I was scheduled to arrive a little before midnight, holding a hotel booking for the following morning. Usually, I would rough it out until the first train or bus would depart from Singapore Changi Airport, but on my last trip, I decided to check in at Aerotel Singapore, a new transit airport hotel located airside of Terminal 1.
My flight was delayed by an hour, so I arrived at Terminal 2 of Singapore Changi Airport at almost 1:00 AM. Good thing, the Skytrain that links the three terminals was still operational, so I took the train for Terminal 1 without clearing immigration. Right beside the Skytrain station was already the escalator that led me to Aerotel Singapore.
Although simple, the lobby was stylish and modern, so I instantly had a good feeling about the hotel. Since I gave my arrival details beforehand (fortunately, an hour after my scheduled flight arrival to account for likely delays), the front staff were already anticipating me. Check-in was swift, and I was handed my keys in no time.
I hurried to my room, since I was getting sleepier by the minute. As I opened the door, what welcomed me was a room laid out well with a contemporary design. Immediately, I likened it to city hotels that I like—only that the view was of the tarmac with aircraft taxiing. By the way, the room was excellently soundproofed that I had to lean onto the window to hear the whirring of jets that passed by.
The room’s subdued lighting and earth colors made the experience relaxing, and of course, sleep quality was superb with the comfortable bed. The room also offered a lounge chair, a desk, an LED TV, and coffee and tea making facilities. The bathroom, meanwhile, was immaculate and had complete towels and amenities.
At the hotel’s lounge, I had breakfast, which was included with my room. There was a breakfast set selection, but I made a special request for Hainanese chicken rice from their all-day dining menu.
I also had the chance to check out the small fitness corner and the swimming pool overlooking the tarmac, which the hotel is proud of. I was told it’s the world’s only outdoor swimming pool in an airport transit hotel, and luckily, they let even non-staying guests use it along with the shower room. It also has a poolside bar beside it.
In all, it was a great stay, as I woke up the next day feeling invigorated and ready to take on Singapore. I was able to see how Aerotel Singapore is perfect for not only those who are transiting in Changi Airport but also those who arriving late night and are thus too early to check into a hotel—it makes more sense to just stay at Aerotel for a few hours than to pay for an extra night at a hotel and a taxi to get out of the airport during the wee hours.
Note: Those who are transiting or arriving at Changi Airport must not clear immigration to get to Aerotel Singapore, as it is located airside or in the transit area of Terminal 1. Those arriving from flights from Terminals 2 and 3 may use the Skytrain, walk, or take the airside shuttle bus (when the Skytrain is not operational). For more information on inter-terminal transfers, check out this link.
AEROTEL SINGAPORE
Level 3, Departure/Transit Lounge, Terminal 1 (above Gate D41), Singapore Changi Airport
Telephone: +65 6808 2388
Email: rsvn.sin@myaerotel.com
Website: www.myaerotel.com
Social Media: Facebook and Instagram
