Ladies & Gentlemen, as we formally approach the end of the first quarter of 2025, I trust that you are keeping yourselves healthy and safe, wherever you may be. To keep you updated on my major overseas travels, I would like to warmly welcome you to this brand new voyage trip report detailing my recent oriental social bonding and culinary getaway journey to Shenzhen, Mainland China, in February & March 2025. This newest overseas getaway trip report will be divided into five sections, for which, this shall constitute the first central segment of the entire report itself.
There will be a total of two focus topics, excluding the prologue, that are to be covered in this section of the oriental trip report itself. They are the in-bound evening flight to Shenzhen and the main late night road journey to the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an. Though I cannot allow any user comments for my overseas travel videos posted on YouTube for safety and security reasons, you may post and leave your comments in the comment boxes located close to the end of each overseas getaway trip report segment.
Part 1 ｰ The Prologue
After returning from our regional Feng Shui reading, gastronomic and social bonding journey to the Philippines in January & February 2025, we spent the next week or so recovering from our illnesses we sustained in Sultan Kudarat. Though I had picked up some mass allergic reactions due to several Vietnamese nuts I had consumed with the skins intact while we were in Manila, my allergies were aggravated further by the polluted surroundings of Sultan Kudarat. Following this recent major overseas voyage, I vowed never to step foot into Sultan Kudarat again during future overseas trips to the Philippines.
Seeing that my mom needed a break from matters related to Feng Shui and work after traveling to the Philippines, two of our close friends, Aunt Charmaine Lai and Aunt Crystal Lai, naturally decided to invite us on an oriental social bonding and culinary journey to Shenzhen, Mainland China, with their mother. We all readily agreed to this recommendation itself, knowing that my younger brother was already having a gap year from his Australian university education studies in Western Australia. With commercial flights between Singapore and Shenzhen using smaller narrow-body aircraft, the Lai sisters would safely fly up to Shenzhen on Monday (24 February) while we would follow up a day later on Tuesday (25 February).
Through this journey, Shenzhen would become the second Mainland Chinese city I would ever visit after Shanghai back in December 2019, and I even knew that Hong Kong would be just to the south of Shenzhen. Not only would this mark my second time visiting Mainland China, but it would also mark the first time we would enter Mainland China ever since the stringent 'Zero-COVID' policy from early 2020 to late 2022 in an attempt to contain the spread of COVID-19 during the global pandemic itself. As with Japan and Hong Kong, there was definitely no doubt that Mainland China was among the last countries to reopen its borders post-pandemic.
On the morning of Tuesday (25 February), I woke up at around eleven o' clock after having a good night's rest. Having a shower and changing into my usual attire, I soon went to prepare the remainder of my carry-on belongings for the overseas getaway journey over to Shenzhen, Mainland China, later that evening. My mom had even arranged for a local MaxiCab to come and fetch us to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 at five o' clock sharp the day before the trip, knowing well that we would have to take the early evening rush traffic into consideration, including other confounding factors like road traffic accidents causing massive jams.
For the coming major in-bound evening flight voyage to Shenzhen, we would travel non-stop with Singapore Airlines on flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen, which would be scheduled to depart from Singapore Changi Airport at 8.45 p.m., and eventually arrive at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport by precisely one o' clock later that night. In spite of the arrival at a rather ungodly hour into Shenzhen, we quickly knew that this was the only flight available for us to travel directly to Shenzhen without the need to change flights anywhere. We would then stay directly at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an during our time in Shenzhen.
Since the September 11 terrorist attacks in New York, United States, in 2001 and several other terrorist-related incidents post-9/11, I have the firm belief that you should aim to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight. However, in cases where you are traveling to the United States, you should aim to arrive at the airport safely at least three to four hours before your flight as airport security for these flights is usually taken more seriously than many other destinations. This is especially true during my solo travels, where I have a strict self-discipline policy of arriving at the airport at least three hours prior to my flight. It is also crucial to check the opening times of the airline's main check-in counters at any departure airport complex as not all check-in counters may open three hours before the flight's scheduled departure time.
Later that afternoon, our MaxiCab to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 safely arrived at the front gate of our home by five o' clock. The driver, who was a Malay gentleman, got out from his cab and assisted us in loading our baggage into the trunk of his cab while we boarded for the coming routine early evening road journey to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3. Once everything had been securely loaded into the MaxiCab, we finally departed the familiar major compound of our home at 5.05 p.m. for a routine early evening road trip of just half an hour over the Central Expressway and Tampines Expressway to the large major passenger terminal building at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3.
Soon enough, we safely arrived at the departures and drop-off point located outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 at 5.35 p.m.. While both my younger brother and I went to get two baggage carts, the MaxiCab driver helped my mom unload all our baggage from the rear trunk areas of his cab. Once our baggage had been safely loaded onto the airport baggage carts, we immediately thanked the MaxiCab driver for all of his kind and efficient services and promised him that we would get in touch with him directly at least a few days before our return journey back home to Singapore.
With the MaxiCab driver leaving us to commence our getaway vacation to Shenzhen, we went into the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in the direction leading over to the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters. Once we had reached the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters by 5.40 p.m., we got out our required travel documents before loading our larger check-in baggage onto the baggage conveyor belts later on. The entire check-in process for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen took not more than approximately five minutes.
