I’ve always believed that travel isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about how the journey unfolds. This time, our adventure took us across the border to the ever-sparkling city-state of Singapore. Even though it was my third time visiting, this trip was extra special. For the first time, we chose to stay on Sentosa Island, and from airport waterfalls to thrilling theme parks, every day was packed with something new.
Let me take you through our Singapore getaway—complete with flight tips, where to stay, how to get around, and everything we explored. Hopefully, it’ll spark some ideas for your next trip too!
The Journey Begins – From Kuala Lumpur to Changi
We booked our flights through AirAsia, scoring a great deal at RM 75 per person (one way). We traveled in June, so it was a hot month—but still ideal for sightseeing.
Our flight departed from KLIA2, which meant a bit of a walk to the departure gate. If you’re flying from here, arrive early—especially if you’re carrying a hand-carry bag. Make sure your bag doesn’t exceed 7 kg; otherwise, the airline might ask you to check it in, and you’ll be charged.
After just one hour in the air, we landed in Singapore’s Changi Airport (Terminal 4). And as always, Changi was impressive.
Jewel Changi – Don’t Miss the Waterfall!
Instead of rushing out, we made time to visit Jewel Changi Airport—and I highly recommend it. The Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, begins flowing at:
- 10 AM on Fridays to Sundays and public holidays
- 11 AM on other weekdays
We arrived early and watched the vortex start. It was stunning! Different levels of the Jewel offer unique views of the waterfall, and there’s plenty of shopping and food if that’s your thing.
To get there from Terminal 4, just take the free shuttle bus to Terminal 1, then follow the signs.
Off to Sentosa – Our Island Escape
Once we left Changi, we headed to HarbourFront MRT Station, which is connected to VivoCity Mall. From there, we caught the Sentosa Express Monorail to the island.
And just like that, we were transported from city buzz to tropical calm.
“Singapore isn’t just a stopover—it’s a destination that shows how cultures can beautifully live side by side.”
Where We Stayed: Siloso Beach Resort
For this trip, we chose to stay on Sentosa Island itself, at the Siloso Beach Resort. Yes, it’s a bit pricier than staying in downtown Singapore, but it’s worth it for the beachfront access and island vibes.
From the Sentosa Express station, we hopped on the free beach shuttle, which dropped us right near the hotel. The location was amazing—just a short walk to the beach.
Unfortunately, Siloso Beach was temporarily closed due to an oil spill clean-up. But even so, we managed to relax nearby and enjoy the sunset views.
Exploring Beyond Sentosa – City Sights & Culture
We couldn’t resist heading back to mainland Singapore to explore more of the city. We started with a walk along the Singapore River, surrounded by glassy skyscrapers and old colonial buildings—a lovely contrast.
Next, we made our way to Fort Canning Park. It’s a great place to soak up history and greenery, but be prepared—it’s a bit of a hike!
We ended the day in Chinatown, where we strolled through vibrant markets and had dinner. While food and drinks are a little more expensive compared to Malaysia, the energy and colors of Chinatown made it worth it.
A Full Day at Universal Studios
The next day was all about Universal Studios Singapore—and we dedicated the entire day to it. We booked our tickets the night before through Klook, which was easy and sometimes cheaper.
While there’s an Express Pass option, we skipped it since even that line can get long on weekends.
We downloaded the Universal Studios app, which helped us check wait times, ride info, and show schedules.
Our favorite rides? Definitely:
- Transformers 3D
- Jurassic Park Rapids
- Revenge of the Mummy
- Shrek 4D
If you’re scared of rollercoasters (like I am sometimes!), save those for the end—or just cheer your partner on like I did.
More Island Attractions & Evening Strolls
After Universal, we walked through Resorts World Sentosa and explored the casino and luxury hotel lobbies. We also visited Symphony Dreams and Tactile Trellis—beautiful installations that come to life after sunset.
If you’re staying on the island, I recommend taking an evening walk along the beach or through the gardens. The warm air and island lights make for a peaceful way to end the day.
City Highlights: From Merlion to Haji Lane
Before heading home, we set out for one last full day of exploring.
We started at Clifford Pier, with panoramic views of the Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer, and ArtScience Museum. This spot is picture-perfect, especially at golden hour.
From there, we walked to Merlion Park to see Singapore’s famous symbol up close.
Then came Haji Lane—a colorful, artistic street full of murals, quirky cafés, and global cuisine. It’s such a fun and Instagrammable spot, and you’ll definitely leave with a few unique finds or snacks.
Gardens by the Bay – The Perfect Send-Off
We saved one of the best for last: Gardens by the Bay.
If you go, make sure to visit in the evening. The glowing Supertrees and synchronized light show are absolutely magical. It’s a relaxing and awe-inspiring way to end your Singapore trip.
Tips Before You Go
- Fill in the SG Arrival Card online before arriving. It’s free and required.
- Use Klook or similar sites to book attractions ahead of time.
- Buy the Singapore Tourist Pass if you plan on using the MRT and buses frequently.
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll walk a lot, especially at parks and riverside areas.
- Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated (Singapore is hot and humid!)
Final Thoughts
Singapore continues to surprise me every time I visit. From Changi’s futuristic terminals to Sentosa’s chill beaches and the non-stop thrills of Universal Studios, it was the kind of trip that made us feel like kids again—curious, excited, and full of wonder.
If you’re looking for a destination that combines modern comforts, cultural richness, and family-friendly fun, Singapore should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re going for the first time or the fifth, there’s always something new to discover.
So, pack your bags and step out of your comfort zone. The world is waiting—and so is Singapore.
