Wednesday, October 13, 2010

My Take on Singapore

Worth a visit?  Without a doubt.  Especially if you're looking for high-tech electronics.

Could I live there?  Yup.  On my livability scale of 1 to 5, I'd give it a 5.

The People:  This is, hands down, the most cosmopolitan city I have ever been to. Every shade of skin and shape of eye can be seen on the streets.  The three largest ethnic groups are Malay, Chinese and Indian, and I enjoyed seeing the different clothing styles and shops in their respective Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu neighborhoods.

The Country:  High-rise glass buildings and traditional buildings share real estate in this city-state, each neighborhood with its distinctive architecture, restaurants and aromas.  Its infrastructure seemed newer and better than what we had in the United States.. Singapore is actually a collection of islands, some more inhabited than others, so if big city life doesn't appeal to you, there still are plenty of spots where you can be happy.

The Food:  The first night we arrived in Singapore Dan and I ate at a fabulous Indian vegetarian restaurant and never missed the meat.  The next day we walked through Chinatown and were amazed at the selection of eateries. With such a blend of cultures it's no surprise that there are so many different restaurants. You name it, it's probably for sale somewhere in the city.  (Except for chewing gum, but we won't go there.)

What I loved:  Its booming economy.  It's really, really clean.  The mix of people and cultures. It's pretty. Lots of green space.  English is widely spoken.  The state-of-the-art infrastructure. It's a hub so easy to get to other Asian destinations.  Sharing a huge meal with friends at the vegetarian restaurant.  Taking a cruise on the river.  Riding the Singapore Flyer.  Taking a Hop On-Hop Off bus tour.  Police actually take their jobs seriously.  There's lots to do.  Malls dedicated to electronics. Singapore has the newest gadgets.

What I didn't like:  Bring your wallet, it's expensive.  You need a passport to drive very far, because it's such a small country.  They don't sell chewing gum.

Thoughts: Techies will think they've died and gone to heaven.

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