Exploring Asia in 2025
Overview
Location Departure | Location Arrival | Date Departure | Time Departure | Date Arrival | Time Arrival | Flight Duration | Days \ Hours in Location |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Seattle (SEA) | Singapore (SIN) | Sun, 19 Jan 2025 | 08:40 | Mon, 20 Jan 2025 | 17:40 | 17h | 26 hours |
Singapore (T2) | Delhi (T3) | Tue, 21 Jan 2025 | 19:40 | Tue, 21 Jan 2025 | 23:20 | 5h 40m | 19 hours |
Delhi (T2) | Surat | Wed, 22 Jan 2025 | 19:00 | Wed, 22 Jan 2025 | 20:55 | 1h 55m | 3 days 22 hours |
Surat | Bengaluru (T1) | Sat, 25 Jan 2025 | 19:05 | Sat, 25 Jan 2025 | 20:55 | 1h 50m | 4 hours |
Bengaluru (T2) | Bali | Sun, 26 Jan 2025 | 01:10 | Sun, 26 Jan 2025 | 10:15 | 9h 5m | 3 days 20 hours |
I Gusti Ngurah Rai (Bali, DPS) | Yogyakarta International Airport | Wed, 29 Jan 2025 | 07:00 | Wed, 29 Jan 2025 | 07:50 | 1h 50m | 2 days 2 hours |
Yogyakarta International Airport | Changi Airport (SIN) | Fri, 31 Jan 2025 | 09:45 | Fri, 31 Jan 2025 | 13:00 | 2h 15m | 20 hours |
Singapore (SIN) | Seattle (SEA) | Sat, 01 Feb 2025 | 09:00 | Sat, 01 Feb 2025 | 07:10 | 15h 10m | - |
Singapore (20 Jan 2025, 26 hours)
Evening (Arrive at 5:40 PM, 20 Jan)
- Changi Jewel: Right at Changi Airport, visit the Jewel, a glittering glass-domed indoor garden with the HSBC Rain Vortex (world’s tallest indoor waterfall).
Next Day (21 Jan)
Start your day early to make the most of your short Singapore visit:
- Gardens by the Bay: About 15-20 mins from Changi, these iconic gardens display futuristic Supertrees and a stunning cloud forest. (Tip: Book online to avoid queues!)
- Recommendation: Enjoy breakfast at Satay by the Bay, a hawker center near the gardens.
- Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck: Marvel at Singapore’s skyline from this stunning vantage point.
Back to Changi by 4 PM for your IndiGo flight to Delhi.
India
Delhi (21 Jan Night to 22 Jan Evening, 19 Hours)
1. India Gate (Early Morning – 5:30 AM to 6:15 AM)
- Why First? It’s a public monument and open 24/7. Early morning at India Gate is peaceful with barely any crowds or traffic, and it offers a stunning view during sunrise.
- Visit Mode: You’ll walk around it and view it from all sides, as there’s no need to “enter” it.
- Travel from Airport: ~30 mins by Uber (13 km).
- Estimated Time Here: 30-45 minutes to take photos and stroll.
2. Red Fort (Outside View Only, 6:45 AM to 7:15 AM)
- Why Second? The fort opens officially at 9:30 AM, but its massive walls and Lahori Gate are beautiful, even from the outside. Viewing it early will save time and allow you to spend more time on other attractions.
- Travel: ~15-20 mins (6 km) from India Gate.
- Visit Mode: Admire and take photographs from the outside, especially around Chandni Chowk-facing Lahori Gate.
3. Lotus Temple (8:00 AM to 8:45 AM)
- Why Now? It opens at 8:00 AM, and visiting as soon as it opens means you’ll avoid the rush, as it can get crowded later in the day. The lines tend to grow quickly after 9:00 AM.
- Travel: ~40 mins (15 km) from Red Fort.
- Visit Mode: Enter and explore the interior spaces and gardens, soaking in the tranquility.
4. Humayun’s Tomb (9:30 AM to 11:00 AM)
- Why Now? The tomb opens at sunrise, but realistically speaking, visiting around 9:30 AM is ideal since you’ll have spent time at the earlier sites.
