Midsize Woman

Singapore is expensive, especially if you’re used to doing Southeast Asia on a shoestring. I’ve slept in airport terminals, bunked in 10-bed dorms, and lived on $2 meals but this time, I decided to mix it up.

Still budget, but not that budget.

Here’s how I turned a simple layover into a mini adventure, explored Singapore Botanic Gardens, wandered through local gems near Lavender MRT, and crossed the border to Johor Bahru (JB) hours without blowing my wallet.

Landed in Singapore: 8 PM Arrival from Phu Quoc

I touched down at Changi Airport around 8:00 PM. Normally, I’d hang around Jewel Changi, maybe even crash overnight at one of the cozy corners or lounges (budget life, you know the drill).

But this time was different. I had plans to cross the border to Johor Bahru (JB) the next day, so instead of staying near the airport, I booked a budget hostel near Lavender MRT, more convenient for getting around Singapore and making my way up to Woodlands Checkpoint in the morning.

Where I Stayed: A Capsule Hostel Near Lavender MRT

finding a truly budget-friendly place to stay in Singapore that isn’t a shoebox or above a sketchy nightclub can be tough. This time, I booked a night at Spacepod@Lavender a capsule hostel just a few minutes’ walk from Lavender MRT.

At around SGD 30+ per night, it’s not the cheapest bed in Southeast Asia, but for Singapore, it’s great value. You get:

• A cozy space capsule with privacy
• Air-conditioning, personal reading light, USB charger
• Super clean shared bathrooms
• Friendly staff, easy check-in (even at night)
• Prime location with MRT access and lots of local food nearby

I grabbed a quick dinner at a nearby kopitiam and crashed early. No tourist traps. No stress. Just chill vibes.

Morning Cultural Walk From Lavender MRT: Hidden Gems + Hawker Food

• Total walking time: ~30–40 minutes (with stops)
• Tip: Wear comfy shoes and bring water. Singapore heat is no joke.

Stop 1: Masjid Hajjah Fatimah

• One of Singapore’s oldest mosques (built in 1846)
• Known for its leaning minaret and fusion of Malay, European, and Islamic architecture
• Walk time from Lavender MRT: 8–10 minutes

Stop 2: Kampong Glam / Arab Street / Haji Lane

What’s here:

• Indie shops, souvenir stalls, murals, and vibrant cafés
• Perfect for photos, a quick kopi, or just people-watching
• Walk from mosque: 5–7 minutes

Stop 3: Albert Centre Market & Food Centre (Budget Lunch Stop)

• Authentic hawker fare, many dishes under SGD 5
• Underrated spot just minutes from Bugis
• Walk from Haji Lane: 10–12 minutes

Walking Map Summary:

Stop	Location	Walk Time from Lavender
Masjid Hajjah Fatimah	Beach Road	8–10 mins
Arab Street & Haji Lane	Kampong Glam	+7 mins
Albert Centre Food Court	Bugis	+12 mins

After lunch at Albert Centre Food Court, it was time for some greenery and chill, so I hopped on the MRT and made my way to the iconic Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best free attractions in the city.

MRT Route: Bugis → Botanic Gardens

• Board: Downtown Line (Blue) at Bugis MRT
• Direction: Towards Bukit Panjang
• Alight at: Botanic Gardens MRT (DT9/CC19)
• Travel time: ~15 minutes

Pro tip: This line drops you right at the entrance, no walking needed. Alternative: If you’re entering via the southern entrance (near the Orchid Garden or Swan Lake), consider taking the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) to Napier MRT.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the urban hustle, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a must-visit, especially if you only have a short layover.

This sprawling 82-hectare UNESCO World Heritage Site blends tropical nature with impeccable landscaping and offers a variety of attractions, all with free entry (except for the Orchid Garden).

Why Visit the Botanic Gardens?

• Singapore’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site
• 82 hectares of tropical gardens, rainforest, lakes, and flowers
• Free to enter (except for the Orchid Garden)
• Perfect for a chill 1–2 hour stroll or even just a peaceful sit-down

Highlights You Can’t Miss

1. The Rainforest Trail
   A rare patch of untouched tropical rainforest right inside the garden. Walk under towering trees, spot native plants, and listen to bird calls, it’s like a mini jungle adventure.
2. Swan Lake
   One of the most picturesque spots in the gardens, complete with elegant swans gliding across the water. Great for photos or simply soaking in the serene vibe.
3. Evolution Garden
   This garden tells the story of plant evolution through a curated collection that spans millions of years. Fun and educational!
4. Healing Garden & Eco Lake
   Designed for reflection and relaxation, these areas showcase medicinal plants and peaceful water views, a true retreat for your mind and body.
5. National Orchid Garden (Optional Entry Fee: SGD 5)
   Home to over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids, this colorful display is a visual feast. If you love flowers or photography, it’s definitely worth the small admission fee.

