Looking back on my trip to Singapore comes to mind the fabulous multicultural atmosphere that prevails in this small Republic, located south of Malaysia and north of Indonesia. As well as the bright colors of the buildings, the aromas of traditional food that invite you to sit down to try the typical gastronomy of the area and the beautiful natural areas to rest surrounded by nature. Of course the small size of Singapore does not affect its greatness as a modern place, in which traditions form an important part of the daily lives of its inhabitants. By the way, did you know that the Republic of Singapore is made up of about 64 islands and its name comes from the Malay language, which means “the city of lions”?
THE MULTICULTURAL NEIGHBORHOODS OF SINGAPORE
To visit this extraordinary place, I recommend you taking a walk through the different and famous neighborhoods of the city. One of them is called Little India, a very colorful and cheerful area. It is an ideal place to make a cultural visit entering the typical Hindu temples, among which the Sri Veeramakaliamman and Sri Srinivasa Perumal temples stand out. The Hindu religion is considered one of the oldest in the world, since its origins date back to 4000 years BC. He is henotheistic, and this means that the Hindus are to some degree polytheistic, since they recognize different deities, yet they consider Brahman as their main god. When you enter a Hindu temple you should not be surprised that they will ask you to take off your shoes and you will see the flowers and the food on the altars, it is their way to worship the gods.
Another area that you should not miss is the Arab quarter, Kampong Glam. The best-known street in this neighborhood, dating back to the 19th century, is Arab Street, lined with shops selling traditional products, such as rugs or batiks. In this neighborhood it is also possible to visit the Sultan Mosque, which stands out for its beautiful golden dome. And if you get tired there is nothing better than finding Hawkers: a street market with traditional food stalls. Good and cheap. Of course, you should not miss the traditional cuisine of Singapore, so tasty and varied, you are going to adore it!
I think Chinatown was the place that I liked the most in Singapore. This is perhaps due to the fact that I traveled with my partner during the Chinese New Year celebrations, the Year of the Dog. The streets were then populated with cheerful people, numerous processions, music, dances, lights, etc. Joy prevailed everywhere. The creation of the neighborhood took place already during the time of British Colonialism, when the first merchants from China arrived in the city and in Kreta Ayer Square they founded their first shops that can still be visited today. It is a good area to find cheap accommodation and good value places to eat, for example, the Food Street area.
OTHER PLACES WHICH YOU SHOULDN’T MISS IN SINGAPORE
The place that will not leave you indifferent are the wonderful gardens, called Gardens by the Bay. 101 ha where nature blends seamlessly with modern engineering, resulting in a peaceful setting that invites Singaporeans and visitors to stroll and relax, away from the rush of everyday life. The area was created with the aim of constructing a city within a garden in order to improve human life by being in close contact with the fauna and flora. The Supertrees are really spectacular, these 18 trees reach a height of between 25 and 50 meters. It is an ecological work designed by Grant Associates that has been converted into vertical gardens that use rainwater as a method of irrigation and solar energy for lighting.
The best way to get to Sentosa Island is to take the Sentosa Express train. I recommend you to visit the island for a day, as it has numerous leisure areas, as well as beautiful natural areas, such as the beaches, where you can spend a day of rest with the people you are traveling with. On Tanjong Beach they often organize different events, while on Palawan Beach you have the possibility of accessing to a small islet by a bridge. It is the closest place on the Asian continent to the Equator line.
TIPS:
- Singapore food has a long tradition and many roots, enjoy it. Try street food without fear, one of the best options not only there, but also in the different countries of East Asia.
- An unforgettable experience will be traveling during the Chinese New Year celebrations, the city becomes even more colorful and joyful.
- Don’t miss the light show of the Supertrees in Gardens by the Bay.
- Clarke Quay is an idyllic place to have a walk and to try something delicious in many restaurants and cafés in this area.
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