Singapore Crowned Friendliest City in the World for 2024

SINGAPORE: Singaporeans and netizens alike have taken to social media in a whirlwind of reactions after the city-state was officially named the friendliest city in the world for 2024, as per the ranking by Condé Nast Traveller, a prestigious travel publication based in New York and London.

The coveted ‘top 10 list of the friendliest cities’ was meticulously compiled based on feedback from readers who rated cities across multiple criteria, including culture, comfort, hospitality, and the overall atmosphere. Singapore emerged victorious with an impressive score of 94.84, receiving accolades for its unique mix of contemporary vibes, immaculate cleanliness, and unparalleled safety.

Condé Nast Traveller referred to Singapore as a place “famous for its financial powerhouses, pristine streets, unrivaled security standards, and now, diverse communities offering the crème de la crème of hospitality.” The city’s multicultural tapestry was highlighted as a key factor contributing to its warmth and friendliness. Travel platform Tripzilla affirmed this sentiment, emphasizing Singapore's status as a global food haven, offering an infinite variety of culinary delights to cater to all palates.

Following closely behind Singapore, Sydney, Australia, secured the second position, with Las Vegas, USA, coming in third. The list also featured vibrant cities like Bangkok (4th), Cape Town (5th), Tokyo (6th), and several others including Marrakech, Hong Kong, Chicago, and New York in the top ten.

Mixed Reactions from Locals

However, not all reactions were positive. Many locals voiced their opinions on social media, notably questioning the practicality of the accolade given Singapore's notorious high cost of living. One user humorously remarked, “But not wallet-friendly,” capturing the sentiments of those who feel the financial pinch in a city known for its luxury lifestyle.

Another echoed the sentiment, saying, “Cleanest by far, friendly, yes for sure, but it’s by far the most expensive.” Some netizens took the opportunity to argue that other cities are more deserving of the title. “No, not the friendliest,” said one commenter, adding, “Maybe one of the cleanest and safest, but definitely not the friendliest.”

A witty observation was made about the “legendary uncle and aunty on MRT,” poking fun at the famously pragmatic locals known for their straightforwardness. This humorous take depicted a contrasting side of Singapore’s character, highlighting that while the city may be rated friendly, the warmth often depends on individual encounters.

Support for Singapore’s Ranking

Nonetheless, there were many defenders of Singapore’s ranking. One enthusiast shared, “Wow, been to SG many times and met a lot of people. I can say they are friendly and also smart and quick.” This highlights the complexity of Singapore’s personality—while the city may have a reputation for strict rules and a high cost of living, numerous visitors find the locals to be kind and hospitable.

As Singapore basks in its new title, the debate continues about what friendliness truly means in a city that balances modernity with tradition. With such varying opinions, one thing is for sure: Singapore's global reputation as a travel destination remains strong, attracting tourists eager to experience its unique charm and character.