Singapore Airlines (Japanese: シンガポール航空; Chinese: 新加坡航空; Korean: 싱가포르 항공) is the national flag carrier and the largest airline of the Republic of Singapore. Headquartered at the Airline House located in 25 Airline Road, the airline has its largest hub at Singapore Changi Airport and flies to 75 destinations in Asia, Africa, North America, Oceania and Europe using a mixed fleet consisting of mainly Airbus A350 XWBs, Airbus A380s, Boeing 737s, Boeing 737 MAXs, Boeing 777s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The major airline company also plays a key role as a competitor across the Kangaroo Route connecting Australia with the United Kingdom via the Eastern Hemisphere.
The airline was founded on 1 May 1947 as Malayan Airways two years after the end of World War II, until it was separated into Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines on 1 October 1972. Progressing through its development, the airline took delivery of its first Airbus A380 from 15 October 2007 and operated the world's first Airbus A380 passenger flight from Singapore to Sydney on 25 October 2007. It was also the first customer for the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, having taken delivery of the first aircraft on 14 March 2018 and operating the type's first flight between Singapore and Osaka (Kansai) from 3 May 2018. As one of the ten major airlines to be awarded five-star rating by Skytrax, the airline company won the major 'Airline of the Year' award in 2004, 2007, 2008, 2018 and 2023.
The airline also operates three of the world's longest non-stop commercial passenger flights between Singapore, Los Angeles, Newark and New York (John F. Kennedy). Initially operated using five Airbus A340-500s, these were discontinued in late 2013 after the airline sold the aircraft back to Airbus. With the main delivery of the airline's Airbus A350 XWBs, including seven Airbus A350-900/ULR aircraft, the airline company resumed non-stop flights to the United States, starting with San Francisco. This was securely followed by the resumption of flights to Newark from 11 October 2018 and Los Angeles from 2 November 2018, allowing Singapore Airlines to operate the world's longest commercial passenger flights again. As an official member of Star Alliance since 1 April 2000, the local airline has mutual code-share agreements with most Star Alliance partners through its KrisFlyer frequent-flyer program.
The departures and drop-off point located outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly after we had arrived during the early evening rush hours
Overlooking Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 from the departures and drop-off point at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Entering the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Finally arriving at the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters located in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
After completing the check-in process for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen at the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters located in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, we safely obtained our airline boarding passes at precisely 5.45 p.m.. The airline check-in staff agent informed us that Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen would be scheduled to depart at exactly 8.45 p.m. from Gate No. A18 in Concourse A. Boarding time would also commence by around 8.15 p.m., approximately half an hour prior to the scheduled departure time.
With that moment, we thanked the check-in agent for her services and went to the departure immigration checkpoints area with the rest of our carry-on belongings. To clear the departure immigration checkpoints, we quickly made use of the automated facial recognition departure gates reserved exclusively for Singaporean nationals and Permanent Residents, thus allowing the three of us to pass through the major departure immigration procedure in not more than approximately five minutes that early evening. Upon clearing the local departure immigration checkpoints, we were in the transit hall of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 at 5.50 p.m..
Since we had plenty of time left before Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen later on, we decided to proceed to the Silver Kris Lounge for some light evening refreshments first. With that moment, we walked through the main transit hall of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 and took an escalator and elevator up to the mezzanine transit lobby mall, where most of the airport lounges were located. The whole airport terminal passageway connecting from the main transit area to the Silver Kris Lounge took approximately five minutes.
My Business Class boarding pass for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Shenzhen
Proceeding to the departure immigration checkpoints in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
One final view of the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly before we went through the departure immigration checkpoints during the early evening rush hours
Finally entering the central concourse of the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing The Cocoa Trees (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 South Branch) located in the main transit area on the way to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
The departure flight information screens in the central concourse of the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing TWG Tea Boutique (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Central Branch) located in the main transit area on the way to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the escalators and elevator leading up to the airport lounge mezzanine transit level in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Walking through the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Overlooking several duty-free retail outlet stores in the main transit area from the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing the SATS Premier Lounge on the way to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Walking through the passageway leading to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
After passing through the main transit area of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 for not more than approximately five minutes, we directly arrived at the front major entrance to the Silver Kris Lounge at 5.55 p.m.. Heading to the lounge reception counters, a lounge staff receptionist soon examined our boarding passes to confirm our eligibility for airport lounge access. Once we had been positively identified as eligible for main airport lounge access, the lounge staff receptionist kindly reminded us to allow plenty of time to arrive at our boarding gate as it was located close to the southern end of Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3.
With that, we thanked the airport lounge receptionist for her advice and headed into the inner dining area of the major Business Class section before securing three vacant counter seats for ourselves. As we had changed some Singapore dollars into Chinese Renminbi in town only a few days beforehand, we knew that we would not have to change any currency in the airport terminal building itself. We then spent the rest of the time helping ourselves to some evening refreshments in the Silver Kris Lounge until it was time to proceed to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A as we were also not in the mood for any duty-free shopping in the airport.
