When it comes to choosing a destination for your first international trip, many people have different preferences. Popular choices include South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, and Vietnam, each offering unique experiences and attractions that cater to diverse interests.

As a novice, we chose to open our first store in Singapore.

The main reason for choosing this place is definitely not because we wanted to eat chicken rice. No, no, we chose this place because we love how Singapore is a city that **mixes many things together: different ethnicities, languages, and cultures.** Just thinking about what we might encounter is already exciting. This trip, we will explain in detail, in case it is an idea for other newbies. As for those who are already veterans, you can skip to the content below. ^^


We booked our flight tickets three months in advance. During that time, Air Asia had a promotion before the end of the year. The flight tickets and accommodation were at a good price (or so they said). But wait... our friend booked two months later, and the price was almost the same. Didn't they say that booking in advance would be cheaper? You tricked me! T___T


Passport ready, accommodation ready, our next mission is to apply for a passport. We chose to do it at Thanya Park, Srinakarin (it is recommended to register online before going to do it, it will be faster). We queued to apply for a passport for less than 1 hour and it was done. After paying, we came back to sit and wait at home. Within 1 week, the passport will be delivered to our home. Super fast, impressive^^


Internet in Singapore

For internet access in Singapore, I recommend using a Sim2Fly SIM card from AIS. This option is ideal for those who don't use social media extensively and primarily need internet for Google Maps and basic browsing.

Key features of Sim2Fly:

  • Cost-effective: 399 Baht for 3GB of data valid for 8 days.
  • Convenient: Activate the SIM card before boarding your flight.
  • Seamless connectivity: Internet access will be available upon landing in Singapore.
  • Automatic time adjustment: The SIM card automatically adjusts to Singapore time.

Note: Internet access is not available while still in Thailand.

It is highly recommended to activate your SIM card before leaving Thailand. This will ensure that you can contact the call center immediately if any issues arise.


We purchased our attraction tickets in advance from the Singapore Fan Club in Thailand. While slightly more expensive than purchasing them in Singapore, it saved us time and eliminated the need to search for tickets upon arrival. This allowed us to begin exploring immediately. (For more details, please refer to the comments section at the end of this review.)



This trip was a 3-day, 2-night adventure. To keep things concise, I've divided my review into **3 parts**.

Day 1: Exploring Singapore's Cultural Gems

Morning:

  • Arrive at Changi Airport and transfer to the Porcelain Hotel.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant Hindu culture at the Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.
  • Marvel at the sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, a magnificent Buddhist temple with intricate architecture.

Afternoon:

  • Savor the diverse flavors of Singapore at Maxwell Food Centre, a bustling hawker center offering a wide variety of local dishes.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Fort Canning Park, a historical park with remnants of Singapore's colonial past.
  • Capture stunning views of the city skyline from the Helix Bridge, a unique double-helix pedestrian bridge.

Day 2: Universal Studios Singapore → Siloso Beach → Palawan Beach → Supertree Grove. For reviews, please visit: https://th.readme.me/p/8257

Day 3: Ya Kun Kaya Toast -> Hajilane -> Garden by the Bay -> Changi Airport -> Don Muang. Read the review here: https://th.readme.me/p/8258


With everything prepared, let's cut to the day of the trip. It's time to prove whether this city, which others say "has nothing," will offer a newbie like me anything to take home.


Day 1 (February 18, 2017)

6:00 AM: Arrive at Don Mueang Airport, Terminal 2 (domestic flights use Terminal 1). We checked in online and had our boarding pass and baggage tracking information. We proceeded to the baggage drop-off line. After dropping off our luggage, the officer provided us with a Thai immigration form. We completed both sections of the form. The first part is for departure, and the second part is for arrival.


After completing the form, proceed to the "Thai Passport" queue to meet with an immigration officer. At some counters, the officer will guide you through four simple steps:

  1. Place your passport face down in the slot for scanning.
  2. Scan your boarding pass.
  3. Scan your fingerprints.
  4. Look at the camera for a photograph (if you are wearing a hat, please remove it).

All set and ready to travel! ^^


After finishing, I went to sit in front of the gate to wait for the plane.


