Are you an OFW based in Singapore looking for fun and affordable activities to enjoy during your free time? If you work in or around the busy streets of Bugis, then you’re in luck! Here’s a curated list of activities that you can do in Bugis on your day off or even during a quick 1-hour break.
Bugis is famous in Singapore for its shopping malls, much like Divisoria in the Philippines. There are two big malls in the area, Bugis Junction and Bugis+, but the most popular with tourists is the Bugis Village. This mall is known for its cheap fashion finds, souvenir shops, and the ABC Bargain Centre (an alternative to the ValuDollar store).
If you’re planning to go mall hopping in Bugis, it’s easy to move from one mall to another through the link bridge between Bugis+ and Bugis Junction. If you’re at Bugis+, look for the link bridge on the second level, near JD Sports and Bershka. On the other hand, if you’re at Bugis Junction, you can find it on the same level as Watsons.
As an OFW living in Singapore, my husband and I love to explore every corner of Bugis and discover new activities to do in the area. Here are some fun and affordable options for you to try, whether you’re on a tight schedule or looking to take your time.
Please note that Bugis can get very crowded on weekends, especially at Bugis Village, due to the influx of tourists looking for souvenir shopping. To avoid the crowds, consider going on a weekday instead.
Shop for cheap home decors and snacks at Daiso or Miniso in Bugis Junction
With so many malls in the area, there’s plenty of opportunities to satisfy your thirst for window shopping. We love checking out the home decors and storage organizers in Daiso or Miniso at Bugis Junction.
You can also find gadgets at Challenger or luxury items at the BHG department store in Bugis Junction.
Daiso at Bugis Junction
Address: 200 Victoria St, #03-01, 27-28, Singapore 188021
Opening hours: Daily from 11am-9pm
Miniso at Bugis Junction
Address: 200 Victoria St, #01-107 to 108, Singapore 188021
Opening hours: Daily from 11am-9:30pm
BHG Department Store at Bugis Junction
Address: 200 Victoria Street #01-100, #02-17 & #03-11, 188021
Opening hours: Daily from 10am-10pm
Challenger at Bugis Junction
Address: 200 Victoria St, #03-10E Bugis Junction, Singapore 188021
Opening hours: Daily from 11am-9:30pm
Shop for popular book titles at Kinokuniya in Bugis Junction
If you’re a book lover, head to Kinokuniya in Bugis Junction to read and shop for popular titles. Kinokuniya is a popular bookstore chain that originated from Japan, and their branch in Bugis Junction is one of the biggest bookstores in Singapore. It boasts an extensive collection of books, from fiction to non-fiction, bestsellers, and classics. You can find popular titles from renowned authors and new releases from various genres, including novels, biographies, self-help books, cookbooks, and travel guides.
Aside from books, Kinokuniya also sells stationery, gifts, and other merchandise related to popular Japanese characters and anime. The store has a cozy reading area where you can relax and read a book for free, and a café where you can grab a coffee or tea while you read.
Whether you’re a bookworm or just looking for a new read to pass the time, Kinokuniya is definitely worth a visit when you’re in Bugis. It’s a perfect place to spend a quiet afternoon, browse through books, and indulge in your love for reading.
Kinokuniya at Bugis Junction
Address: 200 Victoria St, #03-09 Bugis Junction, Singapore 188021
Opening hours: Daily from 11am-9pm
Shop for trendy Sneakers and athleisure apparels at JD Sports in Bugis+
If you’re a fan of trendy sneakers and athleisure apparel, JD Sports in Bugis+ is a must-visit. The store is located on the second level of the mall, near the link bridge that connects to Bugis Junction.
At JD Sports, you’ll find a wide range of sneakers and sportswear from popular brands like Nike, Adidas, Puma, and more. They have the latest releases as well as classic designs, so you’re sure to find something that fits your style. Plus, the store often offers good deals and discounts, so you can score some great finds at affordable prices.
The store is also known for its helpful and knowledgeable staff who can assist you in finding the perfect pair of sneakers or apparel for your needs. Whether you’re looking for running shoes, basketball shoes, or just a comfortable pair of sneakers to wear around town, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at JD Sports.
In addition to the wide selection of footwear and apparel, JD Sports also carries accessories like caps, socks, and bags, so you can complete your sporty look.
JD Sports at Bugis+
Address: 201 Victoria Street #02-25/26/27, Singapore 188067
Opening hours: Daily from 10am-10pm
Pamper yourself with a manicure and pedicure at Bugis Village
Treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure at one of the nail salons in the Bugis Village mall. Dubbed as Singapore’s Divisoria version, this mall has plenty of cheap nail salons and spas that offer cheaper services than the standalone nail salons in bigger malls. You can get an express classic manicure for just $8, or upgrade to an express gel manicure for only $18.
There are other beauty and wellness services in the Bugis Village mall, but this is what my girlfriend and I love to do in Bugis on our days off.
