Explore Singapore's most laid back 'hood, cycle next to a runway, and shop until 11pm at Changi Airport with our neighbourhood guide
When it comes to East versus West, the contention can get pretty real. But even the most hardened of West-siders have to admit that when it comes to culture and food, the East probably takes the cake. Home to tonnes of cafes, restos, heritage shophouses and Changi Airport to boot, there’s always plenty of things to see and do there. Here are some of our top picks.
Ride along the scenic Coastal Park Connector
Fancy cycling alongside planes taking off and landing on the runways of Changi Airport? Rent a bike at Park Connector Network Pitstop at the Changi Beach Carpark and go for a surreal and breezy journey down the Coastal Park Connector, which runs parallel to the Changi Airport runways.
Coastal Park Connector, Changi Beach Carpark 7, 3 Changi Ferry Road, Singapore 499676.
Relive your childhood at Singapore’s tallest slide
Right smack in the middle of Changi Airport is a supersized version of a playground fixture – a 4-storey tall slide. This one’s not for the faint of heart: the unique attraction will have you zooming at up to 6 metres per second.
The Slide @ T3, Level 1, Public Area, Changi Airport Terminal 3 Arrival Hall, 65 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819663.
Soak in the chill vibes of Changi Village
You won’t find any skyscrapers at this little corner of the island. With Changi Beach just a stone’s throw away, this neighbourhood oozes seaside charm. Stroll down the 2.6km Changi Point Coastal Walk for glimpses of the sea and ships. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a bumboat at Changi Ferry Point Terminal to Pulau Ubin, an island that has retained its 1960s rustic charm.
Changi Point Coastal Walk, 6 Changi Village Road, Singapore 509907.
Grab a traditional cuppa at Ya Kun Family Cafe
Skip your usual latte and perk up your senses with a local cup of joe. To give kopi its trademark aromatic flavor, robusta coffee beans are roasted with butter or margarine and brewed inside a “sock” infuser. The ordering process may need some getting used to if you’re not a regular kopi drinker, but trust us, it’s well worth it.
Ya Kun Family Cafe, Basement 2, Departure Lounge, Changi Airport Terminal 3, 65 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819663.
Make a splash at Bedok Reservoir
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city is this oasis with picturesque views and serene views. Rent a kayak from the People’s Association Water-Venture and paddle away into the sunset.
People’s Association Water-Venture (Bedok Reservoir), 911 Bedok Reservoir Road, Singapore 479311, p. 9710 1697.
Shop ’til you drop at Changi Airport
The real Singapore experience includes a bout of shopping, of course – head to Changi Airport for a late night spree (shops stay open until 11pm, score!). Fuel your beauty addiction with Laneige, Sulwhasoo, and Whoo, grab a new backpack at Bratpack, or pick up a chic bracelet from Pandora.
Drop by E-Gadget Mini or Muji to Go to pick some travel essentials, or satisfy your sweet tooth at confectionaries Candy Empire and Sophisca. The best part? Changi Rewards members enjoy 7% GST savings (yes, even in the public areas).
This article is brought to you in partnership with Changi Airport.