The Changi Oasis

We left the Cedar Rapids airport on Wednesday morning before 5 a.m. and didn't touch ground in Siem Reap until noon on Friday--a grueling 40+ hour trip. But in the midst of all the security lines, information kiosks, and cramped airplane seats, we landed for a few hours in the oasis of Changi Airport in Singapore.

Changi is a destination in itself. Our time there felt like a mini vacation to a spectacular resort rather than a layover--in part because we stayed at the luxurious Crowne Plaza Hotel connected to the airport. Bleary eyed as we were, we did our best to take in some of the airport's attractions--a lush indoor rain forest called Jewel, a spectacular light display at the world's largest indoor waterfall, elaborate sculptures made entirely of plants and flowers, a butterfly garden, free foot massage machines, and even an adorable self-propelled floor waxer.

We would have enjoyed staying longer and seeing more of Singapore--but we're exhausted, and Cambodia awaits.