Singapore is known by many as the "Lion City" and is in the shape of a diamond, located off the southern tip of Malaysia. It was founded by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819 as a fishing village and has evolved into a dynamic modern and prosperous city. Singaporeâs population consists of a mix of races including Chinese, Malaysians and Indians who all reside harmoniously together; there is also a large expat community. English is predominantly spoken in Singapore.
Singapore is a city that has embraced the modern world in both technology and architecture which, is evident from the skyscrapers that adorn the skyline however, traditional temples can still be found in the city.
Throughout the year there is a constant flow of festivals and events marking the different cultures and religions of its inhabitants, one of the most renowned being the Deepavali Celebrations which, runs from 1 October to 13 November. During this period the area known as Little India is completely transformed.
There are laws in Singapore that the average traveller should know about including not littering. Singapore has some of the harshest laws for petty acts. If you improperly discard a cigarette or are caught jay walking it could earn you an on the spot fine. Overall Singapore is an exciting, vibrant and dynamic city to explore and has some of the worldâs finest architecture together, with fantastic cuisine ranging from Asian to International.
Singapore 0409 Tel: +65 275 0388
Cable-cars and ferries run from the World Trade Centre to this former military base half a kilometre (one third of a mile) offshore. Attracting over three and a half million visitors each year, it is Singapore's most popular attraction. The island has a wide variety of museums, sites and activities including South-East Asia's largest oceanarium, a nineteenth century British fort complete with bunkers, tunnels and gun emplacements, a Butterfly Park and an Insectarium. Open: Monday to Thursday 7:30 am to 11:00 pm; Friday to Sunday until midnight.
Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, Singapore 628925 Tel: +65 265 0022
Home to 8000 birds from nearly 600 species, the Jurong Bird Park features a two hectare (five acre) walk-in aviary and a simulated rainforest thunderstorm, held at noon each day. Open: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; from 8:00 am Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
West Coast Highway, Singapore 118628 Tel: +65 774 0300
About ten kilometres (six miles) west of the city, the Haw Par Villa was originally built by the Aw brothers with the profits from their wonder salve, Tiger Balm. It is a theme park of Chinese mythology with older exhibits of legendary figures and tableaux, recently renovated and reopened as 'Dragon World' featuring multimedia displays and flume rollercoaster rides. Open: Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Featured Singapore Hotel - Goodwood Park Hotel
Goodwood Park Hotel, designated a national monument in 1989, has been a distinctive landmark in Singapore since the property was built in 1900 as a Teutonia Club. The hotel's historical heritage has been faithfully restored to revive its timeless European charm and elegance. Perched atop its own hill, the Goodwood Park Hotel's lush landscapes and low-rise colonial architecture exudes its own grandeur of a distinguished hotel. Guests are transported into a world of old world charm and state-of-the-art hospitality amidst the modern comforts in the heart of the city.
Reflecting a sophisticated yet classical atmosphere, the spacious guest rooms offer a cosy and comfortable retreat. Each of the 234 luxuriously appointed guest rooms offer dual line phones, in-room safe, in-house movies and multi-channel radio, mini bars, hair dryers, bedroom & pool slippers, coffee and tea making facilities and cable TV. A cordial and attentive staff is on-site to assist you with any needs that you might require. The hotel is just minutes away from dining, shopping and entertainment venues.
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Featured Singapore Hotel - Goodwood Park Hotel
