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National Day Parade
Photograph: Square Box Photos/Shutterstock

58 reasons why we love Singapore

Here's why we think Singapore is the greatest, most exciting city in the world

Nicole-Marie Ng
Written by
Nicole-Marie Ng
&
Megan Sim
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Fact: Singapore is not boring. And we can prove it. We had a hard time narrowing down 58 reasons why we love Singapore – we had to leave so many other things out or we'd be here all day. From our vibrant arts and culture scene and obsession with food to our status as a hub for technology and innovation, Singapore truly has it all.

RECOMMENDED: 8 things Singaporeans are weirdly proud about and Which Singapore landmark are you according to your horoscope?

1-10

Because it's safe
Photo: Sorbis/Shutterstock.com

Because it's safe

This might not seem like a very exciting fact but we can walk the streets late at night without having to worry about being mugged, stabbed or held up at gunpoint. The Time Out Index survey in 2022 found that 96 percent of people living in Singapore feel safe – placing us as the safest city in the world. 

Because of the view from Marina Bay
Photograph: Marina Bay Sands

Because of the view from Marina Bay

Waterfront views don't get any more breathtaking than when you soak in what Marina Bay has to offer. From the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel and quirky looking Esplanade to the historic Fullerton Hotel and cloud-piercing skyscrapers of the CBD – New York City has nothing on us.

 

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And the view from Marina Bay Sands

And the view from Marina Bay Sands

There's a reason why people from all over the world flock to take a dip in the rooftop infinity pool at the luxuriant Marina Bay Sands. Not only is it the largest infinity pool on the planet, it offers unparalleled views of Singapore’s glamorous cityscape. Now go take that Insta pic of you looking off into the sunset.

Because this is where chilli crab was invented
Photograph: Ahmad Iskandar Photography

Because this is where chilli crab was invented

We don't care what our neighbours say – we take full credit for introducing chilli crab to the world and we do it best. In a survey we did ranking the best local dishes, the iconic dish came out on top. And the best place to get a taste? Our readers voted for Jumbo Seafood.

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Because free art is all around us
Photograph: One Kampong Gelam

Because free art is all around us

Singapore has some seriously stunning street art murals littered all over the city, you just need to know where to look. Here are some of our favourites.

Because of kopi and kaya toast
Photograph: Ahmad Iskandar Photography

Because of kopi and kaya toast

There's no better way to start the day than with a cup of kopi – or kopi-o for those of you who like your coffee as dark as your soul – and kaya butter toast. Throw in a couple of soft-boiled eggs and you're golden.

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Because of our hardworking hawkers
Photograph: Shutterstock

Because of our hardworking hawkers

Hawker centres are home to countless of stalls offering unpretentiously scrumptious food at affordable prices. Hit up Tiong Bahru Market – an oldie but goodie with more than 80 stalls including legends such as Tiong Bahru Fried Kway Teow, Jian Bo Shui Kueh and Lor Mee 178.

And fabulous fine-dining scene
Photograph: Odette

And fabulous fine-dining scene

When you're up for a splurge, Singapore has a respectable list of fine-dining restaurants serving up out-of-this-world gastronomic experiences. Whether you're gunning for Michelin-starred restaurants – get the full list here – or looking to try out up-and-coming establishments, there's more than enough to explore.

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Because of our passport
Photograph: Shutterstock

Because of our passport

It’s pretty cool being the rightful owners of the world’s most “powerful” passport – our passport commands up to a $50,000 premium on the black market.

11-20

Because of our public transportation system
Photograph: Constante Ken Lim/Unsplash

Because of our public transportation system

Sure the MRT might break down every now and then (they're working on it) but that doesn't change the fact that there's a train station or bus stop to connect us to every major point in the city. Unlock the experiences the island has to offer with a tap of your ez-link card.

Because of our non-erratic weather
Photograph: National Heritage Board

Because of our non-erratic weather

Apart from the (exceedingly) occasional hailstorms, it's perpetually summertime in Singapore so you don’t have to worry about gearing up with earmuffs and windbreakers. When you’re looking to escape the sweltering equatorial heat or tropical storms, simply seek refuge in one of our air-conditioned malls.