You’ll get the most daylight for exceptional photos here. As it’s a larger property, it also takes a bit more time to explore and appreciate its grandeur. - Travel: ~25 mins (10 km) from Lotus Temple.
- Visit Mode: Explore the courtyard, tomb, and Mughal gardens. Hiring a guide can also add great insights.
Location | Opening Hours | External View Only | Suggested Slot | Estimated Time (Including Travel) |
---|---|---|---|---|
India Gate | 24/7 | Yes | 5:30 AM – 6:15 AM | ~45 mins |
Red Fort | 9:30 AM | Yes | 6:45 AM – 7:15 AM | ~30 mins (external only) |
Lotus Temple | 8:00 AM | Visit | 8:00 AM – 8:45 AM | ~45 mins |
Humayun’s Tomb | Sunrise (~7:00 AM) | Visit | 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM | ~90 mins |
Surat (22 Jan Night to 25 Jan Evening, 3 Days 22 Hrs)
Day 1: Arrival in Surat (22 Jan - Night)
- Arrival & Settle In: After reaching Surat, check into your hotel and decompress. You’ll need your energy for the coming days.
- Dinner Recommendation: Enjoy authentic Gujarati thali or quick local street bites like khaman, locho, or ghari (a sweet). Look for restaurants like Jalaram Khichdi, Kansar Gujarati Thali, or a local hawker spot.
Day 2: Wedding Day 1 (23 Jan - Morning Exploration)
Assuming wedding events start mid-morning or around 10-11 AM, you should plan an early morning exploration before the celebration.
Morning Suggestions (Approx. 6:30 AM - 9:30 AM)
- ISKCON Surat Temple (Spiritual & Peaceful)
- The ISKCON Temple Surat (Sri Radha Damodar Mandir) is an oasis of tranquility. The temple’s architecture is stunning, and mornings are perfect for soaking in the spiritual energy while avoiding crowds.
- Location: Jahangirpura area (~20-30 mins from the city center).
- Visit Duration: ~1 hour.
- Dandi Beach Memorial (Historical and Cultural Significance)
- Combine spirituality with history: after ISKCON, visit Dandi Memorial nearby (~20 mins further) to see the iconic Salt March monument, commemorating Mahatma Gandhi’s historic protest.
- Visit Duration: ~30-45 minutes.
Afternoon/Evening
Focus on enjoying the wedding celebrations, which will likely include a mixture of traditional rituals, colorful decor, and lots of delicious food!
Day 3: Wedding Day 2 (24 Jan - Morning Exploration)
After Day 1 of the wedding, there may be ceremonies in the morning; however, you can still squeeze some cultural stops early if events start later:
Morning Suggestions (Approx. 6:30 AM - 9:30 AM)
- Ambika Niketan Temple (Iconic Hindu Temple)
- One of Surat’s most famous temples, Ambika Niketan is dedicated to Goddess Ambaji. Its peaceful atmosphere and intricate architecture make it a must-visit for a cultural dive.
- Location: Located along the Tapi River. (~15 mins from central Surat)
- Visit Duration: ~45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Chowk Bazaar or Bhagal Market (Vibrant Shopping Known for Textiles)
- After Ambika Niketan, stop by Chowk Bazaar, one of Surat’s bustling markets, to browse for traditional fabrics, saris, handicrafts, or jewelry if you’re in the mood for local shopping.
- Visit Duration: 1 hour (Tip: Skip markets if you’re pressed for wedding prep time! They can get crowded, and bargaining takes time).
Afternoon/Evening
On Day 2 of the wedding, expect more celebrations, particularly the reception or dinner, which might go till late evening!
Day 4: Cultural Dive (25 Jan - Full Day)
Now that the wedding festivities are over, you have a full day for exploration.
Morning Adventure (Approx. 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
- Chintamani Jain Temple (Architectural & Religious Gem)
- This temple, built in the 15th century, is a hidden gem showcasing stunning Jain architecture, beautiful intricate carvings, and ancient murals. It’s an excellent stop to soak in religious history and precision craftsmanship.
