By Akshay Koranne
Just a few decades ago, Singapore was a struggling nation that was jostling for independence from colonial rule. But today, it is one of the most developed economic and tourist nations in the world. The people of Singapore know how to transform. Even in the last decade, they have made some amazing tourist attractions that have transformed the whole nation. Therefore, if you are planning on visiting Singapore, you must check out these 5 attractions that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Gardens by the Bay
Who would have thought that one of the most stunning nature parks would be built upon 250 acres (101 hectares) on reclaimed land on the Singapore River. The idea behind the park is that from being a ‘Garden City’ Singapore should move towards becoming a ‘City in a Garden’. The government wants people to live as close to nature as possible, and have a healthy presence of greenery in everyday life. There was an actual design competition held for the garden’s’ design and design firms from 24 countries participated. Two British firms won the right to design Bay East Garden and Bay South Garden.
Gardens by the Bay are divided into three gardens – Bay Central Garden, Bay South garden and Bay East Garden. The Central Garden is a like a connection between the other two, and also has a waterfront promenade. The Bay East Garden has small gardens in the shape of tropical leaves. They each have a separate theme and characteristic. It is also has an interim park located right next to the river. Bay South Garden is home to the most features. It has the Flower Dome, Conservatories, Could Forest Children’s Garden and the Supertree Grove. The Gardens by the Bay have really put Singapore on the map, and if you tour Singapore and see them, you’ll know why.
Singapore River
In the early days of Singapore’s development, the Singapore River bore the brunt of it. It was badly polluted to such an extent that the government of the day had to take up strict measures to restore the river. There was a 10 year long clean up campaign implemented by the govt. and the people. And the result today is that you cannot tell that this river was once polluted beyond saving. The Singapore River is huge part of the tourist economy. There are bumboat tours that take you on the river’s path and show you the amazing attractions on the bank. There’s are also places like Boat Quay and Clarke Quay that are awesome for shopping and dining. The Singapore River is the lifeline of the city, and one of the most awesome attractions of Singapore.
Sentosa Island
From being a small island just off the cost of the mainland, to becoming the most popular island destination in the whole of Southeast Asia, Sentosa Island has played a huge role in transforming Singapore. This place is known as the capital of entertainment as it is home to Universal Studios Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa, Fort Siloso, Sentosa Merlion, Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom, Sentosa 4D Adventureland , Madame Tussauds Singapore and many other attractions. The list is endless. Each year, millions of people visit these attractions and Sentosa Island making it one of the most visited attraction in the world. Even getting to the island is an adventure, as you have the option taking a monorail or a cable car ride. Sentosa Island also has many smaller islands nearby that are great for partying, or even some alone time. This destination has it all, and many people visit Singapore just to come and see Sentosa Island. This awesome attraction will go down in history as one of the best attractions in the world.
Chinatown & Little India
These two community concentration points are not just home to the Chinese and Indians, these places are also huge tourist attractions. But most importantly, these places are the symbols of Singapore’s unique spirit of harmony and coexistence. Chinatown is home to many Buddhist temples that have been built with authentic Chinese architecture. Chinatown is also famous for food and bargain shopping. You can taste authentic and delicious Chinese food that will make you feel you are in China. In the evening, the streets hosts markets where you can bargain for knock-off goods and souvenirs. Similarly, Little India too is place where you can enjoy awesome shopping, authentic Indian food, and a visit to colourful, decorated temples that are older than a century. These two amazing places, though belonging to the Chinese and Indian communities are inherently Singaporean. They have made a huge difference to what Singapore is today. Visit Singapore and experience these places firsthand.
Street Food
Can street food be an attraction? In Singapore, yes! Singapore’s street food is famous all over the world. The hawkers here have created a fusion cuisine that takes the best elements of all other Asian cuisine. Therefore, you will find dishes like Roti John, Nasi Lemak, Laksa, and Wanton Mee. These dishes are quite famous and served by all around the county in restaurants and streets. There are also many original creations like Kaya Toast & Soft Boiled Eggs that is a breakfast dish. Singapore street food is a celebration of flavours and cultures. There are many street food tours that take people to the best hawkers and roadside restaurants. It is a uniquely Singaporean experience. Therefore, if you are also travelling to Singapore, be sure to try all the local delicacies. What enhances this experience even more is the fact that the food is clean and the hawkers stalls are hygienic.
Though there are more attractions, but these 5 attractions have transformed Singapore in the last decade, and have made it the tourist destination that it is today.
Image credit: https://www.flickr.com
Author: Akshay Koranne is a travel blogger who likes travelling across the world and sharing those experiences through blogs and articles. According to him, there is nothing as refreshing as travelling around beautiful destinations. Apart from from travelling and blogging, he likes spending his time in playing Chess and Cricket.
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