Singapore
From Track2Asia
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Overview
Wonderful, Singapore! The Lion City...
Step into a dynamic world of color and contrast, where the blend of arts, culture, lifestyles and architecture make an enthralling, enticing brew. The diverse sounds, sights and smells Singapore has to offer will make one visit you will not forget. One can even say that it is the perfect blend of East and West – a British colony that has managed to keep its traditions and culture intact. It is modern and mystical, cosmopolitan and traditional.
It is a place where sleek skyscrapers stand in the backdrop of green parks, where discipline and neatness is the norm. You will also see that the population is as diverse – Chinese, Malays and Indians call it their home. In fact, of the 4 million population, 98% is made up of these three ethnic groups while the remaining 2% add to the diversity and include Asians, Eurasians, and Filipinos, to name a few.
History
Singapore was founded as a British trading colony in 1819. It joined the Malaysian Federation in 1963 but separated two years later and became independent. Singapore subsequently became one of the world's most prosperous countries with strong international trading links (its port is one of the world's busiest in terms of tonnage handled) and with per capita GDP equal to that of the leading nations of Western Europe.
Culture
Singapore is a modern combination of a native Malay population, third generation Chinese, and a Indian and Arab population. Since Singapore is a business hub, there are also many expatriates living in Singapore.
Shopping
Welcome to the land of first-rate shopping! Singapore is where shopping is lifted into an art form, a national passion which has gripped not just the locals but is vastly contagious to the tourists as well. Simply put, if shopping was a sport, Singapore would be in a league all its own.
Places to See
Here are some highlights and must-see places in Singapore. Judging from these, you will realize that Singapore is a unique mixture of environments, cultures and eras. There is Arab Street (with its flower essences and batiks), Little India (with its fried chapattis and pungent aroma) and Chinatown (with its temples and shops). Mix these with colonial hotspots like Raffles Hotel, Fort Canning, and Padang.
Nightlife
Singapore nightlife means fun, fun, fun!
Whether you want a spot at the karaoke, a loud boisterous place where you can just groove and shake your booty or a cozy little place where you can just unwind as you listen to the music, Singapore has all these and much more.
Weather and When to Go
Climate is not so much of an issue when you are thinking of visiting Singapore. The weather patterns vary only slightly throughout the year, with more rain during the months of November, December and January, while February is the best time to go to the beach, as this is the sunniest month.
The climate in Singapore is either hot or sizzling. After all, the equator is only 80 miles (129 kilometers) south. Average temperatures range from 26.6°C (80°F) to 30.7°C (87°F).
If you’re an avid shopper, then the best time to go would be from late May to early June, when the Great Singapore Sale is on. There are also plenty of cultural festivals throughout the year, as well as a food festival (July), film festival (April) and an arts festival (June).
Getting Around in Singapore
The public transportation in Singapore is among the world's best, so going from point A to point B in the city is quite easy and hassle free. You don’t even need to rent cars.
Getting There
Air
Changi Airport has given Singapore the distinction of being one of the largest aviation hubs in Southeast Asia. This airport provides a relaxed atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle of baggage distribution and immigration. It is very organized and efficient and will have you processed in no time.
Bus
There are air-conditioned buses plying the route between Malaysia and Singapore. The cities of origin include Malacca, Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur.
Train
Another way to go is by train. There are trains plying the route from key cities in the Malaysian western peninsula to Singapore. Key cities include Kuala Lumur and Johor Bahru.
Car
Driving to Singapore from Malaysia requires a valid Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP). Your car must also be registered in Malaysia. When you reach the borders of Singapore, apply for a VEP at the Land Transport Authority. The VEP is valid for five days and is free. This applies even for weekends and holidays.
Boat
Singapore is a major port of call and there are Asian and International cruise lines that can bring you here.