- Location: Shahpore (~10-15 mins from city center).
- Visit Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Surat Textile Markets (Ring Road) (Dive into Surat’s Textile Heritage)
- Visit Ring Road, a textile hub that showcases Surat’s role as the “Silk City of India.” Many markets here offer high-quality saris, fabrics, and embroidered textiles at wholesale prices. Popular spots include Surat Textile Market or Raghukul Textile Market.
- Tip: Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth the visit to experience the chaos, color, and sheer cultural immersion.
- Visit Duration: ~1-1.5 hours, including travel.
Lunch Recommendation (1:00 PM - 2:30 PM)
- Enjoy authentic local dishes at Sasuma Gujarati Thali or Gopi Dining Hall. Their Gujarati thalis come with items like khandvi, kadhi, farsan, and sweets alongside roti and sabzi.
Afternoon Exploration (Approx. 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
- Surat Castle (Gaurav Path) (Historical Heritage Site)
- Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, the Surat Castle is a fascinating piece of history that tells the story of Surat’s rise as a port town and its defense against invaders. Spend time exploring its architecture and learn about its connections to British colonialism.
- Visit Duration: ~1 hour.
- Sardar Patel Museum & Planetarium (Cultural & Educational Stop)
- Wrap up your day with this museum, which features artifacts, portraits, and exhibits highlighting India’s modern history, particularly the life of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
- If you’re interested, you can also catch a show at the planetarium.
- Visit Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Evening Leisure
Head back to your hotel, pack up, and enjoy a leisurely evening meal before your IndiGo flight to Bengaluru at 7:05 PM.
Revised Outline for Surat Stay
Date | Morning Exploration | Rest of the Day |
---|---|---|
22 Jan (Night) | Arrival in Surat, authentic Gujarati dinner. | Rest and prepare for the next day’s wedding. |
23 Jan (Morning) | ISKCON Temple & Dandi Memorial. | Attend wedding festivities (likely mid-morning to evening). |
24 Jan (Morning) | Ambika Niketan Temple & Chowk Bazaar (or a textile market visit). | Attend Day 2 of the wedding (reception likely in the evening). |
25 Jan (Full Day) | Chintamani Jain Temple, Textile Markets, Surat Castle, Sardar Patel Museum. | Wrap up, pack, and head to the airport for Bengaluru flight (7 PM). |
What to Skip If Time Runs Out
If wedding commitments run longer or mornings feel too packed, you can skip:
- Dandi Memorial or Chowk Bazaar, as markets can be experienced in snippets elsewhere.
- Sardar Patel Museum, as the castle/temples might feel more satisfying culturally.
Indonesia
Bali (26 Jan to 29 Jan, 3 Days 20 Hours)
Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation (26 Jan)
Morning Arrival (10:15 AM): After a long flight, you’ll want your Day 1 to be lighter, with activities close to the area where you’re staying (likely around Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud).
- Arrival & Hotel Check-In: Allow ~1-2 hours for immigration, luggage, and travel to your accommodation (depending on where you stay).
Afternoon Suggestions (Relax & Culture):
- Tanah Lot Temple (Afternoon to Sunset)
- One of Bali’s most iconic temples, Tanah Lot is located on a rock formation in the sea. Watching the sunset here is an unforgettable experience.
- Travel: ~1 hour from Kuta/Seminyak and ~1.5 hours from Ubud.
- Visit Duration: ~1.5-2 hours. Arrive around 4:30 PM to enjoy the ambience and stay for sunset.
- Why this works for Day 1? Minimal physical activity, culturally significant, and visually stunning.
- Alternatively, Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park (Closer to Airport/Kuta)
- See the massive Garuda Wisnu statue, explore Balinese sculptures, and learn about Hindu mythology.
- Travel Time: 30-40 mins from Kuta/Seminyak; avoid rush-hour traffic.
- Visit Duration: ~1.5 hours.
Evening: Traditional Balinese Dinner
- Head to Jimbaran Bay for a seaside dinner. Many restaurants here specialize in fresh seafood and offer views of the ocean.
