5 tips to spend less in Singapore - the most expensive place in the world

The British weekly Economist published its annual ranking of the world's most expensive places to live in 2023 at the end of November last year. Singapore and Zurich tied for first place. Marielle Descalsota, who has lived in Singapore for 20 years, said there are still ways for tourists to explore the world's most expensive destination on a budget.

Eating at hawker centers

Hawkers or hawker centres are popular destinations for tourists and locals to eat and drink because of the cheap prices, delicious food and hygiene. Most main dishes cost no more than 5 SGD, such as chicken rice if you visit Maxwell hawker in Chinatown.

Drink kopi instead of trendy coffee

Instead of going to fancy cafes to order an expensive latte or cappuccino that can cost up to SGD 6, visitors can try kopi - Singaporean coffee that is hand-roasted with 15 different processing methods. Locals often drink kopi to start the day for SGD 1.2.

Skip the touristy beach bars and pubs

Many tourists flock to Sentosa, an offshore island famous for its luxury resorts, clubs and bars. A bottle of beer here costs 16 SGD, four times more than in a convenience store.

Instead, party at Changi Beach Club in eastern Singapore. Stella Lounge, a local beach club, serves draft beers for around SGD 13. There are also plenty of dining options under SGD 10 at many of the local eateries.

Stay overnight at love hotels

Instead of spending money on luxury hotels, Marielle Descalsota suggests booking a room at a love hotel, which couples rent by the hour. She rates this as "the best value for money in Singapore."

Rooms at Hotel 81 Chinatown, one of the popular chains, cost S$95. Marielle described the place as “clean, spacious, centrally located” and with private bathrooms rather than shared ones like in budget hostels.

Visit free places

Singapore has many famous but expensive attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore and the observation deck at Marina Bay Sands with entrance fees of 62 and 32 SGD respectively.

In addition, visitors can visit free destinations such as Grilman Barracks, a contemporary art area that gathers many international galleries in Singapore, or the NUS Museum. Free concerts are often held outdoors at the Esplanade.