All You Need to Know about Singapore
Singapore gained its independence from Malaysia on August 9, 1965, and what better way to celebrate its National Day than with a low-down on all things Singaporean? There’s often confusion as to whether Singapore refers to a city or country, and the answer is both. Along with Monaco and Vatican City, Singapore is one the three remaining city-states in the world. An intriguing blend of cultures—Chinese, Indian, Muslim-Malaysian, and British colonial—Singapore is one of the world’s most prosperous nations, and is the perfect place for first-time visitors to Asia. The city itself boasts plenty of green spaces, museums, and some of the finest shopping in southeast Asia, as well as an abundance of stylish restaurants and slick hotels. And if you want to get away from the concrete jungle, the real one is not too far away—the surrounding countryside with its tranquil forests and beautiful reservoirs is the perfect place to get down with nature.
Fast Facts
- Population: 5, 399, 200
- Official Languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, Tamil
- Motto: “Majulah Singapura” (“Onward, Singapore” in Malay)
Fun Facts
- Singapore, which is derived from the Sanskrit Singapura, meaning “Lion City,” got its name from a visiting Indonesian prince in the 14th century who spotted a creature he thought was a lion. In fact, lions have never been indigenous to the island!
- it’s illegal to chew gum in Singapore
- at the National University of Singapore, there’s a Coca Cola drink machine that dispenses a bottle of Coke when you hug it
- Singapore is the second most densely populated country in the world (after Monaco)
- it consists of the big island and 63 (mostly uninhabited) smaller ones
- a fish with a lion’s head (known as the Merlion) is its symbol
10 Things to Do in Singapore
By Ali O'Neill
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See the City on the Singapore Flyer
By Ali O'Neill
The largest observation wheel in the world lets you see the sights of the city on a 30-minute ride. For a truly amazing experience, you can even have dinner in your capsule.
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Have a G&T on the Veranda at Raffles
By Ali O'Neill
One of the most iconic hotels in the world, the opulent Raffles has tranquil tropical gardens, old-world bars, art galleries, boutiques, and a lobby open to the public.
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Visit the National Museum of Singapore
By Ali O'Neill
Singapore has a few excellent museums to check out, but if you're strapped for time, the National Museum–which, naturally, explores the history and culture of Singapore–should be top on your list.
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Check Out the Shops on Orchard Road
By Ali O'Neill
If you like shopping, you'll be in heaven on Orchard Road, with its high-end stores and 22 malls spread over 2 km.
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Enjoy the Nightlife at Clarke Quay
By Ali O'Neill
With its lively restaurants, bars, and clubs, Clarke Quay is an atmospheric place to enjoy a night (or day) on the town.
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Take a Trip to the Singapore Zoo
By Ali O'Neill
One of the best in the world, the Singapore Zoo is home to 2530 resident animals at last count, and offers plenty of fun experiences for all the family, like the famous Night Safari.
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Hit up Sin(gapore) City at Marina Bay Sands
By Ali O'Neill
For a little bit of Vegas in southeast Asia, be sure to check out the Marina Bay resort, which opened in 2011. You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
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Explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens
By Ali O'Neill
No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to these beautiful gardens, which were established in 1860 and open 5 am to midnight every day of the year.
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Have Fun on Sentosa Island
By Ali O'Neill
This island resort features endless opportunities for fun: from its Universal Studios Theme Park and casino to its several beaches and parks.
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Go for a Hike at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
By Ali O'Neill
Just 12 km from the city centre, the Bukit Timah is a protected rainforest with plenty of hiking and biking trails, and the chance to see some of the world's rarest insect, bird, and mammal species.
What to Eat
- Chilli crab (crab fried in a fragrant red sauce)
- Rojak (a savoury fruit salad)
- Chicken rice
- Kaya (coconut jam) on toast
- Tropical fruits, including rambutans, mangosteen, longan, lychee, durian, and mango
- Fish head curry
- Laksa (coconut-based curry soup)
What to Drink
- Singapore Sling (a cocktail created at Raffles in 1915, it’s Singapore’s national drink)
- Kopi (Singapore-style coffee, typically served with lots of sweetened condensed milk)
- Tiger Beer (Singapore’s official beer since 1932)
- Barley water
- Sugar cane juice
- Bandung (bright pink drink made of milk and rose cordial syrup)
Have you been to Singapore? What would you recommend? Let us know in the comments!
