It may sound strange to people who have known me in the past 5 years or so. Having done all kinds of travel across cities, states and countries, you may wonder that this is the first time that I made it to the Lion City. I am not sure if lions ever lived here, but the liveliness of the city roars like a lion. Cosmopolitan nature of Singapore is quite unique in its own way, although slightly dominated by Chinese culture.
The first thing that caught my attention once inside the city was Marina Bay Sands. The attraction was enough for a first timer like me to plan an evening stroll on one of lazy weekend day. So here I was on top of the complex at the SkyPark gazing the view of the wonderful city. Beautiful indeed! As I started the stroll towards the Fullerton Hotel after measuring the length and breadth of the MBS complex, I noticed a queue of photographers alongside the bay as if some big event was about to happen. It was a pleasant surprise to know that every Singaporean is gearing up hard for the upcoming National Day celebrations.
And this was a Saturday, hence a dress rehearsal for the big event i.e. 9 August. Suddenly, the activities started and wow! What an immense joy to watch something which came as a big celebration package. Tanks, military choppers and parachutes – everything was within startling distance from the eyes. Entire atmosphere seemed to celebrate the mood of nationalism and why not! Huge buildup of the crowd said it all. Not to forget the fireworks at the end was unforgettable. I imagine if this was the rehearsal, how wonderful will be the D-day!The day ended with a comment made by one of my colleague from a city called Goya in Argentina – “They know how to live and enjoy life. They know how to make people happy." I knew a little bit of Argentina from him and his wife who is from Santa Fe. All and all, it was a very nice evening to remember!
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2 comments:
Well; Singapore is great for visiting, but beware of chewing gum, jaywalking or peeing in the lift (not joking - that's a cardinal sin in Singapore). You'll get caned on the bum if you do any of that.
Also beware that if you don't getup at 6.00 AM every day and loudly proclaim, Long Live Lee Hsein Loon and God save Lee Kuan Yew, you might get deported :)
Living in Singapore is fine, - but reading the Straits Times every morning - Ughhhhh - unmitigated torture !!
@ Ramesh - Thanks for sharing the dos and donts here. I was culprit of jaywalking one or two times last week when I realized that there is no traffic signal close to our hotel. Reading Straits Times daily is indeed boring. Having said, the place is very good to visit and work.
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