Leaving my home country for the first time as a university student was both thrilling and nerve-wracking. As I stepped off the plane at Changi Airport, I was filled with anticipation. It was December 2016, during my final year of university, and I arrived in Singapore to attend the Strata + Hadoop World Conference—an event that promised to be a turning point in my professional journey. The conference, held from December 5th to 8th, was a global gathering of data enthusiasts, engineers, and thought leaders, and I was eager to immerse myself in this world of innovation. However, beyond the conference halls, Singapore itself left an indelible mark on me, shaping my aspirations and setting the stage for a future I hadn’t fully imagined.
A First Impression That Lasts
From the moment I arrived, Singapore’s efficiency and modernity struck me. The airport immigration process was seamless, and within minutes, I was on the MRT, heading toward my accommodation in Kovan. The cityscape unfolded before me—a blend of sleek skyscrapers and lush greenery, all impeccably organized. As a tech professional, I appreciated the seamless integration of technology into everyday life: cashless payments, real-time transport tracking, and an underlying sense of order that made navigating the city effortless.
The Strata + Hadoop World Conference: A Catalyst for Growth
The Strata + Hadoop World Conference in Singapore was an enriching experience. Walking into the conference hall, I was surrounded by professionals from diverse backgrounds, each engaged in discussions about big data, machine learning, and emerging technologies. The sessions were intellectually stimulating, covering topics from real-time IoT analytics to high-efficiency AI and machine learning distributed systems.
One of the most memorable moments was attending a keynote on developing a modern enterprise data strategy, where industry leaders shared insights into how large-scale companies manage data at an unprecedented scale. The knowledge I gained from these discussions was not just theoretical—it had direct applications to my work in software engineering. The conference also provided me with the opportunity to network with experts and potential mentors, some of whom I still stay in touch with today.
Discovering the City Beyond the Conference
Despite a packed schedule, I made it a point to explore Singapore beyond the conference. I visited Clarke Quay, Google Singapore, Gardens by the Bay, the Singapore Flyer, and the Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck. During my time in Sentosa, I enjoyed exciting activities such as the Sentosa Segway ride, exploring the SEA Aquarium, and visiting the Wax Museum.
I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Sri Lankan crab is considered a delicacy in Clarke Quay. The unique spices and cooking techniques used to prepare it truly highlight the vibrant food culture of the region. It was fascinating to see how crabs from Sri Lanka had found their place and admiration in CQ, showcasing the beauty of cultural exchange through cuisine.
My first stop was the iconic hawker centers, where I had my first taste of local kopi and kaya toast—a simple yet delightful combination that resonated with my love for coffee culture. As I explored the different kopi variations, I realized how helpful it would be to have an app guiding people through Singapore’s diverse kopi culture. This idea stayed with me, and years later, I brought it to life by creating my own kopi guide app, Kopi Today. The app now helps visitors explore Singapore’s kopi culture with confidence, making it easier for them to discover and enjoy the many variations of this beloved local beverage. The multicultural vibrancy of the city was evident in the variety of cuisines available, from Hainanese chicken rice to Indian roti prata, all in one place.
Walking through the streets of Chinatown and Little India, I was fascinated by how different cultures coexisted so harmoniously. The meticulous urban planning ensured that historical shophouses stood side by side with modern developments—a testament to Singapore’s ability to preserve its heritage while embracing the future.
One of the most memorable dining experiences I had in Singapore was at Ocean Restaurant. Located within the SEA Aquarium, the restaurant offered a stunning underwater view, making for a truly unique atmosphere. Enjoying a meal while surrounded by marine life was a surreal experience, blending fine dining with the mesmerizing beauty of the ocean. The fresh seafood and expertly crafted dishes further enhanced the experience, making it one of the highlights of my trip.
Visiting Google Singapore was an incredible experience that I will always cherish. As I stepped into the sleek, modern office, I was immediately struck by the vibrant atmosphere and innovative design. The collaborative spaces and cutting-edge technology showcased Google’s commitment to fostering creativity and teamwork. It was inspiring to see how the company operates, and I enjoyed learning about their various projects and initiatives. The visit not only deepened my appreciation for the tech industry but also motivated me to explore new possibilities in my own career.
A Glimpse into the Future
By the time the conference ended, I realized that my connection with Singapore had grown beyond just attending a professional event. The city’s emphasis on innovation, its tech-forward mindset, and its commitment to sustainability resonated deeply with me. It was more than just a great place for a conference—it felt like a place where I could see myself thriving in the long run.
Fast forward a few years, and Singapore is now my home. That initial visit to the Strata + Hadoop World Conference played a significant role in shaping my career trajectory and personal aspirations. What started as a short trip for a tech event eventually led me to build a life in this dynamic city, embracing the opportunities it offers.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, my first visit to Singapore was more than just a professional milestone; it was the beginning of a journey. It taught me that sometimes, a single event or experience can set off a series of life-changing decisions. If you ever get the chance to attend a conference in a new city, take it—not just for the knowledge but for the unexpected doors it may open.
Cover Image attribution: https://flickr.com/photos/oreillyconf/31344044840/in/album-72157675768107092
