I forgot to mention, in my previous blog posts and may I remind myself here.. Singapore is one of the three airports I’ve slept in, ON THE FLOOR! I find it shocking and I don’t think anyone in my close circle.. would have thought that I have on multiple and separate occasions. The ultimate survivor kit for a night like this? Sleeping mask and ear plugs.
Even I, myself didn’t think I would – because I at a certain point, I’ve refused to sleep on the floor in America. But if anyone was going to convince me. I guess it was Tim
This Airport Was Just Named the Best in the World — With a Massive Indoor Waterfall, Vertical Gardens, and Michelin-worthy Restaurants
https://www.travelandleisure.com/singapore-changi-airport-guide-7693478
As amazing this airport is known to be, I hated it (the sleeping experience, of course!). There were countless times of the same disruption: waking up from one arm going numb or my shoulder being uncomfortable. Unfortunately, all the long chairs were taken. And me being a side sleeper, I think laying on the hard floor would cut a blood circulation. The moment we were ready to start the day, the thought of a last night/rough sleep is dropped. Luckily, I continue to be a morning persons, so the day goes on!
Tim and I started the morning at the airport with a visit to the Cactus garden. It’s cool and it wasn’t far from where we woke up. I remember this area being one of my friend’s favorite spots. So this time, I got to experience her visit and feel her love for it through my own eyes. 🌵
Once we exited TSA,
The most famous indoor site to see, was the waterfall. It is referenced as a “the jewel” platform, known for the water performance, combined with music and the garden surrounding – the site is partnered with Shiseido. When we visited there was a Disney theme and the spot itself was unique. What I didn’t know (at the time).. people may have reservations to celebrate their wedding there. I never would have thought to enjoy a lil’ water show with lights and music on airport grounds.
Note to self** create more time to explore the airport + experience fun activities – within boutiques and flagship stores, mirror maze, Michelin restaurants, etc.
With hungry stomachs, Tim and I decided the next step was to indulge in food! Indian food was popular and there is a large community to check out. Back at home, it is very diverse in culture. I’ve never craved Indian food until after I visited Little India in Singapore.
When leaving the airport, we utilized the train as transportation out of the airport. The rest of the Singaporean day was explored by foot.
Important warnings on the train during 2023 restrictions listed below
🚫 “No eating or drinking – fine S$5000”
🚫 “No smoking – fine S$1000”
🚫 “No durian”
I remember not having any knowledge to different temples. Singapore is where I learned to notice the difference. After passing by 2-3 Hindu Temples, Tim pointed out the patterns and said “notice the difference now?”
It was amazing to witness quite the melting pot Singapore identifies being with (Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Western). Below is a list of places we explored/or ate at
- Little India
- Information on Ayurveda (traditional plant properties, doshas, etc.) as we got closer to the Gardens by the Bay
- Black Sesame Latte – no coffee
- Art Statues – Spam & Banana ❤
- Marina Bay Sands Singapore
- Gardens by the Bay – Yes we ate Shake Shack hehe, + visited Chinese Garden, Indian Garden, I believe there was an Avatar theme further within the site
- Merilion – the water/lion statue – mascot of Singapore
Where to rest?
The original plan of Singapore was to rest here and complete 1 overnight stay. With our ideal daily budget it was impossible to find one that was not overpriced.. or a scam. We’ve came across one that would not let you view the room without payment and was adamant on the no refund policy. The offer had different tiers (no window, or an option with window). It scared me and gave me flashbacks to the worse one we came across in Indonesia.. (which I will explain in another post at some point).
Tim and I finally decided to take an overnight bus to Malaysia. After walking up and down different streets to locate options through Google maps, we were constantly getting shut down by price.
The next main issue was our phone’s battery level. We were both running extremely low. We rushed to a Starbucks before closing time. The charging outlet was not a strong one either. And the WiFi wasn’t open to the public. We really did not want to spend more money here. We needed a code by receipt. And luckily, we found one.
“JB Sentral” – we noted. The goal was to at least cross over, be near the bus station and stay in the closest city.. the long night did not end there.
Beyond Rose 
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