Some people see Singapore as a transit point to their final destination across the globe. But have you ever considered Singapore as a single destination to escape the bustling busy lifestyle you lead from Monday to Friday week in and out?
A 7 hour flight from Sydney had me touching down in Singapore without the stress of jetlag. I had left late afternoon and arrived late evening into Singapore.
From the moment I stepped off the aircraft, the Singaporean hospitality was felt. A warm welcome from the airport staff followed by a smooth seamless transfer through Customs and Immigration had me collecting my baggage and walking out into the arrivals hall.
Stepping outside the terminal it felt like I had travelled up to tropical north Queensland, the hot air and touch of humidity had me in holiday mode. In Singapore modern Asian society has a fusion of Western cultural characteristics, English is widely spoken and the main language used.
A short SGD 25.00 taxi ride had me arriving at my downtown hotel located in the central CBD area of Singapore. The city centre has an array of accommodation available to suit even the most budget conscious traveller. Regardless of where you stay, Singapore guarantees to offer a clean safe and comfortable accommodation.
This trip I decided to stay at the Swissotel Stamford located directly on top of City Hall MRT train station and attached to the Raffles shopping mall.
My first evening, I wanted to have a late night snack and absorb the Singaporean culture through chopsticks and some green tea. Merely a 5 minute walk and I had arrived at one of the many 24 hour Hawker food courts. Although not a formal dining experience, this outside dining venue offers an array of dishes at prices under SGD 5.00. A tasty coconut seafood laksa and some chinese dumplings to fill me up before my first nights rest and day ahead.
My second day and I’m off to Orchard road, one of Singapore’s main shopping districts. Only a 5 minute train ride, 3 stops from City Hall MRT and I was on the main road with the choice of designer boutique stores and some department shopping to suit any age or fashion taste. With sales on throughout the year, even the budget traveller would find it hard to resist the temptation of a bargain you would only expect to find at a factory outlet in Australia.
After freshening up at the hotel, I headed down to Bugis street markets. Just 10 minutes walk from the hotel and I had arrived at the covered outdoor markets. With a wide variety of clothing, electronic and handbag stalls, I was mesmerised at the unique designs and bargains that would make the perfect gift or souvenir to take back home. I even had the chance to cool down with a lime juice whilst checking out the various items on sale throughout the market.
I decided that my last evening in Singapore prior to my return to Australia would be a night of pampering and relaxation. At the cost of SGD 80.00, I had 2 hours of pampering with a hot stone massage and some soothing foot reflexology. This was just what I needed to sooth my tired feet and leave me well rested prior to my return flight home the following morning.
So whether you want to have a stopover on your way to Europe or just a little weekend getaway, Singapore is by far the best place to escape to at an affordable price and without the culture shock of a non English speaking country.
I would highly recommend Singapore as your next quick international escape. To find out more, or to book your perfect trip please contact me.
This was not my first visit to Singapore and most certainly will not be my last.