Anyone who is ever afforded the opportunity to visit Singapore should. It is an unforgettable destination with something to offer every one.

I was afforded the privilege of visiting this culturally diverse and vibrant country in December 2004 (two days after the tsunami devastated most of South East Asia) and it is an experience I shall carry with me always. Before I continue with sharing my wonderful experience, three hints I do have for any one traveling to this amazing country is - wear comfortable shoes, pack in summer clothes (because it is almost hot & humid every day!) and, you will no doubt be caught in the rain, so have a parka, poncho or umbrella handy!

Having never traveled outside of the borders of South Africa before, I was apprehensive not knowing what to expect, but my concerns were soon appeased on my direct flight to Singapore with the latter's national carrier. The staff were friendly, efficient and well-spoken. The food served by the airline was also of a very high standard - with a choice of Eastern / Western dishes for all meals. If this was a foretaste of things to come, I realized that I had nothing to worry about.

Our flight arrived just before sunrise, so myself and fellow-travelers were greeted by a fairy-lit island. Upon arrival at Changi International Airport, I once again experienced Singaporean hospitality. I was in awe of the size of the airport and the array of amenities that I missed the exit to immigration and spent almost an hour wondering around what could very well have been a city in its own right - with shops, eateries, movie theaters, sunflower & orchid gardens... I stopped one of the policemen at the airport who didn't just give me directions to immigration - he escorted me personally. This is something that doesn't happen at home!

Getting through immigration was a speedy formality - as a South African passport holder, visiting for less than 30 days, I did not require a visa. Again, officials were polite and ready to offer assistance.

As a traveler on a budget, I opted to stay in a backpackers' hostel - so from the airport, I caught the MRT (underground train system) and headed for Chinatown where my hostel was located.

Meandering through the streets on my way I found the area to be colorful, vibrant and very clean. The owners of the hostel were friendly and enthusiastic to assist me with my inquiries as to transport, sightseeing and what-not.

Check in was quick and easy and I was given

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