- Mr Plane Guy
- 11 hours ago
- 7 min read
Why Singapore Airport Is the Best Airport in the World
By Travel Expert Mr Plane Guy
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Singapore Changi Airport isn't just a transit point; it's a destination in itself. Consistently ranked among the top airports globally, Changi offers a seamless blend of efficiency, comfort, and entertainment that transforms the travel experience.
What Makes Singapore Changi Airport So Special?
From the moment you arrive, Changi impresses with its thoughtful design and world-class amenities. The airport boasts a range of attractions, including the stunning Jewel complex, lush gardens, and a variety of dining and shopping options. Whether you're on a quick layover or have hours to spare, there's always something to explore.
Exploring the Jewel
At the heart of Changi lies the Jewel, a multi-dimensional lifestyle destination that seamlessly integrates nature with retail. Its centerpiece, the Rain Vortex, is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, surrounded by a lush indoor forest. Visitors can shop at international brands, dine at diverse eateries, or simply relax amidst the greenery.
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Gardens in the Sky
Changi Airport is renowned for its themed gardens:
Sunflower Garden: Located in Terminal 2, this rooftop garden features vibrant sunflowers, offering a cheerful ambiance and a unique photo opportunity.
Enchanted Garden: Found in Terminal 2, this interactive garden comes alive with motion sensors, blooming flowers, and soothing sounds, creating a magical experience for travellers.
Rest and Recharge
For those needing rest, Changi offers several accommodations
YOTELAIR: Situated within Jewel, YOTELAIR provides smartly designed cabins perfect for a short nap or overnight stay. You can find it here on Booking.com
Aerotel Transit Hotel: Located in Terminal 1, it offers comfortable rooms and amenities without the need to clear immigration. You can find it here on Booking.com
Lounge Access and Amenities
Changi's lounges cater to various needs:
SATS Premier Lounge: Available in Terminals 1 and 2, offering a range of amenities from dining options to shower facilities. Hmmm I tried it out and i wasn't impressed FULL REVIEW HERE!
Plaza Premium Lounge: Located in Terminal 1, providing a comfortable space to relax before your flight.
Marhaba Lounge: Also in Terminal 1, known for its hospitality and services.
Priority Pass members can access these lounges, ensuring comfort regardless of your airline or class of travel.
I managed to get you a 30% off Priority Pass! which lets you access lounges around the world for a fraction of the regular price. With this discount, I was able to get into the SATS Premier Lounge in Terminals 1 and 2, Plaza Premium Lounge: Located in Terminal 1 and the Marhaba Lounge Lounge.
Take a look HERE
Seamless Connectivity
Transiting through Changi is a breeze. With clear signage, efficient processes, and helpful staff, moving between terminals is straightforward. The Skytrain connects Terminals 1, 2, and 3, while Terminal 4 is accessible via shuttle bus.
Peace of Mind with AirTag
Traveling with checked luggage? Using an AirTag to track your bag provides peace of mind. Changi's efficient baggage handling means your luggage is in good hands, but having that extra layer of security ensures a stress-free journey.
Top Tip: I put an AirTag in my suitcase, I was able to check that my case was also enjoying its transit stop at Singapore Changi and the onwards to Abu Dhabi Airport.
Blog Post: Why You NEED an Apple AirTag in Your Luggage for Travel (And the New Feature That Makes It Even Better)
Strange Procedures
An interesting aspect of Changi is that security checks are conducted at the gate. This means you can't bring bottled water through to your flight, even if purchased post-immigration. However, duty-free liquids are allowed. It's a peculiar rule, possibly influenced by commercial interests, so plan accordingly.
Terminal Overview and Airlines
Changi Airport comprises four terminals, each serving various airlines:
Terminal 1: Air France, KLM, Qantas, and more.
Terminal 2: Singapore Airlines, Etihad Airways, Lufthansa, and others.
Terminal 3: Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, and more.
Terminal 4: Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, and others.
For a detailed map and airline information, visit the Changi Airport Map.
