Joanna James
The entrancing city-state of Singapore offers a myriad of engrossing attractions for the visitor. In fact, there are many reasons to visit this captivating city, including those described below.
Despite the fact that Singapore is undoubtedly considered to be a prosperous state, perhaps the most popular way to experience its delectable culinary traditions would be to eat out at its myriad of hawker centres. This is the term used for the al fresco food courts which serve up Chinese, Malay, Indian, Thai, Western and Peranakan foods, cheap and fast. At the hawker centres of Singapore, you will have the opportunity to experience a true taste of the multi-ethnic local culture and its various culinary traditions. Meanwhile, the culinary options become even better during festivities such as the Chinese New Year, Ramadan and the Singapore Food Festival.
Although Singapore is geographically small, it features a remarkable combination of different Asian traditions and cultures. In Singapore you will find the different ethnic communities living harmoniously side-by-side, each having a specific enclave as well as popular festivals. The Chinese community is based in Chinatown, with festivities during the Chinese New Year making it particularly attractive at this time. The Malay nobility was based in what is now Kampong Glam, which is representative of this ethnic group. On the other hand, the Indian Tamil community has its roots in Little India which is especially vibrant during holidays like Deepavali and Thaipusam.
Singapore benefits from a central, highly accessible location within southeast Asia which makes it an excellent air, sea or land stopover for travellers who desire to explore other regional destinations. Many flights from global cities arrive at Singapore's main airport, Changi, from where you will be able to access many destinations in Southeast Asia. On the other hand, other parts of Asia can also be reached via Singapore, as bus services, ferry services and railway links connect the city-state with other destinations in Asia. Meanwhile, even if you have a lengthy layover in Singapore there is no reason to worry as the city-state has a host of interesting things to do that will make your stay an agreeable one.
Over the course of time Singapore has evolved into a favoured playground for the rich and elite people of the world. Just as many of the world's leading businesses have invested in Singapore, a selection of the world's top luxury names have also made their presence felt in the city-state. This is reflected in the restaurants of the city with the dining options becoming increasingly upmarket, with a gradual change taking place from the hawker scene. Similarly, you will find luxury brands such as Prada, Bulgari and Louis Vuitton at new shopping complexes like those at Marina Bay Sands. If you would be interested in centrally located hotels in Serangoon Road, Singapore from which Marina Bay Sands would be within easy reach, an accommodation choice to consider would be Park Hotel Farrer Park.
Singapore is rightfully renowned as a wonderland for shoppers, with a myriad of splendid shopping options available in different parts of the city-state. For an authentic taste of the Indian subcontinent drop in at Little India and browse through the spices, jewellery and saris. On the other hand make sure to try out Holland Village where you will find outstanding antiques, craft items, glassware, linen, clothing, furniture, pottery, CDs and much more. Meanwhile, your shopping tour of Singapore would not be complete without visiting localities such as Orchard Road, Chinatown, City Hall, Riverside and Bugis.
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