An American's Perspective of Singaporean Efficiency
Aaya Anan
My 10-day adventure in Singapore in January 2023 was an eye-opening experience that left me completely captivated by the efficiency of the country's economy. The more I immersed myself in its culture, the more my love for Singapore grew.
Interesting laws:
What truly amazed me about Singapore was how all the laws seemed to have been meticulously thought out and made perfect sense. One particular law that initially caught me off guard was the ban on chewing gum. At first, it seemed odd, but as I delved deeper, I discovered that this measure was implemented to combat litter in public spaces. It dawned on me that people would carelessly discard their gum on the ground, and given its slow decomposition rate, it created unnecessary litter. However, there is a provision that allows the purchase of gum for medical reasons. This simple regulation, along with hefty fines for littering, resulted in a striking absence of litter throughout Singapore. It was remarkable!
Another aspect of Singapore that won me over was its unique taxation system. The absence of taxes on most goods, excluding luxury items, was a pleasant surprise. This made everyday necessities, such as food, incredibly affordable. However, when it came to purchasing a car, the taxation system took a different turn. The substantial taxes imposed on cars reflected the country's intent to limit the number of vehicles on the road and encourage the use of public transportation, thereby reducing carbon emissions. As a result, buying a car in Singapore was an extremely costly endeavor, with prices skyrocketing to four times that of the United States.
Public Transportation:
Speaking of public transportation, I was blown away by its unparalleled efficiency. Whether it was the bus or train, these modes of transport adhered to their schedules with remarkable precision. I couldn't recall a single instance where they were even a minute late. It was a testament to Singapore's commitment to providing reliable and convenient public transportation options, minimizing the need for private vehicles.
Safety:
As a female traveler, safety is a top priority for me, and Singapore exceeded all expectations in this regard. The stringent punishments acted as a powerful deterrent, resulting in a society where law-breaking was incredibly rare. This, in turn, fostered an environment where I felt secure at all times. I no longer had to be constantly on edge, worrying about my belongings being stolen or fearing unwanted advances. Singapore offered an unparalleled sense of security, and it was a priceless gift that enhanced my travel experience. What impressed me the most was that this safety wasn't limited to certain hours or specific neighborhoods. It prevailed throughout Singapore, day and night. Whether I was exploring the bustling streets during the vibrant daytime or wandering through the enchanting corners of the city after dark, the feeling of security never wavered. It was a comforting realization that allowed me to fully embrace and enjoy the beauty and wonders of Singapore without any reservations. Singapore's commitment to maintaining safety and order is truly remarkable. The strict legal framework and the resulting low crime rate speak volumes about the society's values and its dedication to ensuring the well-being of its residents and visitors. It's a testament to the effectiveness of their approach and serves as an inspiration for other destinations to prioritize the safety and security of their travelers. I can't help but feel immense gratitude for the peace of mind I experienced throughout my journey. The city-state's unwavering commitment to safety not only enriched my travel experience but also instilled in me a sense of admiration for a nation that places such importance on the well-being of its people. Singapore truly stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when safety becomes a top priority.
Activities:
When I embarked on my adventure to Singapore, little did I know that even the airport itself would be an exhilarating experience that could easily fill an entire day. Picture this: as soon as you step foot in the airport, you're greeted by a captivating waterfall, and the excitement only escalates from there. Amusement rides, enticing restaurants, and a medley of other enjoyable activities await you, making the airport a destination in its own right.
Of course, my exploration didn't stop at the airport. I made my way to Sentosa, nestled along Singapore's coastline. Visiting the beach there was a true highlight of my trip. And let me tell you, my timing couldn't have been better. I visited in January, and to my delight, I was blessed with consistently beautiful weather, with temperatures around 82°F each day. It was a stroke of luck, or so I thought. It turns out, Singapore's equatorial location means that the weather remains virtually the same throughout the year, gifting travelers with a reliable dose of sunshine and warmth no matter the season. It was a comforting thought, knowing that every day would be perfect for exploration, regardless of the date on the calendar.
Now, let me introduce you to a culinary delight that stole my heart: the Hawker Stands. These vibrant Singaporean food courts had me on a flavor-filled adventure. Among the plethora of mouthwatering options, one dish stood out—chicken rice. The aroma, the tenderness of the chicken, and the fragrant rice created a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. And the best part? It was incredibly affordable. I couldn't believe my luck as I savored this dish, knowing that most of my meals at the Hawker Stands cost me less than $5USD. It was a delightful surprise that allowed me to indulge in the local cuisine without worrying about my budget.
Now, while Singapore has so much to offer, there's one downside: its size. Due to its compact nature, you can easily run out of things to do. Nevertheless, I found solace in the fact that Singapore's charm extends beyond its physical boundaries. The warmth of its people, the richness of its culture, and the allure of its cityscape provided endless moments of fascination and joy throughout my journey.
As I conclude my 10-day adventure in Singapore, I can't help but reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories that will forever hold a special place in my heart. Safety became an unexpected highlight of my trip, as the strict legal framework and low crime rate allowed me to roam the city with a sense of security I had rarely experienced before. Day or night, Singapore's commitment to maintaining safety prevailed, enabling me to fully embrace the city's beauty and immerse myself in its wonders without any worries. Overall, my time in Singapore was a revelation. The country's unwavering dedication to order, cleanliness, and sustainable practices left an indelible impression on me. From the well-thought-out laws to the efficient public transportation system, Singapore has set the bar high for other nations. I left with a newfound appreciation for their approach to governance and a lasting admiration for the remarkable city-state.
