Yvonne went to Singapore on her HomeExchange in December, after realizing how expensive accommodations in Singapore could be. Using HomeExchange made her trip budget-friendly and affordable! Learn more about Yvonne's experience in Singapore staying in a home swap.
What was it that attracted you to this exchange opportunity?
The prospect of staying in Gaelle's beautiful house rather than an anonymous hotel room was very attractive.
What happened when you arrived at the home?
We took an inexpensive Grab (Asia's version of Uber) from the airport directly to Gaelle's home and we were met with a smile and a cup of tea by Gaelle's house keeper.
What did you see or do during your exchange?
We enjoyed exploring the local area, which was leafy and green and very peaceful. We also took the inexpensive and easy to use metro in each day to explore the city.
Choosing the best things to do in Singapore wasn't easy, as there were just too many impressive things to see in the five days we were there. We loved taking long, slow wanders, including along the Marina Bay with it's breathtaking views across the Singapore skyline and through colourful and vibrant Chinatown and Little India, where we especially loved seeing the incredible ethnic diversity of the country. In the evening we enjoyed spending time at Clarke Quay, Singapore's hub of eating and drinking spots.
What is your favorite memory from your exchange?
The highlight of our trip had to be the incredible gardens by the bay - a dramatic canopy of solar powered artificial trees 50 meters high, within a 250-acre park.
Our arrival at the majestic Changi airport was also quite a pleasure, we knew it was voted the top airport in the world but were surprised to see flowering plants, walled vertical gardens and a six-metre waterfall!
Our most relaxing memory, though, was having tropical fruit breakfast on Gealle's pretty veranda.
Did you encounter any unexpected cultural differences during your travels?
Yes, many. The climate and food of course. But the spotlessness and feeling of time traveling into the future was a little unexpected and fascinating.
How would you describe HomeExchange to your family and friends?
Don't hesitate to use it, you won't regret it!