- Alternatively, try Balinese classics at Bumbu Bali (Nusa Dua) or a local warung for more authentic vibes.
Day 2: Culture & Temples (27 Jan)
Start early to enjoy the spiritual & cultural wonders of Bali without feeling rushed. This day combines cliffside beauty and sacred temples.
Morning: Exploring Uluwatu Temple
- Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu)
- Known for its clifftop views and proximity to the ocean, this must-visit temple will fully immerse you in Bali’s spiritual side.
- Suggest arriving around 8:00-8:30 AM to avoid crowds and the intense midday heat.
- Travel Time: ~45 mins from Kuta/Seminyak; ~1.5 hrs from Ubud (~35 km).
- Visit Duration: ~1.5 hours.
Afternoon: Local Culture & Sacred Sites
- Tirta Empul Temple (Sacred Water Purification Ritual)
- This famous Hindu water temple is believed to have healing properties and is one of Bali’s most important spiritual hubs.
- Participate in the purification bath or simply observe the ritual while exploring the beautiful grounds.
- Travel Time: ~1.5-2 hours from Uluwatu to Tirta Empul (it’s a central Bali site in the Ubud direction).
- Visit Duration: ~1.5-2 hours.
Lunch Recommendation: Stop in Ubud town for a quick lunch—recommendations include Clear Cafe or Warung Biah-Biah.
Late Afternoon/Evening: Free Time in Ubud Area
- Ubud Palace & Ubud Art Market
- Spend your late afternoon exploring Ubud. The Ubud Palace (Puri Saren) is located in the center and is a great place to admire traditional Balinese architecture.
- Right across the street is the Ubud Art Market, full of local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
- Travel Time: ~20 mins from Tirta Empul.
- Visit Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
- Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu (Optional Evening)
- If you’re staying near Uluwatu, you could return in the early evening for the traditional Kecak Fire Dance, performed against the sunset backdrop at the temple.
- Start Time: ~6:00 PM.
- Book your tickets in advance or at the temple earlier in the day.
Day 3: Bali’s Natural Beauty (28 Jan)
Morning Exploration (Approx. 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Famous for their terraced beauty and the traditional irrigation system called Subak. This is one of Bali’s iconic Instagram spots and a major highlight for visitors.
- Travel Time: ~30 mins from Ubud.
- Visit Duration: ~1-1.5 hours. Stroll along the paths or stop for a coffee at one of the nearby cafes with incredible views.
- Pura Gunung Kawi (Beautiful Rock-Cut Temple)
- Located near Tegalalang, Gunung Kawi is an 11th-century temple featuring carved shrines amid a river valley. It’s surrounded by lush greenery and rice paddies, offering a peaceful escape.
- There are a few steps to reach the temple, but it’s manageable and well worth it.
- Travel Time: ~15-20 mins from Tegalalang.
- Visit Duration: ~1-1.5 hours.
Midday: Lunch in Ubud
- Stop for another fantastic lunch at Sari Organik or Cafe Wayan, which serve farm-to-table Balinese and fusion dishes.
Afternoon Adventure (Approx. 2:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
- Tirta Gangga Water Palace (Optional if Time Permits)
- Located on Bali’s eastern side, this beautiful water palace features fountains, koi ponds, and majestic Balinese architecture.
- Travel Time: ~1.5-2 hours from Ubud/Tegalalang.
- Visit Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
- Sekumpul Waterfalls (Alternative to Tirta Gangga) (For Active Travelers)
- If you prefer a natural adventure, head up north to Sekumpul Waterfalls, considered Bali’s most beautiful waterfall.
- Travel Time: ~2 hours from Tegalalang.
- Visit Duration: 2-3 hours, including the trek and enjoying the views.
Return to Base
End your day with a relaxing dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant. Pack and get ready for your Lion Air flight to Yogyakarta early the next morning.
