Singapore – an island city with its own cultural heritage, ethnic distinct neighbourhoods and gleaming skyscrapers.
Travel to Singapore, where the (Mer) Lion City is both an island and a city. Here, Asian tradition meets modern technology, gleaming skyscrapers tower over traditional architecture, while squat Chinese and Hindu temples stud the city. The city is home to an ethnic mix of Chinese, Malaysians and Indians, as well as business professionals from all over the world, in a predominantly English-speaking society. To the casual observer, Singapore appears to be a clean and orderly mass of shopping malls. But the curious who dig deep will find that the cultures of the original settlers are still very much alive and well in this truly multicultural melting pot.
Singapore’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage has created a number of excellent museums and thriving, ethnically distinct neighborhoods. Chinatown and Little India still retain some of their original cultural relevance for Singaporeans while attracting foreign visitors who marvel at the endurance of cultural identity. A wander through any of the city’s neighbourhoods will reveal Taoist temples, Muslim mosques and Christian churches cohabitating peaceably side by side. Cultural intermingling has also produced unique Eurasian and Peranakan (Straits Chinese) cultures, each with its own fashion, furnishings and food. And with so much cultural diversity, dining in Singapore is varied and good—gastronomic experiences range from the finest Continental cuisine to delicious local dishes served in an open-air hawker centre with plastic chopsticks. Small wonder Singaporeans love to eat.
Known for its desire to become the technology hub of Asia, Singapore is the most wired country in the region.
Advisor tips for Singapore
Resorts
Sentosa Island Resort
Excellently located island resort close to city centre by cable car or taxi. Good for family stays with easy access to beaches. 5 star service with spa facilities. I recommend upgrading to a suite for additional comfort. Good alternative for aSingaporestopover. – Paul
Must Do Experiences
Eastern & Oriental Express Train – from Bangkok to Singapore via Kuala Lumpur
Luxury train travel at its best – Paul
