Singapore, Singapore Hotels and City Guide

Beautiful, exotic, modern, and sophisticated, Singapore is a premier destination for travelers all over the world. This small paradise manages to have both a world-class business sector and a lush rain forest within city limits. Once a British colony, today the Southeast Asian island is thriving as an independent nation where you will find a greatly diverse population, towering skyscrapers, one of the world’s busiest port, excellent ethnic cuisine, great shopping, and some hot, balmy weather perfect for cold drinks and long siestas.

What will tourists find in this bustling city-state? Singapore is sometimes referred to as “the Switzerland of Asia” – and not because they produce unbelievable chocolate either. The island is seen as not only neutral, but boring and sterile, predictable and safe (safe, as in you won’t find much excitement here). Nothing could be further from the truth. Singapore is one of Asia’s gems, and travelers will find delights for the eyes, ears, and especially taste buds.

Over nine million visitors flock to Singapore each year to experience the diversity of this great city. Awe-inspiring natural vistas, cultural festivals and vibrant arts communities, pristine beaches – you will find all of this and much more in this glorious island nation. Singapore is a haven for tourists and is continually striving to make their visits as enjoyable as possible. New opportunities, including exciting developments in the Marina Bay and Sentosa districts, will help you see what makes this country “Surprising Singapore.”

Singapore Facts

Singapore Districts

Singapore can aptly be called “bustling.” About four and a half million people call this 274 square mile island home, and it is second only to Monaco in population density. While the diverse population creates a feeling of vibrancy, it can also seem cramped to visitors coming from less densely populated locales. When visiting Singapore, it is helpful to have a sense of where you are going so you don’t get lost in the crowd. Though that may be a lot of fun too.

Singapore’s population is diverse: about seventy percent of the population is Chinese, and there are large Indian, Malay, and Eurasian ethnic groups. You will find neighborhoods within the city celebrating these cultures (and serving some of the best food in the region), as well as districts known for their shopping, arts, and history. Consider visiting the following districts during your travels:

Chinatown

This little enclave retains much of the old culture’s charm and variety. Explore the region’s rich religious heritage at one of the oldest mosques in the city, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple or the Sri Mariamman Temple, where Singapore’s Hindus worship. Visit one of the day spas, which offer luxurious face and body treatments, and shop for oddities and novelties at the cramped treasure troves. Revive your energy with some of the outstanding local cuisine, which features Chinese, Korean, and European-inspired fare.

The Civil District – Riverside

Nestled on the banks of the Singapore River is the Civil District, housing government offices, courts, and the thriving businesses. You will also find museums, clubs, monuments, theaters, and restaurants. Enjoy the heart of the city on foot or by boat ride.

Orchard Road

To the west of the Civil District lies Orchard Road. A shopping Mecca for tourists, Orchard Road recently spent S$40 million improving its appearance and offerings. Shop to your heart’s content at one of the many malls, get pampered at one of the relaxing spas, and indulge in Singapore’s national pastime: eating! If you’re on a budget – or would rather spend your money on fabulous designer clothes or unique Singaporean souvenirs – skip the mall food courts and head to the many hawker centers.

Bugis and Kampong Glam

East of the Civil District are Bugis and Kampong Glam, districts that hold a lot of history and have strong Muslim and Malay influences. Visitors are treated to excellent shopping and, of course, exotic cuisine.

Little India

Traveling north of Kampong Glam will take you to Little India. You will see far fewer Chinese signs and more in Hindi, Tamil, and Bengali. Visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, stroll down Serangoon Road browsing through saris and spices while a Bollywood soundtrack plays in the background.

Sentosa

You may want to visit Singapore solely for its breathtaking beaches and brilliant blue water. If so, Sentosa is a must. This island oasis boasts 3.2 kilometers of dazzling white sandy beaches dotted with coconut trees and beautiful flowering trees. Visit Siloso, Palawan, and Tanjong Beaches to relax under the hot Singapore sun. But beaches aren’t the only natural beauties to see on Sentosa; try amazing Underwater world, a spectacular oceanarium, the hands-on Nature Discovery center, the Butterfly Park, and much, much more.

East Coast

This is a predominantly residential area, with a few sites and attractions here and there. The main draws, though, are the miles of gorgeous white sandy beaches and Geylang Road. Tourists may not know much about this hidden gem, which means you may have fewer people to contend with as you sample some of the most incredible food in the country. Get a bowl of delicious coconutty Katong Laska and enjoy.

Hotels in Singapore, Singapore