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Because of the air-conditioning
Photograph: Vianne Chia

Because of the air-conditioning

Speaking of air-conditioning – it deserves a mention of its own. We are called the air-conditioned nation after all. Non-erratic weather aside, Singapore is consistently warm. We'd never get anything done if not for air-conditioned homes, offices and malls. Having said that, do keep temperatures to 25 degrees Celsius or higher because we still want to be mindful of the environment.

Because of the sheltered walkways
Photograph: AhXiong/Shutterstock

Because of the sheltered walkways

An odd thing to love, but we're truly grateful for the sheltered walkways everywhere. When it's sunny, these shelters provide much-needed shade and respite from the burning sun. And when it's rainy, it keeps our shoes dry – and for those of us who forgot to bring an umbrella out, allows us to make it to bus stop or MRTs while keeping relatively dry. 

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Because we have F1
Photograph: Steven Tee/Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix

Because we have F1

Speaking of events, the Formula 1 race is held here pretty much annually (except during the Covid years). Besides getting to see Formula 1 drivers and the races up close, the massive event also brings in spectacular concerts and awesome nightlife and entertainment across F&B establishments and clubs. 

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Because we're becoming queer-friendlier
Photograph: @Pink Dot/Facebook

Because we're becoming queer-friendlier

In 2022, Singapore finally repealed section 377a, a decades-old law that criminalised gay sex. That was a significant step forward in recognising and respecting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community here in Singapore. It's a win worth celebrating, although we still have a long way to go towards true inclusiveness. 

And more inclusive to people with disabilities
Photograph: Tristan Tan/Shutterstock

And more inclusive to people with disabilities

Singapore has crossed a couple of milestones in disability inclusion: making public transport more barrier-free and wheelchair accessible, launching the first Enabling Village in Lengkok Bahru, and introducting para-sports to the Singapore National Games are some. 

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Because we have cool wildlife
Photograph: Shutterstock

Because we have cool wildlife

Singapore may be small but it still has a ton of biodiversity to protect. Our little island has 2000 native vascular plants, 355 bird species, 98 reptile species and 57 mammal species, not to mention butterflies and amphibians. Next time you're on a nature walk, keep your eyes peeled for these wildlife gems. 

Because our homegrown talents make us proud
Photograph: Lis Tamara

Because our homegrown talents make us proud

It's always heartwarming to see local artists making their mark on an international stage – for one, Anthony Chen took home to prestigious Camera d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019. There's loads of other talent too, from rising musicians, young artists and entrepreneurs, Singapore's talent pool is far from deficient. 

21-30

Because of Singapura kitties

Because of Singapura kitties

You don't need a house pet when friendly stray kitties roam the streets. These cuties are always up for a pat as long as you treat them with kindness.

Because of the local design scene

Because of the local design scene

From small brands looking to make their mark to brands like Charles and Keith that have gone international – with celebrities using its pieces on the red carpet – Singapore's local design scene is a hotbed of activity. You'll find designers blending the styles of different Southeast Asian cultures to create garments that give us our own unique voice.

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Because there's room for both the old and the new
Photograph: Potato Head Family

Because there's room for both the old and the new

From the heritage shophouses that lace the streets of Chinatown and Katong to the futuristic Art Science Museum and towering skyscrapers of Raffles Place, Singapore’s architectural splendour relentlessly proves that the traditional and modern can indeed coexist.

Because we have the world’s best airport
Photograph: Chanchai Duangdoosan/Shutterstock

Because we have the world’s best airport

Changi Airport needs no introduction. The world's best airport offers a fusion of fine local delicacies, luxury shopping, an array of things to do and of course, the magnificent Jewel Changi. Our airport is, without a doubt, a departure from the ordinary.

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And the world's best airline

And the world's best airline

Concomitant with our world-class airport, our national carrier is also outstandingly impressive. With state-of-the-art cabins, ridiculously well-trained cabin crew and an imaginative safety video, Singapore Airlines is the go-to airline for locals and tourists alike.

