Last week, I had the privilege to experience Singapore with a diverse 15-member delegation (including our mayor Mr A.C. Wharton) from Memphis, Tennessee, USA, and share some of our region's arts, commerce, history and cuisine with your citizens.

I am a 20-year veteran of the restaurant and hospitality industry and I find it imperative that I share the incredible feeling I have about Singapore.

Our delegation was organised and hosted by Mrs Jennifer Yeo, her awe-inspiring family and dynamic friends.

Mrs Yeo provided us an extraordinary range of Singapore's history, natural resources, culture and, most importantly, people.

Your Singaporean people, from your first customs agent's friendly smile, your taxi driver's professionalism, your hotel employees' genuine care, your restaurant worker's culinary expertise and fabulous pride, to the last government official must be given my heartfelt thanks and utmost respect.

To all my new Singaporean friends who constantly asked me, 'When will you be returning?', my answer is 'As quick as I can' and I will take my family and friends along to share in your astounding country.

Pat Donohue

Tennessee, US