Singapore – The Lion City

Singapore – The Lion City

If you look closely on the map, you’ll find a small dot near Malaysia. That dot, barely visible to the naked eye, is actually the world’s first city-country, ‘Singapore’. So tiny indeed, but its value far outweighs that of large countries. The city is not all economy and hi-tech, but it proved to be a whole lot of fun as well. The extravagant modern country is all about ‘Eat and Shop till you Drop!’ This should be its new motto!

Marina Bay

Uniquely multifaceted.

The network of streets connects the 21st-century cityscape dance to the tunes of commercialism, mass entertainment, finance and corporate presence. It’s a world away from the Malaysian jungle that is just a couple of hours bus ride to the North. Singapore is an ethnic patchwork with an idiosyncratic character. This makes the city-state a worthwhile stop en-route to Malaysia or Indonesia. The city effortlessly fuses together traditionalism with the extravagant technology splattered everywhere, from the glorious malls to the side-street enchantments.

Singapore skyline with  the Tooth Relic Temple

Judging from the number of cranes that dot the city’s skyline, Singapore is booming. In the last few years, casinos and hotels have sprung up, museums and galleries in former colonial landmarks have flung open their doors, and international designers have staked out prime real estate alongside amateurs just beginning to leave their fashion mark. Throughout the city, street vendors and sleek restaurants serve up the city’s mix of Malay, Chinese and Indian ethnic cuisines. And, best of all, attractive lounges and rooftop bars are helping the city-state shake off its formerly drab image.

Traditional Singaporean curry noodles

Singapore is seriously clean.

A dazzling city that is humourlessly called “The Fine City”, it is famous for being the cleanest city in the world. There are many posters in buildings and parks urging people to maintain cleanliness by threatening a strict fine to those who break the rules. The Singaporean government wants to establish a clean and green country, where all citizens are well educated and are considerate towards others.

Street view of Masjid Sultan in Singapore

Singapore considers many things illegal even though your country considers them to be normal.  You will be fined heavily if you litter or smoke in public places, in addition to not flushing public toilets after usage! While chewing gum is not forbidden in Singapore, bringing gum into the country in large quantities is illegal and the gum seller can be imprisoned. There is virtually no crime and no trace of corruption and you are safe even when walking alone at night.

Some people resemble Singapore to a huge luxury shopping mall, with an attached airport. I believe it is almost sinfully pleasurable. As I see it, the city is a hot tub that’s ideal for both business and leisure.

Rooftop infinity swimming pool in Singapore

 

 

 

About the Author

 Mahy Medhat

A storyteller with a wanderlust desire, who loves exploring the world with a penchant for culture and food. Mahy has been writing for numerous high-profile magazines and currently working on publishing her own book.

Nasr Kadry

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