An Outsider’s View of Singapore’s Culture

Nightscape of China Town Singapore

When I first arrived in Singapore, I didn’t know what to expect. Like any traveller, I had done the research about the attractions and discovered the numerous districts that existed amongst the city, such as Chinatown and Little India. I didn’t expect to find a country that was a veritable melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, all coexisting in such a way that Singapore felt open and welcoming, no matter the time of day.

• Check Out: Cheap Flights at Best Prices

I was fascinated by how the streets transitioned from Peranakan architecture to Hindu temples, Mosques, futuristic skyscrapers and abundance of green space. Within the hawkers’ markets, it was no unusual sight to see Indians whipping up delicious curries alongside a Korean barbecue stall or a Japanese Yakisoba shop.

Along Boat Quay, I met with visuals of British and Irish pubs beside a Thai restaurant. Despite the small size of the country, it seemed as large as America, and ten times more diverse.

I started to think, as an outsider, if my wonder and amazement of Singapore’s multi-ethnic cityscape was a clever guise or if people were truly as tolerant as they appeared. I heard from a couple of friends whom I had met in Singapore, one being from a mixed ethnic background and the other Chinese, that not everything was as peaceful as it seemed, but at least Singapore was relatively safe and calm on the surface.

Singapore is one of the few places where no one seemed overtly displeased to be sharing the same space with someone from a different background than them. For this reason, I felt like I fitted in well, despite being a visitor.

For those who want to experience several different cultures and hear dozens of languages throughout the course of your adventures, I recommend Singapore. Never before have I walked a street and encountered a global crowd of fellow travellers. It is an eye-opening experience, especially if you come from some place that has a less diversified population.

Use the following metro or better known as MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) stations to find excellent attractions, historical sites, and other ways to immerse yourself in Singapore’s multi-dimensional culture:

Hindu Temple in Singapore

Little India – Aside from the sheer number of hostels in the area, you will find delicious Indian food, brightly coloured buildings, temples, parks, and much more that look like something straight from Mumbai or New Delhi. On the weekends, the area is bustling with foreign workers from India meeting up with fellow countrymen, enjoying their break from working mostly in the construction industry.

The iconic Sultan Mosque

Bugis – You can walk through the Arabic quarters, passing through Masjid Sultan, then find yourself in a Malaysian neighbourhood that feels like a sliver of Kuala Lumpur. Here you can find textile shops, Middle Eastern eateries and immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape of shophouses. Sip a cup of Teh Tarik (frothy pulled milk tea) along Kampong Gelam and just enjoy the sights.

Clarke Quay Singapore

Clarke Quay – Aside from the hawkers market, there are dance clubs, bars, the Singapore Flyer, and Gardens by The Bay, all within walking distance. This area is super crowded with tourists but I do love the array of restaurants that I am always spoilt for choices.

National Museum of Singapore

Dhoby Ghaut – This is near Fort Canning Park, the Peranakan Museum, National Museum of Singapore, and the Singapore Art Museum. You can also visit the shopping district on Orchard Road after learning about Singapore’s unique history before meeting the modernized elements.

Though I might just be a visitor passing through, the fact that Singapore has brought together people from all across the world thanks to her open borders, opportunities and economic growth is truly humbling.

• Check Out: How I Live as a Digital Nomad in Japan

I believe everyone should experience a multi-ethnic country like Singapore at least once because it is an eye-opening and culturally exhilarating experience!

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article are the author’s and in no way reflect the views and/or opinions of Fat Starfish.

All images by Erwin Soo

Booking.com

*This article contains links to Affiliates which Fat Starfish receive a percentage of sales with no additional costs to you. Help us maintain this website by buying from our links. Thank you for your support!