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Singapore <Previous Page Singapore is an island-state south of Malaysia peninsula connected to by a bridge to the Malaysia's Johor state. Founded as a British trading colony in 1819, since independence it has become one of the world's most prosperous countries, sporting the world's busiest port. Singapore is arguably the Far East's most vibrant city - a dazzling fusion of old and new, rooted in a rich heritage. Few places can match its mosaic of fascinating contrasts. In one day can be seen a Hindu fire-walking ceremony, a lively Chinese opera, or a walk along the colourful streets of Little India, Chinatown or Kampong Glam, to experience one of the many festivals on Singapore's packed events calendar. From designer shopping to serene parks and nature reserves, there is always plenty to see and do. Its mix of cultures ensures the culinary scene is eclectic yet distinct - whether it's a snack from a roadside stall, or a three-course dining experience at one of Singapore's elegant cutting-edge restaurants. The sheer limitless variety makes this city truly unique and makes a great stopover or springboard into the region. Food, Shoping and Entertainment - Singaporean food is legendary, with bustling hawker centres and 24-hour coffee shops offering cheap food from all parts of Asia, and shoppers can bust their baggage allowances in shopping meccas like Orchard Road and Suntec City. In recent years some societal restrictions have also loosened up, and now you can bungee jump and dance on bartops all night long, although alcohol is very pricey and chewing gum can only be bought from a pharmacy. Gambling casinos will be opening up in about 2009 as part of Singapore's new Fun and Entertainment drive, the aim being to double the number of tourists visiting and increasing the length of time they stay. Watch out for more loosening up in the future. Beaches - Head to one of the three beaches on Sentosa. Other beaches include the East Coast and the Southern Islands (boat service from World Trade Centre). Culture and cuisine - See Chinatown for Chinese treats, Little India for Indian flavors and East Coast for delicious seafood and its famous chilli crabs and black pepper crabs. History and museums - The area north of the Singapore River is Singapore's colonial core, with historical buildings and museums. Check-out: Asian Civilisations Museum - One of Singapore's newest, largest and best-presented museums. As the name hints, all of Asia is covered in the scope, although naturally there is an emphasis on the cultures near and in Singapore. Note that ACM's second branch at Armenian St was closed permanently in 2005. A new Perenakan Museum will take its place, but will not open before 2008. Battle Box, Fort Canning Park - The former HQ of the British army during World War 2, now turned into an air-conditioned museum complete with animatronic figures retelling the events of the days before surrender. Singapore Art Museum - Modern art from both Singapore and the region. The permanent collection is lackluster, but exhibitions can be interesting. Guided tours in English at 11 AM, 2 PM. About $3, free Friday evenings 6-9 PM. Singapore History Museum - 93 Stamford Road. Closed for renovations until the end of 2006. Nature and wildlife - The Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, Jurong Bird Park and Botanic Gardens are all in the North and West section. Skyscrapers and shopping - The heaviest shopping mall concentration is in Orchard Road, while skyscrapers are clustered around the Singapore River, but also check out Bugis to see where Singaporeans shop. Back To Previous Page Add This To Your Own Tailor Made Holiday

© 2005 Elegant Travels - trading name of  Elegant Travels Ltd. The air holidays and flights shown are ATOL Protected by the Civil Aviation Authority, and we act as retail agents for licensed tour operators; the relevant ATOL numbers and invoices are given with your booking. In the unlikely event of tour operator insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to the tour operator for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. This protection only covers holidays that originate in the U.K.