Final Overview of Optimized Bali Itinerary
Day | Morning Highlights | Afternoon Highlights | Evening Highlights |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 (26 Jan) | Arrival, Tanah Lot or Garuda Wisnu Kencana | Relax, explore dinner options (Jimbaran Bay) | Rest after a light start |
Day 2 (27 Jan) | Uluwatu Temple | Tirta Empul, Lunch in Ubud | Ubud Palace/Art Market, Kecak Dance |
Day 3 (28 Jan) | Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Gunung Kawi | Tirta Gangga or Sekumpul Waterfalls | Return & rest for next destination |
Notes About Traffic:
- South Bali (Kuta, Uluwatu, Seminyak) tends to have heavier traffic compared to Central Bali (Ubud, Tegalalang). Plan activities accordingly to avoid peak traffic hours.
- Leave early for all locations (around 7–8 AM) if you’re staying in a heavily-touristed area.
Yogyakarta, Indonesia (29 Jan to 31 Jan, 2 Days 2 Hours)
Day 1: Arrival & Borobudur Temple (29 Jan)
You arrive early in Yogyakarta (7:50 AM), giving you the full day to explore. Start with the highlight, Borobudur, a must-see and a great start to your cultural visit.
Morning: Explore Borobudur Temple
- Borobudur Temple (World Heritage Site)
- Travel Time: ~1-1.5 hours from Yogyakarta International Airport (~40 km north).
- Explore Duration: Spend 2-3 hours at this magnificent Buddhist temple, which is the world’s largest.
- Tips:
- Hire a local guide to learn about the historical panels and Buddhist stories carved into the temple bas-reliefs.
- Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), as you’ll be walking largely outdoors.
- Consider climbing to the top of the central stupa for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Lunch Recommendation (12:30 PM):
Stop at Alea Coffee Shop or Stupa by Plataran on the way back for Javanese or Indonesian cuisine with amazing views of the Borobudur complex.
Afternoon: Pawon & Mendut Temples Nearby
After Borobudur, take a short detour (15-20 minutes) to visit more intimate Buddhist temples:
- Pawon Temple
- Small but incredibly intricate, this temple is tied to Borobudur and is believed to connect spiritually with it.
- Visit Duration: ~15-20 minutes.
- Mendut Temple
- Famous for its giant Buddha statue and serene ambiance, Mendut is worth exploring for its unique character.
- Visit Duration: ~20 minutes.
Return to Yogyakarta city (~1.5 hours) by late afternoon.
Evening: Alun-Alun South Square (Optional)
- If you’re not too tired, visit the city’s vibrant Alun-Alun Selatan (South Square) for a relaxed evening.
- You can try unique local street foods (like sweet gudeg or bakpia snacks) or take a whimsical ride on neon-light pedal cars (a local favorite!).
Day 2: Prambanan Temple & Cultural Immersion (30 Jan)
Your second day will focus on the Prambanan Temple complex (another UNESCO site) and some of Yogyakarta’s rich cultural experiences.
Morning: Prambanan Temple Complex
- Prambanan Temple (World Heritage Site)
- Travel Time: ~45 minutes from central Yogyakarta (~16 km east).
- Explore Duration: 2-3 hours.
- Details: Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. Marvel at the main temples of the Trimurti (dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma) and intricate stone carvings depicting Ramayana stories. The site also has smaller temples worth exploring.
- Tips:
- Arrive early (~8:00 AM) to avoid crowds and the strong midday heat.
- Wear good walking shoes, as the site has uneven pathways.
Midday Option: Lunch or Temple Extension
- Lunch Recommendations: Stop for lunch near Prambanan at Abhayagiri Restaurant (~15 minutes from Prambanan), which offers Indonesian fusion cuisine with incredible views of surrounding green hills.
- Optional Nearby Temples (If Time Permits):
- Sewu Temple: Only 800 meters from Prambanan, this Buddhist temple offers a contrast to the Hindu Prambanan. It’s quieter and less crowded but equally captivating.
- Ratu Boko Palace (Optional): A half-ruined temple-palatine compound near Prambanan, offering stunning sunset views if visited late afternoon.
