Beyond the Cabin: The great indoors of Singapore

This article is part of Singapore Airlines’ Beyond the Cabin Season 2 video series, in which cabin crew unveil experiences in their favourite destinations.

Most people associate adventure with outdoor activities, but in perennially sunny Singapore, it’s sometimes necessary to seek respite in the shade. Fortunately, the tropical city offers a wide array of fun-filled indoor experiences, from rock climbing to skydiving (yes, you read that right!).

Just ask Singapore Airlines cabin crew member Matt Joosa, who enjoys discovering all that the Lion City has to offer. “There are always new indoor activities in Singapore. I try to be creative on my off days, as there are so many places to explore,” he says.

Here, Matt takes us on a fun-filled tour of the great indoors of Singapore.

Matt leads an active lifestyle, playing hockey, soccer and more during his free time – so naturally, he loves checking out the various indoor sports in Singapore. For starters, he recommends indoor rock climbing at Climb Central Funan, where you can scale walls reaching heights of up to 16 metres. “This venue offers a full-body workout in the comfort of an air-conditioned mall. Plus, you’re surrounded by plenty of food and beverage outlets that you can check out after you’re done,” he says.

For another adrenaline-pumping activity, head to iFly Singapore (bookable through Pelago), which offers a simulated skydiving experience in a vertical wind tunnel. “Here, you’re able to try skydiving in a safe and controlled environment. It’s like you’re floating on air! It’s truly an incredible feeling,” he enthuses.

Alternatively, book a session at Hi Roller (bookable through Pelago), Singapore’s largest indoor skating rink. The venue is themed around a 1980s discotheque, complete with neon lights and funky music. “The venue is suitable for all ages, so bring your friends and family. If you’re new to the sport, the ever-friendly staff will guide you along,” Matt says. Lace up your skates, soak up the retro vibes and have a rolling good time.

Singapore is often dubbed the “Garden City” thanks to its abundance of greenery, much of which can be found indoors. If you’re flying into or out of Singapore, be sure to make a stop at Canopy Park (bookable through Pelago), which sprawls across the top floor of Jewel Changi Airport. Here, you’ll find various walking trails, slides and bouncing nets, all set against a backdrop of lush greenery. “Canopy Park is an indoor marvel. Being suspended in the air on a giant net is a highly memorable experience,” Matt says.

Nature lovers should also visit Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay (bookable through Pelago), a soaring conservatory that’s home to one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls. Marvel at the Cloud Mountain, a 35m-tall structure clad with a colourful array of exotic plants and flowers, including orchids and ferns. “If you’re lucky, you can witness the misting of the flowers, which takes place every two hours and adds to the ethereal atmosphere,” Matt shares.

Worked up an appetite after all that adventure? Book a table at one of Singapore’s themed restaurants for a meal to remember. At Absurdities, guests enjoy a truly experiential gastronomic journey, travelling (sometimes even climbing or crawling) from one dining room to another throughout the six-course omakase menu. “Tickets are usually sold out because of how amazing the experience is, so make a reservation online in advance,” Matt advises.

For an immersive cultural dining experience, check out True Blue Cuisine (enjoy 15% off cash vouchers with the Kris+ app). The restaurant serves delectable Peranakan dishes, such as ngoh hiang (minced chicken and prawn rolls) and ayam buah keluak (chicken stewed with black nuts), alongside traditional pastries. Plus, the venue is reminiscent of a museum, adding to the historical ambience.

At Singapore Airlines, we’re all about taking you places – whether that’s 30,000 feet in the air or 3,000+ attractions across the globe. Check out our travel experiences platform Pelago and lifestyle rewards app Kris+, and discover how you can get the most out of your next trip.