Cruise Update 5: A visit to Singapore, a city state that is an example to the world

Our visit to the country and city of Singapore remains one of the most enjoyable of our travels anywhere in the world.

Singapore, unlike most countries, is fascinating as well as distinct because of its history, its people and exceptional beauty.

Our cruise docked in this stunning city for two days. During that time, we had three separate tours that allowed us to see most of the popular attractions.

We had the opportunity to do a walking tour with friends, a river tour at night and a coach tour of the city highlights.

Perhaps the most interesting, and somewhat unique attraction, is the world famous Marina Bay Sands complex. This site marks perhaps the most photographed and visited landmark in the country.

Marina Bay Sands

It is well-known for its unique architecture and unusual features, including the largest cantilever in the world, sometimes called a skateboard or ironing board.

But the building is also a multi-use structure, from a business office, to residences, entertainment, restaurant and infinity pool. It also features a roof top observation deck with a 360 degree breathtaking view of the city.

The Gardens By The Bay is another must-see attraction in Singapore. We witnessed lush and colorful trees and plants native to Singapore as well as imported from other countries.

The Gardens by the Bay

Perhaps the most colorful and picturesque attraction was the Flower Dome, Part of the Gardens By The Bay. The images do a better job of describing this unforgettable collection of plants and flowers.

Flower Dome

Most of the beauty of Singapore is on full display both in the day and night. Again, our night tour treated us to exquisite night lights. And most spectacular of all was the light show on the river.

Light show

The richness and beauty of Singapore are also displayed in the varied buildings that reflect the eclectic history of the state from pre colonial, to colonial, to post colonial and modern.

Most dramatic is the contrast between British colonial influence and today’s cutting edge architecture.

Contrast between British architecture and modern architectural stylings

Singapore is well-known for its religious diversity reflecting the many countries of origin of settlers as well as the significant presence of the indigenous Maylay population.

It is not unusual to see Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues, Christian churches, Sikh gurdwaras, and Hindu and Buddhist temples around the city. During our brief stop Christmas decorations were already visible on streets, malls and buildings. There are also observances of Diwali, Ramadan, and Jewish holy days.

Hindu Temple, Buddhist Temple, Blue Mosque, Anglican Cathedral

As one of world’s most cosmopolitan cities, Singapore is defined by its rich Chinese presence, including its large China town, as well as Little India, Arab Street and Arab Quarter, home to Malays, Sumatrans, Indonesians and Yemeni.

Other Singapore Landmarks

In addition to its physical beauty, Singapore has a rich history, unlike any other country in the world. It was once part of the former country of Malaya before it became a separate city state, no longer dependent on Britain.

No visit to Singapore is complete without a stroll through the streets and arcades of China Town. We joined friends for a lunch in a Hawker Market and browsed and shopped in the Chinese market.

Singapore seems to defy the usual way successful nations develop, grow and prosper. In its early years, it was eyed by the British for its tin and rubber. Soon it was attractive for its strategic location as a between Asia and western markets.

Britain took over Singapore from the Dutch who moved to Indonesia. When Singapore left Malaysia 60 years ago, everything seemed to start from scratch.

Since then it has become a thriving metropolis that is an example to the rest of the world in many areas such as the environment, health and fitness, education, and international trade and finance. Singapore is also a model of racial and religious diversity with the mix of races and religions that make up the population.

We are preparing for our next stop in Indonesia and invite you to join us on this final destination on our Southeast Asian cruise.