Free, Pay-Per-Use Lounges in Singapore Changi Airport to Relax and Chill

The Marina Bay Sands offers a new way to learn more about their history and explore Singapore.

Visitors are invited to see the SkyPark Observation Deck’s newest showcase, “Skyline Singapore: Stories from Above,” an exhibit exploring the story of the Marina Bay Sands and its past, present, and future. The exhibit debuted on Jan. 17, 2025, and coincides with the 15th birthday of the Marina Bay Sands and the 60th birthday of Singapore. 

The exhibition highlights the story of what once was a reclaimed land, and is now a globally renowned district and symbol of Singapore. Here, guests and visitors can find out about the best-kept secrets, architecture, and history of the Marina Bay Sands, while also taking a glimpse into the vibrant neighborhoods and culture of Singapore.

Here are some of the main attractions of the “Skyline Singapore: Stories from Above” exhibit.

Through the Years: Marina Bay Timeline

Combining historical photographs and informative interpretation, viewers can get a glimpse of how the Marina Bay looked like from the 1800s to the present and gain a deeper understanding of the rationale behind the development of Marina Bay. 

Making of Marina Bay Sands

The creation of the resort is the focus of this part of the exhibit, from its initial conception and visionary design by architect Moshe Safdie to its complex construction process. It also highlights the techniques and sustainable practices that were done to bring the Marina Bay Sands to life, giving guests an understanding of the craftsmanship and creativity involved in the creation of the iconic resort. 

Rise of an Architectural and Cultural Landmark

This exhibit gives a more in-depth background behind the development of the Marina Bay Sands, from its construction to its rise as a cultural and architectural landmark in Singapore. 

Celebration of Singapore’s Sights and Cultural Districts

The showcase continues with a celebration of Singapore at the 56th Level of the SkyPark Observation Deck. There, visitors can see a striking LED wall that shows the iconic landmarks of the Lion City, as well as a deep dive into Singapore’s diverse and vibrant neighborhoods like Kampong Glam, Chinatown, and Joo Chiat. 

Interpretative Panels

Panels of sights and cultural districts in Singapore can be seen on the Observation Decks at Levels 56 and 57. Some of the sights seen in the panels are the Gardens by the Bay, the Singapore Flyer, Esplanade, and the Marina Barrage. 

Leaving a Mark at SkyPark

Visitors can “leave a mark” at the Level 56 lobby by engaging with an interactive world map. There, visitors can mark their place of origin and even vote for what they think Marina Bay would look like in the future based on AI-generated concepts. 

Skyline Singapore: Stories from Above tickets are available on their website, priced at S$35 (Adult), S$31 (Concession), and S$27.50 (Family Package of 4). Grab your tickets here!

For more information, check out the Marina Bay Sands’ attraction website here and their Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram pages. 

Location: Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck, 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956 

Immerse yourself in nature while still being near the city. Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree recently announced that they will start accepting reservations on Jan. 24, 2025, for stays from April 2, 2025 onward.

Nestled within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the resort provides easy access to zoological parks – Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, Bird Paradise, and the Rainforest Wild Asia.

Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree presents a variety of rooms and suite categories – from standard rooms and suites to family rooms with a bunk bed offering views of the rainforest, garden, and the Upper Seletar Reservoir. The uniquely designed treehouses, each with a private patio, also provide a tranquil retreat for couples.

Highlights of the resort include the following:

• 338 guest rooms and suites including 24 treehouses
• Unobstructed views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir from the Rooftop pool
• Two dining experiences – Forage and Planter’s Shed.
  • Forage overlooks the tranquil reservoir, offering a “Trust the Chef” menu and a delicious arrangement of fresh, daily sourced ingredients. These include produce from the resort’s rooftop edible garden.
  • Planter’s Shed is an all-day dining restaurant, featuring local and international cuisine with buffet options for breakfast and dinner, as well as live cooking stations and a roving tableside service for an interactive dining experience. Ala carte menus are available at lunchtime.
• The award-winning Banyan Tree Spa with invigorating spa treatments to restore both mind and body. Some of their services include detoxifying body wraps made with natural ingredients like turmeric and ginger, or signature massages that enhance circulation and alleviate muscle fatigue.
• The Banyan Tree Gallery houses locally inspired merchandise, allowing guests to bring home a meaningful keepsake of their stay.

For inquiries and reservations, visit the Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree website or email them at [email protected]. Room prices will be reflected on the website starting Jan. 24, 2025.

