I've been in Singapore the past few days and it has been a much-needed rest in a developed society. I didn't realize how much the dust, pollution and noise has affected my mind and body, but I've really enjoyed the short amount of time here.
Singapore seems to be the melting pot of Asia. Four languages decorate the walls of the public transport guiding locals of Chinese, Malay and Indian decent. S'pore is a city unlike any other that I've experienced with it's futuristic architecture as a backdrop while women in colorful saris and headscarves rush around with the bankers in their business attire. I'm still not quite sure what the local cuisine is, although I've eaten my share of Indian, Chinese and Malaysian food here. The cuisine is still a mystery to me, but the national sport is certainly shopping. You can walk the entire span of the city by going in and out of shopping malls. Seriously. You can't leave one without being ten steps away from another mall entrance. And though I despise shopping, the air conditioning has been wonderful in this hot and humid environment. The national car seems to be the Mercedes. They're in every shape and size and sometimes you can spot a BMW, but Mercedes Benz does some good business here in this chic city. As developed and orderly as Singapore is, I must say there are some silly rules. No chewing gum, for example, is sold or allowed to be consumed in Singapore. School children belligerently smack their lips while enjoying this forbidden treat. It's so funny. I've been offered chewing gum twice in the three days I've been here. It's almost like there's a black market for it. I also find it funny that Singaporeans smoke cigarettes like fiends littering the ground with the evidence of their bad habits. Granted cigarette butts are easier to clean, but maybe gum would help them quit??
Either way, Singapore is a wonderful city full of culture, cuisine and comfort. I have enjoyed this little holiday from noise, beggars, hawkers and dust. Thank you S'pore!
