Many travellers merely pass through Singapore’s Changi Airport en route to somewhere further away. However, while small geographically, Singapore offers a depth and variety of experiences across a range of learning areas that rival those of much larger countries.
Singapore is the world’s only city-state and, while densely populated, it never feels crowded. English is one of the official languages, allowing visitors to experience the cultural diversity of Asia without a significant language barrier. The extensive MRT public transport system provides an efficient way to move around the city. With a deliberate focus on being a ‘Garden City’, Singapore proves that a thriving city and natural environment can coexist harmoniously. From an academic perspective, the city offers a wide range of learning opportunities within an innovative Asian metropolis.
History
Singapore’s geographic position meant that it played a pivotal role in the Pacific theatre of World War II. Students can explore the Battlebox, a former Allied command bunker, as well as the Fort Canning Heritage Gallery. Sentosa Island is home to Fort Siloso, which preserves original gun batteries, underground tunnels and the Surrender Chambers. The Former Ford Factory, where the surrender of Singapore was signed, is now a World War II museum. Students can pay their respects to fallen soldiers at Kranji War Cemetery and learn about the experiences of prisoners of war at the Changi Chapel and Museum.
STEM
At the ArtScience Museum, students can explore digital exhibitions, participate in workshops and engage in hands-on learning activities. Mandai Wildlife Reserve offers a range of programs that allow students to go behind the scenes and learn about conservation and wildlife. The Singapore Sustainability Gallery provides insight into how the city addresses contemporary challenges through innovative sustainability solutions and interactive exhibits. Singapore’s engineering and urban planning achievements are showcased at the Singapore City Gallery in Chinatown. There are also opportunities to visit working urban farms and innovation centres.
Culture and Religion
There are not many cities in the world where you can visit a Catholic church, mosque and Hindu temple all within the same neighbourhood but Singapore is a cultural and religious melting pot. A bumboat cruise along the Singapore River provides an excellent introduction to the city’s founding, development and the diverse communities that now call it home. The Asian Civilisations Museum features exhibits on the societies and trading connections that helped shape Singapore and the wider region. The enclaves of Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam are adorned with street art depicting the development of these districts and the cultures that continue to thrive within them.
CAPA
Singapore is home to world-class performing arts venues and educational institutions. Dance and drama students can engage with local organisations to participate in workshops and classes. Art students can explore the collections of the National Gallery Singapore, while the ArtScience Museum showcases immersive digital installations, including TeamLab. Gallery talks, hands-on workshops and street art walking tours can also be arranged.
But Isn’t It Expensive?
Singapore has its fair share of luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants, but it also offers options for a range of budgets. Student groups can stay at the YMCA, conveniently located between Fort Canning and Orchard Road. A meal at a traditional hawker centre or food court typically costs between AUD $10 and $15. The MRT can be used to reach almost anywhere in the city for around AUD $2 per trip. Singapore is serviced by both full-service and budget airlines. While private workshops and tours incur additional costs, many museums are free to the public.
If you are looking for a study tour destination that is close to home, safe, accessible and able to be tailored to your budget, Singapore could be the ideal choice.
If you would like to chat about the options available in Singapore, get in touch with Libertas Travel!