Afternoon Stroll: Malioboro Street (Yogyakarta’s Famous Market)
- Malioboro Street (Batik, Handicrafts, & Souvenirs)
- No trip to Yogyakarta is complete without a visit to Malioboro Street, the city’s bustling shopping hub known for batik fabrics, souvenirs, local handicrafts, and authentic street food.
- Browse & Buy: Look for traditional batik shawls, wooden carvings, or silver jewelry. Bargaining is common, but always with a smile!
- Visit Duration: ~1.5-2 hours.
- Taman Sari Water Palace (Optional for Art & History Enthusiasts)
- Located close to Malioboro, this 18th-century royal bathing complex was used by the sultans of Yogyakarta. It features intricate architecture, underground tunnels, and peaceful courtyards. A quick visit is worth it.
- Visit Duration: ~1 hour.
Wrap-Up Evening
- End the day with a traditional Ramayana Ballet Performance at either Prambanan’s open-air stage (if you stay near Prambanan) or Purawisata back in Yogyakarta.
- The performance includes traditional Gamelan music and a dramatic depiction of the Ramayana epic.
- Check schedules and book tickets ahead, as these shows are popular.
Day 3: Early Morning & Departure (31 Jan)
With a flight departing at 9:45 AM, there’s little time to explore. Use your morning to relax or briefly revisit Malioboro Street for any last-minute souvenirs. Ensure you leave for the airport by 7:30 AM, as it’s about a 1-1.5 hour drive depending on morning traffic.
Final Overview of Optimized Yogyakarta Itinerary
Day | Morning Highlights | Afternoon Highlights | Evening Highlights |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 (29 Jan) | Borobudur Temple, Pawon & Mendut Temples | Return to Yogyakarta | Alun-Alun Square (Optional) |
Day 2 (30 Jan) | Prambanan Temple, Sewu Temple (optional) | Malioboro Street, Taman Sari | Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan or Purawisata |
Day 3 (31 Jan) | Relax or last-minute shopping | Head to Yogyakarta International Airport | - |
Travel Insights & Notes for Yogyakarta
- Traffic Considerations: While Yogyakarta isn’t as congested as Bali or Jakarta, roads leading to Borobudur and Prambanan can still get crowded. To beat the rush, leave early for each attraction and avoid traveling during midday.
- Hiring a Driver: Renting a private car with a driver (via an app like Grab, through your hotel, or using local tour operators) is highly recommended for efficient travel between sites.
- Cultural Dress Code: For temple visits, wear modest clothing (e.g., clothes covering knees and shoulders). Sarongs are sometimes provided for entry at no extra cost.
- Photography Tips: Both Borobudur and Prambanan offer stunning sunrise/sunset views. If you’re particularly keen on photography, plan visits accordingly.
Singapore 2 (31 Jan – 26 Hour Layover)
For your second layover in Singapore, since you’ve already explored popular landmarks like Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck earlier (assuming you’ve covered them during your first stop), you can dive deeper into lesser-explored areas, enjoy a different cultural side of Singapore, or even partake in a unique activity. With 26 hours, you have plenty of time to explore while ensuring you get rest for your long flight back to Seattle.
Morning: Start Your Day Early
Leave the airport right after your arrival (~1:00 PM if your flight is on time), check into a transit hotel or store your luggage at Jewel Changi to travel light. Kick off your day with these activities:
Option 1: Hawker Centre Exploration & Little India/Arab Street (Cultural Immersion)
- Maxwell Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat (Lunch)
- Head to a famous hawker center to enjoy authentic Singaporean street food. Since you’ve got time between flights, why not finally try Hainanese chicken rice, Laksa, or Char Kway Teow (stir-fried noodles)?
- Lau Pa Sat also excels in satay stalls and offers a lively downtown vibe.
Travel Time: ~30 minutes from Changi Airport to Maxwell or Lau Pa Sat by taxi/MRT.
Duration: ~1.5 hrs (lunch + wandering nearby). - Little India: Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple & Colorful Streets
- Explore Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore, decorated in vibrant detail. Have some fun walking down Serangoon Road for spice shops or wall murals and grab Indian desserts like kulfi or gulab jamun.
- OR visit Arab Street for Middle Eastern-inspired vibes, the impressive Sultan Mosque, and boutique shopping.
