Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few months, you’ll know that Jewel Changi Airport recently opened. The vast transit-area-cum-shopping-mall covers a floor area of 135,700 square metres and a whopping 10 stories, and has already won a slew of international awards. The venue has been anticipated by media outlets for ages, but now that it’s open, why should you actually go and visit it? Here’s our list of seven great things to do at Jewel.
#1 Try some new international cuisine
F&B: the most important reason to go anywhere, right?! Jewel Changi Airport boasts a whole host of long-awaited world-famous restaurant chains that will excite every foodie. Highlights include: Shake Shack, the NYC-based chain selling their international bestselling burgers and an exclusive Singapore menu; Emack and Bolio’s, the American ice-cream company famous for their marshmallow cones and over-the-top flavours; and Laderach Swiss Chocolate, who have opened their first Southeast Asia store, selling handcrafted sweets flown direct to Singapore.
#2 Sample local culinary delights
Not only does the Jewel offer food from around the world, it also features some SG favourites that will be well known to those who’ve been here for a while. Stars of the show include Birds of Paradise, an incredibly elegant ice-creamery which already has a popular East Coast outlet, and Twelve Cupcakes, cake vendors who have taken the country by storm. Beer lovers will also be excited to visit the Tiger Street Lab, a store offering seasonal brews of Singapore’s favourite lager alongside street food favourites and themed merch.
#3 Experience the HSBC Rain Vortex
This stunning attraction has had visitors coming in flocks from the second that Jewel opened. At 40 metres high, the cascade holds the title of ‘World’s Highest Indoor Waterfall’ and is, frankly, mesmerising. It has two modes – during the day, it complements the lush greenery surrounding it; by night, it’s home to a captivating light-and-sound show.
#4 Check out the Manulife Sky Nets
Though it won’t open until 10 June, this promises to be the highlight of the trip for little ones and big kids alike. Visitors can choose from two activities: one set of nets designed for trampoline-like bouncing, and another for strolling above the Canopy Park. Try to come prepared – you’re recommended to wear comfortable shoes and pants or shorts, and you don’t want to be caught out!
#5 Hit up all the playgrounds!
Also opening on 10 June are four playground activities that the whole family will love – if you’re in the mood for a puzzle, try the Mirror Maze or the largest Hedge Maze in Singapore (but don’t get lost and miss your flight!). Or, if you’re looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush, the Discovery Slides have exactly what you need. Finally, if the kids just want to run around for a bit, the Foggy Bowls should keep them occupied – this area is filled with non-toxic ‘clouds’ that create a dreamy setting for all their adventures.
#6 Relax in some high-tech cinemas
If you’re eager to catch the latest blockbuster or just want to chill for a bit, Jewel Changi Airport holds a Shaw Cinema like no other. For an extra-special cinematic experience, there’s an IMAX hall with Laser – cutting-edge tech found in only a select few cinemas around the world. Concerned that the kids will make a racket? Worry no more! Shaw Theatres Jewel includes the company’s first dedicated family-friendly hall, screening only family-friendly movies and fitted out with playful kid-friendly furnishings. To add to all of this, Shaw Theatres has finally launched a competitor for Golden Village’s Gold Class: “Lumiere” features intimate halls with roomy seats for a luxurious movie-going experience.
#7 Go shopping!
Just in case the hundreds of shops in Changi’s four terminals aren’t enough for you, Jewel holds some of the most impressive flagship stores in the country. While the kids are playing, take the time to visit outlets such as the 1,000 square-metre Nike store, the double-storey Muji outlet and the largest store yet of local brand In Good Company. Plus, if you’re in the mood to geek out, the first permanent Pokemon Centre outside of Japan sells a wide range of exclusive Pokemon merchandise.
Written by Hannah Griffiths
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