Studying abroad in Singapore has been such an eye-opener. We live in a global economy, so I wanted to immerse myself into another culture and see how other countries conduct business. I am honored and thrilled to have this opportunity. I can’t think of a better way to ring in the New Year!
As soon as I arrived in Singapore, I couldn’t help but notice how clean and organized everything is … far more polished than I was expecting. The people here seem super disciplined, and it’s clear strict rules about littering and eating in public really make a difference. It’s a bit of a contrast to some of the laid-back vibes I’ve gotten used to back home, but it’s refreshing to see how much everyone takes pride in keeping the city spotless.
The greenery here is incredible. It feels like the entire city is a part of a giant garden. I wasn’t expecting nature to be so seamlessly integrated into the urban landscape. And it’s not just parks and trees; plants grow everywhere, even in the middle of the busiest streets. It’s like being in a jungle, but one that’s perfectly maintained and works in harmony with the bustling city. There’s a price to be paid for all this greenery, though. Honestly, it’s even more humid here and rains more than in College Station, which is saying something!
In addition to the landscape, the food has been another highlight. The hawker centers here are a blast. The energy is contagious, and there’s just so much variety. You can wander around and pick from all kinds of dishes, from Chinese to Malay to Indian food, all in one spot. It’s not only delicious but also super affordable. If you want to sample the city’s diverse culture, you can start by partaking in the large variety of delicious food.
One of my favorite places in Singapore is its version of Chinatown. I loved it! It’s such a lively place, full of little stalls, street vendors, and people haggling. Chinatown has this vibrant energy that feels alive all day long. One of the best parts so far has been eating at Marina Bay. The skyline and the ships in the harbor light up at night are simply stunning. It felt like something straight out of the movie Crazy Rich Asians, which proved to be a fun moment for me.
Overall, I’m loving the culture here and am excited to dive deeper into my experience. Singapore feels like this perfect blend of old and new, and I can’t wait to keep exploring. Next stop Thailand!