Stickers Shocked by Pricey Hawker Food

In a spirited online debate, the cost of food in Singapore has come under scrutiny again, ignited by American content creator Terry Pernell and his partner, Mag. Their recent TikTok videos captured their astonishment at the steep prices of local cuisine while visiting the famous Newton Food Centre.

A Pricey Meal Experience

During their visit, the couple ordered ten sticks of satay, stir-fried beef, and a large plate of egg fried rice, racking up a bill of about $45. Pernell quipped, "This food better knock me off my feet," but ultimately found the satay 'good,' albeit not mind-blowing, praising the accompanying peanut sauce.

Is Singapore for the Budget-Conscious?

Mag weighed in too, lamenting that "Singapore is not for the poor" in her video, particularly highlighting the high price of crafts like beer. Pernell's advice to potential visitors was blunt: "Bring all your money, don't leave none of your money at home." He confessed that if given the choice, he would favor Malaysian food over Singaporean any day.

Viral Video Sparks Heated Debate

The couple's TikTok sparked a wave of reactions, amassing near 265,000 views and around 800 comments. Many netizens pointed out that they had visited a more expensive hawker center and suggested that it was a tourist trap. Some even joked, "Even Singaporeans eat (in) Malaysia!" prompting Mag to agree.

Cost Comparisons and Tourist Experiences

Many comments expressed surprise at Pernell's outrage over the price, with one user noting they had taken overseas friends to the same location without spending nearly as much. Another commenter argued that if Pernell thought $45 was steep, he would find similar food in the U.S. far more expensive.

Understanding Costs in Singapore

One insightful comment explained why Singapore maintains its safety and cleanliness: "The money has to come from somewhere, right? Whether you're a Singaporean, a foreigner working here, or just visiting, you're contributing to the nation." To this, Pernell responded graciously, thanking the commenter for their input.

Malaysians Weigh In with Mixed Reactions

For their part, Malaysian netizens welcomed Pernell back, with one cheekily noting he must miss the affordable Malaysian food. However, others defended Singapore's culinary scene, suggesting that he simply had dined in the wrong area. One Malaysian claimed, "The Tiong Bahru Chicken Rice beats any chicken rice in Malaysia," praising local specialties.

Budget Travel Tips and Humorous Hotel Revelations

In subsequent videos, Pernell humorously showcased their budget hotel room, which cost around $50 (S$64) per night, joking, "Just lay down and be quiet, put your bags up... you're in Singapore." This light-hearted take on their travel adventure highlighted the often-overlooked realities of visiting a vibrant but pricey destination like Singapore.