A social media influencer recently spent a week living in Changi Airport, Singapore, describing the experience as “like a holiday.” Maddy Macrae, a 32-year-old content creator from Sydney, Australia, shared her unique adventure with her 1.9 million followers on TikTok. Changi Airport, renowned globally for its facilities, was awarded the title of World’s Best Airport for 2025 by the Skytrax World Airport Awards, marking the 13th time it has received this prestigious accolade.
Maddy’s week-long stay was part of a personal “social experiment” aimed at exploring the dynamics of living in an airport environment. She explained her motivations in an interview with news.com.au, stating, “I wanted to see what it would be like, to see if I would go crazy, would I go insane but I didn’t, it just felt like a holiday.” The influencer stayed at the Crowne Plaza hotel located in Terminal 3, which offers numerous amenities that enhance the airport experience.
During her time at the airport, Maddy highlighted the convenience of the hotel’s outdoor pool and fitness facilities. She remarked, “The worst thing about layovers is you’re stuck inside, but the hotel has a pool that’s outdoors. Having that fresh air available to you is so nice, so is having access to a nice shower and gym.”
One notable observation from her stay was the perception of time. Maddy noted, “The phenomenon around airport limbo exists even when you live there. So time is a construct and having a cocktail at 7am whether you’re living there or not is absolutely on the cards.” She even recounted having a cocktail at 10:00 in the morning without any judgment from fellow travelers, further emphasizing the relaxed atmosphere of the airport.
Engaging with her audience, Maddy conducted live sessions on TikTok throughout her stay, sharing insights about the vibrant cultural experiences available at Changi. She mentioned that many activities, including exploring diverse cuisines, are free of charge, making it accessible for travelers.
Changi Airport is home to several attractions, including the Jewel Rain Vortex, touted as the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at 40 metres. Other highlights include a bamboo grove, a butterfly garden, and a hedge maze. For those looking to expend energy, the airport features a trampoline park and a climbing wall.
Maddy took advantage of the airport’s offerings by participating in a free tour that took her to nearby landmarks such as the river and Marina Bay. She pointed out that this tour is available even to those who have not cleared immigration, allowing passengers with long layovers to experience the surroundings without leaving the airport.
Overall, Maddy Macrae’s adventure at Changi Airport offers a glimpse into the unique lifestyle and amenities that make it a top-rated travel hub. Her experience not only entertains but also promotes the idea that airports can be more than just transit points; they can be destinations in their own right.
