Suddenly Singapore: 13 Ways to Experience the Multicultural Metropolis

Six years ago, Crazy Rich Asians reintroduced American audiences to Singapore, the island nation known for its futuristic skyline, affluent avenues, and multicultural menus (English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil are the official languages here). Now approaching its 60th anniversary commemorating its independence from Malaysia in 1965, it’s time to revisit my trip to the modern metropolis…

I had the privilege of being invited to stay at the city’s “first luxury boutique hotel,” The Scarlet Singapore. Situated a block away from the bustling Chinatown and Little India districts, the hotel promises an indulgent experience for visitors, having gone through a revamp that transformed all 75 guest rooms and five suites into a jewel-toned paradise.

The entrance, flanked by a watery portal, leads to the stunning lobby that’s decked out in Christian Lacroix velvet and multi-colored designer fabrics. The guest corridors are dressed in textured reds, purples, and fuchsia, adding to the intimate ambiance that runs throughout the rest of the property. My “premium” room was ensconced in a full-bodied matte gold with subtle mix of orange, topaz, and chartreuse, an ornate headboard made of luxe black velvet, draperies with elegant trimmings, and a chaise lounge perfect for decompressing after a full day of walking…