20th October, 2017. Melbourne to Singapore - Transfer to So Sofitel

Gavin picked us up at 7.00am for our drive to Melbourne Airport.  You never know as to the traffic but some 50 minutes later we were dropped off at the International departure terminal entrance and we were there some 20 minutes prior to check in opening. 

Jeanette was the first person into the checkin process and some 20 minutes later we were through security, immigration and Customs and all has worked well.  Jeanette went directly to the Singapore Airlines Kris lounge where we enjoyed breakfast.

Boarding commenced at 11.00am and we were in our comfortable seats in Business class 12d and 12e by 11.15am and enjoyed a glass of champagne to start our holiday.  The flight was excellent with a lovely 4 course meal and then we each slept for nearly 3 1/2 hours.  Ken had his full bed down but Jeanette only reclined hers.

Sinapore is one of our favourite Airlines but Changi is without doubt our favourite Airport.  We arrived and were through immigration in 15 minutes then received a message from our driver advising that he was on his way.  The flight had landed almost 20 minutes early, so we sat and waited for our driver.  He subsequently arrived all apologetic took us to wait whilst he fetched the new BMW 530 sedan.  Escorted us to the car , loaded our luggage and we were whisked into the boutique So Sofitel in Robinson Road.  .  This is a stunning modern Hotel in a classical French design.  It is a boutique type and we have a room king bed separate bathroom, dressing room and separate toilet.  We have 3 nights here prior to moving to the Sofitel Resort and Spa on Sentosa Island.

We are initially daunted by the stunning architecture and fit out of the room with a ceiling light box reflecting a gothic church roof style, albeit in a up market totally white hotel room.

Packing is a challenge with limited hangers and hanging space, but the room is comfortable and by 6.15pm we are unpacked and time to go upstairs to the pool and bar area.  For the first time we feel both the heat of 34 degrees and extreme humidity.  So after one drink we decide it is time to eat.  Next to the hotel a major street is closed off at 7.00pm nightly and transformed into a hawkers food market.  Our Blacklane driver had suggested Stall #6, which specialises in the best satay sticks.  We do decide to have chicken and beef satay sticks and you get 30 for 30 Singapore dollars.  You also purchase fried rice, boiled rice and drinks.  We have a sprite and Tiger beer .

There are many people in the 300-400 eating on our side of the stalls with probably another 500-600 further down the road .  This goes on every night and is fun to watch and then participate in.  We thoroughly enjoyed the whole”event”. 

Back to The Hotel and we are asleep in no time.  Ken sleeps through the night until 6.45am.  Unfortunately, Jeanette doesn’t sleep as well.

It has been a very good first day.  All has worked well.