Bypassing the open-air seating areas in Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly after we had entered the lounge
Entering the inner dining area of the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing the self-service hot food refreshment corner in the inner dining area of the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Heading to the self-service beverage refreshment corner in the inner dining area of the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
About to help myself to some 2019 Castello ColleMassari Montecucco Rosso Riserva Italian red wine at the self-service beverage corner of the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
A platter of har gow dim sum shrimp dumplings and a bowl of potato chips, together with a glass of 2019 Castello ColleMassari Montecucco Rosso Riserva Italian red wine, for myself in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
A platter of chocolate éclairs and an additional bowl of potato chips, together with a mug of hot cocoa and a glass of iced water, for myself in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Planning out the first section of my regional overseas getaway vacation trip report on my blog via my portable laptop in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 using Sigvar Serial as the standard font for the trip report
An additional platter of har gow dim sum shrimp dumplings for myself in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
The overall view of the inner dining area of the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
About to help myself to some small miniature cakes at the self-service pastry refreshment corner in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
A plate of two miniature signature dark chocolate cakes and a glass of water for myself in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Watching "Treasure Buddies" (2012) on my laptop in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, where in this scene, two of the five Golden Retriever Air Buddies, Budderball and MudBud, stop at a kebab stand at the local open-air market in Bastati, Egypt, to sample some kebab
One final view of the inner dining area of the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours shortly before I departed the lounge for Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A
To: Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX / ZGSZ), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
Aircraft: Boeing 737 MAX 8
Registration No.: 9V-MBJ
Class: Business Class
Seat No. 14A
Date: Tuesday, 25 February 2025
After spending approximately 1 hour 30 minutes of having some early evening refreshments and using our portable electronic gadgets in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, the lounge clock was showing 7.25 p.m.. Given the fact that major boarding for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen would commence in 50 minutes, I packed away my belongings and departed the Silver Kris Lounge for Gate No. A18. My mom and younger brother even agreed to join me directly by Gate No. A18 only a few minutes before boarding commenced. The entire walk connecting from the major Silver Kris Lounge to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A lasted not more than approximately 15 minutes that evening.
Soon enough, I arrived at the entrance to the passenger waiting lounges situated by Gates No. A16 to A20 at 7.40 p.m., which was in time for boarding for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen to commence in 35 minutes. Passing through a simple and rapid airport security check, I was finally in the passenger holding lounge area located at Gate No. A18 by exactly 7.45 p.m.. My mom and younger brother then joined me at Gate No. A18 at precisely 8.10 p.m., as agreed earlier on. Observing the number of waiting passengers at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, I could instantly deduce that Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen would be filled to the brim tonight.
As for tonight's coming flight, Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen would be operated by a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, registered 9V-MBJ and powered with just two CFM International LEAP-1B27 engines. 9V-MBJ was delivered securely to Singapore Airlines on 22 December 2021 as the 10th Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft and the 10th main Boeing 737 MAX aircraft for the airline company. The overall aircraft delivery would then make the narrow-body aircraft have a total revenue passenger service age of approximately 3.2 years old today.
Walking past several seats and tables in the inner dining area of the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours as I begin to make my way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A
Overlooking the open-air seating areas in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 as I begin to make my way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A
The main entrance to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 as I begin to make my way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A
Taking the escalator down to the main transit area from the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Lotte Duty-Free Wines & Spirits (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Concourse A Branch) in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A during the evening rush hours
The escalators and elevator connecting directly to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level from the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Gates No. A1 to A8 on the way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A in Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Approaching the passageway leading to Gates No. A9 to A21 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Gates No. A9 and A10 on the way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Gates No. A11 and A12 on the way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Gates No. A13 and A14 on the way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Gate No. A15 on the way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Bypassing a passenger rest area near Gate No. A21 on the way to Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the passenger waiting lounges at Gates No. A16 to A20 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Finally entering the passenger waiting lounges at Gates No. A16 to A20 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
The passenger waiting area located at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 with a few waiting passengers for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen during the evening rush hours
Our aircraft for tonight, 9V-MBJ, being serviced at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming regional evening flight over the South China Sea to the People's Republic of China (Mainland China) as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen
A closer view of 9V-MBJ being serviced at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming regional evening flight over the South China Sea to the People's Republic of China (Mainland China) as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Regional, registered 9V-SHN, receiving her final preparations at Gate No. A17 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 for her coming routine evening flight over the Indian Ocean to the Republic of India as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 522 bound for Hyderabad
The departure flight information screen in the passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 detailing important information for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen
One additional view of 9V-MBJ being serviced at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming regional evening flight over the South China Sea to the People's Republic of China (Mainland China) as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen
The passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly before the first boarding announcements for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen were made
After spending approximately half an hour of anticipated waiting in the passenger waiting area located at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, the first main boarding announcements for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen were finally made at exactly 8.15 p.m.. The Business Class passengers, including the KrisFlyer Gold club members and passengers requiring special assistance, were called out to board the aircraft first. Since we were among the first passengers to be summoned for boarding, we got out our passports and boarding passes to be checked by the boarding gate staff members on duty.
Walking through the main jet bridge at Gate No. A18, we were securely on board 9V-MBJ by 8.20 p.m. sharp, which was in good time for an 8.45 p.m. departure bound for Shenzhen. At the airplane entrance door, two in-flight cabin attendants welcomed us on board and directly pointed out the direction to our assigned seats in the Business Class cabin. Storing all of our belongings into their respective storage spaces, we settled down into our assigned Seats No. 11H, 11K and 14A for the regional main evening flight of 4 hours 15 minutes over the South China Sea to Shenzhen.
