I first visited Singapore when I was 17 years old, technically I visited when I was one, but that doesn’t really count as I was apparently being babysat by a flight crew while held in quarantine (long story).
At 17, I remember walking through the main areas and seeing open land, wondering if any kind of urban development would ever take shape. Many of the buildings you see today did not exist back then. Fast forward to the age of 23, I was beginning year one of a three-year Chartered Financial Analyst exam process, at a time when only 7,200 CFA holders existed in the world. The plan was to finish three years, pass all three exams, and move to either Hong Kong or Singapore.
Well life had a different path for me, and I now have a fun job, getting to still play with numbers, and most importantly, I get to spend time with all of you.
That’s what made this year’s ILTM Asia in Singapore such a smashing success for us. It brought me back to Singapore, allowed me to walk along the famed F1 track on my way from the hotel to the expo center, and gave me a chance to see all the changes. At our exhibit booth, I was also able to spend time with our advisor partners from Australia, New Zealand and India, having excellent meetings with them on everything, ranging from East Africa to Peru. Our BDM team, Trish in Sydney and Bhrigu in India will have plenty to do in the coming weeks building on these amazing conversations with you all.
But it wasn’t just the show. Can I take a minute and talk about the food stalls? Between the hot pots, Indian food, and the noodles, I was in heaven, and I even perfected the use of the Grab app, which for the record, works way better than the Uber app!
Enjoy this week’s video, featuring the sights and sounds of Singapore and ILTM Asia.
I look forward to seeing many of you again in Las Vegas or Cannes for the next ILTM.
There are a few reasons why Singapore is one of the most desirable destinations for travelers from around the world. The food, attractions, contemporary skyline and tropical location are all part of the intrigue of this diverse island nation. These aspects all make Singapore special, but by far the best part of it is the people. Chinese, Arab, Indian, Portuguese, English and other cultures all come together to create one unique culture. The ethnicities, religions, foods and art are all pieces that come together to create a country that is united in its difference.
While visiting Singapore, make sure to visit the area’s various ethnic areas. Little India, Chinatown, Kampong Glam, and other enclaves allow an opportunity to taste culture at its best – literally. Try the vegetarian cuisine in Little India or the authentic Chinese food sold by vendors and restaurants. Tamil food, which is infused with Malay ingredients, is delicious. It contains an abundance of seafood such as squid, oysters, crabs, and clams. You absolutely cannot miss the barbequed stingray served on a banana leaf with sambal. It’s to die for.
There is more to feast on in Singapore than just food: drink in the sights, sounds and smells. For instance, in Little India you can hear modern Indian music, smell incense and curry and see colorful saris, temples and displays.
You will want to plan your trip around a holiday or take advantage of the many festivals that Singapore hosts each year. These celebrations bring the island nation’s diversity to life. There are holidays like Buddhist Vesek Day, Chinese New Year, Muslim Eid ul-Fitr and Christmas to be celebrated. Singapore also has its own holiday celebrating its own identity. The National Day Parade commemorates the country’s independence.
The diversity of Singapore is prevalent in its mix of attractions. Tourists can shop in the modern malls of Orchard Road or check out the hotels and casinos of the new Marina Bay. If you are looking for a more historic side of the country, try Bugis and Kampong Glam, the oldest Malay district in the country.
Singapore hosts a wealth of experiences for an adventurous traveler. What was once a gateway to Asia is now a wonderful and sought after destination in its own right.