my New Island

I have been in the Lion City for five days now, but it feels as if I have been here weeks already. The city is so densely layered and proximate that there is so much one can do in a single day. Already I have been to too many malls to count, Marina Bay, Bugis, the University area, Holland Village, Little India, and the city centre. I have been taking full advantage of the multicultural basis of the city, sampling fusion cuisine that is simply delicious.

Of course, I would not have been able to do any of this without a few friends. One of the best things about being both an international student and a visible minority is that the friends come quick and easy. My usual group now includes other Canadians, Indians, Americans, Danes, Germans, Swiss, Dutch, and a few Singaporeans, too. Although I do love having so many friends from around the world, I'll admit that I like having Team Canada around - just a liiiittle bit!

I have had plenty of fun experiences to share here, such as when I bought the SIM card for my phone. I was required to show my passport, and almost immediately after seeing the word Canada stamped across the front, the middle-age Chinese woman proclaimed, "Like Bieber!" and launched into the chorus of "Baby." After my insistence that I don't like the Biebs, she told me with absolute certainty that I was just jealous.

School doesn't start for another few weeks, postponed further because of the National Day celebrations on the 9th of August. While at Marina Bay our tour group saw part of the rehearsal for the laser light and music show, and if that was any indication of what the entire celebration will entail, well, I'm in for quite the patriotic treat! I just hope that I can get down to actually see the festivities. I guess the height will come in handy, eh?

disclaimer: Van Isle is still my favourite and home island, Singapore is just doing a very fine job competing with that

photos all by me, more on Flickr