The Sunday Times says

Wonderful delights to explore at home

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There is a common lament here that there is nothing to do in Singapore. Singaporeans, accustomed to the increasing accessibility of destinations and the affordability of budget airfares, might have taken that old adage for granted until the pandemic put paid to easy weekend getaways. As travel restrictions remain, the December holidays start, and the SingapoRediscovers travel vouchers scheme kicks in, Singaporeans are looking inward. The voucher scheme, which was launched last Tuesday, saw almost 12,000 bookings on the first day, totalling some $1.86 million. Tiny Singapore seems, ironically, an unlikely destination for its denizens. But this disruption to the travel industry might bear unexpected dividends if this early response is any indication.

Travel-starved Singaporeans can now devote more time to plumbing their home country's rich heritage and culture. While tourists make a beeline for Singapore's multicultural attractions, locals have a tendency to take them for granted. It is surprising how many century-old institutions and buildings are still embedded in the social fabric and landscape of this little red dot if one knows where to look. Some are hidden in plain sight. The Victoria performing arts complex's clock tower, for instance, which is 115 years old and now open to tour groups. Others are tucked in neglected byways, such as the rundown buildings in Jalan Ampas where the legendary P. Ramlee shot his box office hits.

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