Because of cuddly pandas

Because of cuddly pandas

You don't have to go all the way to China for a glimpse of these cute creatures. The River Safari is home to Kai Kai and Jia Jia, a couple of giant pandas who thrill visitors with their butt-scratching, belly-jiggling antics.

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Because it's clean

Because it's clean

You won't end up stepping in someone's chewing gum on the streets here.

Because of Singlish
Photograph: Shutterstock/Infinite_Eye

Because of Singlish

Only in Singapore does a sentence that incorporates four or more different languages make perfect sense. We think that's beautiful. I mean, understand can already right?

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Because we have the coolest national icon ever
Photo: Sentosa Development Corporation

Because we have the coolest national icon ever

Half lion and half fish? Somebody had to be trippin' when they cooked up the idea of the Merlion and pitched it to the tourism board. But we're glad that we've rolled with it and even have seven planted around the island.

Because we have the largest collection of Southeast Asian art
Photograph: Vernon Raineil Cenzon/Unsplash

Because we have the largest collection of Southeast Asian art

Housed in the former City Hall and Supreme Court buildings, National Gallery Singapore is the largest visual art gallery in Singapore and showcases most local and Southeast Asian pieces.

31-40

Because of the city's accessibility
Photograph: Victor He on Unsplash

Because of the city's accessibility

Given that the mainland of Singapore spans across approximately 50km, you can easily get from one end of the island to the other in an hour or so. And it's easy for the elderly and disabled to get around the island too.

Because of our rich cultural tapestry
Photo: Indian Heritage Centre

Because of our rich cultural tapestry

It’s not unusual to find temples, mosques and churches located within walking distance from each other – emblematic of the intricate ethnic fabric that affords us the opportunity to experience a variety of diverse cultures. Cultural and religious festivals are proudly celebrated all year round and we can honestly say that we're a not just a tolerant, but welcoming bunch.

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Because you can enjoy the little things
Photograph: Flickr

Because you can enjoy the little things

Like ice cream wrapped in a slice of rainbow bread on a sunny day for just $1.20. If that doesn't make your day then we don't know what else will.

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And some of the best restaurants

And some of the best restaurants

Dining out may be banned for now, but the city is still home to excellent restaurants that push boundaries without compromising on taste. Here are some of our favourites that we can't wait to visit once pandemic restrictions are lifted. 

Because we love our king

Because we love our king

The king of fruits that is. Call it smelly, call it disgusting, we'll happily gobble down your share of durian while you're standing there making faces at the spikey fruit. Here's an ultimate guide to durian season in Singapore

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Because we're a city with farms
Photograph: Ahmad Iskandar Photography

Because we're a city with farms

While we don't have a lot of land to go around, we're glad that the island still has pockets of green in the form of farms up in Kranji. We get fresh greens, mushrooms, eggs and even fish from farms such as Ah Hua Kelong or more high-tech outfits like Kühlbarra. Make a visit to some of the best farms in Singapore

Because we pride ourselves in being trustworthy
Photo: Bruce.G

Because we pride ourselves in being trustworthy

Our long-established corruption-free reputation ensures that we’re a conducive place for businesses – both local and international – to thrive. We're even trustworthy on a day to day basis: the Time Out City Index found that 85% of Singaporeans would turn over a wallet full of cash to the police if they found it on the street.

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Because heritage food is delicious
Photograph: Candlenut

Because heritage food is delicious

We have the world's only Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, Candlenut and a host of other authentic Nonya restaurants to get stuffed at. There's also a growing trend of people inviting you to their homes for a taste of their family recipes – local hospitality doesn't get any better than that.

Because you can still enjoy kampung life
Photo: GRPS

Because you can still enjoy kampung life

Despite rapid modernisation, there are still places to visit if you want to revisit the kampung days. Head to Kampung Lorong Buangkok in Hougang or take a trek out to Pulau Ubin.

41-50

Because we gave the world the thumb drive
Photograph: Trek 2000 International

Because we gave the world the thumb drive

Did you know that a Singaporean company, Trek 2000 International, invented the thumb drive? Yup, Singapore single-handedly brought us from the age of floppy disks and CDs to the future of USB flash storage. And we continue to do so as an innovative tech hub. You're welcome, world.