Upon taking your seat, the friendly flight attendant will distribute Singapore's Immigration Form. Please fill it out as follows: (Image courtesy of the internet)


During check-in, we opted for seats in 5F, which are window seats. As we were on a morning flight heading south, we chose the right side of the plane to avoid direct sunlight. This allowed us to enjoy the scenic views from the window. (We did not select seats for the return flight as it was a late-night flight, and we planned to sleep until we reached Bangkok.)

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10:45 AM. Finally arrived at Sawasdee Changi. The first mission was to go straight to the immigration officer. I read in many reviews that the immigration officers here are quite strict, especially with Thai women, so I was a little worried. While queuing, I tried to choose the fastest lane. I chose lane 4 and encountered a female immigration officer with short hair and a stoic expression. When it was my turn...

We: Present passport and boarding pass (with a sweet smile).

Immigration Officer: (With a neutral expression) Extends a hand to receive the documents ......... Looks at our face and compares it to the passport ................ Points to scan the fingerprint ...................

We: Scanned the finger (sent another sweet smile).

Stamped: Bang! And that's a wrap...

Oh! Hey! This is not what we agreed on! ^V^

Our friend chose lane 1 and encountered a very friendly male immigration officer who spoke Thai. They conducted the interview in Thai, which was quite funny.

After completing the immigration formalities, the immigration officer will return your passport and Immigration Form Part 2. Please keep them safe as you will need to present them upon your departure.

However, we were so happy that we forgot to pick up the candy from the immigration. We are a little sad about that. (Thanks for the picture from the internet)

After breezing through immigration, pick up your luggage and follow the signs to Terminal 2.

Take the Train to City to reach the MRT Platform. Then, purchase your tickets.


There are two types of travel cards available here:

1. EZYlink: A reloadable card accepted on trains, buses, Sentosa Island, and for purchases at 7-Eleven stores. The remaining balance can be refunded upon departure, but the card itself cannot be returned.

2. Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) is a flat-rate travel card that offers unlimited rides on public transportation, including trains and buses. However, it does not cover travel to Sentosa Island. The STP is available for durations of 1, 2, or 3 days.

We opted for the 3-day Singapore Tourist Pass priced at 30 SGD, with the option to return the card upon departure and receive a 10 SGD deposit refund.

Remember to bring the MRT map with you. ++Very important++ It is recommended to study the route in advance and mark the important points you will be traveling to on the map to save time.



11:45 AM: We checked into the Poreclain Hotel, located near Chinatown, a bustling district that remains lively throughout the night. Even returning late, we felt safe and had access to a plethora of food options. We traveled from the airport via the Green Line MRT, transferring at Outram Park Station to the Purple Line and exiting at Chinatown Station, Exit A.


Upon exiting the train station, make an immediate left turn. Avoid proceeding straight ahead, as the market lies in that direction. Let's explore the area first, and we can return for shopping later.


Walk one block to the right and you will find Mosque St. at the corner. Walk into the alley for about 30 meters. The hotel is a white building on the left-hand side. (I borrowed the picture from the hotel's page because I didn't take a picture of the exterior.)


The image at the provided URL depicts a group of people gathered around a table, engaged in conversation and laughter. The setting appears to be a casual social gathering, possibly at a restaurant or bar. The individuals in the image are dressed in contemporary attire, suggesting a modern setting. The overall tone of the image is one of joy and camaraderie.

12:30 PM: We arrived at the hotel. The regular check-in time is 2:00 PM. (If you want to check in early, be sure to check with the staff to avoid an early check-in fee.) Fortunately, there was a room available on the day we arrived, so we were able to check in early.

The atmosphere of the front counter

Upon check-in, guests will receive a key card and a small map highlighting nearby landmarks. Staff will also provide a document outlining hotel regulations for guests to acknowledge and sign (note: smoking is strictly prohibited in guest rooms, with a $500 penalty for violations).

The venue will be decorated in blue and white to create a spacious, clean, and visually comfortable atmosphere.


Our room is located on the 4th floor, room 436. It is a compact room with a well-defined layout. The double bed is located at the far end of the room against the wall, with a TV at the foot of the bed.


