Unlike my other trips, where all little events and meet ups were squeezed in between every part of the travel itinerary, this trip was designed to be limited, but meant to drive pure bliss.
Flight Schedule
The outbound flight was planned to arrive late in the afternoon in Singapore, to avoid the heat of the sun upon arrival. Predeparture activities are already stressful to begin with, so might as well be there just before sunset.
The return flight was scheduled to arrive in MNL on a Sunday noontime or early afternoon, so traffic is light to moderate in the metro.
Accommodation
Why settle for less when you can be at the best? Convenience is the top priority when this trip was finalized. Accessibility to amenities and hotel facilities, wide variety of food choices, availability of
coffee shops, and proximity to MRT,
attractions and shopping areas were all taken in great considerations and were all achieved.
Hotel Facilities and Amenities
The highlight of the trip is a garden view room of Marina Bay Sands. The Gardens by the Bay and the Flower Dome can be seen from our balcony.
This relaxing scenery both by day and night is one of my favorite parts of this trip. Thanks to my bbeyb for making this happen.
The hotel also offers infinity pool access at the 57th floor, exclusive to guests, with a view of the Merlion and the Esplanade.
The Sky Park is also located at the same level and is open to non-hotel guests who are willing to spend $25 to see a 360o view of the city.
Restaurants and Coffee Shops
Marina Bay Sands also offers a wide range of food choices including the famous Xiao Long Bao of Din Tai Fung and Bread Street Kitchen by the famous Gordon Ramsay. Canton Paradise also serves mouth-watering dimsums and dumplings.
Thanks, Boyong, for the treat. 😎
Outside the mall, within 10 to 15 minutes walk are also good food choices such as Gluttons Bay and Satay by the Bay.
The availabilty of Starbucks Reserve at the basement floor lined up to our favorite coffee bonding moment. TWG is also available at the same floor for tea lovers.
Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf is also everywhere.
Attractions and Services
The proximity of our accommodation to famous landmarks was also well-planned and has made the trip hassle free. We stayed for a night in Harborfront area - the gateway to the Sentosa Island, the home of the man-made beaches of Singapore, Resorts World and the Universal Studios.
One night was also spent near the city's tourist hub, Clarke Quay.
And of course, who would want to miss the Merlion Park, Esplanade, Art Museum, Gardens By the Bay and Marina Bay Sands? All of these can be enjoyed all-day if you stay within the city center.
Thanks, Kuya Hec and Ate Gen for babysitting mom on some parts of the trip. 😎
Shopping
What else can you wish for if all your favorite shops are under one roof?
Feeling Grateful
After few days of fun, it is always fulfilling to end the day with a few moments to thank our one true love for everything. Thank you, Papa God, for all the blessings.
Wrapping Up
Happiness begins when you can honestly tell yourself that you can live life to the fullest. I am close to that feeling of pure bliss - having not to worry much about travel expenses, getting your utility bills and investment plans paid in full and on time, having a less stressful work environment, meeting and exceeding your clients' expectations both in dentistry and technology world, keeping a few but true circle of friends, not having serious health problems, traveling with the most important people in your life, and going home to your adorable fur balls after one stressful day. These all make the hardwork worthy of all.
My birthday celebration isn't over yet, but, this was indeed a happy trip.
Until next time.. 😎
