchard Road shopping district, the world´s only UNESCO World Heritage tropical botanical garden is an 82ha (203-acre) spread featuring more than 10,000 species of flora (including 1,200 of orchids), with various subgardens, a small rainforest, flower houses, and a visitors´ and botany centre.
Pulai Ubin
A ten-minute boat ride from downtown (which admittedly is not free but very inexpensive, at four Singapore dollars each way), this small island is Singapore´s last truly rural area, inhabited by just a few dozen people. Its eco trails through the Chek Jawa Wetlands and elsewhere are free, and you can either bring a picnic or get some cheap tasty food at a couple of village eateries.
Colorful, crowded, and cheerful, festivals abound throughout the year, usually including excellent street food, music, and lights. Top events include Lunar New Year (January or February), the Dragon Boat Festival (June), National Day (August), the Hungry Ghost Festival (August), Mid-autumn Festival (October), and Deepavali (November).
Screening all manner of movies throughout the year, from classics to current blockbusters, venues include Movies by the Beach on Sentosa Island, Nightflix Somerset, Lakeside Garden, and Moonlit Movies at the Singapore Botanic Garden.
Check with us at PickYourTrail.com for some excellent Singapore tour packages and Singapore honeymoon packages.
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