Travel Time: ~10-15 mins from Maxwell.
Duration: ~1.5 hr.
Option 2: Pulau Ubin or East Coast Park (Peaceful Nature Escape)
If you’re feeling adventurous and want a completely different side of Singapore:
- Pulau Ubin (“The Last Kampong” Escape)
- Take a short bumboat ride (from Changi Point Ferry Terminal) to Pulau Ubin, an island that mirrors Singapore in the ’60s—far from the bustling city life. You can rent a bicycle, visit the Chek Jawa Wetlands, or enjoy a peaceful hike through dense tropical forests. It’s ideal for nature lovers or those who want to escape the urban vibe.
Travel Time: ~20 minutes from Jewel/Changi to Changi Point.
Duration: ~3-5 hours (including boat rides and exploration). - East Coast Park (Alternative to Pulau Ubin)
- A relaxing outdoor area close to Changi. Stroll along the beachfront park, rent a bike or rollerblades, or sip iced kopi at a seaside café like PS.Café East Coast Park.
- It’s a simpler, more laid-back option if you’re short on time.
Afternoon/Evening Activities (~4 PM onwards): Bustling Chinatown or Classic Iconic Vibes
- Chinatown: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Maxwell Hawker (Culture Close to the City)
- If you didn’t visit Chinatown earlier, this could be an opportunity!
- The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a striking red-and-gold Buddhist temple with fascinating sacred relics, peaceful architecture, and prayer areas. You can also browse Chinatown markets for trinkets and cultural artifacts. Then, enjoy a refreshing iced Teh Tarik (milk tea) nearby.
Travel Time: ~15-20 minutes from Little India.
Duration: ~1.5-2 hrs. - Singapore’s Famous Nighttime Experiences:
- If you missed Gardens by the Bay or Supertrees on your first visit, you can now explore them beautifully lit at night. The Garden Rhapsody Light & Sound Show (7:45 PM and 8:45 PM) is spectacular.
- For a luxurious post-dinner view, head to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck or simply enjoy the illuminated skyline near the Merlion statue.
Evening: Dinner Recommendations
Here are some dining options for a memorable final Singaporean meal:
- Jumbo Seafood at Clarke Quay: Famous for Chili Crab, Singapore’s signature dish.
- Newton Food Centre (Closer Alternative to Late Dining): This bustling hawker spot is ideal for supper and serves a mix of local dishes, including Hokkien mee, fried oysters, and lime-soaked stingray.
- Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill (Upscale Option): A perfect spot to try elevated Peranakan (Straits Chinese) cuisine paired with great ambiance.
Midnight or Morning (1 Feb): Relax at Jewel Changi
Things to Do at Jewel:
- Take a leisurely walk to see the Rain Vortex at night.
- Enjoy shopping at luxury brands or picking up souvenirs (Changi is known for duty-free options!).
- Grab breakfast at A&W or Birds of Paradise Gelato Boutique before heading to your flight.
Be at the airport check-in desk by 6:00 AM, leaving enough time for international departures.
Suggested Timeline:
Time | Activity |
---|---|
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM | Arrival, luggage storage, and hotel check-in. |
2:00 PM - 5:30 PM | Cultural experience (Little India, Arab Street, Chinatown). OR Pulau Ubin for nature lovers. |
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM | Dinner (Jumbo Seafood or Newton Hawker). |
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM | Gardens by the Bay (or Marina Bay Skyline at night, incl. Garden Rhapsody). OR East Coast Park if staying low-key. |
9:30 PM onwards | Back to Jewel Changi, shop/explore Rain Vortex. |
With this plan, you’ll enjoy a different cultural layer or natural escape in Singapore, leaving with fresh memories before your flight back to Seattle. Safe travels! 🌏
Weather
Seattle, USA
- Weather: Cold, potential rain or snow.
- Temperature: 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
- Notes: Pack rain-resistant clothing and an insulated jacket for chilly weather.
Singapore
- Weather: Hot and humid, occasional thunderstorms.
- Temperature: 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F).
