Singapore
Singapore is a small island off the South coast of Peninsular Malaysia, to which it is joined by a causeway and a bridge. Shaped more or less like a diamond it is approximately 25 miles (40km) across at it's widest point (East - West) by 15 miles (24km) at it's longest point (North - South). Due to land reclamation it is continually getting bigger. Singapore is an independent nation referred to as a City State.
The island is densely populated with about 3 million people. The majority race is Chinese although there are many other races including Malays and Indians. The standard of living is high and the country is well planned, clean and organised. Singapore has a reputation for having strict rules.
All this may make it sound like an unexciting place to visit, but that is the wrong impression. The diverse cultures, cuisines, religions and the mixture of old and new architecture make it a colourful and vibrant place. As for the rules, if you consider vandalising other people's property, or spitting out your spent chewing gum, on the sidewalk / pavement, to be socially acceptable behavior, then you might not like Singapore. Otherwise it has a lot to offer.
Eating is a major pastime, the foods reflect the population mix as well as some local variations. Although there is not much room for Durian plantations in Singapore, the onset of Durian season is awaited eagerly.
High rise modern office blocks and new shopping centres sit side by side with traditional two or three storey shop houses. Temples of various religions can be found in unexpected places. There are a large number of restaurants and other eating establishments, offering just about every variety of food imaginable. There are also plenty of entertainment and shopping areas. Orchard road is one of the best known shopping areas, while Sentosa (a small island to the South of Singapore) has enough attractions to keep adults and children alike, entertained for a day or two. As well as many other attractions, the Singapore River has an increasing number of entertainment / eating establishments springing up. Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are already well established, but even more of the riverside is being developed.
Centrepoint Xmas 1990s
Centrepoint Xmas 2002
Because of the different racial and religious influences there are many celebrations throughout the year. Many shopping centres take a lot of trouble to make themselves look festive for these occasions including Christmas and Chinese New Year. To get a true impression of the size of the character in the picture below, note the girl standing by the fountains on the right hand side.
For shoppers there are many new and recently refurbished shopping centres. These are a pleasure to visit. As well as shops there are often multi screen cinemas, restaurants, games arcades and other attractions. This means that the whole visit is an entertainment experience of which shopping is just a part.
As well as a major port and one of the worlds best airports, Singapore is a centre for numerous and diverse businesses. A short boat ride (less than one hour) south brings you to the Indonesian Islands of Batam and Bintan.
In a effort to boost Singapore's image as a fun place, a new arts centre has opened (2002) called the Esplanade, which is also known locally as the "Durian", due it's resemblance to the fruit of that name. Also in 2004 the government has legalised bar top dancing and home brewing, which were previously banned.