I know countless people before me have written at great lengths about Singapore and what to do on holiday. I have spent many hours in transit many a time and wanted to dedicate this to what to do in Singapore when you arrive at 0600 and your flight is not until 2100 hours. I have done some or all of these activities in the fifteen hours.
Singapore never fails to amaze me as I feel it is a city that is always on the go and improving each and every day. I would have transited through Singapore at least 20 times and I must say not once have I cursed the layover. The city goes to bed late and rises late – so nothing is open till about 11am.
0600 – Once you disembark and in the terminal go to the registration desk and book your free Singapore Heritage Tour for a 9am departure. No need to clear immigration.
After registration, walk around and have a look at the arrival gardens and displays. Depending on the terminal, you can either explore the canopy walk, butterfly garden or sunflower garden.
After exploring enjoy a cup of coffee or kapi, freshen up and deposit your cabin bag at the left luggage centre. (Only a small day pack back pack is permitted on the tour)
0900 – Check in for your heritage tour
1130 – Arrive back at your terminal and clear immigration now.
1130 – Walk down to the MRT station (they will accept only cash or MasterCard) and purchase a day pass. You will need to change lines but it is straight forward and head to Gardens by the Bay. The gardens are inspiring and spectacular – you can easily immerse yourself and spend a few hours even if you are not a gardener. You may stop for a spot of lunch at one of the train stations.
1130 to 1700 Travelling to Gardens by the Bay, lunch and viewing the gardens. If the idea of gardens and being out in the heat and humidity does not interest you, then head down to Orchard Road and get lost in the mall maze. Traffic at peak times can be a nightmare and you will not find a taxi between the hours of 5 to 7pm. Best to head back to the airport on the MRT.
1700 to 1800 – Pick up your cabin bag and head to the transit lounge where for $16 you can have a nice shower.
1800 to 1900 – Head to the food halls to have some good Singapore food
1900 to 1930 – Finish any last minute duty free shopping. Great place to buy cosmetics, skin care and perfumes
1930 – Head to your gate for security check and Bon Voyage!