Practical Info

• Opening Hours: 5 AM to midnight daily
• Orchid Garden Hours: 8:30 AM – 7 PM (last entry 6 PM)
• Entry Fee: Free (Orchid Garden: SGD 5)
• Facilities: Cafes, toilets, water fountains, shaded rest stops
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, water, hat, walking shoes

Why It’s Perfect for Layovers and Short Trips

You can easily spend 1-2 hours here soaking in nature without rushing. It’s an ideal balance between outdoor exploration and relaxation before continuing your journey whether that’s crossing the border to Johor Bahru or heading back to the airport.

Botanic Gardens to Woodlands: Easy MRT Route + Crossing the Border to JB

After a refreshing walk through the Singapore Botanic Gardens, I was ready to make my way to Johor Bahru (JB). Instead of going the long way via the Downtown Line and transferring at Newton, I took the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL / Brown Line) directly from the gardens, way easier and faster!

Step 1: MRT from Botanic Gardens to Woodlands (via Thomson-East Coast Line)

From Botanic Gardens MRT, I made it super easy by sticking to one line, the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL / Brown Line).

• Board at: Botanic Gardens MRT (TEL)
• Direction: Towards Woodlands
• Ride directly to Woodlands MRT (TEL / Brown Line)
• No transfers needed
• Estimated travel time: ~40 minutes
• Pro Tip: This route is super smooth, no line switches, air-conditioned all the way, and usually less crowded than the North-South Line.

Step 2: Bus to Woodlands Checkpoint (SG Immigration)

Once I arrived at Woodlands MRT (TEL), I exited the station and walked over to the nearby bus stop. From there, I hopped on Bus 911, a local feeder service that runs frequently.

• Bus: Take 911, 913, or any bus heading to Woodlands Checkpoint
• I got off near the Woodlands Checkpoint entrance and walked a few minutes to reach the Singapore immigration building
• Payment: EZ-Link, contactless, or cash (SGD 2)
• Tip: Keep passport handy. It gets crowded during peak hours (7–9 AM & 5–7 PM).

Step 3: Cross the Border to Johor Bahru (JB)

1. Singapore Immigration:
   • Passport + thumbprint scan
   • Exit Singapore officially
2. Walk or Bus across the Causeway Bridge:
   • Walk: ~10–15 mins (if open to pedestrians)
   • Bus: CW1, CW2, 160, 950 available
3. Malaysian Immigration (JB CIQ Complex):
   • Present passport
   • Show MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card)
     • Note: Required for most foreigners, not for Singaporeans
   • Entry stamp + thumbprint

Extra Travel Tips

• Border gets busy. Avoid peak hours. Early morning crossings are smoother.
• Bring snacks, water, and power bank. No one wants to be stuck at immigration on 5% battery.
• Use compact luggage or a daypack for faster transit through busy terminals.
• Check Causeway pedestrian status. Sometimes walking is restricted.

Budget Breakdown (Estimated)

Item	Cost (SGD)
Capsule Hostel	$30–35
MRT rides	~$3–4
Hawker food (2 meals)	~$8
Bus to Checkpoint	$2
National Orchid Garden (optional)	$5
Total	~$45–55 SGD

Final Thoughts

Most people treat a Singapore layover like a pit stop, but with just a little planning, you can turn it into a mini-adventure. Instead of rushing straight to Johor Bahru or chilling at Changi like I usually do, this time I decided to make the most of my morning:

• Stayed near Lavender MRT to be closer to the border
• Explored local gems like Masjid Hajjah Fatimah, Haji Lane, and Albert Centre
• Took a chill walk in the Singapore Botanic Gardens (still one of the best free things to do in SG)
• Then cruised straight up to Woodlands via MRT, hopped on Bus 911, and crossed the border to JB, passport stamp and all!

For less than the cost of an airport coffee and some time on the MRT, I managed to see a side of Singapore I usually skip and still made it to Malaysia without stress. Budget-Friendly Takeaway: Even in an expensive city like Singapore, there’s always a way to stretch your layover, see something cool, and keep your wallet happy.