My travel to Singapore last February was my first time to travel out of the country. I was invited by the Singapore Tourism Board to cover the Thaipusam Festival (Hindu festival of prayers and sacrifice, read all about it at Pilmap Travel & Leisure Magazine, June 2006 issue.)

 

The excitement was overwhelming. Who doesn't want to travel for free? And to Singapore at that.

 

When STB emailed my itinerary, the excitement reached its zenith. The good life, I thought.

 

The big day came and I was more than prepared for it. I arrived at NAIA three hours before the flight. I was early, for a change. I was an eager beaver. And for the first time, I packed lightly. Four days of going around Singapore and I only brought one bag.

 

So I arrived at Changi Airport after 3 & 1/2 hours of smooth flight courtesy of Singapore Airlines (US$840). The food was great by the way. It's true what they about Singapore Air, they have good service.

 

Changi Airport exceeded my expectations. It was like a big hotel lobby--fully carpetted, clean and safe (I later learned that the floor has sensors so they can detect bombs.) Too many photo opportunities. And right there and then, I learned the first lesson: Bring a companion to take pictures. Lol

 

Other than missing some photo ops, I was enjoying my travel.

 

The tour guide met us at the airport exit. The journalist from The Philippine Star, Cecile Zamora-Van Straten (with her Dutch husband, whose first name escapes me at this moment) were already there waiting. After the his and hellos, we proceeded to the money changer and then off we go to our Mercedes Benz van.

 

It was raining hard that day, one of the very few days that a heavy downpour visits Singapore. Blessiings, I thought.

 

And it turned out to be that way. Our hotel was like a giant piece of artwork. Comfy, homey and best of all, the minibar was free. It came at a price though S$170/night +++. Don't miss the swimming pool. It was utilitarian, rectangular shape, long and overlooking the river. You can have your laps there because of its practical and no frills shape.

 

The itinerary was followed with many on-the-side trips of course. I was able to sneak in a bar-hopping spree with a friend so my trip was all the more worthwhile. Visit Chijmes when you go to Singapore. It was like our Eastwood City here in Metro Manila.

 

So there, more details and photos on my next blog.