🇸🇬 Singapore on a budget: secrets of free entertainment
In 2022, Singapore took second place in the ranking of the most expensive cities in the world. In 50 years, the country has transformed from a third world state into one of the richest and most developed on the planet. The “economic miracle” of Singapore regularly attracts foreign investors and business owners.
But Singapore is not only about technology and industry. These are green parks and natural landscapes, low levels of crime and corruption, love for a healthy lifestyle and law-abidingness. Still think that such a life is unreal? Now we’ll tell you how to come to one of the most expensive cities in the world and see it for free.
SingapoRewards program: what is it and why?
In 2023, the Singapore Tourism Council decided to increase the country's tourism potential and developed the SingapoRewards program. Thanks to it, foreigners can become more familiar with the culture and traditions of the state.
The project invites you to learn more about the “city of lions” and choose one of 40 unique activities that you will not find in a standard tourist guide. In essence, foreigners get a chance to get acquainted with lesser-known, but noteworthy attractions. By the way, some of them are completely inaccessible to a wide range of people.
Who can use the program?
To participate in SingapoRewards, you must be in Singapore for a short stay. But keep in mind that the program applies to those who are not residents of the country and reached the country by air.
SingapoRewards is closed for locals, country residents and Long-Term Pass holders. It is also worth considering that you can only use the program offer once.
How to get into the project?
To participate in the program, you need to follow four simple steps:
- create an account in the Visit Singapore system;
- choose and book a lesson;
- indicate the date and purpose of travel to Singapore to receive a ticket to the event;
- present it before starting.
It is better to be thoughtful when choosing an activity. Once you can participate in the program only once.
It is impossible to bypass the system and select an event on behalf of another person – this decision must be individual. Also, the traveler needs to book the date and time for moment X in advance, then there will be more options to choose from.
Is it possible to reschedule the date and time of the lesson?
If you are unable to attend the event, it can be rescheduled for another time. But this can only be done no later than 48 hours before the start. Otherwise, the tourist will lose not only the opportunity to choose another date and time, but also the right to participate in the program, since your choice will “burn out.”
How long does the lesson last?
Each event takes from 1 to 4 hours. Most classes start in the morning. For lovers of late rises, there are daytime and evening options.
How to choose an event?
You can easily choose an activity to your liking from 38 options. They are divided into four groups:
- “Welfare” (3 events);
- “Nutrition” (9);
- “Sustainability” (8);
- “Innovation and impressions” (18).
Each lesson is thought out to the smallest detail. This is not just an overview of the main attractions. At trainings, master classes, excursions and attractions, you can not only observe, but also participate personally.
Would you like to attend a master class on creating scents of Singaporean flora? How do you feel about aqua spinning training? Have you ever cooked at a culinary workshop with elements of traditional Chinese medicine? If you're on the fence about signing up for every class, take a closer look at the Well-Being category. Here you will not only learn more about Singapore, but also get health benefits.
The “Food” category is a real find for gastro-lovers. Get ready to discover new tastes and combinations, learn the history of national cuisine. Already recording new recipes?
Alcohol fans, rejoice! At your service is an excursion to the Tiger brewery, the distillery where the famous Brass Lion gin is created.
Do you like interesting cocktails? Then opt for a master class on making a modern classic – the Singapore Sling cocktail.
Those who dream of eating food in a pleasant environment also did not go unnoticed. Enjoy an all-inclusive breakfast at the Singapore Zoo in the morning and a Singapore River Cruise with dinner in the evening. And between them you can attend a traditional tea ceremony.
Want to know how Singaporeans feel about food? You can choose from a farm-to-table master class with harvesting, a tour of the food courts, or a journey into the world of cocoa and chocolate. At the last one, all those with a sweet tooth will be able to prepare a special dish. Attractive, isn't it?
“Sustainability” is a category for those who care about preserving the planet.
Do you prefer to learn new things and observe from the outside? Take a tour of Changi Airport and Jewel Changi. Don't miss the underwater world at the SEA Aquarium and a walking tour to explore Singapore's history of sustainability.
If you like active recreation, get ready to work hard. You can try your hand at workshops on making a pleated bag and zero-waste coaster production.
Sports fans were not left out either. Organizers included kayaking on the island of Pulau Ubin, a night cycling tour of Marina Bay and Tai Chi martial arts practice in one of the local parks.
The leader in the number of activities is the “Innovation and Impressions” category. 18 activities that will appeal to lovers of active and passive recreation, history and modernity, nature and urbanism.
Fans of walking tours can head to individual areas and surrounding areas of Singapore, its attractions and historical monuments. An immersive game to explore India and a Roman quest in Chinatown will surely give you an unforgettable experience. If the impressions are particularly vivid, you will already know the next country to travel to.
Lovers of creativity have a chance to unite with beauty – at a perfume master class and an art workshop with live cats, you will be able to create your own product with a unique design.
How long will the program last?
The SingapoRewards project runs until 2023. Don't miss the opportunity to become a part of it. Choose an activity to your liking, book a date and time, and discover a Singapore that will give you new experiences and ask for nothing in return.
