JOURNEY THROUGH
SINGAPORE
On the surface, Singapore appears to be a brash, modern city just like many in the West. But beneath this veneer you will find a fascinating blend of Asian cultures. It is a nation at a crossroads, as Stamford Raffles realized when he ‘leased’ the island for the British in the nineteenth century. He turned the island into a thriving trading port between East and West. Mass migrations from the region and elsewhere further transformed Singapore. In 1959, the British granted Singapore self-governance. An attempt in 1963 to merge with Malaysia failed due to tensions in the alliance, thus in 1965 Singapore became an independent nation. Strong leadership led to a new and modern Singapore: safe, clean and successful—a wealthy little country with a big reputation.
Contents
Welcome to the City of the Future!
The Dynamic Melting Pot of Asia
Singapore’s Rich Colonial Heritage
Marina Bay and the Financial District
The Traditional Charms of Chinatown
Orchard Road—A Shoppers’ Paradise
Little India—Singapore’s Most Colourful District
Singapore’s Famous Botanic Gardens
Sentosa Island—A Tropical Playground
The Singapore Zoo, River Safari and Night Safari
Changi Airport—Best in the World
Singapore Food—A Gourmand’s Delight
Welcome to the City of the Future!
Singapore is hot, not just because it is nearly on the equator but because of all that is happening here. This proud nation continues to stride confidently forward in the twenty-first century.
For a country that gained full independence as recently as 1965, Singapore has come a long way. Legend has it that the island once known as Temasek was settled back in the mists of time by Sri Tri Buana, who established Singapura—the Lion City—after he sighted a leonine beast in the area. His descendants ruled for five generations until the last ruler, Parameswara, was forced to flee when the Javanese attacked. The first documentary evidence for Singapore dates from the thirteenth century, when it was a flourishing centre for trade. A slow decline followed, with jungle reclaiming the island. By the nineteenth century, seafarers who roamed the region had created a few settlements on the island and some enterprising Chinese migrants had established plantations of gambier and pepper. But the arrival of one man would change everything.
Restaurants and bars line the waterfront of Singapore, making it a scenic place to chill out after work.
A fantastic fireworks display at the world’s largest floating stage—the Float@Marina Bay—to celebrate the country’s independence day on 9 August.
The half-fish, half-lion Merlion is Singapore’s official mascot.
The world’s first Formula One night race has been held in Singapore since 2008.
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