Singapore
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). Esplanade, the stunning waterside arts
complex - Singapore's answer to the Sydney Opera House - sparked a
mini-renaissance in the city. Meanwhile, the Singapore Flyer, a
giant version of the London Eye, brings 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. However the upshot of this is some fantastical places
to stay which really show off the creative side of Singapore; for
futuristic fun Wanderlust and klapsons lead the
way; for those passionate about design there’s the
New Majestic, while The Scarlet excels at sexy
decadence. No suprise then that Singapore was once voted best city
destination in the Condé Nast Travel Awards. Few visitors
leave disappointed. They wander the shops, enjoy the food, the
museums, the gardens. Then they hop aboard their long-haul flight,
quietly impressed.
What's where?
- Singapore City: The unofficial food capital of Asia is clean and sparkling with wide streets, gleaming skyscrapers and a rich ethnic mix of people and architcture Read More >>










