Established as a British trading colony in 1819, Singapore has evolved into one of the world's most prosperous nations since gaining independence. It is renowned for hosting the world's busiest port.
Singapore seamlessly blends the elements of a modern, affluent city—complete with skyscrapers and efficient subways—with a captivating blend of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences. All of this is set against a backdrop of tropical weather, offering delectable cuisine, excellent shopping, and a lively nightlife scene. Known as the "Garden City," Singapore serves as an ideal stopover or launching point for exploring the surrounding region.
Botanic Gardens: A peaceful retreat from the city, the Botanic Gardens feature serene walking trails, historic trees, eco gardens, bonsai gardens, and the National Orchid Garden.
Clarke Quay: Famous for its waterfront dining and entertainment options, Clarke Quay is a historic riverside quay and an ideal place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Gardens by the Bay: Escape the urban hustle and bustle in this oasis. Gardens by the Bay offers a diverse range of attractions spread across three distinct waterfront gardens, including the Cloud Forest, SuperTree Grove, and Art Sculptures.
Raffles Hotel: A visit to the renowned Raffles Hotel is a must when in Singapore. This stunning colonial-era structure stands as one of the few remaining 19th-century hotels and is a premier location to savor a classic 'Singapore Sling' at the Long Bar.
Sentosa Island: Sentosa offers a plethora of recreational activities and is a fantastic place to unwind. From its impressive aquarium and butterfly park to the exhilarating waterpark, Sentosa is the perfect destination for leisure and fun.
Singapore's location, just 1.5 degrees north of the Equator, means it typically enjoys sunny weather with no distinct seasons. Rainfall is a regular occurrence throughout the year, often in brief, intense showers that seldom endure beyond an hour. Nevertheless, the majority of rainfall happens during the northeast monsoon season, which spans from November to January and may occasionally involve extended periods of continuous rain. Impressive thunderstorms can happen at any time throughout the year, even during daylight hours, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella for both sunshade and rain protection.
Currency Singapore dollar
Language: English serves as the primary language in Singapore, but this small city-state recognizes three other official languages. These languages are Malay, Chinese, and Tamil.
What makes it special: Singapore has transformed itself into one of the world's top destinations, shedding its reputation as just a stopover city. Today, it captivates travelers with its futuristic architecture, extravagant gardens, thriving contemporary art scene set in colonial-era buildings, and an emerging coffee culture brewing in charming heritage shophouses.
Weather: Singapore, situated just 1.5 degrees north of the Equator, enjoys a predominantly sunny climate with no distinct seasons. Rain is a frequent occurrence throughout the year, often manifesting as brief but intense downpours that typically last no more than an hour. The northeast monsoon, which spans from November to January, brings the most rainfall, occasionally resulting in extended periods of continuous rain. Spectacular thunderstorms can also happen at any time during the year, so it's a good idea to carry an umbrella at all times, serving as protection from both the sun and the rain.
Social customs: Singapore, often referred to as the "Fine City" by locals, is known for its stringent enforcement of rules and regulations, often resulting in tickets and fines for minor offenses. However, since the introduction of a new government in 1990, Singapore has undergone various social reforms, including the relaxation of some of the stricter and more outdated laws. This has contributed to a more liberal and modern approach to governance in the city-state.
