Singapore is often mentioned as the best city in the world for expats so I decided to check it out. I was a little disappointed. Perhaps my expectations were too high and I’m sure there’s a lot more to the city than I experienced in my three days there, but still. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a lot to like about Singapore. Great food (be sure to check out Little India). Some beautiful architecture, both modern and colonial. Lush gardens everywhere. Stunning views of the bay.
And I’ll admit it was interesting to be in a city state where chewing gum is banned. Not just chewing it, but possessing it. It was on the list of banned items that you can’t bring into the country, right alongside explosives and narcotics.
But I was surprised at how dirty the city was. I was led to believe that the city was so pristine and yet it was not uncommon to find fast food wrappers and empty beer and soda cans on park benches downtown. And much of the city was under construction, making walking hazardous and difficult and clouds of dust filled the oppressively humid air.
Overall, the city felt like what it is: a former British colony. It lacked the feeling of history that Hong Kong or Tokyo has. The city seems built around shopping malls, which I guess makes sense since you’ll do anything to escape the heat. I’m sure I’ll be back for a visit someday and if I were offered a good job there I’d certainly consider it. But beyond that, the city doesn’t seem to offer much for me.