Ask a concierge: Singapore

What to do and where to dine in this business-driven Asian city.

At the Crowne Plaza Changi Airport in Singapore, concierge Rome Ryan P. Dondoy draws on three years of experience to direct visitors on what to do and where to dine in this business-driven Asian city. Here’s his expert guidance for business travelers.

What should business travelers have on hand when visiting your city?
An electric power converter would come in handy for many visitors to Singapore, where plugs have a voltage of 220-240 volts and 50 hertz (cycles per second). In addition, business travelers should pack light, comfortable clothing appropriate for our tropical, humid climate. And a small, foldable umbrella is a must to be prepared for our unpredictable weather.

What are your top restaurant recommendations for a business lunch or dinner?
Jumbo Seafood Restaurant (Blk 1206 East Coast Parkway, #01-07/08, East Coast Seafood Centre, Singapore 449883; Ph: 6442 3435) serves delicious fresh seafood prepared in the local style. It’s famous for traditional chilli crab—crabs stir-fried in a sweet and savoury tomato and chilli sauce. The dish is a must-try for visitors. Paradise Dynasty (65 Airport Blvd., #03-32 Changi Airport Terminal 3, Singapore 819663; Ph: 6242 4372) serves northern and southern Chinese cuisine with a contemporary twist, and the serene ambience is perfect for a business lunch or dinner. The restaurant is a short walk from the Crowne Plaza Changi Airport. For an even better commute, our own Azur (75 Airport Boulevard, Level 2, Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, Singapore 819664; Ph: 6823 5354) offers lively kitchen-theater atmosphere. Chefs showcase their skills as they prepare an extensive range of Asian and Western cuisine.

What’s something that surprises guests about your city or hotel?
Guests know we’ll be close to the airport; it’s in our name. But they’re surprised to find that we’re actually attached to Terminal 3 by an air-conditioned pedestrian bridge.

If business travelers only have a few hours for leisure, what must they see?
Business travelers must visit Singapore’s iconic landmark, the Merlion, located at Merlion Park near the city center. If time allows, the impressive Marina Bay Sands complex, which dominates the bay, is worth a visit. And the Singapore Flyer observation wheel offers remarkable views of the skyline and water.

What’s the best option for outdoor exercise?
East Coast Park is a great choice. Guests can cycle, jog or try out water activities along the park’s 15-kilometer stretch of beach and paved paths.

Business know-how

Concierge Rome Ryan P. Dondoy’s top tips for getting business right in Singapore:

Tip 1: Dress well for your meetings, but know that in our ethnically diverse city, meeting participants may show up in many different types of acceptable attire.

Tip 2:  Offer a firm handshake to everyone present at a business meeting or social occasion. Shake hands again when leaving.

Tip 3: Dinner is a common form of business entertainment in Singapore. But it’s a time to socialize and build relationships, rather than to discuss business.

 

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