My love affair with singapore!
Sift through the fog, humid air, spontaneous torrent of rain and you’ll find a hidden gem in Singapore. This island country has accommodated me for a third time — short and lengthy layovers while in transit to other destinations in Asia. There’s plenty to see and do in ‘The Garden City’ aka ‘The Lion City’, regardless of this perpetually dreary and unusual weather for this time of year. The government took climate into consideration when designing this city’s public accesses. Sheltered walkways in various locations keep it citizens and tourists partially dry. Regardless, you’ll want to carry an umbrella… for sunny days as well.
City streets, subway stations, malls and the Changi International Airport are immaculate! Only a few strategically placed bins for waste and recycling can be found on city streets. The only litter bugs here are various deciduous trees shedding their foliage. Local government encourages everyone to carry their garbage — that and a hefty $2000 fine for littering motivates locals and guests to keep streets and all public areas spotless.
I walk 3-6 miles daily… usually with no specific destinations in mind. However, you don’t have to stroll far before finding plenty of eye candy. By foot, I’ve discovered Chinatown, Little India, enormous malls, museums and several performing arts centers. The architectural influences are many with art deco, neo-classical and gothic leading the way. These mammoth-sized, curvaceous and straight-forward structures would make NYC’s buildings blush with envy.
Located in the museum district, the Rendezvous Hotel is where I’ve made my home these past few days… and for an additional week moving forward. The common areas were recently refurbished with an artsy flair, and the structure itself houses a convenience store and eateries. I rank this at the top of my stays, right alongside The Veshia Hotel in Hanoi. Location. Amenities. A professional and thoughtful staff. Reasonably priced. And the continental breakfast served on the 11th floor will not disappoint!
Sang Nila Utama, a prince from Palembang, thought he saw a creature that looked like a lion when he first set foot on this land — thus the name ‘Singa Pura’ meaning ‘Lion City’. The other name, ‘Garden City’, seems more fitting considering the amount of lush, eye-popping greenery arrangements found throughout this megalopolis. Singapore has every intention to appeal to its all-inclusive, diverse population and her guests. She’s visionary, ambitious and forward thinking with intentions of seeking the highest honor of beauty and sustainability. Singapore also possesses the blueprint for the rest of the world.
No more spoilers… find an opportunity to discover the rest for yourself.