I am not one for the bustling cityscape; the woods and nature are my sanctuary. Yet, this time, the children’s desires led us to plan a trip to Singapore. I wondered, will it be a captivating adventure or merely a tourist trap?
With my travel read “40 Rules of Love” by Turkish female author Elif Shafak I anyway planned to explore the not so touristy, the soul of the city!
“No matter what your destination, just be sure to make every journey a journey within.” – 40 Rules of Love
Each morning, as my teens slept peacefully, I cherished my solitary strolls through the neighbourhood streets, immersing myself in the rhythm of Singaporean mornings. The nearby hawker centres became my favourite spots, where I’d savour a cup of coffee while watching the locals grab their breakfast and rush off to start their day..
Exploring the multi cultural streets of the city
We explored the streets of Singapore by foot, well we walked daily quite a bit! The multi cultural soul of the city was very clear on its streets from Haji lane to China Town you feel as if you’ve travelled across continents, experiencing the unique blend of customs, music, art, and architecture that each culture brings. This rich diversity gave a sense of shared humanity, where the differences are celebrated, and the commonalities are cherished.
The multicultural tapestry enriched the city’s character, making it an ever-evolving mosaic of human expression.
Haji Lane was undoubtedly my favorite, bursting with quirkiness at every turn. The vibrant cafes, eclectic boutique shops, striking wall murals, and lively music, joint with a bustling crowd, made it a treasure trove of creativity and energy. Just next to Haji Lane lies Arab Street, where Middle Eastern cuisines, the majestic Sultan Mosque, and shops brimming with Turkish crafts create an exotic ambiance.
Our exploration continued to Chinatown, where the touristy-ness of the Buddhist temple made us step out quickly but the lively markets, and delicious street food enchanted us. At the end of Pagoda Street, we discovered the Sri Mariamman Temple, the city’s oldest Hindu temple, built in 1827.
Walking these streets, we saw the harmonious acceptance and celebration of the diverse cultures of various immigrant populations who now proudly call this country home.
Reflecting at the City scape at Night
The nocturnal landscape was both grand and intimate, captivates and inspires, revealing a different yet equally beautiful facet of the city. The serene reflection of lights on the river, painted a breath taking picture that left me in awe. Stood their spellbound for a while taking it all in.
It humbles you down yet makes you feel proud of the human collective imagination at the same time.
Soaking up the Green scape of Singapore
It takes deliberate and conscious effort to keep one of the most densely populated cities green and sustainable. It is a national agenda for Singapore. Singapore Green Plan 2030 charts ambitious and concrete targets to advance Singapore’s national agenda on sustainable development.
From its origins as a lush rainforest island, transformed by human enterprise, Singapore now seeks to reclaim and rekindle its verdant spirit. It’s time to weave the essence of the rainforest back into the vibrant tapestry of this bustling metropolis!
Discovering Singapore’s Flavours
Local Hawker centres are the best places to sample local food in Singapore and there are a ton! We loved the Kaya toasts for breakfast made with toasted bread, coconut jam, and butter. Singapore spoils you for the fresh sea food options with one not to miss trying Chilli Crab and many more. Thanks to my college friends who are very much Singaporean locals now for sending me a list of must try cuisines and also taking the time on a busy rainy workday evening to meet and making sure I don’t leave Singapore without trying “The Chilli Crab” 🙂
It was also interesting to see how reducing sugar in diets of the people becomes a national priority and steps like Nutri Grade labels on beverages becomes a good example on how big beverage companies are forced to reduce their sugar levels and people can make informed choices. Like any teen mom, I gleefully pointed out the Nutri-Grade “D” on Coke whenever the kids wanted one. Instead, we usually chose the Fresh Orange Juice vending machines, which were conveniently scattered all over the city.
Art You Can Be – Immersing in Art
We usually walk into a art museum with a spectator mindset to be moved by a piece of art. The experiential Art Science Museum lets you be part of the art, immerse in the art narrative and feel. For some moments the boundaries between observer and the art dissolved and it was indeed an experience! The art was felt or I felt what was me deep within – well everything was one and the same thing!
Wrapping up “40 Rules of Love” by the end of our trip, I found it challenging to step away from the entrancing realm of Rumi and Shams. We returned home with a collection of wonderful memories!
The Soul Compass 