Singapore 2011: Changi Airport

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Some say that the airport is the visitors’ first and last impression of the country, and so it is just relevant that the facility must accurately reflect the country.  Our experience at the Singapore Changi Airport was able to justifiably manifest this. The facility was clean, modern, with a very spacious and highly functional lay-out; its personnel efficient and courteous.  A truly modern and global airport that is befitting of its title as the world’s most awarded airport.  

Upon our arrival at the Singapore Airport, while waiting for our turn at the immigration counter, I walked over to the nearest visitors’ kiosk and obtained several copies of the free city map, one for each of us. The city map helped us get around throughout our Singapore trip. 

With the new tourism campaign of "It's More Fun In The Philippines," the country should also consider providing tourist with free city maps and event guides.  After all, almost every country we have been to has a Visitor Center near the immigration.

C and I always divide our family when clearing immigration, we find it more time-efficient as there are 2 officials to process our family, instead of everyone of us standing in front of just one customs officer.

Getting out of the airport couldn't be made easier than it already is! The airport is huge and has three terminals, but travelers do not feel overwhelmed because there are huge signage everywhere.  It took us about 20 minutes to get from the tarmac, pass through customs, to claiming the baggage. 

We took a 6-seater maxicab from the airport since we had considerable number of baggage with us.  Waiting time for a cab took about 5 minutes.  Fare for the maxicabs are fixed at S$50, from the airport to any hotel in Singapore. Not exactly cheap, but we did not mind (too much) since the kids were with us and we know we were paying for convenient and secure transportation.  

For groups with less people or even for a family like us with three kids but with, ehem, less number of luggage, a regular taxi will suffice and the rate would amount to just $38, depending of course from where you are coming from within Singapore.   I know this because going from the city to the airport, we were helped by a Filipino bellhop who creatively managed to arrange all of our luggage to fit at the trunk of a regular taxi.  The Singaporean cab driver could simply just scratch his head. hehehe!:)

 

The other transportation available from the airport are:

~ Taxis. Taxis are available at the taxi stands at the Arrival levels of each Terminal. The journey to the city is estimated to cost between $18.00 and $38.00 and takes approximately 30 minutes. Fares are metered and there is additional $5 airport surcharge for all trips originating from the airport.

~Buses. I think for a visitor with luggage, the bus would be the least convenient option as this might require several transfers..

~ MRT.  The Changi Airport MRT Station is located at the basement of Terminals 2 and 3, accessible from the Arrival and Departure Halls through escalators and lifts.  

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