I flew Singapore Airlines for the first time and thought it was far better than US carriers. AKSARAN/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

I flew on Singapore Airlines for the first time.

I was surprised that I could select my seat for free in economy.

The seats were spacious, the food was decent, and I loved the in-flight entertainment selection.

When it was time to plan my first trip to Asia, I knew I wanted to book an airline I'd never flown before. No option seemed better than Singapore Airlines .

A certified five-star airline by Skytrax , Singapore Airlines was named the world's best international airline by Travel + Leisure in 2025. It also won the title of best airline in Asia at last year's Skytrax World Airline Awards, considered the Oscars of the aviation industry.

While Singapore Airlines is famous for its luxurious suites and first-class cabins , I could only afford an economy ticket.…