Singapore leverages attractions to boost tourism despite costs

Singapore is known as one of the most expensive cities in the world. To attract visitors, it is focusing on high-quality attractions and events instead of competing on prices. Tony Cross, a British financial consultant, first visited Singapore in 1992. Back then, the city was famous for its shopping and nightlife. Now, prices for goods and rents have risen, making shopping less appealing. The nightlife scene is also struggling due to high costs and changing drinking habits. To draw tourists, Singapore is promoting its iconic sites like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay. The city also hosts major events like the Formula One night race and concerts by global artists like Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga. In 2024, Singapore welcomed 16.5 million international visitors, up by 21% from 2023. However, this number is still below the 19.1 million visitors seen in 2019. The Singapore Tourism Board expects visitor numbers to rise further in 2025. New attractions, such as Rainforest Wild Asia, are opening to enhance visitor experiences. The tourism board emphasizes interactive experiences that align with the growing demand for experiential travel. Despite the increase in tourism, Singapore's retail sector saw a decline last year. Local spending by residents is often directed toward travels abroad. Experts warn that Singapore must keep improving its tourism offerings as competition grows in the region. Searches for flights to Singapore from its largest markets, including China and India, have fallen slightly. Event organizer Albert Lee noted that costs for holding events in Singapore are significantly higher than in neighboring countries like Malaysia and Thailand. The Singapore Tourism Board is working to change the perception that the city is too expensive. They emphasize the value visitors can find, especially with affordable dining options in hawker centers, where meals can be very cheap. Visitors like Yoshihiko Tano appreciate Singapore for its tasty food and beautiful parks, while repeat tourists value the city's unique appeal.