I have been to the country many, many times, especially when my father had some medical treatments back in 2005-2006. The country is also a popular spot for us Indonesians to have a quick getaway. It is close to home, so air fares are not that expensive, especially with the boom of value airlines. Currency rate is also not that bad, although it keeps increasing from year to year… but still ok. Plus, it has many shiny things to offer to Indonesians. Shopping malls, worldwide brands, culinary feast, until the latest architectural gems. However… I have never been there solo.
So, what took me to Singapore that day? It was basically a mix between a spontaneous action, a guilty pleasure, and a quest to get my mind off things.
Few weeks before that July 23rd, my friends from the office Tria and Glori suddenly had this idea of watching Harry Potter in Singapore, if the Hollywood blockbuster ban would still continue. It seemed very tempting to me, being a HP fan. However I understand it might be a bit crazy to just go and see movies at a neighboring country. So I kinda ignore the invitation…
It was only a week before when I suddenly decided to check on air fares, and found a cheap promo ticket. But.. it was for a day trip. Leave for Singapore very early in the morning and come back with the last flight… that was the plan. No need to spend for accommodation, and all the hassle of spending the weekend. I would just go , spend the day and come back at night. Budget – wise it seemed logical. Although going on a day trip to other country is a bit crazy I have to admit.. that’s why I said it’s a bit of guilty pleasure. But I also thought a quick and spontaneous getaway would be good for helping me get my mind off things, as that period was not really joy-ish for me. Plus, the chance to see Harry Potter on Imax! Who could resist?
So I went. Carefree, carrying only a tote bag. Went straight to Shaw cinema at Orchard road, to catch the 11 am show time. I don’t need to tell you how the movie was for me.. Bet there are already gazillions HP7 reviews out there. So after the cinema, I went to Bugis and meet Tria and Glori, had lunch together with them. Afterwards we went for a bit window shopping at orchard, until I went on separate way, as I need to catch my flight back. Before going to the airport, I spent some time sitting in front of the new shiny ION Orchard, enjoying the tropical breeze while having a sandwich as my early dinner. That’s one luxury that we can’t have here in Jakarta. Where can I sit outdoors nicely here?
I also got the chance to spend some me-time at the airport, because I arrived early. I love to see people passing by. Some busy, hurrying to the flights. Some laid-back, knowing they still got much time before boarding time. Some busy shopping at the nearest duty free shops, some enjoying their coffees. Then there’s me. Happily sitting at one of Changi’s plush sofas, with a tall Starbucks vanilla latte on hand, and my iPod on the other. I got to think, really. Seeing those people made me wander.. and although I haven’t found the answers to my questions, nor I have found the way to let go off things… but my short travel did help me to enjoy life and relax a bit.
So, thank you Singapore for a short spontaneous trip. And here are some pictures that I took… (edited them already using instagram though..lol)
Changi airport
Ion Orchard
Orchard Road
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