As Singaporeans, we’re all familiar with the iconic landmarks that visitors flock to. But if you were to play tourist for a day, where would you go for an affordable and refreshing experience?

CSC’s Outdoor & Tours series invites you to rediscover the charm of Singapore and nearby Johor. From learning about kelong farming off Pulau Ubin to scoring deals at sprawling AEON malls, each tour offers a new perspective on familiar places — and a great way to spend the day with friends or family.

Mall-hopping fun just across the Causeway

Pack your reusable shopping bags and slip on your comfiest walking shoes — you’re off for a retail adventure at not one, but two AEON Malls in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

Start your day at AEON Mall Kulaijaya, where you can fuel up with popular treats from Famous Amos, Auntie Anne’s, Pappa Roti and J.CO before diving into your shopping spree. After that, head over to AEON Mall Bukit Indah, a popular destination among Singaporeans for its convenient location and wide range of stores and attractions, including Decathlon, KIDZOONA and Toy World Amusement x Cocomelon.

With favourable exchange rates — and an AEON Cash voucher worth RM10 included for each tour participant — your dollar stretches further, making this the ideal chance to score deals, stock up on essentials or simply enjoy a day out with your kakis.

1-Day Aeon Shopping Tour

Date: Saturday 24 May 2025

Time: 7.30am to 10pm

Meet at: CSC @ Tessensohn (transportation provided)

Price: $6 for CSC members and Supplementary members, $8 for Public Service Officers, $10 for guests. The tour fee includes two-way transport, and tips for the guide and driver. Personal accident and travel insurances are not covered. Please ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your date of travel.

Be sure to register by 17 May 2025

A fruit farm getaway with shopping on the side

Escape to the countryside with this delightful day tour to Desaru, Malaysia — perfect for those who enjoy fresh air, delicious eats and a little retail therapy. Kick things off at a tropical fruit farm, where you’ll get a close-up look at sustainably growing practices. Then, tuck into a fruity-themed lunch with creative dishes like lemon chicken and dragonfruit vegetables — a refreshing twist on wholesome dining.

Next, head to Mid Valley South Key, one of Johor’s top megamalls. With something for every budget and age — from DAISO Japan and Toys”R”Us to luxury brands like Chanel and Dior — it’s the perfect stop to browse, shop and recharge.

End the day with a hearty Malaysian-style dinner before hopping on the bus for the ride back to Singapore.

Desaru One Day Family Fun Farm Tour

Date: Saturday 14 June 2025

Time: 7.30am to 10pm

Meet at: TBA

Price: $100 for CSC members and Supplementary members, $110 for Public Service Officers and HomeTeamNS members, $120 for guests. Children below 24 months travel for free.  The tour includes two-way transport, travel group insurance, lunch and dinner, and tips for the guide and driver. Please ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your date of travel. Itinerary and stops may be adjusted based on traffic and local conditions.

Click here to register by 1 June 2025.

Explore rustic island living on Pulau Ubin

If you're craving an escape from the city, this tour offers a refreshing change of pace. Hop on a scenic morning bumboat ride from Changi Ferry Terminal and journey to Pulau Ubin, one of Singapore’s last remaining kampongs. Don’t forget to wear comfy clothes and walking shoes — this is one for adventurous explorers.

Your guided tour begins in a traditional Malay kampong, where you'll learn about Pulau Ubin’s rich history, cultural roots and fascinating biodiversity. Stroll past wooden houses, hear stories of life on the island, and keep an eye out for seabirds and cheeky macaques.

Did you know that Ubin’s tranquil lake was once a granite quarry, or that some residents still grow their own food and fish for a living?

After soaking up the island’s natural and cultural heritage, it’s time to dig into a hearty halal seafood lunch at Smith Marine — one of Singapore’s last floating kelongs. Feast on fresh steamed fish in Hong Kong sauce, crispy calamari, Thai-style chicken, garlicky stir-fried vegetables and fragrant rice, topped off with a refreshing soft drink. While you savour the meal and sea breeze, learn about the sustainable fish farming practices that keep this kelong afloat.

Kampong and Kelong Tour

Date: Saturday 6 September 2025

Time: 9am to 1pm

Meet at: Changi Ferry Terminal (Halal lunch and transportation provided)

Price: $100 for CSC members and Supplementary members, $140 for Public Service Officers and HomeTeamNS members, $180 for guests

Discover the heart of Singapore on a multiracial heritage tour

Think you know Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Gelam? Think again. This immersive multiracial heritage tour takes you beyond the usual photo ops and deep into the stories, traditions and culture that shaped Singapore’s most iconic ethnic precincts.

Led by an engaging guide, you’ll uncover how the Chinese, Malay and Indian communities influenced one another to create the multicultural Singapore we know today. As you stroll through the colourful streets, you’ll hear fascinating tales of old Singapore, explore historical architecture, and learn how each district has transformed into the vibrant hubs they are today — beloved by tourists, traditional shoppers, worshippers and foodies alike.

To sweeten the experience, you’ll also sample traditional treats at each stop, such as kuih keria (sweet potato doughnut), brightly coloured Indian sweets and fluffy pandan chiffon cake. This is a walking tour, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and get ready to see Singapore’s heritage in a whole new light.

City Highlights Tour

Date: Saturday 8 November 2025

Time: 9am to 1pm

Meet at: CSC @ Tessensohn (Snacks and transportation provided)

Price: $75 for CSC members and Supplementary members, $80 for Public Service Officers and HomeTeamNS members, $85 for guests

Ready to hop on the tour bus (or bumboat)? Register early — at least one week before the tour date — to secure your spot. A refreshing jalan-jalan around our sunny island and Johor awaits!