Heip at Singapore Airport

[hellhole]

10% - service charge
7% - GST ( refundable up to certain amount, not sure how much)

if a buffet is SGD$20++ ( two plus = GST and service charge), then its SGD$23.40

 

[DocVikingo]

...or maybe Singapore Slings at the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel. Touristy? Yes, but you're a tourist.

It's ungodly touristy, and expensive, but one could argue that it's a one-time must do. If going, dress in appropriate attire. You won't get past security in shorts and a T-shirt.

Regards,

DocVikingo

 

[DocVikingo]

I guess taxi fare to Changi from Boat Quay is about S$20. (S$25 the other way.) Fare increases by 50% after midnight (but taxis then become easy to get), and there are added fees for booking a cab, entering the central business district, rides during peak hours, and the ride originating at the airport.

This accords with my recent trip thru Singapore.

Regards,

DocVikingo

 

[DocVikingo]

Hi CajunDiva,

You have lots of good info so far.

I'd also suggest considering seeing the Marina Bay Sands hotel and casino (developed by the Las Vegas Sands). It has crazy architecture and is among the top grossing casinos in the world. In the general area of Melion Park (some nice places to eat) and the Sky Park.

Do enjoy.

DocVikingo

 

[CajunDiva]

It's ungodly touristy, and expensive, but one could argue that it's a one-time must do. If going, dress in appropriate attire. You won't get past security in shorts and a T-shirt.

Regards,

DocVikingo

The dress code is my only concern. We will be dressed comfortably (with a 21 hour flight ahead of us!) and our luggage will be checked, so unless we pack a change of clothes in our carry-on, I'm not sure we will be "appropriately" dressed for drinks at Raffles - although we would LOVE to do it. This ranks as one of those situations where we'll just have to figure out a way to make it happen

 

[DocVikingo]

The dress code is my only concern.

Here's from the Long Bar website:

"Dress code: Casual

A more relaxed attire is accepted. Sport shirts, slacks and bermudas teamed with appropriate shoes for the gentlemen are welcomed. Ladies can be dressed in their casual best, in casual dresses, skirts and trousers with appropriate footwear."

Regards,

DocVikingo

 

[Ramsy]

IMHO, the Singapore Sling at the Raffles Hotel is not worth the trip. As others have said, it is very expensive. Also, the Singapore Sling is pre-mixed and comes out of the bar's well gun. So, when you order one, the bartender simply grabs a glass, and hits a button and the drink is dispensed. Some of the mystique of having the original Singapore Sling is lost using this method.

P.S. When I went, I wore shorts and a t-shirt and had no problem getting into the bar. However, this was some years ago.

P.P.S. Whatever you choose to do to pass the time of your 9 hour layover, you will have a great time. Singapore is a great city/country. You can't go wrong just taking in any of the sights and enjoying their great cuisine.

 

[racerx_]

There is an actual night safari at the zoo.. u get on a tram and it takes u through nocturnal exhibits.. definitely worth going to if you've never been. It's open till late. Info is at www.zoo.com.sg

There's also an airport surcharge of $5 on taxis you should be aware of I think its going to airport, can't rem if it applies to coming from there although I think so but just a heads up. Most of our taxis take credit cards, if u want to save cash just check before u get in to make sure. but you'll need Singapore dollars for everything else. Money changers are in the airport and reliable.

You could also get on the flyer, huge ferris wheel thing that'll give you a great view of the city. Not too far from town, boat quay etc.

There's tons of food places open all night so you'll be able to kill time, and whenever you're ready head back to the airport which is very nice and not a bad place to be stuck on a layover.

I was gonna have u look me up when u get in but I actually get in from the states that night myself ha.. hope u have fun, if u need more info let me know!

 

[racerx_]

A couple more things.. If you want awesome local food, go to Lagoon on the east coast (near the airport) or "lau pa sat" if you want to stay near town/ boat quay sort of area. Satay and chilli/pepper crab will make you happy.

Oh no one tips here, in fact its discouraged.

Shopping is at Orchard Road, open till about 930. It's like the Vegas strip without casinos and seediness LOL. Just one long road of shopping.

 

[CajunDiva]

Thanks so much racerx! We really appreciate the great input