The Business Class seats we would use for this coming evening flight to Shenzhen would be the narrow-body regional version of Business Class seats. Manufactured by Thompson Aero Vantage, these seats are featured exclusively on the Boeing 737 MAX 8s and are arranged in both a 2-2 configuration and 1-1 configuration. Each Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft carries ten seats spanning only three rows at the front section, with the middle row offering single seats, which can be advantageous for solo travelers. The seat products can also recline up to 180º during the flight to become a complete major lie-flat bed, allowing passengers to rest during longer or overnight flights.
The flight attendants then went through the cabin distributing hot towels and beverages to the Business Class travelers. To commence this coming routine evening flight to Shenzhen, I had my usual glasses of orange juice and champagne, which I mixed to create an orange mimosa cocktail for myself. While boarding for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 bound for Shenzhen was still in progress at Gate No. A18 in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 that evening, I quickly reminded one of the flight attendants that I had purchased a couple of items online via the airline's KrisShop website two days beforehand, with my purchases to be delivered on board later on.
Another flight cabin attendant soon came over to my seat in order to confirm my major meal orders for the in-flight dinner service later on. For the main event, I would have the signature Lobster Thermidor with button mushrooms, fine herbs, roasted pumpkin, asparagus, fondant potato and tomato, which I had ordered through the airline's online 'Book the Cook' service during the course of our flight ticketing reservations. Once my major in-flight meal order had been directly recorded, I settled back to finish my self-created glass of orange mimosa while patiently awaiting departure from Gate No. A18 in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3.
A closer view of 9V-MBJ while passing through the jet bridge at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
A view of my seat, 14A, during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Overlooking the main airport tarmac during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
The cover page for the in-flight dining menu for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Shenzhen during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Reviewing the main food section of the in-flight dining menu for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Shenzhen during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Reviewing the champagne and wine sections of the in-flight dining menu for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Shenzhen during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Reviewing the cocktail, aperitif, spirit and beer sections of the in-flight dining menu for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Shenzhen during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A a Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Planning out the first section of my oriental overseas getaway trip report on my blog via my portable laptop during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 using Sigvar Serial as the standard font for the trip report
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941, registered 9V-SMG, resting at Gate No. A17 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 after arriving from her routine regional early evening return flight over the Java Sea from the Republic of Indonesia as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 963 from Jakarta (SoekarnoｰHatta). She will then have a long overnight flight over the Indian Ocean to Italy as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 378 bound for Milan (Malpensa)
The cover page for the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping magazine during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Reviewing the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping magazine during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
A glass each of champagne and orange juice for myself, which I would mix to create a mimosa, during the boarding process at Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat while awaiting departure from Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Awaiting departure from Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
After the clock struck precisely 8.45 p.m. sharp, all of the aircraft doors were safely closed, and the airplane eventually pushed away from Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, as scheduled. Once the on-board safety briefing information video was shown on our major in-flight entertainment video screens, the airplane began to make its way over to its assigned major runway for its regional evening flight over the South China Sea bound for Shenzhen, taxiing past Gates No. A16 and A17 en route. The entire major passage leading to the assigned runway took not more than approximately 15 minutes.
It was not that long until the aircraft approached the assigned airport runway located closer to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3. Soon enough, both the CFM International LEAP-1B27 engines spooled into action, and the aircraft safely lifted off from Singapore Changi Airport at nine o' clock for its routine regional evening flight of just 3 hours 35 minutes over the South China Sea to the ultra-modern metropolitan city of Shenzhen located in the southern part of Guangdong Province of Mainland China located adjacent to Hong Kong. We soon ascended further into the dark night sky for a regional evening flight timing of just 3 hours 35 minutes over the South China Sea to the modern major metropolitan city of Shenzhen located in the southern part of Guangdong Province of Mainland China close to Hong Kong.
Finally pushing back from Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
About to head on to the main airport tarmac shortly after pushing back from Gate No. A18 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
The on-board safety briefing information video showcasing the location of the emergency exits on board the aircraft in the event of an emergency
Overlooking Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 4 while getting closer to the assigned airport runway near Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
About to make an additional right turn to the assigned airport runway located close to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Ascending further into the dark late night sky over the Johor Strait shortly after taking off from Singapore Changi Airport
Shortly after taking off from Singapore Changi Airport, the 'fasten seat belt' lights were finally turned off by 9.10 p.m., which was approximately 10 minutes into the flight. While the flight attendants sprung into action to commence the in-flight service, I promptly went over to the front lavatory and got out my private electronic gadgets for my own entertainment purposes. The passengers were also reminded to have all their seat belts securely fastened at all times whenever they were seated in cases of any unexpected in-flight turbulence that could occur during the flight to Shenzhen.
A flight attendant then came over to my seat to ask what beverage I wanted to accompany my main in-flight dinner course later on. For my beverages, I quickly requested for a glass of 2019 Château La Cardonne, Bordeaux, French red wine to accompany my main dish later on. Once the flight attendant had carefully taken down my beverage order, she quickly went to the front galley area to help the other cabin crew members prepare for the main in-flight dinner service later on. I was then left to use my portable laptop for my own entertainment purposes until it was time to have dinner.
