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Singapore is made up of not just one island but a main island with 63 surrounding islets. The main island has a total land area of 682 square km. However, its compact size belies its economic growth. In just 150 years, Singapore has grown into a thriving centre of commerce and industry. Its former role as an entrepot has diminished, as the nation has increased its manufacturing base. If there is one word that best captures Singapore, it is “unique”. A dynamic city rich in contrast and colour, you'll find a harmonious blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture here. Brimming with unbridled energy, this little dynamo in Southeast Asia embodies the finest of both East and West.
The island is warm and humid all year round, with only slight variations between the average maximum of 31 degrees Celsius and minimum of 23 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy sunbathing, swimming, sailing and other water sports. But for those who do not enjoy the tropical climate, Singapore is sheltered from the worst effects of the sun with air-conditioning in almost all of its shops, hotels, office buildings and restaurants. Rain falls throughout the year, with more consistent rain coming during the monsoon season from November to January. Showers are usually sudden and heavy, but also brief and refreshing. Light and summer clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton is best for everyday wear. Casual dress is acceptable for most situations and occasions but some establishments may require more attire. It is always advisable to check beforehand on dress codes, if any. English is the most common language in Singapore. Other languages spoken are Mandarin, Malay, Tamil and many dialects. Singapore’s Central Shopping Belt Shopping is one of the greatest pleasures in Singapore. Part of the fun is the excellent buys and great variety of shops all over the island. Delight in a bargain at a little neighborhood shop, pick up a quaint item or two as you stroll through colourful ethnic quarters, discover favourite buys of the droves who flock to our modern malls or be enthralled by the splendour of whole shopping "cities" selling everything under the sun. Singapore's Central Shopping Belt extending from Tanglin Road all the way down Orchard Road and Bras Basah Road to Marina Bay has been tagged Fifth Avenue, Regent Street, Champs-Elysees, Via Veneto and Ginza for good reason. If you're prepared to venture further afield, you can combine shopping with a little off-the-beaten track sightseeing as well. In fact, you'll discover some of the best bargains where most Singaporeans live, eat and shop - out in the heartlands of Singapore. For more information, please go to http://www.singapore.sawadee.com/shopping/shopping_orchard.htm Singapore Zoological Gardens & Night Safari Tired of having the usual breakfast? Then feast with an orang utan, the Oriental small-clawed otter, or even the reticulated python! These are just some of the many unusual escapades that await you at the acclaimed Singapore Zoo. Come up close and personal with the over 3,200 mammals, birds and reptiles and fishes at this 28-hectare “open” zoo. As the sun sets, a different world comes to life. At the Night Safari, you can look a rhinoceros in the eye, hear the howls of a pack of striped hyenas or watch giraffes glide serenely across the plain in the still of the night. More information can be found on www.zoo.com.sg Jurong Bird Park If you are looking for a quick break from the hustle and bustle of the Singapore urban lifestyle, visit the Jurong BirdPark where 9,000 colourful birds of 600 species will amaze you with their variety, shapes and sizes. More information can be found on www.birdpark.com.sg Sentosa Island Another popular attraction is Sentosa Island, for more fun in the sun. Whether it’s learning about Singapore’s World War II history at Fort Siloso or about Singapore’s various festivals at the Images of Singapore exhibits, you’ll be able to spend at least one full day exploring the island. A truly exhilarating experience also awaits you at the Underwater World, where only glass panels separate you from baby sharks, manta rays and other marine life. If you have time to linger a little longer, visit the pink dolphins at the lagoon or go on a nature trail or relax at the Central Beach over-looking the harbour. Stay on and watch the sun setting whilst sipping your favourite cocktail or beer at Sunset Bay. Spa enthusiasts will not be neglected either. They can choose to immerse in the region's first mud pools at the garden spa, Spa Botanica, in the Sentosa Resort & Spa, or check out the treatments at the Aspara - Phytomer Spa in Shangri-la's Rasa Sentosa Resort. More information can be found on www.sentosa.com.sg Little India As you step into Little India, be prepared for an assault on the senses! You will be greeted by the strong, heady scent of spices and jasmine garlands, followed by the treasure trove of silverware, brassware, wood carvings and colourful silk saris, dazzling to behold. Pick up a walking guide and start your exploration of this colourful ethnic quarter. More information can be found on www.littleindia.com.sg Geylang Serai Geylang Serai is the cultural heart of the Malay community in Singapore. At the Malay Village, go back in time and discover the traditional 'Kampung Days' lifestyle of Malays in the 1950s and 1960s! Or experience traditional Malay arts and crafts like batik painting, kite-making and kampung games such as top spinning. Please click here for more information Kampong Glam Named after the Gelam tree which used to grow in the area, Kampong Glam was the historic seat of Malay royalty in Singapore. Today, the former Istana Kampong Glam (Sultan’s palace) has been converted into a heritage museum, the Malay heritage Centre , to showcase the rich history and culture of Singapore’s Malay community. The building and architecture has been meticulously restored to retain its flavour and authenticity. Please click here for more information Chinatown Singapore's Chinatown evolved around 1821 when the first Chinese junk arrived from Xiamen, Fujian province in China. The passengers, all men, set up home around the south of the Singapore River which is known today as Telok Ayer. Chinatown’s local name - Niu Che Shui (Bullock Cart Water) arose from the fact each household at that time had to collect fresh water from the wells in Ann Siang Hill and Spring Street, using bullock-drawn carts. Please click here for more information Back to top Mosques in Singapore are currently managed by volunteers, referred to as Mosque Management Board (MMB). For more information on the various Mosques in Singapore, please go to http://www.muis.gov.sg/cms/services/MosqueLSummaryDL.aspx How to go? Take the complimentary shuttle bus services provided by The Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore and alight at Takashimaya Shopping Centre. Take a few minutes walk along Bideford Road where you will pass by Park Hotel Orchard and The Paragon before you see Al-Falah Mosque. Refer to Map below for more information.
Shuttle Services Daily complimentary bus services are provided by The Shangri-La hotel, Singapore. Bus services will take you to Central Business Districts, selected Industrial Parks and the main shopping and entertainment belt of Orchard Road. Please click here for more information on the bus schedules and bus routes.
Singapore Tourist Visitor Centers The following services and facilities are available at the Singapore Tourist Visitor Centers:
Please click here for all location of Singapore Tourist Visitor Centers Singapore Tourism Worldwide Offices Please click here for all locations of the worldwide offices |
