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This Is One Of The Best Airports In The World For Layovers – Here’s Why

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Singapore's Changi Airport is widely regarded as one of the best airports in the world.  This is due to a number of factors, such as its extensive range of amenities, excellent transportation connections, and overall efficiency.

Outdoor view of the Jewel and a flight tower at Changi Airport in Singapore

Everything at Changi Airport is designed to make the traveler's experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.  This includes extremely fast and efficient check-in, luggage drop, and security, on top of its multitude of entertainment and relaxation options.  

In addition to excellent shopping, Michelin-star dining, and unique and immersive art installations throughout the airport, Changi airport has some out-of-the-ordinary attractions that take it to the next level.

From movie theaters and gaming lounges to rooftop swimming pools and butterfly gardens, there is more than enough to pass the time during your layover.  In fact, it’s recommended that you have at least 5 hours of transit time to even experience the main attraction – the famous Jewel

The inside of the Jewel in Changi Airport with a view of the Rain Vortex surrounded by a wall of green plants

Here are just a few of the unique things you can do on your layover at Changi Airport:

Explore Singapore

In terms of transportation, Changi is incredibly well-connected. The airport is served by a number of public transport options, including the MRT and bus networks, making it easy (and affordable) to explore Singapore during a layover. 

With just a few hours, you can easily see the iconic Gardens by the Bay, get a picture with the Merlion, and visit the Cloud Forest.  If you don’t want to lug around your carryon, there’s baggage storage located in every terminal that ranges from 4-13 USD (for a 24-hour period), depending on size. 

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The Singapore Merlion with the Marina Bay Sands in the background at sunset

Visit The Jewel

The Jewel is just that – the center focus of this world-class airport.  Here you’ll find the Shiseido Forest Valley, an immersive indoor garden space that surrounds the Rain Vortex.  This incredible spectacle is the largest indoor waterfall in the world and the main draw of what is already an impressive space. 

There’s even a light and sound show every evening.  Visitors can also stroll above it all on the Canopy Bridge or through the Canopy Park.  

The rain vortex at the Jewel in Changi Airport, Singapore

Sunbathe At The Pool

Changi Airport actually has several outdoor spaces, one of which is a sprawling rooftop pool, complete with jacuzzi and poolside bar.  As part of the Aerotel transit hotel, it’s free for hotel guests, but others must pay $17 USD for entry.  This also includes the use of shower facilities, and towels are provided.  

Woman on her phone while lounging in the pool with a tropical drink

Stroll Through The Gardens

There are several gardens to choose from at Changi Airport, spread throughout each of the terminals.  In addition to the Shiseido Forest Valley, there’s the indoor Butterfly Garden and Orchid Garden.  Or get some fresh air in the outdoor Cactus Garden (and bar) and rooftop Sunflower Garden.

Relax And Recharge

Although there are multiple hotels on site, there are also “Snooze Lounges” in every terminal of the airport.  These spaces offer reclining chairs and charging ports free of charge to transit passengers.  You’ll also find free massage chairs placed throughout the airport. 

If you’d like a real massage, the full-service spa is located in Terminal 1 at the Aerotel transit hotel.

Woman getting a relaxing massage at a spa

See A Movie

Although there are many lounge areas with TVs, there are also two movie theaters that are open 24 hours, playing various movies throughout the day (and night). 

The movie theaters are completely free, and you can find them in Terminals 2 and 3.  Also available are video games and arcade games in the Entertainment Deck.      

Girl eating popcorn in a movie theater

Go Rock Climbing

A new addition to Terminal 3 is a state-of-the-art climbing facility.  With an 8-meter rock-climbing wall as well as a bouldering wall, this is a fun way to pass the time for all ages.  

As with many of the amenities at Changi Airport, this facility is open to the public, so visitors should schedule in advance to make sure there is availability.  Various classes and packages are available starting as low as $8 USD up to $85 for multiple sessions.

Man and woman at an indoor rock climbing facility

Entertain The Kids

Terminal 3 has more for the kids than just rock climbing.  It is also home to a 4-story slide starting on level 1, going all the way down to the basement.  Both kids and adults can partake after signing up for a free Changi Rewards Membership.  After sliding down to the basement, you’ll find the Underground Carnival, a temporary attraction that will only last until May 1st.  There are carnival games, rides, and go-karts for all to enjoy.  Entrance to the area is free, but you must purchase “Carnival Credits” for games and rides. 

If that’s not enough, head back to the Jewel for even more slides, a hedge maze, and a mirror maze.  Kids can also explore the clouds in the “Foggy Bowls” and bounce through the sky in the suspended Bouncing Nets.

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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.