Arrived Saturday, 26th. September, 1998 Qantas QF9 from Melbourne.

We took the Qantas Holidays airconditioned shuttlebus via the World Trade Centre to arrive at Sentosa Island around 11pm. It's still around 28oc, we are welcomed warmly as we arrive, our luggage is whisked away and we are escorted up to our room too tired to check out the music coming from the bar.

Our room #1154 is with a hill view back towards the city, and we can see the harbour lights over the treetops. Walking out onto the balcony, we can hear the frog chorus as there had been rain earlier and it's still very humid. A good size nicely furnished double room with fridge, minibar, tea and coffee making facilities, safe, ironing board, pay movies. Well appointed bathroom with plenty of light.

First morning we head down to the restaurant for breakfast, it seems we've chosen the wrong time, as everyone arrives at once. Although we are offered a table outside where we can wait, or stay, all staff seem to be busily pre-occupied.

Eventually we do move inside, and Charlene chooses the buffet breakfast and I choose from the menu, which she points out is rather pointless with the same things available at the self-serve buffet anyway, and less waiting time. Don't you just hate it when your kids are smarter than you are ?

We walked down past the pool to the beachfront and along the lagoon. It's another very humid, hot and sticky day, so we decide to explore our surroundings. The pool area also includes a water slide and section for younger children, with plenty of sun lounges and shady spots. Lively music from the Pool Bar and chatty staff make it a popular place, with meals available from the nearby restaurant.

Walking out through the lobby, the monorail station, beach-train and bus depot are all at the base of the hill, so plenty of readily available transport right on our doorstep.

The marine aquarium and Silosa fort are in the same vicinity, and the monorail runs at regular intervals.

There is a full business center with Internet access and full secretarial services - Janet, Tini and Asha are extremely pleasant and competant, and nothing is too much trouble. With full convention facilities, it's the ideal venue for a corporate get-away or get-together.

Also downstairs is a full gym and beauty centre, a well-stocked shop, and even a Karaoke booth ! A childcare area, and nearby, an entire area with games and machines bound to be popular with families. We never did discover what the 'communications centre' was, though.

With plenty of things to do on Sentosa Island itself, it's a great location to make the most of a few days in Singapore, and personally recommended without hesitation. With the city within such easy reach, this peaceful resort setting and surrounding forest make it ideal as a base for an escape.

Departed Thursday, 1st. October for London/Cork, Qantas QF351 connecting Aer Lingus E1713.

How far is it ? - Singapore - London = 6739 miles (10846 km)