I've booked to go to Borneo later this year and really looking forward to it. However I'm now thinking about the Singapore Add on.......
It seems quite a lot of money for three extra days, so would be really stretching the budget to include it.
I've had mixed reviews on whether Singapore is worth it from people I know - some have raved about it, others have said not for that money.
Anyone who has done the Add on or been at another time -
What are your views of Singapore? Is it worth it for the money?
Do I really stretch the funds to the limit or save for another trip?
Any views or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Paula
Hello Paula
> Anyone who has done the Add on or been at another time - What are your views of Singapore?
I am another one who went on the first Borneo trip and stayed for the Singapore add-on: I love the place, and I can endorse what has already been said.
Most people I know who have been there dismiss it as not being very "Asian" because it is so much better developed than most if not all of Asia, but it displays a fascinating mix of cultures with much ethnic/religious diversity and tolerance - so it is also a good place to visit for anyone who has never been to Asia before.
For those interested in wildlife (and you presumably are if you are going to Borneo) then a major attraction is the Zoo which, with its River Safari (including a pair of giant pandas!), the unique Night Safari and the nearby Jurong Bird Park, is one of the best in the world. There is also a fine botanical garden, with a large display of orchids. And of course it is a shopaholic's paradise: if you are one, then start saving now!
This was my second visit. I looked at Singapore last October and decided that there was enough of interest to justify a whole week there, so I went independently (very easy to do): after six full days (and two half days) I still hadn't seen everything I wanted to, so the add-on was for me a no-brainer.
> Is it worth it for the money?
It was for me. Yes, it is expensive, especially for just three days, and a full week would be better (although the travel there and back is already paid for with the add-on:-), so that is really up to you - but there is a good selection of guided tours, and you can still see a great deal in the time available. A substantial part of the cost must be due to the hotel room and the need for single occupancy - but the hotel is very comfortable and well-situated, and one can pay much more in Singapore. If you don't think you are likely to go that way again, then definitely go for it.
If you do decide to go, you'll certainly enjoy it - and you will of course love Borneo!
Jim
PS - Incidentally, much the same can be said for Hong Kong, which is conveniently situated as an add-on for holidays in mainland China and elsewhere - and also worth a full week in its own right.