Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Riverside in Singapore
Howdy from here! Yes, here. You know where "here" is. Singapore!
Singapore has quite the reputation. Many people describe the country as a "business hub" with "strict laws" and "uber-cleanliness." Well, not many people actually use the word "uber," but they do say Singapore is clean. The point is that the nation has created an image for itself as a place to make it big in business while avoiding corruption, feeling safe and never getting dirty.
"So what do I say?" You ask. I say that it is pretty impressive how a country without any natural resources that is geographically vulnerable and is not very large has actually managed to become a "hub" for an entire region of the world. There. That's what I say. But don't you agree? Surely you have read of underdevelopment and political instability in certain parts of Asia. But it is also likely that you have read of the surge in Asian significance to the greater world. Singapore is helping to lead that surge. Singapore has created this image and position by investing in its people. Education, education, education. Highly educated people are the resource that drive Singapore to its excellence.
Beyond that, Singapore is simply a pleasant place to be. The city is sliced by a river that is beautifully lined with restaurants, nightclubs, malls, and traditional markets. It was a very nice sight for westerners like us. Not that there is anything wrong with the traditional, unique settings found in other countries, but the beautiful riverwalk served up a taste of home. We were comfortable patronizing the
establishments along the river and found ourselves there on a number of evenings. We spent an evening with some good friends at a dinner table, 3 feet from the water, and enjoyed some authentic chili crab and cold brew. We browsed the riverfront shops and then enjoyed some ice cream while sitting on the banks. And wouldn't you know it, Kyra even convinced me to ride the reverse bungee with her... which was conveniently located next to America's favorite restaurant - Hooters.
So Singapore has created a welcoming ambiance for travelers and locals alike. Although the food was a bit expensive, all else was great. The cleanliness of the city, the beauty of the riverfront, and the reputable businesses make Singapore a nice place for evenings out on the town.
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