My visit to Singapore

Exhilarating and impressive—those are the first words that come to mind when I think of my trip to Singapore. Many Americans aren’t very familiar with this remarkable city-state, and I’ll admit, I didn’t know what to expect when I began planning my travels. But from the moment I stepped off the plane, I was captivated.

According to Google, the Republic of Singapore is a city-state in Southeast Asia spanning just 284 square miles—about the size of Atlanta or Chicago. Its small size allows the government to maintain a high level of organization and efficiency, which is evident in every aspect of daily life. Most visitors from the West, myself included, can’t help but be impressed by how seamlessly everything works.

The city is modern, green, and exceptionally clean. Traffic is minimal, especially considering its dense population. Although Uber and Lyft don’t operate there, their local equivalent—Grab—is just as efficient and reliable. And did I mention how clean the city is? Navigating Singapore is easy and safe, whether by foot or public transportation. I even found myself on the subway at 11 p.m., marveling at how spotless the floors were.

Marina Bay Hotel and Casino

Merlion

One of the highlights of my visit was Gardens by the Bay, an awe-inspiring example of how technology and nature coexist. Each of the towering “supertrees” serves a unique ecological purpose—some store solar energy, while others collect rainwater. The nighttime light show there was spectacular, and best of all, it’s free and open to everyone.

Super-trees at Night

Garden Symphony

A Food Lover’s Paradise

No description of Singapore is complete without mentioning its food. A quick search reveals an incredible number of Michelin-starred eateries, including what many of us in the West would consider street food. Everything I tasted was delicious and surprisingly affordable compared to U.S. cities. Even when something wasn’t exactly what I expected—like the “pancakes” I ordered for breakfast that turned out to be wraps—it was still tasty! That experience taught me the importance of asking questions before ordering.

At night, food centers come alive. Streets close to make room for outdoor dining, and places like Lau Pa Sat buzz with energy and tempting aromas. The variety is endless, limited only by your appetite (and perhaps your wallet—but prices are very reasonable once converted to U.S. dollars).

@ the Coconut Club

Food Court

Food at every turn

Delicious Dumplings

Shopping and Exploring

Beyond food, Singapore is also a shopper’s dream. From sleek modern malls to cultural gems like Arab Street, where you’ll find vibrant textiles, souvenirs, and local restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

Throughout my stay, I felt completely safe exploring the city on my own. The service I received—from Jet Quay upon arrival to the staff at the Artyzen Hotel—was phenomenal. I now understand how VIPs travel! The Artyzen’s staff, accommodations, and hospitality were first-class, and I was thrilled to learn they’ve been awarded a Michelin Key for excellence.

Unforgettable Experiences

Some of my favorite moments included seeing the city from a yellow sidecar (a must-try experience), taking a river cruise, and diving deep into the local food scene—both independently and through guided tours. Every activity added a new layer to my appreciation for Singapore’s culture and charm.

My visit to Singapore was truly unforgettable. If it’s not already on your travel bucket list, it absolutely should be. This city-state is a perfect blend of innovation, cleanliness, hospitality, and flavor—a destination that leaves a lasting impression.