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SINGAPORE: Singapore gained independence on 9 August 1965, but the celebration of the nation's 42nd birthday is not contained within a day. The whole island is in a party mood for three months – from July to September – and even foreigners are caught up in the fever of the festivities.
German IT professional Joerg Brednow, whose first love is photography, has been to Singapore 12 times in the last three years.
Despite having been to many Asian cities, Singapore remains his top choice.
"I'm affected by the Asian virus. Singapore is the gateway of Asia, it has a good mix of American, English, Asian and Chinese influence," he said.
Mr Brednow is now back in the city-state to celebrate its National Day and to take more photographs for his collection.
So fascinated is he with Singapore that he is making mini-movies about the island and liaising with German TV stations and travel agencies about the use of his footage.
Mr Brednow said: "When you come to Singapore, the first impression is it's always clean, always safe. The people are lovely - that's the best part of the city. If you mix other experiences, such as the political situation, the economic situation, all the parts are fascinating."
And if he were ever offered a chance, Mr Brednow said he would have no second thoughts about making Singapore his permanent home.
Mr Vitaly Arbuzov from Belarus has also been to Singapore many times.
He said: "I always stay here for your National Day, 9 August. I always have my vacation on this day."
Indeed, the number of visitors who are in town during the national festivities is increasing.
According to the Singapore Tourism Board, there was a 14 percent increase in tourist numbers in July last year, compared to the previous two years, while in August last year, it was up 16 percent.
As Singapore makes a larger footprint on the world map with the upcoming Formula One race in 2008 and the launch of the integrated resorts in 2010, it seems likely that more foreigners will want to be part of this annual experience.
- CNA/so
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