Singapore or Bali
 

I have the opportunity to go to Bali or Singapore. Need help to try and select. Things I like to do, shop ( therefore would like the location which gentler to the wallet) , tropical weather. Nice and cost friendly accommodations also with accessible to public transportation with restautrants nearby... Nice beaches, thanks looking forward to responses.

How many days do you have to work with? Singapore and Bali combined would make a fantastic holiday if you have the time. If you are looking at good beaches, then it's Bali hands down. I like the area around Sanur for its nice sand and availability of dining options. For shopping, go up to Ubud, where you can find boutiques galore as well as some of the best handicraft workshops on the island. We hired a driver when we were in Bali so I cannot comment to the logistics around public transport except that we saw many buses traversing the island.

Singapore is an urban city-state. It's become quite an expensive destination. Bali is an island in Indonesia with a unique culture, as the residents are mostly Hindu. There are beaches on Bali - Singapore has a beach at a theme park - Sentosa - but unless you are under 14 or are a fan of theme parks, it's unlikely to be what you are looking for. Bali also has stunningly green rice terraces.

You can vacation in Bali with time at beaches, time in Ubud for the cultural attractions and lots of inexpensive handicrafts shopping for a very moderate amount. You will need to hire a driver to get you around - maybe $40-50 a day.

I'm guessing from your question that you know nothing about either destination. Go to your library and read a couple of guidebooks on each. I think your answer will be obvious.

Katie makes a good point about selecting a destination. Are the 2 you've mentioned possible choices because they're well-known names or because you've narrowed it down to those 2? There are any number of places in Asia that are tropical, easy on the budget with good shopping and another may suit you better than either of these.

I'd cross Singapore off your list because it's expensive. Bali is a great place but there are others. Do some homework and see if it's the only possibility for you, especially if you've never been to the region. Thailand comes to mind, has everything and the best food of all, I think.

If those two are your only choices and given your criteria it's easy. Go to Bali.

The daughter and SIL of friends of OT's were living in Singapore as he had a job transfer there. He is a lawyer. They wanted to live permanently there but it got too expensive.

Thanks for everyone's response. Very helpful

bali for sure, but public transportation is more limited

It sounds like Seminyak beach in Bali has everything on your wish list. Public transportation in Bali mostly means taxis or hired cars with drivers, but these are plentiful and not too expensive.

I would note that the shopping while diverse and good value is more along the lines of arts & crafts and beach wear, not luxury brand names as you would find in Singapore.

I've been doing a lot of research on Vietnam and it would seem to have everything you are looking for: (great tailors at good prices, lots of beach areas, plenty of other diversity and super affordable).

I'll be taking a trip there this next year! There are some good threads on here about Vietnam you should check them out

The prices in Singapore are the same as what you would pay at home for regular labelled clothing. Some are even more expensive. Bali has lots of knock offs and cheaply made things. I wouldn't consider either great shopping destinations for bargains.

Bali has wonderful local crafts at good prices.