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat shortly after the seat belt signs had been turned off
Planning out the first section of my oriental overseas getaway trip report on my blog via my portable laptop during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Kuantan and Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, using Sigvar Serial as the standard font for the trip report
A glass of 2019 Château La Cardonne, Bordeaux, French red wine to accompany my main in-flight dinner course later on
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Kuantan and Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
Cruising over the South China Sea between Kuantan and Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
Watching "Treasure Buddies" (2012) on my laptop during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Kuantan and Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, where in this scene, two of the Golden Retriever Air Buddies, Budderball and MudBud, tuck into a dinner of scarab beetles offered by the Bedouin tribe in the deserts of Egypt
Cruising over the South China Sea just of Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the South China Sea just aft of Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea just aft of Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
After spending approximately 40 minutes of using my portable electronic gadgets across the South China Sea, a flight attendant finally appeared at my seat again at 9.50 p.m.. This time, she had my meal tray containing my appetizer and main dish courses. The appetizer course comprised of a silken chicken breast salad with crunchy vegetables, fresh herb slaw, roasted sesame, miso and honey dressing and my main meal course consisted of signature Lobster Thermidor. I then requested for a piece of garlic bread and one grissini Italian bread stick to accompany my in-flight dinner at the same time.
With everything securely delivered to my dining table, I immediately tucked into my in-flight dinner meal courses for the night. The silken chicken breast salad tasted quite alright for my liking, though the herb slaw left a taste that I was not that fond off. However, the true star of tonight's in-flight meal was the signature Lobster Thermidor, which tasted really tender, with both the button mushrooms and melted cheese giving the lobster the flavor it needed. The condiments, such as the fondant potato, tomato and roasted pumpkin, paired well with the dish, including my own glass of 2019 Château Rahoul, Bordeaux, French red wine.
Upon finishing my in-flight dinner courses, a flight cabin attendant came by to collect my used in-flight meal tray and asked whether there was anything I wanted for dessert. To wrap up the in-flight dinner services, I promptly requested for a piece of Milo Dinosaur cake and a glass of Baileys Irish Cream, also filling out a small KrisShop in-flight duty-free coupon to purchase an exclusive Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model at the same time. With that, the flight cabin crew attendant carefully noted down my dessert orders and headed over to the front main galley to get them prepared.
It was not that long until the flight attendant appeared at my seat again with my dessert orders at around 10.10 p.m.. Once I tucked into my dessert, the Milo Dinosaur cake tasted moist and tender, serving as the most appropriate way to directly wrap up a good in-flight dinner service. The Baileys Irish Cream with ice also helped me to get settled down further for the remainder of the coming late night flight to Shenzhen. Upon finishing my dessert, a flight crew attendant came over to clear my used cutlery while I securely reminded her of the duty-free items I had purchased online via the KrisShop website before using my laptop.
The overall view of my in-flight dinner tray on my dining table shortly after I had received it
My in-flight dinner appetizer course: Silken chicken breast salad with crunchy vegetables, fresh herb slaw, roasted sesame, miso and honey dressing
My main course: Signature Lobster Thermidor served with button mushrooms, fine herbs, roasted pumpkin, asparagus, fondant potato and tomato
A piece each of garlic bread and grissini Italian bread stick to accompany my main in-flight dinner course
My used in-flight dinner tray shortly after I had finished all of my meal courses for the night
Cruising over the South China Sea close to Sóc Trăng, Vietnam
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Sóc Trăng, Vietnam
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Sóc Trăng, Vietnam
A piece of Milo Dinosaur cake and a glass of Baileys Irish Cream with ice for myself to wrap up the in-flight dinner service
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Vũng Tàu and Phan Thiết, Vietnam
Cruising over the South China Sea between Vũng Tàu and Phan Thiết, Vietnam
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Vũng Tàu and Phan Thiết, Vietnam
A view of my seat, 14A, during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Vũng Tàu and Phan Thiết, Vietnam
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Vũng Tàu and Phan Thiết, Vietnam
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Nha Trang and Da Nang, Vietnam
Cruising over the South China Sea between Nha Trang and Da Nang, Vietnam
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Nha Trang and Da Nang, Vietnam
After spending approximately 1 hour 15 minutes of utilizing my electronic devices and having dessert over the South China Sea close to Vietnam, a flight attendant appeared by my seat at 11.25 p.m.. This time, she had one exclusive Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model and a sealed major KrisShop security tamper-evident bag containing two 128GB SD memory cards. Upon verifying that my online purchase was correct, I immediately used my VISA credit card to pay for my exclusive Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model before quickly requesting for one cup of hot TWG Earl Grey Tea with milk.
With that, the flight crew attendant noted down my beverage order and went to the front galley area to get my tea for the night. It was not that long until she eventually reappeared at my seat with my tea by around 11.50 p.m., thus allowing me to sip into it once I had added milk into it to freshen myself up for the upcoming late night arrival into Shenzhen later on. Once my used tea mug was cleared away, I was quietly left to do some personal surfing on my private laptop until it was time for the aircraft cabin to be prepared for the descent cum arrival into Shenzhen.
