Some 10 years back, backpackers’ hostels were unpopular in Singapore, with few willing to venture in because of the high risks involved. But Tony Tan, 41, took a leap of faith and started his business, Betel Box Backpackers Hostel & Tours. He has never looked back since. Today, the hostel has not only become a very successful and popular option among international backpackers, it also has several accolades under its belt, including the Singapore Experience Awards*. The 41-year-old told My Story he was inspired to set up a hostel while travelling in Europe a decade ago. Having been exposed to the many different cultures, he began thinking what Singapore actually meant to his fellow countrymen and how the little red dot shone on the world map. He then returned home and put his thoughts into action. But instead of choosing hot spots, he interestingly decided to set up his hostel in Joo Chiat, a relatively quiet neighbourhood. *The Singapore Experience Awards is organized by the Singapore Tourism Board and is the most prestigious award in the Singapore Tourism landscape. Betel Box was named the winner in 2009. (next) Tony explained that this area is reflective of is the Singaporean identity and he is particularly drawn to four main things here: the cultural diversity, the food, the architecture and the beach, which is nearby. “Joo Chiat is like a Little Singapore to me. The nice juxtaposition of the new and old also attracts me. This is one town, where the past, present and future of Singapore can be found altogether. It’s very interesting.” Eager to share the beauty of this neighbourhood with his hostel’s guests, Tony, who is also a member of the Singapore Heritage Society, has designed and set up tours that will allow them to understand and appreciate the district. They include the tasting of local delicacies, understanding of the different types of residential homes (e.g. colonial bungalows, HDB estates) and an insight to cultural events. (Collected from "My Story" - a MediaCorp initiative to collect Singaporeans' memories of the broadcast media and related experiences as part of national heritage in collaboration with the Singapore Memory Project.)