Singapore: Overview

Why go?

Singapore is one of the world's great cities – a regional centre for the arts and an archetypal melting pot of cultures and cuisines. It is the unofficial food capital of Asia, with sublime street food and an exciting range of restaurants serving the gamut of world cuisine. It is a surprisingly green place, too, fully worthy of its tag-line ‘Garden City of Asia’, with dozens of immaculate gardens to explore and even a patch of virgin rainforest full of birds and monkeys.

Shopping, believe it or not, is no longer Singapore's raison d'être (though opportunities for restocking your wardrobe remain better than ever). The unveiling of a stunning waterside arts complex – Singapore's answer to the Sydney Opera House – has sparked a mini-renaissance in the city. Meanwhile, development of the Singapore Flyer, a giant version of the London Eye, is sure to bring further attention to the little city-state.

Despite its obvious attractions, Singapore is still trying to throw off its old reputation for being a little dull and sterile. Perhaps it has something to do with the litter-free streets, the seamless transport system and the general sense of well-being that pervades the place? Singapore has no ragged edges, that's for sure, and for that reason lacks the kind of scruffy charm we associate with other major cities. Either way, Singapore was recently voted best city destination in the Condé Nast Travel Awards. Few visitors leave disappointed. They wander the shops, they enjoy the food, the museums, the gardens. Then they hop aboard their long-haul flight, quietly impressed.

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Activities

*Raffles Hotel: the iconic symbol of colonial Singapore, and home of the Singapore Sling

*Singapore Botanic Gardens: an oasis of immaculate lawns, gardens and trees on the edge of the city centre

*'Theatres on the Bay': a striking glass and aluminium arts venue on the newly developed Esplanade

*Pulau Ubin: a sleepy little island that makes a peaceful day's retreat from downtown Singapore

*Asian Civilisations Museum: a fascinating high-tech tour through the region's history and culture

*Shopping: the Orchard Road has retail outlets of all kinds, even a 24 hour shopping centre, for all the latest gear

*Ethnic Diversity: the melding of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures have created vibrant restaurants, fascinating markets and streetscenes

*Get Close to Nature: in the Jurong Bird Park and open concept Zoo - both delight in large spaces and new approaches to conserving wildlife

*Party On: Singapore never really sleeps, so join in the fun

	Overview
	Places to Stay
	What's Where
	Singapore City
	Background Info
	Travel Tips
	Getting There
	Getting Around
	When to Go