Ever since I arrived in Malaysia for my studies, visiting Singapore had been a top entry on my bucket list. Finally, in 2023, I got my chance to explore this vibrant city-state, and I did it in style by celebrating New Year's Eve there! Here's a glimpse into how you can make the most out of a one-day tour from Malaysia to Singapore.
My adventure began early in the morning at Kuala Lumpur's Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS), where I boarded a 7:30 AM bus. The ticket, which I booked through redBus, cost me 76.50 RM (about $16.14 USD). The journey was smooth with breathtaking views of the river marking the border between Malaysia and Singapore. By 12:42 PM, I was stepping off the bus at Singapore’s Golden Mile Tower.
After a quick Grab ride to my hotel, booked via Booking.com, I refreshed and was ready to dive into the city’s heart. Since it was New Year's Eve, accommodations were pricier at 380.25 RM, but the festive atmosphere was worth every penny. To stay connected, I used an internet eSIM from the Klook app, which offered unlimited data for just 10 RM.
My first destination was Orchard MRT station to pick up the Singapore Tourist Pass—a fantastic tool for unlimited travel, available for 22 SGD (including a 10 SGD deposit). More details are available on The Singapore Tourist Pass website.
With my pass in hand, I headed to the vibrant Arab Street. Here, amidst colorful graffiti and bustling cafes, I savored a delightful tea from Tarik, a local favorite.
A quick lunch from 7-Eleven followed, fueling me for the next leg of my tour: the magnificent Marina Bay.
Marina Bay was alive with excitement as dusk fell. The skyline, a stunning tapestry against the setting sun, was the perfect prelude to the evening's festivities. Crowds thronged the waterfront, each person eager to witness the spectacular fireworks. As midnight approached, the atmosphere turned electric, culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display that painted the night sky with vibrant colors and joyous celebration.
My journey continued at Gardens by the Bay for the Christmas Wonderland light show. Though the event required a ticket (41.71 RM), the dazzling display of lights and music was a mesmerizing experience, well worth the expense.
As the night deepened, with buses halted for the celebrations, I walked back to Marina Bay to join the New Year countdown. The area, under tight security, was even more crowded than before, yet the spirit of festivity was palpable. The officers were incredibly friendly, ensuring everyone enjoyed the celebrations safely.
After the countdown, I made my way back to my hotel, stopping for a late-night snack—a delicious chicken biryani from 7-Eleven. Exhausted but filled with unforgettable memories, I quickly fell into a deep sleep.
The next morning, before my 11 AM flight, I visited the Jewel at Changi Airport. This architectural masterpiece, with its towering Rain Vortex—the world's tallest indoor waterfall—and lush Shiseido Forest Valley, was the perfect serene getaway before my departure. The Jewel, accessible from the departure halls of Terminals 2 and 3, offered a peaceful end to my dynamic visit.
Though brief, my Singapore trip was a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and celebrations—a testament to how much you can experience in just one day. I hope this blog inspires you to plan a day trip to Singapore, where adventure and excitement await at every turn.
Until next time, happy travels!