People and Culture of Singapore

Singapore is a city state that defies being categorized as Eastern or Western. Breaking the shackles of its colonial past, its ethnic mix of Chinese, Indians, Arabs, Malays and Eurasians got down to the task of nation building after independence in 1965. And from a nondescript trading town, it has metamorphosed today into Asia's foremost financial centre and 17th wealthiest country in the world.

However, what makes this island state such a charming destination for any traveler is the sheer variety of entertainment that it has to offer. Bubbling with life, Singapore has an exhaustive repertoire of events lined up every month -and with an equable climate to match, Singapore remains visit-worthy throughout the year.

Packed within the 704 sq km of land that Singapore occupies are a host of attractions which are not to be missed. Moving around Singapore on your own is easy, and full of surprises. Take the public transport which is convenient and relatively inexpensive, or, better still, hop on to the open Hippo bus which covers all the major spots in the city. And of course, don't miss the cable ride to Sentosa - the view is unbeatable! Trishaws are still preserved in this modern city - you can take one through Little India and Chinatown. To get a real feel of the city, however, do take a walk through Arab Street, or the Colonial District. Orchard Road too is a shopper's delight, flanked by more than 20 malls and shopping centres along its entire stretch.

Away from the towering concrete and glass structures, Singapore is fiercely protective of its history, and its flora and fauna. The Japanese War Memorial at Bukit Batok, the Kranji War Memorial, the Changi War Museum, the Selarang barracks and the Johore battery will take you down Singapore's troubled past. The National Museum traces Singapore from the 14th century, while the Asian Civilisations Museum takes you closer to pan Asian cultures. The Singapore river gallery helps the visitor understand Singapore's multi-ethnic population mix.

For nature lovers, far from the concrete and glass, you can have a quiet tête-à-tête with 9000 birds at the Jurong Park during the day, and a peek-a-boo into the night life of our wild four legged friends at the Night Safari.

Yet again, Sentosa Island, is a mouthful of entertainment from the word Go! After a very enlightening walk through the Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom, take a virtual under sea tour at the Underwater World. The Dolphin show at the Dolphin Lagoon is an hour of fun, while the Songs of the Sea is a spectacular pyrotechnics show on the sea at night.

Don't miss the 4-dimensional experience at the Sentosa 4D Magix, or the Cineblast which is a unique simulated cinema ride using an extreme 3D log ride. Other attractions are the Sentosa Luge and Skyride, the Flying Trapeze and Sijori Wondergolf.

Add to your tour the Singapore Flyer in Marina Bay - get unbelievable, ever-changing views of this beautiful island nation from your capsule in the giant observation wheel.

When it comes to food, Singapore is literally a melting pot of cuisines! Chinese, Indian, Malay, Arab and European - savor the flavors at the local hawkers, or at one of the alfresco dining restaurants along the Singapore River. If you happen to be in the city in July, tuck in at the mind-boggling assortment of cuisines at the Food Festival, and participate in the games and fun that make life in Singapore such a celebration!