Insider’s View of Changi Airport: Greg Gubiani (General Manager of the World’s Best Airport Hotel)

Ever wondered what goes behind running the World's Best Airport Hotel? We've got just the person to tell you all about it! Meet Greg Gubiani, the friendly and energetic General Manager of Crowne Plaza Changi Airport. You'll often spot him around our terminals with a warm smile!

Having just celebrated his first year at the hotel, Greg's journey in hospitality spans an incredible 25 years, taking him to some truly stunning corners of the globe – think the sunny Maldives, the beautiful islands of Polynesia, and the vibrant energy of Australia and Southeast Asia. An icing to the cake is Crowne Plaza Changi Airport’s 10th consecutive win as the World's Best Airport Hotel at the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards.

We spoke with Greg for an Insider’s View of Changi Airport (and Singapore!) From the hidden gems in Changi’s terminals and Jewel Changi Airport to personal tips on how best to experience Singapore, get ready to live like a local!

Q: What’s the secret to Crowne Plaza Changi Airport’s enduring appeal with travellers?

It is all about the people. The success of the hotel begins with our colleagues. Through their initial orientation, ongoing training, and their continued dedication and drive, they bring true hospitality to life and create memorable experiences for our guests. For our managers, being present on the floors, celebrating success, and giving our colleagues a voice to share feedback and suggest improvements all play an important role.

Our hotel features a range of unique offerings - from runway view and pool access rooms to a resort-style pool, relaxing outdoor gardens, and refreshed spaces including the lobby, Allora Italian Ristorante & Bar, and our cosy Club Lounge, much loved by guests for its warm hospitality and personalised service. The Club Lounge is suitable for business meetings or intimate gatherings, made perfect with personalised service and refreshments.

And we are always looking for ways to further enhance our services and offerings to elevate the guest experience.

Q: After a year as General Manager of Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, what surprised you most about Changi Airport or Crowne Plaza Changi Airport?

What surprised me most is how Changi Airport truly feels like a city within the airport. The entire complex - including the hotel, Jewel Changi Airport, the food courts, and various attractions - is constantly evolving and full of life.

One thing that stood out for me is how locals actually visit the airport during weekends or holidays to escape from their day to day in the city. Changi Airport is a destination in itself.

What I find remarkable is the convenience of having shops, dining options, and activities all within walking distance. It creates an environment where everything you need is accessible, making it incredibly easy to enjoy your time here.

Being right at the heart of all this, the hotel becomes more than just a place to stay – it’s a place that welcomes and connects with people from around the world, and makes them feel at home.

Q: What hidden gems in Changi Airport and in Crowne Plaza Changi Airport do you recommend visitors to discover?

Within the hotel, Allora offers a true Italian culinary experience—Italian food is all about comfort and a sense of home and Allora captures that beautifully.

The pool on level 3 is another hidden gem. It has a real resort feel, and the pool access rooms make it extra special. For plane aficionados, the runway view rooms are a real treat—you get a front-row seat to watch take-offs and landings right from your room.

(And if I can share a sneak peek, we have got aviation-themed family rooms coming soon, which are perfect for young explorers!)

Within Changi Airport, the Kopitiam food court at Terminal 3 Basement 2 is a great find. From local and Southeast Asian dishes to great coffee and tea, it has a nice mix of stalls and something for every taste bud. There are always kid-friendly activities happening too, and the big-screen cinema at Jewel is a fantastic spot to gather and take a break.

Q: What are your top picks from Allora Ristorante & Bar's menu?

Pizza, pasta, and tiramisu! I would go for the Pizza Diavola, Pizza Bari, Tagliata and the Alloramisu - Allora’s signature tiramisu. For drinks, try the classic Negroni or Allora’s very own Allegroni, a twist on the classic.

Q: For first-time Singapore visitors, what are your must-try food, attraction, and shopping recommendations?

When you arrive at Changi Airport, don’t miss the Rain Vortex at Jewel, which is just amazing, and the life-size dinosaurs at Jurassic Mile near Terminal 2 and Terminal 4. If time allows, Universal Studios Singapore is a must for families, and Gardens by the Bay is another great spot. The Bay area, with the Singapore Flyer and its iconic views, will definitely give you that wow factor.

For food, chilli crab is a must (it’s spicy!!), and the East Coast offers some of the best seafood around, along with a fantastic food village. Be sure to check out the hawker centres and food courts in the heartland estates too, which offer a wide food variety and great prices too. A great way to experience Singapore’s multicultural society, where everyone gets along so well.

For shopping, Orchard Road is a top choice while the shops at Jewel offer plenty of options too. You can also check out areas like Bugis Street, Haji Lane and Chinatown, each with its own charm and great shopping spots.

Q: Given your extensive hospitality career which has taken you around the globe, do you have a favourite travel destination?

I usually spend a few years in each country to provide some stability for my family and for work too. So far, I have really enjoyed Melbourne - it has so much going on, from events and concerts to both international and local sports. The cultural melting pot is incredible, and you can even experience four seasons in one day!

Even though I have only been in Singapore for a year, I absolutely love it. There is a great variety of things to do, and it is incredibly safe, which is a big plus when you have a family. I have already attended a few concerts and shows, with more to come. So, Singapore is quickly becoming one of my favourite places and it might just be topping Melbourne!

Q: Your best travel hack for our readers?

For me, holidays can be summed up very simply: a resort destination with plenty of sun, great food and drinks, a pool to unwind, and far niente (the joy of doing nothing). Sometimes, the best travel hack is to keep it simple.

 

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