It’s so strange to me that I was here for Singapore’s 50th birthday two years ago. At some moments, it feels like I’ve been away for ages but tonight reminded me that a year really isn’t that long. Just like two years ago, I celebrated National Day at Gardens by the Bay, which I’ve written about a few times.

While still exciting and patriotic, SG52 was much calmer than SG50. Far fewer people and much less hype.

We were able to actually move around freely to watch the nightly light show . . .

. . . and take in the fireworks.

We also ate Middle Eastern, Malaysian, Chinese, and Singaporean food at Satay by the Bay. We felt pretty darn inclusive in a country that spends National Day highlighting unity.

Here’s to another year, Singapore!