On Staycations

After spending over four years in Australia where I completed my bachelor's degree, I came back to Singapore missing one thing more than ever - Space. One of the greatest luxury I enjoyed during my time there was the abundance of space. It was not just about the physical emptiness across the country but also the perception of emotional capacity. 

Space in Singapore is extremely defined with limited land space and a growing global population. The energy of the society with its residents placing importance on attributes that I do not personally identify myself with, has taken a negative toll on my general contentment. People who know me well enough know I ramble on about the benefits one can enjoy overseas. Finding space to be yourself is difficult in Singapore. Since it's a small country with generally limited things to do on weekends, we often bump into friends and acquaintances on the streets. As a result of that, I believe that we are constrained to be our public self. Whilst I am not insinuating that we all are hypocrites, being only agents of good and acceptable behaviour, there is some semblance to some extent. Being alone in a foreign environment empowers you to be someone different. Although it is debatable as to whether this newly found potential can entrust you into being some one "better" or "worse" in the eyes of the public, it allows you to dig deep and learn more about yourself. 

Staycations in my opinion, allows you to do that. It puts in you a familiar surrounding in a different context. The busy Orchard road has now been transformed into your temporary surroundings in you temporary home. This makeshift residence now offers you peace and silence away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whilst the degree of empowerment is reduced in Singapore, it presents an opportunity for a mental hiatus. 

 

“I believe one has to escape oneself to discover oneself.”  -  Rabih Alameddine