As for the exclusive Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model I had purchased on board, the details are as follows:
1) Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Herpa Scale 1:500 (529051-001)
Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Herpa Scale 1:500 (529051-001)
My newly-purchased Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model purchased directly from the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping service and my two 128GB SD memory cards sealed in a KrisShop security tamper-evident bag (STEB) as I had purchased them online via the airline's KrisShop website a few days before the flight
A cup of hot TWG Earl Grey tea with milk for myself during cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Lidou Bay
About to enjoy my cup of hot TWG Earl Grey tea with milk during cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Lidou Bay
Cruising over the South China Sea close to Lidou Bay
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Lidou Bay
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat shortly before the seat belt signs were illuminated in preparation for the descent cum arrival into Shenzhen
In accordance with the Mainland China Standard Time (CST), all the seat belt signs were directly illuminated at 12 midnight, which was approximately 35 minutes in preparation for the descent cum arrival into Shenzhen. Given that we had less than an hour left before the late night arrival into Shenzhen, we stowed our belongings back into their respective storage areas and fastened our seat belts before the aircraft could directly commence the approach into its final destination. The flight attendants then went through the aircraft cabin conducting their final on-board safety checks at the same time.
The local lights of the industrial areas of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, were shining below us as the aircraft began to make its one final approach into Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport. After a regional major evening flight timing of 3 hours 35 minutes over the South China Sea from the warm tropical island city-state of the Republic of Singapore, we touched down into Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport by precisely 12.35 a.m., which was approximately 25 minutes ahead of schedule. The narrow-body aircraft soon made its way through the central airport tarmac to its arrival gate at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3.
Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (Simplified Chinese: 深圳宝安国际机场) is a Mainland Chinese domestic and international airport complex located around the east bank of the Pearl River in the central part of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China. It is one of the three largest main airports serving the Pearl River Delta, the eighth-busiest major airport in Asia and the fourth-busiest local airport complex in the People's Republic of China (Mainland China), with approximately 52.7 million travelers passing through the local airport complex in 2023. The airport serves as a local hub for China Southern Airlines, Donghai Airlines, Hainan Airlines, SF Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines and UPS Airlines, as well as a focus hub for Air China.
The airport was officially opened for passenger service from 12 October 1991 in order to help ease overcrowding issues at Hong Kong's Kai Tak Airport and the former Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. From its opening date, the airport had two terminals for domestic flights, Terminal A and Terminal B, with Terminal D securely catering to international flights. From 28 November 2013, a new passenger terminal, Terminal 3, was opened for passenger service to replace the three older terminals and to consolidate all revenue flights to and from Shenzhen through an 'Under One Roof' scheme. An additional satellite terminal building located to the north of the Main Terminal building of Terminal 3 itself was safely opened from 7 December 2021, with an automated people mover system connecting to the Main Terminal building.
The major airport complex is accessible via the Shenzhen Metro Line 11, which provides direct subway access to the Nanshan District and Futian Station. Passengers are also able to connect to the Shenzhen Metro Line 2, Line 3, the China Railway High-speed (CRH) train network and Guangzhou–Shenzhen–Hong Kong Express Rail Link upon arrival at Futian Station. As a core player in the Pearl River Delta, high-speed ferry services to Macau and the Skypier Terminal at Hong Kong International Airport are also available at the Fuyong Ferry Terminal situated in the Fuyong Subdistrict, which is adjacent to the airport complex itself.
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat shortly after the seat belt signs were illuminated in preparation for the descent cum arrival into Shenzhen
Cruising over the South China Sea close to Yangjiang, Guangdong Province, Mainland China
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Yanjiang, Guangdong Province, Mainland China
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Yangjiang, Guangdong Province, Mainland China
Cruising over the South China Sea between Yangjiang and Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, Mainland China
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Yangjiang and Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, Mainland China
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat between Yangjiang and Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, Mainland China
Cruising over Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, Mainland China
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, Mainland China
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, Mainland China
Cruising over the South China Sea close to Chek Lap Kok, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating our cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Chek Lap Kok, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea close to Chek Lap Kok, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Cruising over the industrial areas of Nanshan District, Shenzhen, near the South China Sea as the aircraft begins to make its one final approach into Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport
Cruising over the industrial areas of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, near the South China Sea as the aircraft begins to make its one final approach into Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport
Singapore Airlines Flight 856 ｰ Late Night Arrival Into Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport
Taxiing along the main airport tarmac shortly after touching down in Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport
Making a right turn along the main airport tarmac to Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3
Getting closer to our assigned arrival gate located in Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3
Finally arriving at our assigned arrival gate, Gate No. 301, located in Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Business Class cabin from my seat shortly after arriving at our assigned arrival gate, Gate No. 301, located in Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3
After taxiing through the local airport tarmac for not more than approximately five minutes to Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3, we arrived at our assigned arrival contact gate, Gate No. 301, at 12.40 a.m.. Once the seat belt signs had been turned off, we promptly unfastened our seat belts and retrieved our belongings from their respective stowage spaces before the disembarkation process at Gate No. 301 could commence. We also conducted a final spot check around our main seating areas in order to ensure that there was nothing left behind on board the aircraft.
The flight cabin attendants safely armed the front aircraft door open carefully to permit all the passengers to disembark from the aircraft at Gate No. 301. As we disembarked from 9V-MBJ through the first major aircraft door, the flight attendants sincerely thanked us for choosing to travel with Singapore Airlines and wished us a safe and pleasant local culinary and shopping vacation in Shenzhen, Mainland China. We then walked across the central jet bridge of Gate No. 301 into the main passenger terminal building at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3.
