Singapore, or the Lion City, is at the crossroads of
Asia. Its mix of Chinese, Indian, and Malay cultures,
spiced with Western influences, creates a wonderful
blend and this small country celebrates the uniqueness
of each in its own special way. Today, the districts
designated by the former British colonists for the
ethnic groups are still in use, with Chinatown and
Little India thriving as religious and cultural
centres and yet, no matter what their ethnic
background, each citizen calls themselves a
Singaporean.
A traveler's first and last encounter with Singapore
usually leaves a good impression. On arrival you are
exposed to Singapore's clean, efficient, world-class
atmosphere. Within ten minutes of landing one realizes
that everything looks, new. The reason being that in
recent years, Singapore has gone through a spate of
demolition and reconstruction, as old buildings fall
and make way for the steel and glass towers that
dominate its skyline. Yet, the true character of this
city is somehow lost in these massive shopping malls
and high rises, world-record setting fountains, and
numerous theme parks. Unfortunately, this is the side
that most people see: a shopper's paradise, a pleasant
business trip, a "safe" destination for first-time
visitors to Asia.
In truth, Singapore is at its most remarkable in its
little alleyways and colourful shops in Chinatown, its
incense-filled Buddhist temples and noisy street
operas. The whole place a colourful, living,
breathing, hum of intriguing activity. Equally
fascinating are the lavishly decorated Indian temples
and the mosques and textile shops along Arab Street.
Finally, the old colonial-style buildings in the heart
of town impart a charm that the newer structures just
don't have. Each historic district has its own story
to impart to travelers, its own magic to weave as one
walks along their back streets.
Another way to discover Singapore is to sample its
many flavours. The Asian passion for food finds new
expression here, with restaurants lining almost every
street and commercial area. The influx of foreigners,
both tourists and the growing expatriate community,
has brought even more international tastes to these
shores. New European, Middle Eastern, and even fusion
cuisines are now being represented. It's due to the
Asians valued meal times, as an occasion to enjoy food
and to spend time with friends or family that
restaurants continue to thrive here.
Singaporeans are justifiably proud of their efficient
and modern city, its excellent infrastructure, its
hotels, parks and recreational activities. For all its
modernity, the soul of Singapore lies in its wonderful
tapestry of vibrant cultures, each weaving its own
unique pattern into the main design that make up the
magic that makes Singapore what it is today.