The room features a wardrobe, an electric kettle, a refrigerator, and a safe. The hotel provides two bottles of drinking water daily. A hairdryer and two pairs of slippers are located in the drawer next to the bedside table.

The bathroom features a frosted glass sliding door that provides limited visibility. There are no curtains, so guests sharing the room may experience some awkwardness when using the bathroom. Amenities include shower gel, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, and towels. However, please note that there is no bidet spray.

13:00 PM. After packing our belongings, it was time to find something to fill our stomachs before heading out for the day. We decided to use Google Maps to guide us to our destination, the legendary Maxwell Food Centre, which was conveniently located near our accommodation. To get there, we crossed the street from our hotel and walked straight down the alleyway until we reached the end, where we turned right at the corner.

Walk approximately 50 meters straight ahead to find the Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Dedicated to the goddess Sri Mariamman, also known as Parvati (the goddess of power, peace, and beauty), the temple was initially built to ward off epidemics. Devotees often visit to pray for well-being, good health, and protection from harm.


The temple's most striking feature is its "ornate gateway". ++ Photography inside the temple is prohibited. A 3 USD fee applies for photography. ++


Near the temple entrance, there is an ice cream vendor selling Wall's ice cream for $1.20. They offer a variety of flavors that can be enjoyed with bread or wafers. We chose raspberry, which had a perfectly balanced sweetness and paired wonderfully with the crispy wafer. It was a delicious treat!


Walk straight for another 170 meters and you will find the "Tooth Relic Buddha Temple", the most popular Chinese temple among Thai people for making merit, warding off bad luck, and seeking blessings from the deities who protect their birth year. The grand, four-story, bright red building is a stunning blend of Tang Dynasty and Mandala art. The top floor of the temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Buddha.


This hall, known as the Hundred Dragon Hall, features a central statue of Maitreya Buddha. It also houses a table where monks and devotees gather for prayer sessions.


The other room, known as the "Universal Wisdom Hall," houses statues of the six-armed Bodhisattva.




For women wearing sleeveless shirts or shorts, please wear a sarong and shawl before entering.


2:00 PM. Across from Wat Phra Kaew, there is a small alleyway. Walk straight into the alley for about 50 meters, then look to your right and you will see a sign pointing to the back entrance of Maxwell Food Centre. Follow the arrow to enter.


We have arrived at Tian Tian, the legendary chicken rice restaurant. Please place your order, pay, and wait for your food at the front.


A plate of chicken rice costs 5 dollars, while a plate of stir-fried vegetables costs 6 dollars. The taste lives up to its reputation, with tender rice and generous portions of chicken. The stir-fried vegetables are sweet and crispy, although we personally prefer Thai dipping sauce.

During lunchtime, the food court can get very crowded and it may be difficult to find a seat. It is recommended to sit outside, which is located behind Tian Tian restaurant. This area is less crowded and offers a cool breeze for a relaxing dining experience.


3:30 PM. Depart from Maxwell and walk behind the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple to board the MRT. Take the purple line from China Town Station to Dhoby Ghaut, exit B. Open Google Maps and follow the directions. You will find "Fort Canning Park." There are multiple entrances, including those from Orchard or Clark Quay.


This site was once home to a 14th-century Malay royal palace and served as a fort during World War II. Today, it has been transformed into a botanical garden, gallery, hotel, and restaurant. The garden is extensive, and if time permits, a leisurely stroll through its grounds and exploration of the old fort can be quite enjoyable. The lush greenery provides a refreshing atmosphere for a relaxing walk.



Feeling tired? Grab a drink! In a city where water is more expensive than soda, it's soda all the way! ^^


Look for the sign Fort Canning Walk or Fort Canning Lodge. The tunnel is located near the road in front of the hotel. The view is beautiful. When we went, we saw people taking pre-wedding photos.

5:30 PM. I took the yellow line train from Dhoby Ghaut to Bayfront Station to enjoy the view here. Helix Bridge is a bridge that connects Marina Bay Sands with Singapore Flyer.

This bridge is designed to resemble a DNA structure. During the day, it appears ordinary. However, it is highly recommended to visit during twilight or nighttime when it becomes exceptionally beautiful. This location has become a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.


