Singapore: A Unique Destination

Singapore can be a love-it-or-hate-it place. It’s highly developed, spotlessly clean, and meticulously planned and architected — a far cry from the congestion, noise, and erratic development seen in many other Asian capitals.

But while many backpackers and cultural travelers bemoan a lack of ‘soul’, if you approach Singapore from a different angle it can be a fascinating destination — not to mention very easy and hassle-free.

I’ve been to Singapore a few times, usually on a 1- or 2-day layover. I also once stayed for a week to visit a friend, which gave me some more time to look around. If you’re trying to decide whether to visit Singapore, here are what I’d consider its different pros and cons.

Reasons to Visit Singapore

Plan your trip in Singapore

• Tours & experiences
• Get travel insurance
• Best hotels in Singapore
• Find cheap hostels

Singapore is worth visiting if…

• You want an easy place to start an Asia trip



• You love street food (but wish to be cautious)
• You appreciate the futuristic urban design and parks
• You have some money to spend



• You want commercial/family entertainment
• You’re on a layover

My take on Singapore

The first time I ever visited Singapore I was on a backpacking trip through Southeast Asia. I was honestly a bit disappointed and had the instant superficial response of ‘this place is too developed and sanitized BZZZZttt I don’t like it’.

My views became more nuanced on subsequent visits. I believe that if you visit with an open mind, Singapore will be very interesting and enjoyable. If Hong Kong is a little cyberpunk, then Singapore is more like Star Trek. The feeling is often that of walking along a promenade at Starfleet Headquarters… just to put it in geeky terms.

Even the shopping malls are a bit of an experience if you focus on the futuristic architecture. It’s very interesting to think about how Singapore came to be what it is today and how it was able to be so prosperous.

But heritage, color, and culture can also be found. I’m quite a fan of the ethnic neighborhoods of Chinatown, Kampong Glam (the Arab quarter), and Little India.

Singapore is a bit of an oasis of ‘Western’ comforts in Southeast Asia. When I visited following several months of wild adventuring through countries like Vietnam and Cambodia, it was a relief to arrive in modern Singapore.

Is Singapore worth visiting? My answer is ‘yes, definitely’, but it’s good to know what to expect. History buffs, voracious culture vultures, or those seeking outdoor adventures may be more enticed by other places. But if you’re curious about the elements that make Singapore the city (and country) that it is, it’ll be highly worth spending at least a couple of days.