Island of Bliss

Sooooo ... I've been in Singapore for three days now. In my offline travel guide, that is, a printed book, it aptly states: Singapore = Asia light. In my opinion, it absolutely hits the nail on the head. When I compare it to Hanoi, Saigon, or Kuala Lumpur, it's almost "westernized". At least in terms of organization, structure, and clarity. Singapore is organized, comfortable, and multicultural. It's Asian... not just because of Chinatown and Little India... but in a gentle, upscale, and sometimes luxurious way. At least where tourists usually hang out... and Singapore is naturally very clean. There's nothing lying around. But really nothing at all 😏.

It's quite convenient that in Geylang... where my accommodation is located... normal life takes place. It's a very interesting contrast. Although the hustle and bustle, as I've perceived it in other big cities, is noticeably more moderate here.

In the past two days, I've visited Marina Bay, lots of skylines, Chinatown, Civic Centre, and of course, yesterday I watched the New Year's fireworks. The latter was absolutely fantastic, in the truest sense of the word. As amazing as the fireworks were, the most impressive thing for me remains the nightly skyline around Marina Bay. I could watch it for hours. It's simply out of this world.

The past two days were rounded off this evening with a "Night Safari" at the Singapore Zoo. Almost everyone I've talked to here or beforehand about Singapore recommended it to me. I have to say... I'm the only one though 😀😏... that it didn't blow me away. It was nice to cruise through the zoo in the dark with a kind of "tram" and see primarily nocturnal animals... lions, tigers & co... in a subtle spotlight. But when I consider the immense time and effort of long journeys and standing in queues, then I would say... mmmhm???... you can do it, but you don't have to. On the other hand, I've never been a big fan of zoos. So why not?

By the way, what is truly impressive here is that everything is well-organized and "uncompromising". Many things are supported digitally. In comparison, Germany almost comes across as a banana republic.... Okay, maybe not that extreme... but everything here runs smoothly. Nothing seems random or "chaotic". Whether it's in the subway or at the fireworks... with 250,000 spectators around Marina Bay who had to arrive and leave... it's as if people have a chip in their butt. And if you do have to wait, everyone is relaxed. On the other hand, it makes everything very easy for a "newcomer".

Although: when it comes to the notorious smoking ban, which is not only prohibited in restaurants, but also in many public areas, sometimes the rebellious streak shows through. Technically, smoking is only allowed in designated areas, but sometimes a naughty smoker discreetly defies the rules. And before you know it, it seems like other suffering smokers have been waiting for the command, and suddenly a "wild oasis of rebellion" emerges, but then it quickly dissipates as if by magic. After all, no one wants to be "observed" by one of the numerous cameras longer than necessary.

I love Singapore. Very much. It feels like the Asian Münster. An island of bliss... without forgetting about the ordinary people.