Getting to the City Centre
Reaching downtown Singapore from Changi is straightforward:
MRT: The train journey to City Hall takes about 35 minutes and costs around SGD 2.
Bus: Bus 36 connects the airport to key areas like Orchard Road and City Hall.
Taxi: Available 24/7, offering a direct route to your destination.
Ride Apps: Services like Grab provide convenient transport options.
Smoking Areas
Designated smoking areas are available throughout the airport:
Terminal 1: Outdoor Cactus Garden.
Terminal 2: Near Gates D35-D36.
Terminal 3: Outdoor decks and specific lounges.Changi Airport
Which Airport is Number One in the World?
Singapore Changi Airport consistently ranks as the world's best airport, thanks to its unparalleled amenities, efficiency, and passenger experience.
How to Spend 10 Hours in Singapore Airport?
With a 10-hour layover, you can: Explore the Jewel and its attractions. Relax, mention the rope trampoline park, mention some food outlets as recommendations, the top reviewed place, airport lounge
ChatGPT said:
Absolutely, here’s how you could make the most out of a 10-hour layover at Singapore Changi Airport and it’s actually worth looking forward to.
How to Spend 10 Hours in Singapore Airport
Let’s be honest, a 10-hour layover in most airports would sound like a nightmare. But at Singapore Changi Airport, it’s practically a mini vacation. Here’s how to break up your time and enjoy every minute of it.
1. Explore the Jewel and Its Attractions
Start your layover by heading straight to Jewel Changi Airport, which is connected to Terminals 1, 2, and 3. You don’t even need to leave the airport premises.
HSBC Rain Vortex: The world’s tallest indoor waterfall is a breathtaking sight. It’s surrounded by the Shiseido Forest Valley, a multi-level garden that lets you stretch your legs in a surprisingly peaceful environment.
Canopy Park: Head to the top level of Jewel for Canopy Park, which includes attractions like the Discovery Slides, Mirror Maze, and Foggy Bowls. If you're up for something a bit more thrilling, check out the Manulife Sky Nets, yes, you can bounce on a rope trampoline suspended above ground.
2. Relax and Refresh
If you’re not up for bouncing around or maze-hopping, there are plenty of ways to just chill.
Airport Lounges: One of the best things about Changi is that you don’t need a first-class ticket to lounge in style. Use your Priority Pass to access spots like:
Plaza Premium Lounge (Terminal 1)
SATS Premier Lounge (Terminal 1 and 2)
Marhaba Lounge (Terminal 3)
These lounges offer comfy seating, hot food, showers, Wi-Fi, and drinks to recharge before your next leg.
YOTELAIR: Located within Jewel, YOTELAIR is perfect if you want an actual bed, a hot shower, or just some peace and quiet. The smart cabins are available for a minimum of four hours, ideal for mid-layover naps. You can find it here on Booking.com
3. Grab a Bite – or a Feast
Changi is a legit foodie's paradise. Whether you’re craving local Singaporean fare or a gourmet meal, it’s all here.
Local Flavors: Don’t miss Staff Canteen @ T1 a local secret serving authentic hawker-style food at unbeatable prices.
Highly Rated Spot: The top-reviewed restaurant at Changi is Jewel's Violet Oon Singapore, perfect for a taste of modern Peranakan cuisine. Dishes like dry laksa and beef rendang are crowd favorites.
Other Picks:
Shake Shack (Jewel) for something familiar
Din Tai Fung (Jewel & Terminal 3) for famous xiao long bao
Toast Box for kopi and kaya toast if you’re feeling like something light
You could easily spend your entire 10-hour layover between the Jewel, lounges, restaurants, and a nap at YOTEL and still wish you had more time. That's the magic of Singapore Changi Airport, and why so many people (myself included) wouldn’t mind having a long layover here. It’s not just an airport. It’s a destination.
Don't forget to get an eSim before you travel and save yourself data roaming fee's!
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Hello I’m Paul a travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
I’m now, producing travel content, reaching millions of viewers monthly. Reporting on travel news, sharing travel tips, reviews, and deals with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of authenticity!
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