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HomeTopics...Asia VacationsSingapore
Singapore: A Prime Vacation DestinationSingapore is a favorite destination for Westerners vacationing in Southeast Asia. Sophisticated, modern, clean, efficient and safe, the multi-cultural and thriving city-state of Singapore has a great deal to offer.
Singapore, however, does have its critics. Dubbed somewhat unfairly "the McDonald's of Southeast Asia," as "blandly efficient," even as "boringly tasteless," such criticisms really don't amount to much and should be dismissed as largely irrelevant in the broader context of what this vibrant city has to offer as a vacation destination. And Singapore does indeed have something to offer anyone prepared to look beyond the luxury hotels, fast food outlets and skyscrapers that dominate Singapore's skyline.
Singapore: Facts & FiguresHere are a few basics to get you started:
Singapore Background HistoryAccording to ancient Malay legend, a Sumatran prince visiting the island of Temasek once spotted a strange animal that resembled a lion (although certain historians argue otherwise). The prince took this sighting as a good omen and built a city on the spot where he first caught sight of the lion-beast. He called the city Singapura or Lion City.
Throughout its colorful history, both fact and fiction have helped to create an image of Singapore as we know it today: a burgeoning city-state, a carefully-structured society and a melting pot for Chinese, Indian, Malay and European cultures. One aspect of Singapore's past that most historians agree upon is the important role played by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles (1781-1826) in shaping the thriving city-state of Singapore. In 1819 Sir Raffles bought the land that belonged at the time to the British East India Company. His aim was to establish Singapore as a key strategic port and British colony. Raffles achieved his aim, and in 1824 Singapore was ceded to the British Empire. Today, you cannot go anywhere in Singapore without being reminded of Raffles and his contribution to the development and prosperity of Singapore: Raffles Hotel, Raffles City, Raffles Landing Site, Raffles Place...the list seems endless.
Exploring SingaporeAs a vacation destination,Singapore has something to suit everyone's taste, from guided orientation tours of Singapore, Mount Faber, Chinatown and the Botanic Gardens, to the famous night safaris and the popular tourist attractions of Sentosa Island.
Sentosa IslandIf you're a sun lover in search of tropical island ambience or simply want to chill out, lie back and be entertained, then how about visiting Singapore's famous island resort and recreational playground, Sentosa Island?
Sentosa Island lies approximately 1640 feet (500 meters) off the south coast of Singapore. Originally a fishing village called Pulau Blakang Mati (meaning "island of death behind" because of its association with pirates), the island was used as a British military fortress until 1967. In 1968, the island was returned to the newly formed independent Singapore Government who was decided to develop the area as a recreational resort for use by the local people of Singapore. Sentosa Island's sole purpose is to bring leisure and luxury to a new level. Sentosa Island offers a great range of hotels, restaurants, bars, recreational activities, golf courses, watersports, themed entertainment and family-oriented pursuits for all ages.
Singapore Night SafariA Singapore night safari is a must for travelers who enjoy watching nocturnal wildlife in its natural habitat. The night safari combines guided walking tours and miniature train rides that take you in comfort and safety around the wildlife park, which is adjacent to the Singapore Zoo.
Designed specifically to be viewed in the dark, the night safari offers a unique opportunity to observe the nocturnal habits of a wide range of animals including:
If you're short on time or scared of the animals, you may prefer to take the virtual night safari tour entitled "Creatures of the Night." The show lasts for approximately forty minutes.
Independent Sightseeing in SingaporeFor independent-minded travelers, exploring Singapore couldn't be easier using the city's efficient MTR train system. Or simply take a leisurely stroll through the many parks and gardens dotted throughout the city. Shopaholics should head straight for Singapore's cosmopolitan Orchard Street or the antique shops in Chinatown.
Foot-weary travelers may prefer to relax, unwind and indulge in a little people watching. Singapore has an abundance of oh-so-inviting bars, restaurants and cafés. Renowned worldwide for its stylish restaurants and delicious cuisine, a taste of authentic local cooking is a must when vacationing in Singapore.
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