Dina MalyanaI’ve heard it many times. Travellers on their first journey to Asia, excited about exploring Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia. It seems like they are covering every Southeast Asian country, but… where is Singapore on this list?
“Oh, yeah, we’ll have a layover in Singapore. Heard that the airport is great!”
Ah, there it is! They’ll get a glimpse of Singapore after all. Because, let’s be honest, the best thing you can experience in Singapore is Changi Airport, right? After all, it’s still one of the world’s best airports.
What else is there in Singapore anyway, and what is awesome about Singapore anyway?
1. There is absolutely nothing in Singapore that is impressive
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Except for Jewel Changi Airport, the Supertrees, and the Marina Bay skyline that take everyone’s breath away.
2. There’s also barely any history to discover since it’s such a young nation
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Just a few places like Fort Canning Park, Kampong Glam, and the National Museum of Singapore, brimming with stories of how a fishing village became a global powerhouse.
3. Everything in Singapore is so bloody expensive
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True, but where else can you get Michelin-recognised meals for under S$5 at a hawker centre?
4. Plus their coffee selection is limited
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From kopi in a plastic bag to artisanal brews at hipster cafes, Singapore’s got your caffeine cravings covered.
5. They even speak to you in weird languages and don’t get it when you order iced tea
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Ah, Singlish — a delightful cocktail of languages with phrases like “lah” and “can or not” that make everything so much more entertaining.
Also Read: 10 of Our Favourite Singapore Local Drinks
6. To make it worse, you will get fined for the silliest things
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Sure, chewing gum is banned, but that’s why the streets are spotless and the environment stays pristine.
7. Singapore’s just a boring city of concrete after all
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Except for places like Gardens by the Bay, Pulau Ubin, and MacRitchie Reservoir, where nature lovers can bask in greenery.
8. No colours, just grey
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You’ll find that out at Little India, Chinatown, or Haji Lane, where vibrant murals and shopfronts splash colour everywhere.
9. No character, no personality
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Singapore’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, showcased in places like Kampong Glam or Tiong Bahru, says otherwise.
10. Just buildings after buildings after buildings
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Unless you look closer and spot architectural gems like the ArtScience Museum or the intricate shophouses in Joo Chiat.
11. For an island, their beaches sure are disappointing
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Sentosa’s beaches may not rival Bali’s, but they’re perfect for volleyball, kayaking, or just chilling by the sea.
12. The parties are MEH
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Head to Clarke Quay or Marina Bay Sands, and you’ll see why the nightlife is alive and buzzing until the wee hours.
13. The people are so busy working they don’t have a life
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Busy they may be, but Singaporeans always find time for supper at a hawker centre or a night out at a karaoke joint.
14. And there’s nothing relaxing to do in Singapore
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Except for the countless rooftop bars, hidden cafes, and tranquil gardens where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
15. It’s not like Singapore has any culture
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You know, just the fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Eurasian influences seen in everything from festivals to food. No big deal.
16. Changi Airport is really not worthy of any award
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With its butterfly garden, movie theatre, and the Rain Vortex, it’s basically a destination in itself.
17. The city’s obsession with cleanliness is just bordering unhealthy
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It’s the reason Singapore’s public spaces are not only clean but also a joy to experience.
18. Even though their trains are absolutely run-down
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Run-down? With air-conditioned, timely trains and clear signage, Singapore’s MRT is a commuter’s dream.
19. Animals are just dying in the zoo
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The Singapore Zoo’s focus on conservation and open enclosures makes it one of the best wildlife parks in the world.
20. To top it off, Singapore’s food is totally CRAB
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You’re right — chilli crab is iconic. But so are chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. Singapore’s food is legendary.
Also Read: 5 Unique Places in Singapore That Even Some Locals Don’t Know About
So why bother?
If you think there’s nothing to see or do in Singapore, you’re probably not looking in the right places. From its dynamic culture and unique attractions to world-famous food, Singapore is a destination that surprises and delights every step of the way!
