Singapore, Singapore Hotels and City Guide

The island City State of Singapore in the Indian Ocean off the southern tip of the Malaysian peninsulalies 137km north of the equator. Consisting of 63 islands covering an area of 693 sqkm, this smallest SoutheastAsian country has a population of 4.1 million, making it the world’s second most densely populated City State after Monaco. For all this,large swathes of forest have miraculously survived in the centre of the island.

The lack of land means that skyscrapers form the cityscape, proof of its commercial success, but its many lush parks and gardens have earned it the sobriquet ‘The Garden City’. Its unique fusion of Chinese, Indian and Malaysian cultures, architecture and food, its tropical climate, excellent shopping, stylish restaurants, 24-hour coffee shops and a vibrant nightlife,ensureSingapore has much to offer. Regarded as one of the world’s great eating capitals, it is a gourmet’s delight. Singapore is an amazing success, considering the strides it has taken from a swampy British outpost and den of vice in its past.

Founded by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles as a British trading colony in 1819, it became a major port city. Singapore was conquered and occupied by the Japanese Empire from 1942-1945, after which it reverted to British control gaining full internal self-government from 1959-1963when it merged with the Federation of Malaya. This was not a happy union and Singapore was expelled from Malaysia, becoming an independent republic on 9 August 1965.

Situated at the eastern end of the Strait of Malacca separating western Malaysia and Sumatra, its strategic position resulted in the steady growth of the economy since independence resulting in it becoming the powerhouse industrial state that it is. A causeway across the narrow Johore Strait connects Singapore to the western portion of Malaysia. Today the Republic of Singapore is one of the world’s most prosperous nations boasting the world’s busiest port, one of the best airports, a highly developed free market economy and excellent international trade links.It is also a popular cruise destination.

Singapore Facts

Singapore Population: 4.48 million (Source: 2005 Singapore Census)
Singapore Area: 710.2 square kilometers or 274.2 square miles (Source: Singapore Department of Statistics)
Telephone Area Codes: Due to the small size of the island, there are no area codes. The country code is 65.
Currency: Singaporean dollar (SGD, s$, or $)
Time Zone: Standard Time Zone, UTC/GMT +8 hours. No daylight savings time (DST) adjustments for 2009.
Language: Tamil, Mandarin Chinese, Malay, and English are the official languages of Singapore. The National Language is Malay but English is used in business and conversation.
Electricity: 230 volts, 50Hz. Two parallel flat pins and grounding pin.

Singapore's 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