After flying with an airline on any particular flight sector, I give the airline an overall holistic airline score report to determine whether that airline company is worth flying with for that particular flight sector. If that flight has a rapid stopover at a different airport before its final destination, the airline shall officially receive the final overall score report at the end of the second flight section. For example, if I am flying on Singapore Airlines flight SQ 026 from Singapore to New York (John F. Kennedy) via Frankfurt, the final score report will be safely released after the second flight sector from Frankfurt to New York (John F. Kennedy).
As of 1 February 2025, the airline grading system for my overseas trips will be as follows:
Outstanding: 80% or above (Airline has an excellent rating and performance)
Exceeds Expectations: 65% ｰ 79% (Airline has a good rating and performance)
Acceptable: 50% ｰ 64% (Airline has an adequate rating and performance)
Fair: 35% ｰ 49% (Airline has a fair rating and performance)
Poor: 20% ｰ 34% (Airline has a poor rating and performance)
Dreadful: Below 20% (Airline has failed to meet the prerequisite for the minimum grade)
Singapore Airlines Flight 856 Score Report
Seating: 17 / 20
In-flight Catering: 18 / 20
In-flight Service: 18 / 20
Aircraft Cleanliness: 16 / 20
Legroom Space: 15 / 20
Total: 84 / 100
Grade: Outstanding
In total, Singapore Airlines has obtained a total aggregate score of 84% for the in-bound flight sector from Singapore to Shenzhen, thus meaning that it has successfully attained the highest grade of 'Outstanding'. For this major flight, I was particularly impressed by the in-flight dinner service, with the Lobster Thermidor stealing the show. Though the seat was slightly narrow in several ways, I could not expect much as it was essentially for narrow-body planes. The flight attendants were also professional in catering to my requests, going out of their way to ensure that my family and I were well taken care of during our flight. Overall, this was a job very well done, Singapore Airlines! You have indeed proven to be 'A Great Way to Fly'.
Part 3 ｰ The Journey To The Fairfield By Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an
After disembarking from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 from Singapore at Gate No. 301, we walked through the terminal passageway leading to the major arrival immigration checkpoints located in Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3. The entire walk connecting from Gate No. 301 to the major arrival immigration checkpoints took not more than approximately 10 minutes late that night. Reaching the arrival immigration checkpoints at around 12.55 a.m., we instantly headed to the foreign visitors' section and got out both our passports and arrival immigration cards to be securely checked by the arrival immigration staff officers on duty, with the entire immigration clearance process lasting approximately 10 minutes.
Upon passing through the arrival immigration checkpoints by 1.05 a.m., I went to check which baggage belt number our bulkier check-in baggage would arrive at. According to the baggage reclaim information panels, our large check-in baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 from Singapore would arrive at Belt No. 17. Without wasting anymore time, we promptly went to grab two airport baggage carts before proceeding over to Belt No. 17 to collect our bulkier check-in baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 from Singapore. Once we had safely collected our baggage, we immediately passed through a main post-arrival customs check to ensure that we were not carrying any controlled or prohibited items into Mainland China.
One final view of 9V-MBJ resting at Gate No. 301 located in the Main Terminal building at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 after arriving from her regional evening flight over the South China Sea from the Republic of Singapore as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 from Singapore
Walking through the jet bridge of Gate No. 301 located in the Main Terminal building at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 shortly after disembarking from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 from Singapore
Walking through the automated passageway leading to the arrival immigration checkpoints located in the Main Terminal building at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 during the late night off-peak hours
Shortly after collecting our bulkier check-in baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 from Singapore at Belt No. 17 and passing through Mainland Chinese customs, we were safely in the international arrivals and meeting lobby of Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 by 1.15 a.m.. While waiting for our private hire driver to come and meet us, I followed my younger brother to a nearby 7-Eleven convenience store outlet in the post-arrivals and meeting lobby to purchase some light snacks and beverages in case we felt hungry during the course of our stay over the next few days in Shenzhen.
It was not that long until our private hire driver, introducing himself as Mr. Tang, eventually met us in the arrivals and meeting lobby at 1.25 a.m. sharp. He kindly offered to assist us with our baggage in escorting us to his private hire vehicle, which we gladly accepted. With that instant, we walked through the major passageway leading to the Ground Transportation Center in the direction leading to the first basement parking garage located on the first basement level itself. Soon enough, we eventually arrived at the first basement parking garage area situated directly below the Ground Transportation Center at around 1.35 a.m..
Mr. Tang then instructed us to wait at the pick-up point while he securely went to get his black Mercedes-Benz Vito private hire car. As soon as Mr. Tang got out of his private hire vehicle, he offered to load all of our baggage into the rear trunk area while we got in for the road journey to the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an. Once everything had been loaded into the rear of the car, we soon departed Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 at around 1.40 a.m. for a routine late night road trip of 25 minutes over the G4 BeijingｰHong Kong and Macau Expressway China National Highway G107 to the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an located along Nanhuan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen.
