by Mr Teacher

Created on: December 02, 2010   Last Updated: December 03, 2010

The tourist arrives in sunny Singapore and is immediately thrust into a world filled with mysticism amidst modern wonders. A cultural melting pot of mixed cultures from around the world, Singapore is known best for its roots in being an important trading and financial hub for Asia. It is also known as the epic-center for all things multiracial and multicultural. This blend of multiculturalism is the heartbeat of Singapore and its all embracing policy of welcoming peoples from any part of the world based on its meritocratic policies has garnered interest from potential migrants.

It's a globalized city featuring many traits and flavors of the world. That's what makes Singapore so unique. From a cultural standpoint, there is a brimming pot of activities that would engage the newbie tourist. From its sky touching sky-scrapers to olden two-storey pre-world war two shop-houses, it is a meticulously well-planned economy. Besides the fact that it is also one of the best places to shop for quality fashions and hard-to-beat bargains with its annual Great Singapore Sales, it is also known for its strong corporate governance and internal security.

There is a little bit of Singapore for everyone to bring along back home. From its dazzling city lights to sweltering humid daylights, Singaporeans can be seen rushing from point to point and getting from one place to another through its mesmerizing network of mass rapid transit trains and public buses. It also boasts one of the most organized and efficient transport systems in the world. Getting around is as easy as a few taps of the transportation cards easily available from any transit station.

Along with it being one of the most densely populated places, there is an amazing appreciation for gardens and greenery and is expressed in its landscaping efforts by the National Parks Board. Its efforts at transforming the concrete jungle of buildings into a softer green eco-friendly economy is seen in the number of gardens like the Botanical Gardens along with its Orchid Gardens that Singapore is so well-known for exporting.

Food is an integral part in any Singaporean daily routine and with their discriminating palates for the finest local delicacies, the rushing from one place to another is partly due to their quest to fill their stomachs. There are many varieties of local cuisine brought in by the varied cultures that exists within Singapore. Malay, Chinese, Indian along with other minority ethnic groups have spiced up cooking in Singapore and infused these ethnic flavors into a taste of its own. This love affair with food is evidenced by the many food joints populated at just about every corner of the street.

And when all the hustle and bustle of day time dies down and dusk sets in, a vibrant night life begins and party goers can be seen thronging the night-spots with dance clubs littered all across the main town areas. Clubs like Zouk are consistently spotting the young, hip and trendy youths. And after all that partying is done, there are many 24 hour eateries that can be found around niche areas. There's also the famous Mustafa in Little India at Serangoon Road where some of the most random things can be found in its 24 hour mega mall. 

There is no fear of not knowing what not to do in Singapore with just a brief 24 hours on hand. Just a walk or a stroll in any direction will bring any unsuspecting tourist into the heart of Singapore city life. From shopping, to eating, to museums, to heritage tours, to movies, to heartland estates, there is a facet of Singapore life that is plainly evident for the curious visitor. And perhaps their brief encounter might leave an impression just enough to warrant another visit to this island city state.

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