For more updates, follow the Mandai Wildlife Reserve on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

Location: Mandai Rainforest Resort, 60 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore

One of Singapore’s most anticipated hotel openings of the year has finally set a date! Raffles Sentosa Singapore has announced that it's currently taking bookings and inquiries for stays and events ahead of its Mar. 1 opening.

Over 135 years after the original Raffles opened its doors, the second Raffles in Singapore opens a new chapter for the brand, nestled within 100,000 square meters of sprawling tropical gardens perched on a hilltop and boasting views of the South China Sea.

“Raffles Sentosa Singapore will be an enchanting sanctuary, where nature, heritage, and wellness come together with the legendary traditions and world-class hospitality of the Raffles brand to create truly unforgettable experiences,” said Cavaliere Giovanni Viterale, Cluster General Manager of Raffles Sentosa Singapore and Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa. “The resort will also offer the perfect setting for private retreats, family gatherings, and celebrating significant milestones.”

News on the second Raffles property was announced before the pandemic back in 2019, and was originally slated to open in 2022. The country’s first all-villa hotel is poised to be a serene, secluded sanctuary for extended stays, only fifteen minutes away from the city-state’s central business district, and twenty-five from Changi International Airport.

Designed by international studio Yabu Pushelberg, the resort’s 62 contemporary villas are all equipped with private pools & terraces, and range in size from 260 square meters for one-bedroom villas to 450 square meters for four-bedroom villas.

As wellness will be the focus of the resort, guests can enjoy the Raffles Sentosa Spa and their wide range of well-being experiences in its thirteen treatment rooms. Other highlights include the stunning Raffles Ballroom which can seat up to 400 guests, the Garden Room & Terrace, and five restaurants and lounges that offer flavors from Italian, Cantonese, and Japanese cuisines. The property’s signature dining spots include the Italian Empire Grill, Royal China, and the Japanese omakase, Hashida.

Raffles’ iconic experiences such as the Raffles Butlers service and Raffles Afternoon Tea will also be available at the resort, along with Sentosa Sling cocktail which will debut as part of Raffles' legendary welcome.

For inquiries, visit their website. You can also follow Raffles Hotels on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates.

Are you into decorating or collecting ephemera from countries you’ve been to? Look no further, because WHSmith is holding a free stamp rally at their branches at Changi Airport Terminals 3 and 4.

Wait, what’s a “Stamp Rally”?

A stamp rally is an event that’s dedicated to collecting stamps that follow a theme at different sites. These can be found in train stations, rest areas, tourist attractions, museums, shopping malls, and other places.

Stamp rallies first started in Japan, where these courses are organized by chain stores, railroad companies, travel agencies, or even local tourist associations. Stamp rallies are commonly found around train stations, and anyone can join in!

Stamp rallies are all the rage for journaling enthusiasts and hobbyists everywhere. Some would even make it a point to bring an empty notebook whenever they go to Japan and allot some part of their day to finding stamps.

It’s also a way to get to know another culture!

Free Stamp Rally at WHSmith at Changi Airport

WHSmith is a retailer specializing in stationery, books, gifts, and digital gadgets. Their stores are usually found at railway stations, airports, hospitals, and service station shops. WHSmith is found at every Changi Airport Terminal, but the stamp rally will only be available at their Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 outlets.

The stamp design at WHSmith Terminal 3 features a Chili Crab and honors the sweet and spicy Singaporean fave. The stamp at WHSmith Terminal 4 features the iconic Changi Airport Control Tower, complete with the Jewel and a little plane departing.

Make the most out of your layovers at Changi Airport with the free stamp rally! Don’t forget to bring your notebooks, postcards, or even your old boarding passes for a unique souvenir.

Find out more interesting events and promotions at the Changi Airport through their Facebook, Instagram, X (Formerly Twitter), and TikTok pages!

Location: WHSmith, Terminal 3 Transit, Level 2, Changi Airport | Terminal 4 Transit, Level 2, Changi Airport

Opening Hours: 6 AM to 1 AM (Daily) (T3 Transit), 6 AM to 12 MN (Daily) (T4 Transit)

Heads up, travelers! A new flight route to Singapore has just been announced, connecting it directly to Mangalore, India!

The city-state is set to become the first Southeast Asian destination linked directly to Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) via Air India Express (AIE). This new expansion marks a significant milestone for MIA, which has catered to flights to destinations in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. The new route underscores India’s Act East policy, which aims to strengthen ties with ASEAN nations.