Because public libraries are everywhere

Because public libraries are everywhere

Can't make it all the way down to the National Library in Bugis? No worries, there are 27 other fully-stocked public libraries littered around the island housing everything from plays and recipe books to the latest international bestseller.

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Because you can shop for high-end and mass market all on one street
Photo: chensiyuan

Because you can shop for high-end and mass market all on one street

Yes, we're talking about Orchard Road. The glamourous shopping belt has everything from Yves Saint Laurent and Chanel to H&M and Uniqlo plus everything in between including local brands such as Love, Bonito and Bynd Artisan.

Because of our healthcare system

Because of our healthcare system

We're the textbook example of how healthcare should be. We offer accessible, affordable yet high-quality healthcare – something that other countries envy and seek to replicate. 

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Because the city never stops eating
Photograph: Ahmad Iskandar Photography

Because the city never stops eating

With so many late night and 24-hour dining options around the city, who can blame us?

Or partying
Zouk

Or partying

The city is home to one of the best clubs in the world, Zouk. But that doesn't mean it's the only club you should check out – there are others offering panoramic views of the city, Asian glitz and glamour and sick beats from hip-hop to EDM so lace up your dancing shoes and get jiggy 'til you see the morning light.

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Or shopping
Photograph: Morven

Or shopping

Need cooking supplies, jewellery or electronics at 1am in the morning? Mustafa has you covered. The huge shopping malls on Syed Alwi Road in Little India has everything and anything you could possibly want until it closes at 2am.

Because of Newater

Because of Newater

In our thirst for self-sufficiency (and potable water), created and refined water-recycling technology to produce Newater – perhaps the greatest testament to the irrefutable Singaporean spirit of innovation. Plus it tastes pretty damn good too.

 

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Because we’re sheltered from natural disasters
Photograph: Alistair Boyd/Unsplash

Because we’re sheltered from natural disasters

We’re fortunate enough to be insulated from the first-hand devastation of natural disasters by virtue of our geographical destiny. Even if we experience a flash flood every now and then.

And help out countries that aren’t
Photograph: Christian Chen/Unsplash

And help out countries that aren’t

Call Singapore selfish all you want, but when another country is in need of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, we'll be there in a jiffy.

51-58

Because we're always reinventing ourselves
Photograph: Kumar

Because we're always reinventing ourselves

In a bid to constantly remain dynamic in the face of ever-changing milieu – Singapore is always reinventing itself to stay ahead. Skillsfuture and lifelong learning anyone?

Because we know how to laugh at ourselves
Photo: Comedy Masala

Because we know how to laugh at ourselves

Despite our stoic exterior, Singaporeans enjoy a good laugh every now and then – especially at the expense of fellow Singaporeans. Our shortcomings with a pinch of wry humour make for our own unique brand of self-evaluation.

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But are fiercely defensive if someone else does
Photograph: MeWatch

But are fiercely defensive if someone else does

Step on our toes and witness to a fiery display of national pride. We might even cause you to lose your job and drive you out of the country. Don't play play hor.

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Because we're kiasu
Photograph: Unsplash/Macau Photo Agency

Because we're kiasu

The national psyche that we’re often vilified for is also one of the reasons for our success – our relentless pursuit of excellence ensures that we top league tables and always stay ahead. Being scared to lose means we're always #winning.

Because even otters love it here
Photograph: Shutterstock/Juan Camilo Diaz

Because even otters love it here

Our new favourite expats – wild otters who now call the rivers of Singapore home. Just don't get too close or they might snap at you, just like an auntie on the MRT during peak hour.

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Because of the people
Photo: Laneway Festival Singapore

Because of the people

Call us rude, selfish or any name you'd like – because deep down, we know what kind of people we are and we're totally unapologetic about it. We don't have time for fake, superficial pleasantries but in your time of need, we'll be there.

Because this is home, truly
Photograph: Kit Chan

Because this is home, truly

No matter where you come from, what language you speak or the colour of your skin – anyone can make Singapore home. This is where you won't be alone, because this is where it's truly home.

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