Top 5 Favourite Cities I've Travelled To

Singapore is where I studied for my degree. It is also where I learnt how to walk faster as I came from a smaller city called Ipoh in Malaysia. Singapore is generally described as clean and safe. And that is true. I am able to walk around safely even alone at nights, in most areas.

However, that is not the only reason why I love Singapore. I also love it for its efficient public transportation network which allows me to head out to most attractions like Sentosa, the Esplanade for the music performances or to Orchard Road for the shopping. The buses and MRT also allows me to visit off the beaten path places like Pulau Ubin.

As Singapore continues to develop, there are more and more exciting events like the recent Audi Fashion Festival and the F1 Night Race, and also the opening of the two Integrated Resorts: Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Sands.

When most people choose to visit Australia, a first choice is usually Melbourne. Then comes maybe Gold Coast or Sydney. For me, I chose Perth as there was an airfare promotion at the time. I came with no expectations but left loving the city. 

Although it is a developed city, it did not give me the same feeling as Singapore. Here, shops closed pretty early at around 5pm. And nights were spent over long dinners or at pubs. Besides that, I also loved the surrounding nature particularly at the huge King's Park and the waterfront area near Barrack Street. Definitely a great place to walk about slowly. No rushing across the pedestrian pathway or pavements unlike other cities I've been to. If you like a slower pace, Perth is the place for you.

Similar to Singapore, Hong Kong is also a fast paced city with a great public transport network. Here, there is always lots going on even late in the night. For the foodies, there is great Cantonese cuisine and of course, the famous Hong Kong dim sum to try. For shopaholics, shop to your heart's delight at the various markets and shopping malls.

For the whole family, head to Asia's second Disneyland or Ocean Park. For a more relaxing time, head to the suburbs or outlying islands. Hong Kong has lots to do and will be a great destination for almost everyone.

Sanuk is the Thai word for fun. And indeed, Bangkok offers lots of fun. For those who are interested to learn more about its history and culture, must visits include the Grand Palace and temples like Wat Po. For those whose idea of fun includes shopping, Bangkok is definitely a great choice. It offers many shopping malls located in the Pratunam area and various markets with lots of bargains. The largest of these would be Chatuchak Market which is only open on weekends.

For the foodies, go crazy trying out Bangkok's street food. Eat delicious pad thai with its crispy nuts sprinkled onto the noodles, and the hot and spicy tom yum. Yummy! And for those seeking relaxation, book yourself a spa and massage session. They are very affordable. And to those who are night owls, check out the exciting nightlife.

Kota Kinabalu is an amazing place to start discovering Borneo. The city itself has a bustling waterfront with many restaurants and markets to explore. A short boat ride from the jetty brings you right to the beaches of islands like Pulau Sapi which is a part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

Other interesting day trips from Kota Kinabalu, include trips up to Kinabalu Park, Poring and Kundasang. On Sundays, the Gaya street comes alive with a market where a variety of goods are sold ranging from pets to coffee to fruits. 

As of May 2010, these are the top 5 favourite cities which I've traveled to. As I visit more and more cities, there is no guarantee that this list will not change. However, no matter which city enters or drops out of the list, all the places I've visited will remain in my memories. There have inspired me, changed me and taught me lessons which I would not have learnt by staying in just one country. I love travelling!