Wow - I had no idea. Good for Singapore.
Further research warranted.
Lee Kuan Yew was an amazing leader who transformed Singapore from a third world to a first world economy in a few decades.
A bit of historical inaccuracy in the piece. Singapore did not voluntarily leave the federation with Malaysia. Malaysia withdrew because of issues with their Muslim population. At that point, Singapore felt the need to build a military and consulted with Israel to do sol
For anyone who has never been to Singapore....a trip is warranted. I spent a couple of days this earlier this year.
The Changi Int’l Airport is a five-star operation and you really need to go and spend three or four hours there as you leave....just walking around and noting the planning and infrastructure of the airport. I can’t think of a better run airport in the world. The immigration line for me to wander through....took three minutes.
As for the people....you find just about everyone in Singapore to be friendly and very helpful. You just don’t bump into anyone with an attitude.
I stayed downtown and found every block to be friendly and lacking any crime. Fine food, friendly pubs, and professionally run hotel. I wish that I’d tacked on another day or two during the stay. Would strongly recommend a stay of more than three days.