I
have a terrible confession to make. For several years now I have considered
Singapore’s Changi Airport to be my preferred stop on long haul flights between Europe and Australia, but do you know what? It was only a few days ago that I
arrived in Singapore and actually entered the country.
Isn’t
that ridiculous? I know the airport so well yet visiting Singapore has never
been my priority on any of the journeys made. Well, all I can say is more fool
me. Singapore is amazing; here’s why.
Culture
Since
becoming a republic in 1965, Singapore must be one of the best examples of
harmonious multiculturalism. Chinese Singaporeans, Malays, Indians, Eurasians
and Peranakans live side by side and each contributes to Singapore’s status as
a cultural melting pot. The city has different quarters such as Kampong Glam,
Little India and Chinatown that feel like different worlds, all within short
distances from each other. I love the variety of experiences and food that are
available so easily.
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| Sri Mariamman Temple, Chinatown, Singapore |
Big
City Life
The
city is bustling, with sights, food, entertainment and shops available almost
24 hours a day. Do you know what a Merlion is? Have you visited a Buddhist
temple? Better get going! Are you hungry? Whatever cuisine you crave you will
be able to find. If you’re looking for things to do there is a vast selection
of performing arts with Chinese opera, Indian classical music, Peranakan
theatre and English-language theatre on offer. International shows come to
Singapore, musicals are popular, and there are also open-air performances of
‘ballet under the stars’. Singapore also boasts many pubs, bars and music
venues. If shopping is your game, expect to be kept busy in Singapore. I
suspect it would take even a devoted shopper weeks to visit all of the malls.
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| Chinatown shopping on a rainy day, Singapore |
Respectful
city goers
While
packed with people (over 4 million people live on the island) the city is
spotless. Singapore has a reputation as being heavy-handed when it comes to
rules, but anything that deters littering is fine by me! For a densely
populated city like Singapore to be virtually litter-free is both incredible
and wonderful. However, There is also clearly an impressive culture of respect.
Navigating the city, I noticed the polite signs on the MRT (underground
transport system) requesting passengers allow others to disembark before
entering the train, accompanied by helpful lines painted on the floor, and you
know what? The majority of people abide by the requests. I was further
impressed each time I used the MRT by the way people willingly give up their
seats for those with a greater need of them, something that is, sadly,
virtually unheard of on the London Underground.
Singapore hit all the right notes with me. I only wish I had
experienced this amazing place sooner.
Have you visited Singapore? What were
your highlights?
