Buzz
“Singapore was a complete surprise as a stopover destination. I've heard some locals and tourists talk about a dull, strict, expensive Singapore, with highly urbanized concrete jungles that you wouldn't want to linger in. However, what I felt when I arrived here was different.” – Blogger Audrey shares.
Yes, Singapore may be pricey compared to many other countries in the region, but it's a nation with a thriving economy.
Yes, Singapore is known for its strictness, and its residents adhere to a tightly regulated legal framework. But isn't that somewhat marvelous?
Having traveled through numerous Southeast Asian countries, I've seen cars even stop right on pedestrian crossings when the light is red. In Singapore, surveillance systems might be prevalent, but nobody monitors you 24/7. The police only patrol major subway stations, and surveillance cameras are mainly in large cities and key trading areas.
I'm just a tourist, not a long-term resident, but if asked to describe Singapore, I'd say it's a progressive, artistic country and an excellent place to live!
Quality Living Spaces
The small island nation of Singapore boasts abundant green spaces. Whether you're strolling through the historic Esplanade Park shaded by trees or enjoying the thrill of hiking down the trails at Kent Ridge Park, there are plenty of spacious areas perfect for exercise. Additionally, Singapore has over 60 small islands for you to visit whenever you want to escape the bustling city.
Another thing that makes living in Singapore enjoyable is the convenient transportation. I'm highly impressed by the subway system here. It's a modern, beautiful, efficient, and spotlessly clean Singapore.
While Singapore may be expensive, dining out here doesn't have to break the bank. Outdoor dining hubs are very popular, meaning plenty of affordable dishes are laid out before you.
I love the diverse and abundant dishes sold under outdoor canopies, with popular options like Hainanese chicken rice, Indian curry, Singaporean chili crab, Malaysian laksa... These dishes usually cost around $5.
Dynamic Architectural Style
Exploring Singapore for just a few short days, I decided to embark on hop-on-hop-off tours to meet as many people in the neighborhoods as possible. Not kidding, half the journey had me gaping in awe as we zoomed past some seriously cool buildings, exclaiming “Oh my god, look at that!” and “Whoa, can you see it?”.
Impressive architectural marvels caught my eye, including Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, likened to a “durian” because of its spiky exterior; ArtScience Museum, resembling a giant lotus flower; Gateway Building looking like two thin sheets of paper…
Of course, Marina Bay Sands dominates the skyline, and I'm still trying to decide whether it looks more like a ship or a spaceship.
And I visited Gardens by the Bay one evening. I was completely mesmerized as I gazed at the sparkling supertrees and the ethnic music of the Garden Rhapsody area, feeling like I'd stepped into the world of Avatar.
A strong development in the art scene
When it comes to art, there are always a few things that come to mind in Singapore.
I'm here for just a few days, but my timing couldn't be better with the Mosaic Music Festival featuring bands from the UK, Norway, the US, Iceland, and local Singaporean artists. I even got to see a Korean rock band perform at the Esplanade Theater.
The I Light Marina Bay light art festival is also happening, with fantastic music and light displays making Singapore's nightlife even more captivating. The program is open to the public free of charge.
Meanwhile, foodies are invited to indulge in award-winning dishes from Singapore and around the world at Michelin Star restaurants.
But that's just the beginning! There are still many photography exhibitions, stage performances, and multi-day festivals to enjoy. If you're in Singapore, there's no reason to stay indoors at night.
One of my unforgettable memories in Singapore was stumbling upon an outdoor concert at Gardens by the Bay. It was one afternoon, on the green grass, where hundreds of people came with picnic blankets and baskets to enjoy a free performance by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra.
Couples sipping wine from plastic cups, friends sharing sushi, and children frolicking to the sound of The Sound of Music. If those scenes aren't charming enough to move you, then soak in the beauty of Singapore's sunset on the horizon.
If I could, I'd definitely come and live in Singapore someday.
According to thatbackpacker.com
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Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourJuly 11, 2014
