SINGAPORE

Singapore is one of the most industrial and prosperous countries in the world. It is a small country off of the Malay Peninsula, yet despite its size it is an economic giant.

Its name is derived from a Malay word "Singapura," which means Lion City.

The Merlion

Singapore is one of my favorite countries to visit. It is my gateway between the US and the Philippines. People are very polite, streets are always clean, and infrastructures are always modern. Discipline is one of the values that are emphasized the most. As you walk along the streets or wait for the train to come you would notice signs of fines for certain unlawful acts.

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One of our favorite places to visit to savor some local treats is the hawker center. Here you get to choose from a variety of small stalls selling a wide selection of food from noodles to barbecue. All of Singapore come here to gather whether they are by themselves or with their family. Hawker Center

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Going around the city is very easy. Public transportation is highly accessible and cab drivers are always helpful. Just don't forget to call them "uncle." The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the easiest and cheapest way to go for tourists. It is advisable to purchase a tourist pass for convenience. The pass has 3 options, 1-day, 2-day and 3-day passes. Tourist Pass

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Christmas in Singapore is very festive. Streets are highly decorated even though Christians are a minority in the country. And due to its large population of tourists and foreign businessmen the country tries to celebrate all the common holidays of the world.

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Sentosa Island is one of the most visited places by tourists in Singapore. The island used to be a military fortress but was converted into a a huge tourist attraction in the 1970s. It is composed of theme parks, 5-star hotels, beaches, luscious gardens, indigenous fauna and golf courses. Access to the island is by a cable car from the mainland. The island is also home to exotic pink dolphins which I had no idea existed what-so-ever. These mammals are fast becoming endangered species.

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Changi Airport is one of the biggest and busiest airports in the world. It has won several awards in the last 2 decades. I love coming to Changi. If my flight gets delayed or cancelled I never worry because there are so many things I can do there: shop, eat, watch movies, surf the web, take a shower and even sleep. Aside from being functional, Changi is very aesthetically appealing as well.

Visit Singapore! You will never regret it ;)