Singapore: Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay and Local Food

Singapore is the island country known for Marina Bay Sands. This photo story goes beyond that landmark, exploring Gardens by the Bay, nature walks, and local meals, before continuing onward to Malaysia.

In this story: Marina Bay and the Singapore skyline · Gardens by the Bay · Nature walks beyond Marina Bay · Local food in Singapore · Continuing from Singapore to Malaysia

These are personal travel notes from an earlier trip. Prices mentioned below are historical examples, not current quotes.

Singapore sometimes spelled “Singapour” or “Singapur”, is a luxurious island country south of Malaysia known for the Marina Bay Sands Resort. Similar to Bangkok, there are many public transportation options and places to eat. Known for cleanliness and economy of space, the overall atmosphere feels very orderly yet rich with life. Living expenses are much higher than other South-East Asian countries. Expect to pay more than $1000 USD/month for 1-bedroom apartments with a personal bathroom.

Marina Bay and the Singapore skyline

In southern Singapore, the area known as Marina Bay offers many activities. Below is just a small selection of places to visit.

Pictured below you can see the Marina Bay Sands Resort, ArtScience Museum, and to the right is The Float at Marina Bay.

Marina Bay Sands is a luxury resort with shopping, dining, lodging, and an observation deck.

Gardens by the Bay

I took this picture from atop the Supertree Grove in the Gardens by the Bay Park. The park entry ticket gives access to the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest.

The Singapore Flyer, which also looks like a giant ferris wheel, is a great way to view the entire city.

The Merlion is a famous icon in Singapore. The statue depicts a powerful creature with the head of a lion and body of fish.

Nature walks beyond Marina Bay

Just north of the equator, Singapore has many tropical rainforest preserves. It is common to see plush-green vegetation and animals like monkeys while hiking in local parks.

Local food in Singapore

Culturally a melting pot, this diversity echoes the broad range of foods available. The average per price meal for a single person is $5-$6USD.

Continuing from Singapore to Malaysia

My next destination was Malaysia. The least expensive option is to take a train from Woodlands Crossing into Johor Bahru. Unfortunately, the trains can get packed quickly, and I missed the last one for the day. Nothing more can be done than to cross on foot!