Meaning: This quote by David Attenborough provides insight into the experience of traveling to places like Bangkok or Singapore in the past. Attenborough, a renowned journalist and naturalist, reflects on the challenges of reaching these destinations and the stark contrast between the arduous journey and the seemingly underdeveloped state of the places upon arrival.

Attenborough's use of the phrase "a hell of a sweat" captures the physical and emotional exertion involved in traveling to these locations during the time period he is referring to. The phrase conveys a sense of struggle and difficulty, suggesting that the journey to Bangkok or Singapore was not an easy one. This characterization aligns with the historical context of travel before the era of modern air travel and advanced transportation infrastructure.

The subsequent statement, "but when you got there it was the back of beyond," further emphasizes the disparity between the effort expended to reach these destinations and the perceived lack of development upon arrival. The expression "back of beyond" typically connotes a remote or isolated location, hinting at Attenborough's impression of the primitive or rudimentary nature of the places he encountered.

Attenborough's description of "a series of small tin sheds" paints a vivid picture of the modest and unassuming infrastructure that greeted travelers upon their arrival in Bangkok or Singapore. This imagery suggests a lack of modern amenities and a relatively undeveloped urban landscape compared to what travelers might have been accustomed to in more established cities at the time.

It's important to consider the historical context in which Attenborough's observations were made. The quote likely reflects the state of Bangkok and Singapore during a period of limited industrialization and economic development, possibly before the rapid urbanization and modernization that transformed these cities in later decades. During the mid-20th century, when Attenborough was likely referring to, both Bangkok and Singapore were still emerging from colonial rule and were in the process of modernizing their infrastructure and urban environments.

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, experienced significant growth and transformation in the latter half of the 20th century, evolving into a bustling metropolis with modern amenities, skyscrapers, and a thriving tourism industry. Similarly, Singapore underwent a remarkable economic and urban development process, emerging as a global financial hub and a model of modern urban planning and infrastructure.

Attenborough's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of time and human endeavor. The contrast he observed between the arduous journey and the seemingly underdeveloped destinations underscores the dynamic nature of urban development and the capacity of cities to evolve and progress over time.

In conclusion, David Attenborough's quote offers a glimpse into the past experiences of traveling to places like Bangkok or Singapore, highlighting the challenges of reaching these destinations and the initial impressions of their urban landscape. It serves as a testament to the transformative power of urban development and the evolution of cities over time.