Our family embarked on a memorable escapade to Singapore, marking my first international adventure beyond the Philippines. Our three-day sojourn was made possible, in part, by the gracious assistance of my mom’s friend, who helped us secure comfortable accommodations.

The journey from the Philippines to Singapore took a mere three hours, and we were brimming with anticipation as we set foot in Changi Airport. What immediately struck me about Singapore was its immaculate cleanliness, a quality that left an indelible impression. The backbone of their transportation system is the efficient train network, a marvel in itself. And to my amazement, even the trains offered free Wi-Fi – a definite wow moment!

Our base was along Kallang Street, where we savored a variety of delectable dishes, though some foreign flavors didn’t quite align with my palate. Our exploration led us to the Lucky Star Plaza, a vibrant hub where numerous Filipinos had established businesses. Among the gems we discovered was a delightful Filipino restaurant, bustling with fellow Pinoys who were dining, conversing, and even frolicking about – making it feel like a slice of the Philippines.

One delightful revelation was the affordability of chocolates in Singapore – they were a steal! Gadgets were omnipresent, with varying price points, but on the whole, tech gear seemed more budget-friendly compared to the Philippines. What truly captivated me was the ease with which people around me used their devices in public spaces, even on trains, laptops included. It left me wishing we Filipinos could enjoy this privilege back home without concerns about theft.

Our adventure also took us to Sentosa, a paradise in its own right. The Resort’s World complex was a sight to behold, with towering edifices and dazzling billboards. One thing that did leave me pondering, being a nature enthusiast, was the scarcity of greenery – trees, plants, grass, and even animals like cows and goats were a rare sight in the city. I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of sadness, though it’s possible that these natural elements were discreetly tucked away in specific areas that I didn’t explore.

The air I breathed in Singapore felt distinct from that of the Philippines, perhaps due to the diverse array of foreign faces I encountered. Nevertheless, I thoroughly relished my time in this remarkable city-state, marveling at its immaculate malls, charming restaurants, and the overall cleanliness that pervaded every corner.