During our 3-day stay in Singapore, preparations for the 60th year of independence celebrations were happening in earnest. In fact, there were practice parades, military jet flyovers, musical performance rehearsals daily. These preparations were all centered around the Padang Civic Ensemble. The huge celebration has since occurred on August 9th, but year-long festivities are planned.

We visited all buildings and spaces mentioned in the UNESCO description. We even attended a concert at the Old Parliament House (currently the Arts House). Having visited Hong Kong on three separate occasions and recently Kuala Lumpur, Singapore's historic civic ensemble felt more intact and better preserved. Some of the bridges crossing the Singapore River are particularly scenic.

All locations in and around the civic area are accessible by public transportation and pedestrian friendly (underground or above ground).

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