This was our 6th Princess Cruise and our 27th cruise overall on 11 different cruise lines. In our opinion travel is a state of mind, you can look for the problems or enjoy what you experience to the fullest. We choose the latter because it is a lot more fun.
We arrived in Singapore 3 days in advance of the April 15, 2015 departure of the Diamond Princess. We booked our hotel through Princess staying at the Pan Pacific Singapore. The transfer to the hotel at 12:15 AM was quick. The driver was waiting outside baggage pick-up as expected. The hotel was beautiful and at a great location for walkers. We have booked previous hotels through Princess and they were always at the right location with quality accommodations.
Singapore is a wonderful city to just get out and wander in. We bought a 2 day Hop On Hop Off bus pass and got our money’s worth using it. We use these buses regularly when traveling to provide an overview and the flexibility to change directions when something looks appealing.
Stateroom: One of the beds was not in great condition upon our arrival. We contacted guest services and our room steward. The next morning the mattress was replaced with a new one. Problem solved without delay. Stateroom was clean, neat and regularly refreshed by Ferdinand. Ferdinand also anticipated our need for wine glasses without being asked when he saw we had brought a couple of bottles on board in Singapore.
Wonderful city. Easy to visit. Took the Hop on Hop off bus for 2 days in advance of our departure. Botanical gardens were delightful with the National Orchids Gardens. There was a small charge for the Orchids but they were able to convert US dollars to to Singapore dollars in the gift shop. We walked all over day and night and always felt comfortable.
Took the subway to the Osaka Castle which was very interesting. We then walked for about an hour and a half and realized we were lost so flagged a cab back to the ship. Great experience.