Ask the crew: Charlie Chan’s guide to Singapore

Charlie Chan, a Flight Purser with Cathay Pacific, outlines her itinerary for whenever she visits Singapore, and shares why she loves the Lion City.

“During one trip to Singapore, I remember going to Lau Pa Sat hawker centre to seek out a particular satay stall that I had been to years before. When I told the vendor, he welcomed me back like an old friend. I think that’s what I like most about Singapore: the friendliness of the people. The convenience, warm weather year-round and amazing food don’t hurt either.”

Must-do

My favourite thing to do here is simply to wander around different neighbourhoods, soaking up the atmosphere and keeping an eye out for interesting street art. There are many murals around Tiong Bahru, where the Cathay cabin crew stay, that I love to photograph.

Speaking of photo ops, it’s well worth visiting the underground tree tunnel at Fort Canning Park. You access it via a spiral staircase and, from the bottom of the steps, you get a striking view of the greenery above. Unfortunately, I had to queue to take a photo – but I got a great shot.

Must-eat

Aside from satay, the one thing I always crave when I’m in Singapore is kaya butter toast. There’s something about the way it’s prepared with thin, crispy toast that’s unbeatable. I can never remember all the variations of tea and coffee, though, so I just ask for milk tea with my toast and hope for the best – I haven’t been disappointed yet.

Must-pack

In Singapore, it’s normal to wear flip flops everywhere. I remember my Singaporean friend getting odd looks for wearing hers when she came to Hong Kong, but she warned me I’d get the same reaction if I wore my trainers in Singapore. So flip flops are a must .