Having lived in the United States a

Having lived in the United States and Thailand, the owner of fashion boutique Front Row at Raffles Hotel is thankful for Singapore's political stability.
"I have family in Thailand, and this past year has been a huge ordeal not knowing what will happen," said the 38-year-old American citizen and Singapore permanent resident.
The mother of two young daughters also told The Straits Times in a phone interview that the safety of the country makes it "liveable", with "honest" and "transparent" people to boot.
"People are more straightforward here. They can take constructive criticism well," she said. "In other cultures, you have to be more mindful."
Ann recommends:
- Strolling or biking at Gardens by the Bay
Ann has taken visitors from Korea, Thailand, Hong Kong and China here, and they have appreciated the greenery and clean air.
"It's better than what they have at home. They told me, oh my god, I can breathe here," she said, chuckling.
About once or twice a month, Ann and her Singaporean husband also take their daughters cycling here. "I like that you can have family activities here, and it's free," she said. "It's man-made, but it's beautiful and well-maintained."
- Eating along East Coast Road
It might be an understatement to say that the Tanjong Katong resident is a fan of Singapore's food, especially when she gets excited talking about Ampang Yong Tau Foo, Mei Yuen Roast Duck and 328 Katong Laksa.
These food institutions, all conveniently located along the same stretch of road, is her "good excuse" to splurge on food when she has visitors. "I buy all of these for them to try. It tastes so good."
- Visiting Raffles Hotel
No place has been closer to her heart than this iconic five-star hotel.
In 2001, before getting married, Ann and her husband had a date at the Tiffin Room restaurant, which later inspired her to set up her store there.
"I remember thinking 'wow'. It was so grand. I like the history behind it, the colonial architecture, how it has retained its old floor plan and fixtures," she said.
"Everything is changing so quickly in Singapore. But I like to step back into Raffles Hotel and feel like time has stood still," she added.
"It has that air of romanticism, of a bygone era. You don't see that a lot anymore in Singapore."