Lounge Review: KrisFlyer Gold Lounge (Terminal 3) - Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
While the new SilverKris Lounge in Terminal 3 of Singapore Changi Airport has been opened for months now, the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge has only just reopened on 20 May 2022 following extensive renovations. KrisFlyer Gold Elite (including Star Alliance Gold) passengers who are departing Singapore in Premium Economy and Economy Class will be directed to the new KrisFlyer Gold Lounge instead of the SilverKris Lounge.
The KrisFlyer Gold Lougne is a short stroll away from the SilverKris Lounge as it occupies the space where the previous dnata lounge in Terminal 3 was. The lounge operates 24-hours a day and it is expected to provide some respite to the overcrowding situation in the 'real' Business Class lounge. As mentioned earlier, Star Alliance Gold passengers who are departing Singapore in Premium Economy or Economy Class will be directed to use the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge instead of the SilverKris Lounge - KrisFlyer Elite gold members will also be able to bring one guest into the lounge if the person is also departing on a Singapore Airlines flight on the same day.
At first glance, the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge is a huge step up from what it used to be before its relocation and renovation. You will notice that the new lounge features plenty of natural daylight and different seating configurations which will cater to various travellers - business travellers will appreciate the little work stations located towards the end of the lounge, while families will probably prefer the sofa seats out front which is closer to the bathroom and the buffet stations.
I dropped by after work as I was catching an evening flight out and I was actually surprised that it was not too crowded (I had expected this place to be a bit of a madhouse to be honest) - I eventually settled on one of the dining tables since I had to get some work done but also wanted to grab a bite since I have not had lunch. There were plenty of seating areas but I did find the dining tables to be the most versatile - they are great for working and eating.
The KrisFlyer Gold Lounge has the same issue as the SilverKris Lounge when it comes to power outlets and USB charging ports - most of these are located under the sofa seats which make it pretty difficult (even for someone my age) to access. While I do not expect teenagers to have any trouble bending over to find one of these ports, they can be tricky for older travellers as it does require quite a bit of reach to access. If you do have to get some work done and you are not exactly flexible, I would highly recommend one of the quieter working space towards the end of the lounge instead.
Self-service buffet has resumed in Singapore and passengers visiting the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge can now help themselves to the buffet. While the selection may not be as extensive as the one offered in the SilverKris Lounge, it should suffice for a simple meal and there also also lighter options available if you are not too interested in a carbohydrate-heavy meal.
Since I came from work and did not actually have a meal yet, I was really eyeing the laksa (and had high hopes for it since the SilverKris one is pretty solid) but it turned out to be rather average - mostly because the laksa gravy was not hot but this is somehow rectified towards the end of my visit so maybe it was just a simple case of staff turning the heat off by accident.
There was also a small selection of Asian and Western dishes but as I have mentioned, the food is pretty basic so don’t expect to find something too fancy here. With that being said, I did enjoy my meals here at the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge but I might be rather biased since I love local food and I was extremely hungry that afternoon.
If you have been frequenting the SIlverKris Lounge a lot, you would be disappointed to know that no sparkling wine or Champagne is offered here in the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge (red and white wines are provided though). Located near the self-serve buffet area is a small section where passengers can help themselves to beverages - alcoholic or otherwise. There is tea and coffee located on one side, and on the other side is where you will find a small selection of spirits as well as light bites (e.g. sandwiches, fruits, and milk).
The fridge next to this area is pretty well stocked and you will find the usual carbonated beverages but unfortunately I was unable to find any no sugar options (perhaps something that they could improve on since most travellers now prefer a healthier beverage). Wine is served via a wine dispensing machine on the side and there are three sizes that you may select from - the ‘large’ size is the only reasonable pour but if you are planning to just sample the wines, then go ahead with the ‘small’ and ‘medium’.
The KrisFlyer Gold Lounge is a huge step-up from the previous space which was dark and uninspiring. The abundance of seats also make it a great spot for a Star Alliance Gold member to get some work done, or to freshen up (showers and bathrooms can be found in the lounge now) before his or her flight.
The KrisFlyer Gold Lounge is located in Terminal 3 (near Gates A) so do watch out for the gate in which your flight is departing from as it may be quite a walk away - this lounge is open 24-hours a day and as mentioned above, toilets and showers are available in the Terminal 3 lounge only. At the time of writing, The Private Room as well as the First Class lounge is expected to open in weeks to come.
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