Singapore - Stop A Bit Longer
Singapore, so often thought of as the ultimate “stop over” destination, has so much more to offer than just a night or two to break the journey. I love it and I will tell you why.
Yes it has brilliant five star hotels, restaurants and shopping. Yes it is easy to get around, cheap and fantastic for families. Yes it is clean, English is widely spoken and taxis are inexpensive. But there is so much more to see than the regular tourist parks and attractions. I love the cultural mix of Singapore. A true melding of the old and the new with many different multicultural influences sitting harmoniously side by side.
On one hand you have the recently completed ArtScience Museum and Gardens by the Bay which encompasses 101 hectares of rare plants in domed conservatories, water gardens and suspended walkways overlooking the magnificent Marina Bay district. On the other, are historic Chinatown, Little India, Arab Street and Fort Canning Park.
Visual and performing arts are given a nod with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and the Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, where both visiting performers and local productions can be seen in the Singapore Concert Hall. Add to that the Victoria Theatre and other local venues where you can catch up on both traditional and Broadway plays. After a night at the theatre, head down to Boat, Clarke or the more laid back Robertson Quay to chill out in the many bars and restaurants that line the bay. Take in some live music, sip on a wine and marvel at the play of lights on the water.
Another great example of this mix can be seen in Bugis Junction where several historic streets have been given glass roofs and air conditioning to provide a comfortable, year round shopping arcade which has since become the home of both top end and local fashion brands.
Then you have the Peranakan Museum where you can not only learn about the traditions and customs of these 17th Century Chinese traders, but also their language, fashion and food. The Nyonya cuisine is a delightful mix of tangy, aromatic and spicy dishes fusing Chinese, Malay, with a spot of Portuguese, Dutch and Indonesian flavours. Definitely worth a try!
A visit to Pulau Ubin to see some of the last remaining kampongs (water villages) in Singapore is a great reprieve from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Recently made a part of the National Parks system it is home to boardwalks which provide easy access to wildlife-rich wetlands and ecosystems. It is a great reminder that there is so much more to this country than urban pursuits.
Add to that the many festivals that occur year round and you have a destination that truly has something for everyone. It is worth taking the time to really explore Singapore, to find the best Chilli Crab, sit and have a “Singapore Sling”, and learn about the many cultures and their influence on modern Singapore today. It’s not just about zoos and theme parks, although they certainly have their place; it is more about cultural acceptance and fusion. And I think that is a lesson we can all learn.