You asked, he answered: Qantas A380 First Class Cabin Crew member Brian Wilson on how you can monkey around with some spare time in Singapore.
Question:
I would love to know how you spend a layover. I'm travelling to Singapore in a month or so and only have one night. It's so hard to know what to fit into that time. - Cass
For many Singapore is all about the shopping. There are, however, dozens of things to do apart from filling your suitcase.
To get your bearings head for the Singapore Flyer – the largest observation wheel in the world. The view is breathtaking and shows just how compact Singapore really is. Free maps are available as you step onboard. If your time is limited, stroll through Raffles Hotel and sip a Singapore Sling at the bar or step back in time and experience 'high tea' with all the pomp and trimmings of the colonial era.
No matter how tired or jet lagged you are breakfast with the Orangutans at the Singapore Zoo is a must. Make sure you ask for a table on the outside deck (for the best views of the animals) and get there early. You'll have to walk through the zoo to get to the special breakfast pavilion and all the animals are wide awake and very curious – it's like a private tour! A well-charged set of camera batteries is a must. If you arrive later in the day try the Zoo's night safari. Buses and Singapore's high speed MRT trains take you straight to the door.
Singapore is divided into a number of cultural precincts each with their own unique markets, food stalls and shops. The best way to discover each area is just to wander around which is generally quite safe – to really learn about the surroundings many Qantas crew have gone on the Singapore Walks. Every evening at 6pm you can get the insiders' view of Little India, Chinatown, the Arab sector and even a few weird and wonderful sights. Imagine wandering through the back of a busy Chinese restaurant kitchen or a funeral parlour – you'll get a unique insight into the history and life of the local people. For more details: Website
For dinner with a difference drop into any of the late night stalls around North Beach Road in the Central CDB – a very cosmopolitan city centre that has not lost it's eastern traditions. If you can't understand Malay, Cantonese or any of the other dozen languages the locals may speak just smile and point to what tempts your taste buds.
For those who do have the luggage room and keen to grab a bargain on electrical goods try Funan Mall and Suntec City, both in the Central CBD. Don't be afraid to ask for a discount or some bonuses!
Ask the Crew!
Members of Qantas' Flight Crew are always on the move – here is your chance to ask about their travels. Best stopover destinations? Sightseeing, shopping or dining tips? Hot hotel picks? Submit your questions to: askthecrew@acpmagazines.com.au