Take a trip to Singapore
Singapore is an island city state in south-east Asia and is now completely independent, having broken free from British and Malaysian rule five decades ago. It is a thoroughly modern country, admired for its innovation and known for its diverse population, with the port remaining one of the busiest in the world.The country is made up of 63 islands, with two man-made connections to Malaysia. It is actually growing in size thanks to land reclamation projects, with some islands being merged to form more functional masses.
Singapore's tropical rainforest climate means there are no distinctive seasons, uniform temperature and pressure throughout the year, high humidity and abundant rainfall. May and June are generally the hottest months, with monsoons usually seen in November and December.
The country is increasing in popularity, with visitor numbers up by a fifth in April, according to the Singapore Tourism Board. Visitors are making the most of the very latest attractions, including the Singapore Flyer - the country's bigger version of the London Eye.
Getting around Singapore
Singapore's domestic transport infrastructure features a well-connected island-wide road transport system used by the bus service and reasonably-priced taxis. A light rail system is also in place for public transport needs, making getting around Singapore effortless.
Holidaymakers in Singapore can use the EZ-Link card to pay their fares on the buses and trains, or make the most of a Singapore Tourist Pass, which also gives discounts on attractions.
Renting a car is an option but not necessarily the best way to see and experience Singapore. Those who really want to get involved in the Singaporean way of life should get around by foot or on bicycle.
Sporty Singapore
Sport is important to the people of Singapore, be it a leisurely game of golf or adrenaline-packed motorsports, and it is more than simply a hobby to many.
The Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix returns to the Marina Bay street circuit for the third time this September. Held as night falls over the city, it has quickly become a favourite among drivers and fans. This year, spectators will also be treated to two support races.
In August, the Youth Olympic Games take place in Singapore, with the country being chosen for the new event because of its reputation as a home to millions of sports fanatics.
Singapore lifestyle
The two new casinos in Singapore are already a big draw for visitors and residents, having been open for just a few weeks. Marina Bay Sands is the larger and swankier option, while Resorts World Sentosa is more family-friendly.
Visitors looking for Singapore culture should head to the Riverside area for museums and theatres, Chinatown or Little India, or Geylang Serai - the true home of the country's Malays.
Shoppers should head to Orchard Road or Bugis and Kampong Glam, while people wanting a relaxing Singapore holiday can take advantage of the blossoming spa sector, with most five-star hotels offering treatments from straightforward massages to green tea hydrotherapy.
Eating out in Singapore is second-to-none, with each culture bringing its own cuisine to the country, resulting in a true melting pot of delicacies. You will find Chinese and Thai restaurants alongside Italian and French eateries.
Nightlife is also a real treat, with many 24-hour clubs and bars, a harbour scene to rival that of Monaco and a love of karaoke.
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