Singapore

The earliest known mention of Singapore was a 3rd century Chinese account which described Singapore as "Pu-luo-chung" ("island at the end of a peninsula"). Little is known about the island's history at this time but this matter-of-fact description belies Singapore's colourful past. By the 14th century, Singapore had become part of the mighty Sri Vijayan empire and was known as Temasek ("Sea Town").

This was no less accurate than the 3rd century name. Located at the natural meeting point of sea routes at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore had long known visits from a wide variety of sea craft, from Chinese junks, Indian vessels, Arab dhows and Portuguese battleships to Buginese schooners.

During the 14th century, this small but strategically-placed island had earned a new name - "Singa Pura", or "Lion City". According to legend, a visiting Sri Vijayan prince saw an animal he mistook for a lion and Singapore's modern day name was born. The British provided the next notable chapter in the Singapore story. During the 18th century, they saw the need for a strategic "halfway house" to refit, feed and protect the fleet of their growing empire, as well as to forestall any advances by the Dutch in the region. It was against this political backdrop that Sir Stamford Raffles established Singapore as a trading station. The policy of free trade attracted merchants from all over Asia and from as far afield as the United States and the Middle East. By 1824, just five years after the founding of modern Singapore, the population had grown from a mere 150 to 10,000.

In 1832, Singapore became the centre of government for the Straits Settlements of Penang, Malacca and Singapore. The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 and the advent of telegraph and steamship increased Singapore's importance as a centre for the expanding trade between East and West.

Singapore had been the site of military action in the 14th century when it became embroiled in the struggle for the Malay Peninsula between Siam (now Thailand), and the Java-based Majapahit Empire.

Five centuries later, it was again the scene of significant fighting during World War II Singapore was considered an impregnable fortress, but the Japanese overran the island in 1942. After the war, Singapore became a Crown Colony. The growth of nationalism led to self-government in 1959 and on 9 August 1965, Singapore became an independent republic.

The Merlion

The Merlion is considered to be the mascot of Singapore. It is said to be a mythical beast which is half lion and half fish. It symbolizes courage, resilience and strength of the citizens of Singapore. If you are interested to see this Merlion, there is a 8 meter high status standing at the mouth of the famous Singapore River.

Getting there : Walk along the riverfront from the Raffles Place MRT Station.

China Town

Singapore’s Chinatown has got to be one of the most popular places in the whole of Singapore. It started back in the 1820s when the first Chinese trader from Xiamen, China, set foot on the island. If you happen to travel to this area, you will notice that it has a lot of colours and there’s a unique atmosphere in the place. It is also a very prosperous commercial area. During the Chinese New Year celebration, expect to see a lot of traditional Chinese food and be amazed by the colourful decorations of Chinatown.

Getting there : Take a short walk from Outram Park or Chinatown MRT Stations

Clarke Quay

This is a very popular hangout place for those interested in Singapore’s city nightlife. In this area, you can find a lot of air-conditioned shop houses, push-carts selling mementos, bars, discos and restaurants. Besides there, you can also find a large variety of handicrafts and souvenirs here. A perfect place for shoppers and diners alike.

Getting there : Head to the Riverfront from Clarke Quay MRT Station

Sentosa Island

The Sentosa Island is Singapore’s premier island resort getaway with plenty of attractions and filled with events all year round. You can enjoy the Volcano Land, the Orchid Garden, the musical fountain, the wonderful golf course, beaches or just laze around the beautiful beaches.

Getting there : You can walk there via the causeway bridge near VivoCity, take the Sentosa Express train (links HarbourFront, VivoCity and St. James Power Station to Sentosa), travel by car, taxi, public bus (Telok Blangah Road and then change to Sentosa Bus at HarbourFront Bus interchange), or just take the MRT and stop at HarbourFront MRT Station. You can also choose to take the cable car service if you’re not afraid of height.

Jurong Bird Park

The Jurong Bird Park is famous for its open-concept bird park which houses more than 600 species of birds. It is also the largest of its kind in Asia Pacific and has the world’s tallest man-made waterfall. Remember to check out the events in order to attend the world-class All Star Bird Show which the park is famous for.

Getting there : Take the MRT to Boon Lay MRT Station and then take the SBS bus 194 or 251.

Orchard Road

Orchad Road has to be one of the most happening places in the whole of Singapore due to its role as the commercial main street of the city. It is a heaven for shoppers. The central shopping area is concentrated on Orchard Road and stretches about 2.5 kilometres long. It is also believed to have one of the largest concentration of shopping malls in the world.

Getting there : You can take a bus, taxi or just drive there. Or you can also take the MRT and stop at Orchard MRT Station.