Singapore: World City
Описание книги
With stunning photographs and insightful commentary this travel pictorial and Singapore travel guide captures the dynamism of a remarkable Pacific nation. In just a few short decades, Singapore has transformed itself from a tiny island off the coast of mainland Asia into a global superpower in banking, IT, education, biotech, transportation and many other fields. The fascinating story of how this tiny city-state which has no hinterland, no natural resources, and a relatively small population has achieved success is told in this book. Singapore's history as a British colonial port, its dynamic multi-ethnic population, and its innovative governmental and social structures, are a part of the story. But there are others as well. How Singapore became a regional hub for finance, shipping and air travel, and now also for the arts, sport and leisure—are all showcased in dynamic detail, with over 300 full-color photographs to illustrate graphically how this small island functions like a well-tuned racing machine. Author Kim Inglis, a journalist, and long-time local resident, leads the reader on a series of explorations through Singapore's most notable districts and neighborhoods, explaining the growth and importance, and showcasing what they have to offer the visitor. Included are many lesser-known corners of the island which very few visitors ever get to see!
Отрывок из книги
The outline of the Marina Bay Sands hotel with skypark resembling a giant ship in the sky has become synonymous with the new stylish Singapore.
THE SINGAPORE STORY THE LION CITY COMES OF AGE
.....
The stunning blue facade of the Baba House, a traditional Peranakan pre-war terrace house turned museum. Formerly owned by shipping tycoon, Wee Bin, it was probably built in the 1860s. Today, it is owned and managed by Wee Lin, a sixth-generation descendent of Wee Bin, and contains furniture, mementoes and memories of a typical wealthy Peranakan household.
Cases in point include the Asian Civilisations Museum, the Peranakan Museum, the Baba House and the Chinatown Heritage Centre: each offers more than an adequate glimpse of a particularly Singaporean experience as well as South East Asian and Asian artifacts and culture. Local and other history is on display at the "people’s museum" or the National Museum of Singapore, while experiences of Singaporeans during World War II are adeptly recreated at Fort Siloso, the Memories at Old Ford Factory sited in the building where the British army surrendered to Japanese forces and Reflections at Bukit Chandu, housed in a restored black-and-white colonial bungalow amidst the lush surrounds of Bukit Chandu (Opium Hill), close to where the legendary Battle of Pasir Panjang was fought. High on atmosphere, and often high-tech as well, there is much to be learned and enjoyed at these venues.
.....