What is Paradise? (Places of Paradise)

Paradise is of course a word which describes a positively otherworldly feeling toward a particular element. Paradise is also a gift. That happens when we have the same feelings around people related or unrelated to us (be it) friend or family, the food we eat, the clothes we wear or the interests we have among many other elements. Normally, Paradise is used to describe a particular place so, I wish to share here the many places that make me think of Paradise and which are the most important because when it comes to having a gift of Paradise, there are two elements that represent it, an interest we have and the place(s) that are related to that interest. It often starts with the place where these feelings were/are at their strongest, strong as they were when we felt them at a young age around other elements. The word ‘Exotic’ means feeling of Paradise.

Paradise not only denotes a positively otherworldly emotion towards various aspects but also serves as a present. It emerges from similar sentiments we hold for people, whether they are friends or family, as well as for food, clothes, hobbies, and more. Although it is commonly associated with specific locations, I aim to highlight the significant places that evoke a sense of Paradise in me. This sensation is linked to both our interests and the locations associated with those interests. Often, it originates from where these beautiful emotions initially blossomed, reminiscent of our early encounters with diverse elements. The term ‘Exotic’ represents the feeling of Paradise.

My connection to the Gift of Paradise emerged during my upbringing, but it became more pronounced during trips to Kenya and Singapore at ages 7 and 9 in 1997 and 1999 although I still was not aware of it. It was not until I turned 17 in 2007 that I truly embraced this feeling. Initially tied to Singapore as the “Singapore Feeling,” I recognized its influence on my interests, relationships with friends and family, clothing, and culinary preferences. This connection has enriched my interests like wildlife, prehistory, films, television, literature and more. While I no longer use the term “Singapore Feeling,” my Gift of Paradise is symbolized by the lion as well as the Tiger (both of whom I idolize), reflecting my profound attachment to Singapore as well as Kenya, New Zealand, Ireland, Thailand. Other places such as China, Malaysia, Uganda and Southern Africa, which I consider emblematic of Paradise also evoke paradise for me, as I believe paradise can be found anywhere in the world. Here is a list of nations that evoke this sense of Paradise.