As the taxi drove us away from Changi International Airport, Singapore’s arresting appeal began emerging. My friend – an expatriate of several years – whom I’d not seen since high school, highlighted a key drawcard: it’s a small city in a tropical environment laden with diverse features suited to every inclination. Enmeshed in catch-up chatter, I’d failed to notice the ease in which we’d been transported to Singapore’s vibrant Joo Chiat.
During the following days’ exploration, another revelation occurred: Singapore, the city and country, could well be South East Asia’s finest example of melting pot success. Here's why.
Functional Multiculturalism
With a population pushing towards six million, it may be hard to fathom a fusion of cultural and ethnic groups inhabiting the island country. However, with an idyllic location - embedded at the foot of South East Asia at the tip of the Strait of Malacca, Singapore is a link between hemispheres and continents.
It’s no wonder, then, expatriate life has flourished - broadening the country’s cultural horizons. Evidence of this was provided by taking the metro, walking the streets and visiting the various ethnically-themed culinary hotspots throughout the city.
Although dominated by Asian majorities, since the fifties, Eurasian and other non-resident population groups have popped up throughout the city. This has added another key ingredient to its recipe for melting pot success.
Ease of Movement and Short Distances
Aside from yielding answers to directional queries in English, movement throughout Singapore – especially compared to other South East Asian countries – was simpler than anticipated.
The MRT (mass rapid transit) is convenient, well-connected and comfortable – requisite qualities in a city of Singapore’s magnitude. Once in a desired destination, moving on foot was simple: distances are short and most roads throughout the city are pedestrianised. With a total size of seven-hundred-and-nineteen square kilometres, getting to desired locations in a reasonable amount of time is trouble-free.
Taxis, although surpassing the archetypical backpacker budget, are reasonable and reliable.
Aspirations of Cleanliness
It may be hard to fathom - especially for a country so geographically close to developing nations - but Singapore’s streets are spick and span. Cleanliness is so high on the Government’s agenda that expensive penalties are applied to those found to be breaking the law. Yes, there are laws and I was surprised to learn about some of them: chewing gum, littering, jaywalking and not flushing the toilet all incur fines of significant value.
However irrational they may seem, the Government’s plan has worked: the streets are impeccable and they shine a positive light on Singapore to internationals. I certainly didn’t spot a single piece of litter anywhere on the ground during my ambles.
Inimitable Culinary Experiences
Host to an international community of people passionate about food, finding a unique and tastebud titillating culinary experience somewhere in Singapore isn’t hard.
I was hard-pressed to pass a food venue without being able to eyeball a dish equal in outstanding visual appeal and aroma. Despite eternal adherence to a restrictive budget, I consistently managed to surpass satiety while banqueting on said delicious fare. Food options in Singapore are vast; this adds impetus to its appeal as a melting pot of culture.
Personally, for some of the country’s best hawker food, I would recommend visiting Tiong Bahru Market: options are vast, everything’s easily accessible and the atmosphere is dynamic. Ensure you visit Tiong Bahru Pau and try pau: they are steamed buns filled with barbecued pork - they’re simply delicious.
To bump the class up a notch, dine at one of the vibrant restaurants lining the river along Clarke Quay. For ethnically-specific culinary options, try a traditional venue in Chinatown or Little India. Your tastebuds will not leave dissatisfied.
Dynamic Sights of Interest
Hot on the trail of mini-sized European counterparts, Singapore packs just as much into a small space despite a dearth in visibly significant historical legacy.
Even with 72 hours in which to uncover the various features of Singapore’s ‘tourist’ trail, I was pushed to see it all. Regardless, the stars emerged and are worthy of your full attention.
The winner – by far - is Marina Bay and the infinity pool atop The Sands. An architectural chef-d'oeuvre, a snapshot from the never-ending pool above the ship-like structure is priceless. Aside from architectural prowess, the Bay itself is a jewel in the city’s crown - with plenty to do and see. The Merlion - at dusk - contributes to the charm.
Other key features I personally enjoyed include Orchard Road, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Chinatown and Little India.
Artistic Gardens by The Bay
When my friend suggested visiting the much acclaimed Gardens by the Bay, I was –at first – hesitant. After all, nothing could surpass the magnitude and beauty of the botanical gardens - or so I thought. Yet another shrewd Government initiative, the purpose behind creating the two-hundred-and fifty-hectare gardens was to morph Singapore into a “city in a garden”.
Aside from the positive green footprint it has stamped into the consciousness of the city’s inhabitants, stepping foot inside the gardens was hypnotic. As far as I could see, artistry had been entwined in flora, done intentionally to create an impression of symbiosis. The towering faux trees constructed of iron immediately caught my eye but didn’t detract attention from the native displays woven around their bases.
The enormous dome was packed with an array of native and international flowers, all shining variegated brilliance throughout the complex. It didn’t take long before my friend’s comment made sense: Gardens by the Bay is a must-see Singapore attraction.
Convinced?
It is clear that Singapore has become South East Asia’s jewel in the crown. With an affable reputation, easy access and plenty to eat, do and see, visiting Singapore is an obvious choice.
I enjoyed my jaunt to the dot-sized country on the end of the Strait and beseech you to consider following suit. Let’s hope your airline uses it as a stop on the way to your far-flung final destination.
