Singapore, I Miss You
By Emma Phillips, Singapore Management University, Singapore.
It has almost been a year since I finished my study abroad and left Singapore. So far, my final year in Manchester has been positive but nothing can prepare you for the reverse culture shock. Since it rains so much in Manchester, all I can think about is Singapore’s summer – which lasts the whole year! You may think you are ready to come home after spending a year away, but trust me, all I want to do is go back.
Here are some of the places in Singapore that I miss the most.
Hawker Centres
Whilst on exchange, my friends and I loved to eat in Singapore’s many food courts. If you stick to local foods, they are normally cheap. For example, Hainanese chicken rice costs about SG$4 (£2.36).
Lau Pa Sat has a massive selection and a great atmosphere; however, it is pretty expensive due to its popularity with tourists.
Maxwell is the best Hawker Centre according to most exchange students in my cohort. It is home to Michelin star Hainanese chicken rice and the most delicious gyozas I have ever eaten. Moreover, Ricky (who works at the drinks counter) is extremely friendly and always willing to chat to exchange students!
Another popular Hawker Centre is Newton. It has an extensive variety of dishes that celebrate Singapore’s rich culinary heritage. Also, it appeared in the film ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ meaning its popularity has massively increased in recent years.
Marina Bay
When people picture Singapore, they likely imagine the hotel with a boat on top of it (Marina Bay Sands). On one end of this boat is a restaurant and the other is a bar. The views are incredible, and Ladies’ Nights are even better! They also have sunrise yoga on the roof.
The Marina Bay Boardwalk is also beautiful, with views of the whole bay. At night it is all lit up and there is a water show which is nice to go and watch.
Also in this area is Gardens by the Bay. Supertree Grove is made up of over 200 species and variety of plants. It was created with the aim of turning Singapore into a “city within a garden”. They provide shade in the day and come alive (lighting up to music) at night.
Sentosa Island
Sentosa is a resort island south of Singapore. There are three artificial beaches, restaurants and lots of activities such as indoor skydiving. Whilst the water is not crystal clear the beaches are lovely and a great place too chill and cool down in the tropical weather.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Singapore. Others include the Art Science Museum, CapitaSpring, McRitchie Treetop Walk, Palau Ubin and the Merlion. Singapore is one of the most amazing, safe and clean cities in the world and I cannot wait to return some day.