Finally inside the international arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 late at night
The elevators connecting to the Shenzhen Metro Line 11 and GuangzhouｰShenzhen Intercity Railway in the international arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 late at night
Walking through the automated passageway leading to the Ground Transportation Center from the international arrivals and meeting lobby at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 late at night
Walking through the second floor of the Ground Transportation Center at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 late at night
Finally arriving at the first basement parking garage at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 late at night
The black Mercedes-Benz Vito private hire car that would soon take us to the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an in the first basement parking garage at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 late at night
Finally departing the first basement parking garage at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3
About to turn towards the main roads shortly after exiting the first basement parking garage at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3
Traveling parallel to the G4 BeijingｰHong Kong and Macau Expressway along Bao'an Boulevard, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, shortly after departing Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 on a damp and rainy late night
Keeping right towards the G4 BeijingｰHong Kong and Macau Expressway along Bao'an Boulevard, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, shortly after departing Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 on a damp and rainy late night
Traveling along the first phase of the G4 BeijingｰHong Kong and Macau Expressway in Bao'an District, Shenzhen, shortly after departing Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 on a damp and rainy late night
Keeping left towards the Longgang District and Futian District, Shenzhen, along the G4 BeijingｰHong Kong and Macau Expressway in Bao'an District, Shenzhen, shortly after departing Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 3 on a damp and rainy late night
Traveling along the G4 BeijingｰHong Kong and Macau Expressway in Bao'an District, Shenzhen, in the direction leading to the Futian District and Nanshan District, Shenzhen, on a damp and rainy late night
Approaching the exit toll gates along the G4 BeijingｰHong Kong and Macau Expressway in Bao'an District, Shenzhen, in the direction leading to the Futian District and Nanshan District, Shenzhen, on a damp and rainy late night
Traveling along the road connecting to the China National Highway G107 from the G4 BeijingｰHong Kong and Macau Expressway in Bao'an District, Shenzhen, on a damp and rainy late night
Traveling through the middle of the China National Highway G107 in Bao'an District, Shenzhen, on a damp and rainy late night
Approaching the exit toll gates leading to Nanhuan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, from the China National Highway G107 on a damp and rainy late night
Traveling along the first phase of Nanhuan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, shortly after exiting the China National Highway G107 on a damp and rainy late night
Continuing straight along Nanhuan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, shortly after exiting the China National Highway G107 on a damp and rainy late night
Traveling down the sloped roads of Nanhuan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, shortly after exiting the China National Highway G107 on a damp and rainy late night
Bypassing several local shop house areas along Nanhuan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, on a damp and rainy late night
Nanhuan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, near Wanfeng Coastal City (Simplified Chinese: 万丰海岸城) on a damp and rainy late night
About to make a left turn towards Anlang Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, from Nanhuan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, on a damp and rainy late night
Finally arriving at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an located along Anlang Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, on a damp and rainy late night
After a routine major late night road trip of approximately 25 minutes from Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, we directly arrived at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an at exactly 2.05 a.m.. Entering the hotel's first basement parking garage, we stopped just outside the hotel's elevator lobby, where Aunt Charmaine warmly greeted us and welcomed us all to Shenzhen. The private hire driver assisted us in unloading our baggage from the trunk of his vehicle at the same time. Thanking Mr. Tang for his efficient services, Aunt Charmaine gently informed us that our rooms were located on the 28th floor of the hotel.
With that moment, we quickly took the elevator up to the 28th floor, where we saw that my younger brother and I would stay in Room No. 2832 and my mom would be in Room No. 2833. Furthermore, the two Lai sisters and their mother were also staying inside Rooms No. 2835 & No. 2836, thereby meaning that we would all be staying on the same floor for the duration of our stay in Shenzhen. Once we had checked our hotel rooms out, we spent the next 20 minutes or so unpacking our bathroom amenities and pajamas for the night ahead before deciding on what to do next.
The first basement parking garage at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an shortly after we had arrived late at night
Approaching the elevator lobby in the first basement parking garage at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an late at night
Checking out my mom's assigned Room No. 2833 located on the 28th floor at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an shortly after we had arrived on a damp and rainy late night
The bathroom area in my assigned Room No. 2832 located on the 28th floor at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an on a damp and rainy late night
Overlooking several downtown infrastructure in Bao'an District, Shenzhen, from my assigned Room No. 2832 located on the 28th floor at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an on a damp and rainy late night
Checking out my assigned Room No. 2832 located on the 28th floor at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an shortly after my younger brother and I had put our stuff down
After unpacking our necessary clothes and required electronic devices in our allocated Room No. 2832 situated on the 28th floor at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an, the clock was soon showing 2.30 a.m.. Given that my younger brother was feeling quite hungry, Aunt Charmaine offered to order some food for us to be delivered to the hotel using a local robot, with the core meals to be consumed in my mom's assigned Room No. 2833 for the night. However, given that I was feeling quite exhausted, I politely declined to participate for their coming late night meal gathering so that I could get some rest.
With that, my younger brother went to my mom's assigned Room No. 2833 to join my mom and the Lai sisters for their late night feast while I safely went to wash up and change into my usual pajamas for the night. To ensure that I had enough power during our upcoming days in Shenzhen, I even made sure to charge my necessary electronic devices overnight at the same time. Once I had thoroughly washed up and made sure that everything was charging properly for the night, I eventually turned in at around 3.30 a.m. for a well-earned good night's rest.
This officially brings the first main section of my oriental dining, social bonding and shopping journey to Shenzhen, Mainland China, in February & March 2025 to a major conclusion. As with all other existing major overseas getaway trip reports, questions and / or comments are more than welcome via the comment boxes situated at the end of every trip report segment. The remaining four sections of this oriental journey trip report will be published once I have selected the highest quality images and videos for them. Please be patient as both extensive time and effort will be required to publish them effectively and thoroughly.
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