There are many things to love about our country, but what do foreigners think of when we mention Singapore?
Contrary to popular belief, we are reputed for numerous things other than our anti-chewing gum law. (Although it still has a sticky impression among many foreigners.)
Our tiny yet mighty nation has in fact impressed people around the world with its lovely offerings. Here are the top four things we hear the most about Singapore that always put a proud grin on our faces!
1. “The Only Thing I Love More than Singapore is its Chilli Crab”
Attend any concert, meet-and-greet or conference held by an overseas artist and you’re sure to hear these two mouth-watering words pop up. International stars are addicted to our iconic chilli crab dish, and they never fail to rave about it to their fans!
It’s little wonder why this delicacy has gained such a celebrity following. The thick, tangy and salty gravy that coats the crab is half the dish itself. Something about the way the succulent meat soaks up the sour yet slightly spicy chilli sauce makes these superstars brave our heat and humidity just for a bite (or a slurp).
This dish was created in 1950 by Mdm Cher Yam Tian, and it’s been our unofficial national dish ever since. Die-hard fans include acclaimed actress Gwyneth Paltrow and Korea’s portfolio of idol groups (we heard that Super Junior even ordered $10,000 worth of local food – including chilli crab). Masterchef Gordon Ramsay even attempted his version of it!
2. “It’s So Clean!”
Almost every foreigner I meet – whether in Singapore or overseas – gushes about how clean our city is. Even the Japanese, who are often worshipped for their public hygiene, sing praises of our spotless streets and clear skies.
Our Garden City title really holds up, with more than 80 per cent of our land covered in greenery. After hearing this compliment from so many different nationalities, I’ve come to appreciate even greater the hard work that our cleaners put into maintaining our spanking clean streets!
3. “That Gorgeous Pool with the View”
The infinity pool sprawled atop the Marina Bay Sands hotel is one of the most sought after in the world. It’s heralded in travel publications and has gone viral on several online sites. It even frequently pops up on social media. It seems everyone wants a piece of it!
Who wouldn’t love this view? Overlooking the spectacular cityscape of the central business district, including Fullerton Bay and the Esplanade, this is the highest and largest infinity pool on Earth.
4. “I’d travel to Singapore just for Changi Airport”
Changi Airport isn’t just an airport. It goes out of its way to be a retail hub, food hub, aviation hub, transport hub, and tourism hub – it’s practically a “hub” hub.
Most certainly a hallmark of our nation’s success, our international airport has received innumerable awards and acclaim for its hospitality and accessibility. In 2014 alone, 54.1 million passengers transited through its halls – that’s ten times our population.
For many visitors, Changi Airport the first and last point of contact with Singapore. All the more it’s important to leave them with an everlasting good impression. I’d say we’ve done an excellent job of that!
What do your foreign friends think of when you mention Singapore? Tell us in the comments below!
By Pamela Chow
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