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 traveller'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 travellers, 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.
