Appreciating Singapore After Being Away for a Week

I was away from Singapore for only a week, but it seems like even in that short span of time Singapore has changed. When I returned I spotted more Youth Olympic Signs and more flags from the National Day Celebrations. It felt like I had missed a huge party and was now seeing the left over decorations. Even Wendy’s in Orchard Road was now opened. It made me wonder about people who study or work abroad and have been away for months or even years. At the rate Singapore is changing, the change must seem quite dramatic and dazzling.

I never quite knew how clean and wide Singapore roads were till I experienced the tiny lanes of Kerala which are filled with pot holes and crazy traffic. After experiencing diesel fumes filled air, Singapore’s air feels mighty breathable and fresh. I also didn’t totally appreciate how spoilt I was in terms of food choices. It feels great to live in a multi-ethnic society with so many varieties of cuisine that it’s quite an arduous feat to diet (for me it’s virtually impossible!)

Everytime I land at our Changi Airport I can’t help but think this is the best airport in the world no matter where the ratings are at. The airport itself feels like home to me because it is so familiar. I didn’t think much of Singapore’s organization of the Youth Olympics before, but when I spotted Merly and the other lion mascot (the name escapes me now) I actually got excited. Being away made me less jaded about my own country and that’s something I needed.

photo by bookjunkie

photo by bookjunkie

photo by bookjunkie

photo by bookjunkie

Update: The Lion Mascot is called Lyo. Somehow the name is not a catchy as Merly for the merlion.

About bookjunkie

Blogging about life in Singapore & recently cancer too.
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2 Responses to Appreciating Singapore After Being Away for a Week

  1. Maria says:

    Changi is the best airport in the world, and it ALWAYS felt like coming home when I landed there. Singapore is changing so rapidly, I barely recognize it these days. A friend told me recently that there’s going to be an MRT stop right across from my former home on Bukit Timah. I’ve got to get back for a visit sometime soon!

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