- Notes: Wear light, breathable clothing; keep an umbrella or raincoat handy for passing showers.
Delhi, India
- Weather: Cool and dry.
- Temperature: 8°C to 22°C (46°F to 72°F).
- Notes: Morning and evenings can be chilly—layer up with a light sweater in addition to regular clothing.
Surat, India
- Weather: Warm and dry.
- Temperature: 17°C to 30°C (63°F to 86°F).
- Notes: Comfortable weather for outdoor sightseeing.
Bengaluru, India
- Weather: Pleasant and mild.
- Temperature: 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F).
- Notes: Pack light layers for evenings; daytime is perfect for exploration.
Bali, Indonesia
- Weather: Hot and humid, rainy season with frequent showers.
- Temperature: 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).
- Notes: Prepare for occasional rain; water-resistant shoes and quick-dry clothing are recommended.
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Weather: Warm and humid, occasional rain (wet season).
- Temperature: 23°C to 31°C (74°F to 88°F).
- Notes: Similar to Bali - comfortable clothes and an umbrella/raincoat are essential.
To Do, Book or Hire in Preparation for Your Trip
Here is a detailed markdown table with all the essential bookings and pre-arrangements you’ll need for a seamless trip:
Task | Details | Deadline |
---|---|---|
Book Hotels in Singapore | Book Changi Airport Transit Hotel (YOTEL or Crowne Plaza) for layovers on 20 Jan and 31 Jan. | Immediately |
Book Hotels in Delhi | Book a hotel near Delhi Airport or central area (e.g., Aerocity or Connaught Place). | ASAP before trip |
Book Hotels in Surat | Book hotel close to wedding venue (Taj Gateway Surat or Lords Plaza Surat). | ASAP after wedding details are confirmed |
Book Hotels in Bali | Book accommodations in Seminyak or Ubud (e.g., Alila Seminyak or Komaneka Ubud). | 1-2 Months Before Trip |
Book Hotels in Yogyakarta | Book a hotel near Borobudur (Day 1) and central Yogyakarta (Day 2). Options: Plataran Borobudur or Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta. | 1-2 Months Before Trip |
Singapore: Jewel Rain Vortex Entry | Pre-book access to Jewel Changi activities (e.g., Canopy Park attractions). | Before departure |
Singapore: Gardens by the Bay Tickets | Pre-book Gardens by the Bay and Supertree Observatory tickets to save time. | 2-3 weeks in advance |
Delhi: Hire Driver | Arrange for private car with driver for sightseeing (half-day, 22 Jan). Use services like Savaari or Grab. | 1 Week in Advance |
Delhi: Pre-book Entry Tickets | Online entry tickets for Humayun’s Tomb and Lotus Temple (via official sites). | 1 Week in Advance |
Bali: Hire Driver/Guide | Book private driver with guide for Bali sightseeing (use services like Klook or GetYourGuide). Areas: Uluwatu, Ubud, etc. | 1 Month in Advance |
Bali: Temple Tickets | Optionally pre-book entry for Uluwatu Temple and Tegalalang Rice Terraces on official platforms. | 1-2 weeks in advance |
Yogyakarta: Borobudur Guide | Hire a licensed guide for Borobudur/Mendut/Pawon temples. Book online or ask at hotel. | Before Arrival |
Yogyakarta: Ramayana Ballet Tickets | Pre-book tickets for Ramayana Ballet Performance (Purawisata or Prambanan stage). | 2-3 Weeks in Advance |
Bali-Yogyakarta Flight | Confirm Lion Air flight DPS → YIA (Bali to Yogyakarta) is booked and reconfirm 24 hours prior. | Already booked—monitor timing adjustments |
Scoot Flight: Yogyakarta → Singapore | Reconfirm and add any baggage requirements prior to departure. | 3 Days Before Flight |
Visa for Indonesia | Check VISA requirements for Indonesia (Visa on Arrival possible). Apply online or prepare cash. | Before travel |
Insurance | Take out comprehensive travel insurance covering Asia (medical/emergency/repatriation). | 1 Month Before Trip |