Bugis Village Shopping Mall
Address: 160A Rochor Rd, Singapore 188435
Opening hours: Daily from 11am-8pm (some shops may open later or close earlier)
Bargain fashion shopping at Bugis Village
Like Divisoria, there are tons of affordable fashion finds in the Bugis Village mall. Well, they’re not exactly designer brands, but you can get good deals for simple dresses, tops, and pants.
Some of the popular shops in Bugis Village include ZZY Fashion, MomoHouse, Fashion Art, and Miracle Fashion. Don’t forget to haggle and compare prices from different stores to get the best deals.
If you’re new to Bugis or haven’t shopped there before, take your time to find the best fashion shops that fit your needs, budget, and taste. Keep in mind that prices may be higher in ground-level shops, so it’s worth exploring shops on the second and third levels for better deals.
The mall can be a bit confusing to navigate, especially once you head upstairs. Take a snapshot of the stall number once you find what you’re looking for, so you can easily find it on your next visit.
Pro tip: Use unique landmarks, like restrooms and food stalls, near the escalators to help navigate your way in and out of the maze.
Stay tuned for another blog post where we’ll delve deeper into the ins and outs of fashion shopping in Bugis Village. Happy bargain hunting, fashionistas!
Bugis Village Shopping Mall
Address: 160A Rochor Rd, Singapore 188435
Opening hours: Daily from 11am-8pm (some shops may open later or close earlier)
Feast on local cuisines at Albert Centre
If you’re on a budget or keen to explore local cuisines, head over to the Albert Centre located on the other side of Bugis Village. It’s the nearest hawker center where you can continue to indulge in Singaporean favorites such as Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and wanton noodles. Prices are affordable, and the food is always freshly cooked.
To avoid the crowds at the Albert Centre, it’s best to go there in the morning or afternoon. However, note that it closes early at 4:30 pm, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.
If you’re looking for a smaller coffee shop with a quick and affordable fix, there’s a local coffee shop just behind Bugis+ along Queen Street. While it has fewer seats than Albert Centre, it’s perfect for a quick sip of local kopi or teh that won’t break the bank.
For wanton mee lovers, I recommend trying QQ Noodle House near Popeye’s Bugis. They offer a variety of sauces to choose from, and you can even upsize your meal for just a dollar. Prices have increased due to inflation, but you can still enjoy a large bowl of the QQ House Speciality wanton mee noodles for $7.90. Choose from sauces such as Original Kampua, Black Chilli, Sambal Chilli, Tomato, Black Sauce, and Ma La. My personal favorite is the QQ House Speciality dry noodle in Original Kampua, while my husband prefers the same in Ma La sauce.
Albert Centre
Address: 270 Queen St, Singapore 180270 (in between Bugis+ and Summer View Hotel)
Opening hours: Sundays to Fridays from 7:30am-4:30pm. Closed on Saturdays.
Snap Fun Memories with Friends and Loved Ones at a Korean Self Photo Booth in Bugis Junction
For a fun and quirky activity, check out the Korean self-photo booth at Life4Cut in Bugis Junction. This unique photo booth allows you to take cute and playful snapshots with your partner or friends, or even by yourself! With rates starting at just $10 for 4 soft copies, it’s a budget-friendly option for capturing memories and creating new profile pictures for your social media accounts. Plus, it’s a great way to get creative and have fun without feeling self-conscious about posing in front of a photographer. So why not strike a pose and snap some pics at Life4Cut during your Bugis adventure?
Life4Cut at Bugis Junction
Address: 200 Victoria St, #03-12B Bugis Junction, Singapore 188021
Opening hours: Daily from 10am-10pm
If you’re up for a bit of a walk from Bugis Village, here are some bonus activities to consider adding to your list:
Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the National Library at Bugis
If you’re looking for a peaceful and air-conditioned environment, take a leisurely stroll in the National Library at Bugis. The library has an extensive collection of books and other materials, including local titles, and is open to the public. It’s the perfect place to read, study, or just relax and escape the heat.
National Library at Bugis
Address: 100 Victoria St, Singapore 188064
Opening hours: Daily from 10am-9pm
Explore local markets in Arab Street and Haji Lane
For those looking to explore Singapore’s culture and heritage, Arab Street and Haji Lane are must-visit destinations. Arab Street is famous for its colorful shophouses and bustling market stalls selling fabrics, spices, and other souvenirs. Haji Lane, on the other hand, is known for its trendy cafes, bars, and boutiques. Both areas offer a unique and authentic Singaporean experience.
Arab Street is located between Victoria Street and Beach Road in the Kampong Glam area, while Haji Lane is located in the Kampong Glam neighbourhood of Singapore, a short walk from Bugis MRT.
In conclusion, Bugis is a fantastic destination for OFWs in Singapore who are looking for fun and affordable activities to enjoy during their free time. With its numerous malls, hawker centers, cinemas, and cultural attractions, there is no shortage of things to do and see in the area. Whether you’re in the mood for shopping, dining, entertainment, or cultural exploration, Bugis has something for everyone. So why not plan a day trip to Bugis today?
