Singapore take-away

The most lasting impression that Singapore leaves is of a small, in fact tiny state that is flourishing thanks to a visionary government and a disciplined lifestyle enforced rather strictly by the govt. You can drive through the whole country-city in a matter of hours. Theres nothing to see that you cant see eleswhere, no must-have Singapore exprience, what is unique is that, like a side sampler, you get a lil bit of everything in one tiny package. The people themselves are very simple and tourist friendly, the food is a melange of Chinese, Malay, Indian and other major cuisines of the world. Weather is usually hot and humid, but all transport and buildings are central ac so it only bothers you if you are walking around.

I took the free Singapore Tour offerred jointly by the Singapore Govt and Singapore Airlines to the city. There are 2 of them and I had ample time to take both.( You need to have 8 hrs at the airport to take both tours, 4-5 hrs to take one ). The colonial tour is just a drive through the city, it takes you past the famous Raffles hotel. The highlight is the boat ride in the Singapore river in a traditional boat. Its a charming way to stare up at the skyscapers and colourful, colonial style buildings nestled side by side.

More later...