The memory of the Vietnam war lives on in the bars of Singapore. The number of bars in Singapore increased fivefold between 1965 and 1970.
.Revellers in this city have dim memories of the Vietnam war. That savage conflict ended in 1975 which was before most Singaporeans were born.
Singapore’s party scene owes a debt to the Vietnam War. It was the catalyst for Singapore’s entertainment scene. In 1965, Singapore agreed to let off-duty American soldiers visit for rest and recreation (R&R). The Americans were housed in Shelford House and Newton House. Bars sprung up in the Orchard Road area to entertain them. Some of the places are still standing.
