Singapore - The Layover
Now, I would say one of the best airports in the world that you would never need to leave to have a wonderful layover is Singapore's Changi Airport. The airport itself is a destination.
However, to really experience some authentic culture and food, we recommend specifically scheduling at least one night in Singapore.
Singapore is an island city-state located just south of Malaysia. It’s one of the smallest, but most densely populated countries in the world and it’s mostly known as a global hub for education, finance and entertainment.
In a few easy steps upon landing you can be in the action within 20 minutes of clearing customs and immigration.
Step 1 - Confirm if you need a Visa
Before you decided to leave the airport, confirm if you need a Visa to enter the country.
Your probably don't as most nationalities do not require a visa to enter Singapore. If you’re from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia or most European countries, you can enter Singapore without a visa. If you aren't from one of these countries, you should double-check.
Step 2 - Immigration/Passport Control
Exit the airport through signs directing you to Immigration / Passport Control. Depending on how you arranged for your flights, you might need to collect your luggage at Baggage Claim. If so, make sure to do so.
You can sometimes book your ticket so that the layover time is included in the booking and therefore, the airline will check your luggage through to your final destination.
Note - if you do this, you will want to make sure you have in your carry-on the items you need for an overnight stay in the city. Additional clothes, personal things, medications, etc.
Step 3 - Exchange some cash
There are plenty of Currency Exchange and ATMs in the Arrivals Hall so we recommend exchanging some currency for Singaporean dollars so you have for taxi cabs and the local food markets. Most larger restaurants and hotels and shops take credit cards.
Step 4 - Walk to your Hotel
Yes, you read that right. We recommend staying at the convenient Crown Plaza Changi Airport which is walking distance from Terminal 3 at the airport.
After check-in drop your luggage and start your adventure.
Generally when we arrive (which tends to be the evening), we head directly via cab to the East Coast Lagoon Hawker Centre.
Hawker centres are found all over the island; however, the East Coast Lagoon is closest to the airport - so if you don't have a lot of time, it is a perfect spot for gastronomic adventures.
After dinner you can head back to your hotel, taxis are plentiful outside the Hawker Centre, and if you have time enjoy The Jewel Changi airport. This brand new lifestyle destination located just next to Crowne Plaza. Marvel at the spectacular Rain Vortex, the tallest indoor waterfall in the world and enjoy the stunning sound and light show come nightfall. The Canopy Park on Level 5 brings a world of play and fun attractions for all ages, including playgrounds, sky-high bouncing nets, mazes and more. There are also over 280 shops.
The next day you can walk back to the airport from your hotel to depart for your flight.
Optional Things to Do
Option 1 - Singapore Zoo & Night Safari
The award-winning Singapore Zoo is world-famous for its beautiful open-concept wildlife park settings.The 26-hectare wildlife park is nestled within the lush Mandai rainforest. More than 2,400 animals representing over 300 species of mammals, birds and reptiles call Singapore Zoo home. The Night Safari is the world’s first safari park for nocturnal animals, a one of a kind after-dark wildlife adventure. Singapore Zoo sees approximately 1.9 million visitors annually.
Option 2 - Gardens By the Bay
A national garden and premier horticultural attraction for local and international visitors, Gardens by the Bay is a showpiece of horticulture and garden artistry that presents the plant kingdom in a whole new way, entertaining while educating visitors with plants seldom seen in this part of the world, ranging from species in cool, temperate climates to tropical forests and habitats.
Option 3 - Schedule a City Tour with Guide
If you are looking for something a little more informative and immersive, schedule a city tour with a guide to meet you at the hotel lobby and show you the main sites of Singapore.
Check out my SE Asia Ultimate Adventure itinerary to see how you could easily add-in a Singapore layover.
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