Member of Parliament Captain Brijesh Chowta announced on X (Formerly Twitter) the exciting new route, alongside two other domestic flights connecting MIA to Pune and Delhi. AIE will be serving MIA to Singapore’s Changi Airport flights twice weekly from Jan. 21, 2025.

“There have been multiple requests for better direct air connectivity between Mlore & Changi - highlighting which, I had also written to the Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, to enable the same,” wrote Captain Brijesh. “In this direction, the new flights between Mlore & Changi, bring good news & should encourage more providers to offer the same.”

The Member of Parliament also encouraged Mangaloreans based in Singapore to think of coming #BackToOoru — an initiative that urges Mangaloreans to return home and invest in their district.

Located between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, the port city of Mangalore, or Mangaluru, is known for its coconut palms, beautiful beaches, and stunning temple architecture. Meanwhile, Singapore is a cultural melting pot known as Southeast Asia’s capital filled with world-class facilities, unique attractions, and delicious cuisine. Discover and explore these fantastic destinations by booking a flight here.

Follow Air India Express on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates.

Minions, are you ready to take over the world?

Universal Studios Singapore will soon have a space solely for the beloved Minions from the “Despicable Me” franchise next year.

Resorts World Sentosa (RSW) announced that the theme park will open the Illumination’s Minion Land — a three-part adventure immersing fans and theme park-goers into the world of "Despicable Me” and “Minions” — on Feb. 14, 2025. These experiences include a themed dining spot, a minion marketplace, previously announced rides, exclusive merchandise, and more.

The highly anticipated themed space is a partnership between Universal Creative, Illumination, and Resorts World Sentosa.

Excited to know what’s in store for you and your fellow Minion lovers? Here’s what to expect:

Minion Marketplace

So, what’s a visit to a theme park without getting the merch you want? Minion Land will be offering two limited edition Universal Studios Singapore-exclusive Super Silly Space Killer figurines available at the Minion Marketplace.

These figurines will be launched in a premium vinyl collectible in iridescent finish (limited to 100 pieces), and a full-colored vinyl figure (limited to 1,000 pieces).

Apart from the figurines, the Super Silly Fun Land Collection will have 15 items, from themed T-shirts, homewares and souvenirs. Some designs include elements from the theme park itself.

Super Hungry Food Stand

Inspired by the waterfront snack stand in the film, this boardwalk eatery will charm every fan and theme park goer dining in it. The restaurant will feature culinary creations like a Japanese Curry Chicken Karaage Rice with crispy chicken karaage and poached vegetables, and a Vegan Burger featuring a crunchy mushroom patty with guacamole.

Minion-Shaped Mantou served with Singapore chili crab sauce are also available for those that want to try something more local, and chicken fingers with sweet potato balls are available for the kids.

Of course, what’s a “Despicable Me”-themed park without sweet treats inspired by Agnes’ Fluffy Unicorn plushie or a Tim Bear Mousse Cake, right?

Minute of Minion Mayhem Show

The minions and Gru’s three daughters — Margo, Edith, and Agnes — will take over the streets in an all-new show, the “Minute of Minion Mayhem”!

You’ll get to see these beloved characters bust a dance move and play around with fart guns throughout the show, and you’d also get a chance to have a meet and greet sesh with them at the end.

Who knows, maybe you’d even see them, and Gru and Lucy, around Minion Land?

“Despicable Me”-themed rides!

First up, is Gru’s Neighborhood. Welcome to Gru, Lucy, and the girls’ home! Here, you’ll get to experience the Minion Mayhem, an unpredictable ride through Gru’s supervillain laboratory, and maybe even become one of the Minions!

Second, the Buggie Boogie, the first-ever Minion dance party-themed carousel only at Universal Studios Singapore. Guests can come on board their choice of any silly creature and boogie to some popular songs remixed by DJ Carl.

Third, the Silly Swirly. You can come and ride on any one of the uniquely styled vehicles and spin and soar around the sky while seeing the views of the Super Silly Fun Land and the lagoon.

The Minion Land first started construction during the second quarter of 2022, taking the place of the Madagascar zone.

Bello! Grab your bananas, fellow minions! See you at Minion Land next year?

For more information and all the latest park updates, follow Universal Studios Singapore on Instagram. You can also follow Resorts World Sentosa on their Facebook and Instagram pages for more fun experiences.

If you need a guide on how to get around Universal Studios Singapore, here’s The Beat Asia’s Ultimate Park Guide for your reference!

Location: Universal Studios Singapore, 8 Sentosa Gateway Sentosa Island Singapore 098269

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 8/9 PM

Grab your tickets here!