Singapore on a Budget

From Melacca Central Bus Terminal , we took the 2PM bus to Singapore for 23 Ringgit ( around 300 pesos/ 7 USD). Several buses travel this route all day, with the last trip at around 7 pm . Our ride was a basic aircon bus with No TV. Super VIP buses are also available at 25-27 Ringgit (8 USD ). Travel time from Melacca to SG was around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic. We travelled on a Sunday afternoon, so it was a hassle free crossing. Unlike in other countries, immigration for both Malaysia and SG are under one building in Johor Bahru.

Budget Stay in Little India

The bus’ last drop off point was at their garage near Sim Lim Square; very favourable to us because it was just a short walk to Little India where we opt to stay. Contrary to the prior comments of others, staying in the cheerful and vibrant Little India district made my trip in Singapore more interesting. This area is dominated by Indian foodstrips, shops , incense and Bollywood music which was new to my senses. It was also a good exposure in preparation for my next backpacking trip 😉 We stayed at Inncrowd Backpackers inn at Dunlop St. for 20 SGD/night (dorm type) including light breakfast (Toasts,Jam,Egg) and unlimited coffee/tea the whole day. They have a good lounge for guests to watch TV or DVD. Desktop Computers and reference books and Maps are also available for everybody. ( http://www.the-inncrowd.com )

Photo of Inncrowd Backpackers where we stayed for 20 SGD /night with light breakfast. It looks better in actual. hehe

Masala Chicken Pizza — Masala Chicken bun ( 1.2 SGD )- I had a slice of this or 2 for 3 straight days ! Its spicy- pepperish , best paired with Coke =)

Chicken Biryani Meal at a Indian Cafeteria near Tekka Market. 5 SGD , good for 2 — Chicken Biryani Meal at an authentic Indian Cafeteria near Tekka Market. 5 SGD , good for 2

another Chicken Biryani meal I had from a nearby restaurant. hmm, too polished. The meals on the Cafe near the market are more interesting . =) — another Chicken Biryani meal I had from a nearby restaurant. hmm, too polished. Meals from the Cafe at Tekka Market are more interesting . =)

crispy and spicy Vegetarian Samosa — crispy and spicy Samosa from a Vegetarian bakery at the corner of Dunlop St.

Cheaper to buy Universal Studios Ticket Online

Singapore First timers would definitely include visiting Universal Studios in their itineraries. Walk in ticket prices are at 74 SGD for a day tour , but we were lucky enough to stumble on a discounted online promo with Asiatravel.com … We got our ticket for only 65 SGD , inclusive of 10 SGD consumable + P 5 SGD discount on shopping. Sweet!

Maximize Tourist Privileges

Train connection to Universal Studios is located at Vevo City Mall ,which also gives out a lot of perks for tourists. I just presented by passport at the information counter and got this privilege card to avail shopping discounts and free snacks. =)

Free Texas Chicken and Mcdonalds Coffee (and etc) at Vevo City for tourists.

Asia Travel Kiosk at the basement of Universal Studios where we exchanged our 65 SGD worth On line Vouchers to entrance Tickets . — Asia Travel Kiosk at the basement of Universal Studios where we exchanged our 65 SGD worth Online Vouchers to entrance Tickets .

Touring the City on your own

1. Mall Hopping at Orchard Road

2. Bay Area and the Gardens by the Bay in the Afternoon

No entrance fees at the outer Gardens , perfect for morning Jog if i had more time — No entrance fee at the outer Gardens , perfect for morning Jog if I had more time

Dinner at MakanSutra Food Stalls Just outside the Esplanade near the Bay Area

Marina Bay Sands Mall and Hotel

SAM_0438 — Awesome Drop Lanterns at Marina Bay Lobby

SAM_0408 — View of Singapore Cityscape as seen from Marina Bay Sands.

Clark Quay for some Chill and Cold beer.

SAM_0286 — interesting Lobby near Clark Quay with wall hung landscaping.

SAM_0307 — The Sling Ride ! around 80 SGD per ride , too expensive =(

Dine with the Hawkers

Hawkers are the equivalent of Filipino Karinderias , that offer ready made affordable meals. (around 3-5 SGD for 3 viand meals ) Meals are generally Chinese Style and veryTasty.