The bridge offers numerous vantage points for admiring the scenery. Stroll along the bridge and explore different angles to capture stunning views.

7:30 PM. For dinner, we headed to the Food Court in Marina Bay Sands, located on the lower level near the ice skating rink. We decided to try a Malaysian dish called "Lor Mee". It consisted of flat rice noodles served with a variety of toppings in a thick, black gravy made with cornstarch, similar to a Chinese "lo mein" sauce. The gravy had a slightly sweet flavor and was paired with a chili-lime sauce. It was a delicious and satisfying meal.


The other bowl was a bowl of Malay Tom Yum seafood noodles. The noodles were round, the shrimp were large, and the soup was similar to Thai Tom Yum but milder in flavor. It was delicious to sip hot. Both bowls were very generous portions, and we couldn't finish them all.


8:30 PM. At Marina Bay Sands, there is also a casino. You can enter by simply showing your passport. However, photography is prohibited inside, and cameras must be left outside. Complimentary drinks, including water, tea, coffee, and juice, are available. (The Minute Maid Apple is particularly delicious!) Even if you don't gamble, you can still visit and enjoy the atmosphere. (Foreigners enter for free, but Singaporeans must pay an entrance fee of 100 SGD.)

10:00 PM: The casino boasts a wide variety of gaming machines, with each table displaying the minimum bet required to play. The **lowest minimum is 25 dollars** (roughly 750 baht per round). Some tables start at 100 dollars. Unless you're wealthy or enjoy taking risks, you might hesitate to play. Time flies inside the casino. After standing around watching players excitedly, I glanced at the clock and realized it was past 10:30 PM. I had to head back to my room to rest up for tomorrow's adventures. Stay tuned to the link below to see where we'll be exploring next!

Day 2: Universal Studios Singapore to Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach, and Supertree Grove

This itinerary takes you from the thrills of Universal Studios Singapore to the serene beaches of Sentosa Island.

Morning:

  • Start your day at Universal Studios Singapore, experiencing exciting rides and attractions based on your favorite movies and characters.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Siloso Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and water sports. Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the ocean, or try your hand at activities like kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

  • Next, explore the tranquil Palawan Beach, a secluded paradise with lush greenery and stunning views. Hike to the top of the suspension bridge for panoramic vistas, or simply unwind on the beach.

Evening:

  • Conclude your day at the iconic Supertree Grove, where towering man-made trees come alive with a mesmerizing light and sound show. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area, or simply marvel at the futuristic landscape.

Additional Resources:

For more information and inspiration, you can refer to the following review: https://th.readme.me/p/8257

Day 3: Ya Kun Kaya Toast -> Hajilane -> Garden by the Bay -> Changi Airport -> Don Muang

Read the review here: https://th.readme.me/p/8258


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  • A pen is a must-have item to keep in your bag, as you will need it to fill out forms or jot down notes.
  • If you have checked in for both your departure and return flights in advance, it is recommended to keep a copy of your boarding pass as a precaution against loss.
  • Make a photocopy of your passport and keep it in your bag in case you lose it during your trip. This will help you verify your identity.
  • It is advisable to carry any prescription medications or over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol, pain relievers, and anti-diarrheal medication in case of emergencies.
  • There are two locations in Thailand where you can purchase tickets for the amusement park:
  1. Singapore Fan Club // You will receive physical tickets with no specified date + discount coupons for food at USS. Located at Gateway Ekamai Shopping Mall, B Floor (BTS Ekamai Station). Open daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Tel: 093 8932688 - 90, 02 0005391 – 2 Fax: 02 0005392
  2. Sea wheel (Thailand branch) // You will receive E-tickets. Located at 491/18 , Silom Plaza Bld, 3rd Floor, Silom Rd., Bangrak, Bangkok.

Both places have similar prices. If you are visiting multiple places, it is recommended to inquire about the Combo set price, which will be cheaper.

  • Sri Mariamman Temple: If you enter the temple, walk clockwise around the ordination hall an odd number of times. It is believed that this will bring you good luck.

#singapore
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