‘Cheapskate tourist’: Couple skips hotel stay in Singapore; spends night at Changi Airport instead

A weekend trip for a couple in Singapore took an unexpected twist when their thrifty airport sleepover turned into a quirky travel story from one of the world’s most famous airports.Shocked by the “astronomical” soaring hotel prices during the Formula 1 Grand Prix, the couple chose to skip the $400-a-night stay and spend the night at Changi Airport instead — a decision that quickly went viral on social media.TikTok user Sheri (@sheridan.tate8) shared the experience in a video saying, “Just got off the ferry from Bintan Islands, and now we’re going to try sleeping at the Singapore Airport because hotel prices are astronomical due to the Formula One race.”“So I’m not sure if this is allowed or even possible so come along with us to find out,” Sheri said in the clip, adding that she was unsure if it was even allowed.Accompanied by her partner Donny, the couple explored the airport before finding a quiet corner in the “Sleeper Village” area, where around 30 other travelers were also resting overnight. By morning, they managed about four and a half hours of sleep. “Not the best night, but we did it, and didn’t have to pay for a hotel. Go us!” Sheri said in her update, visibly relieved in the end of the video.The video has since sparked a flood of reactions online. Many netizens supported the couple’s decision, saying there’s nothing wrong with resting at the airport as long as one is respectful. “I think it’s fine to sleep at the airport as long as there is mutual respect, obey law and order, be considerate, clear your own trash… Basically, be civilised bah.. It’s totally okay,” one comment read. Another added, “I used to work at the airport. U can sleep anywhere. Ask them for blankets. They’ll happily give you.” However, not everyone was impressed. Some Facebook social media users labelled the couple “cheapskates” and warned that such behaviour could affect Changi’s global reputation. “Soon Changi Airport will not be No.1 anymore if people start making it their bedroom,” one user commented.