Singapore, or the Lion City, is at the crossroads of Asia. Its mix of Chinese, Indian, and Malay cultures, spiced with Western influences, creates a wonderful blend and this small country celebrates the uniqueness of each in its own special way. It is one of the popular holiday destinations in the world. Today, the districts designated by the former British colonists for the ethnic groups are still in use, with Chinatown and Little India thriving as religious and cultural centres and yet, no matter what their ethnic background, each citizen calls themselves a Singaporean.
Singapore has capitalized on its energy, enterprise and skills of its inhabitants to create something approaching a tourist mecca. Although many tourists only stop over for a couple of days, in transit to somewhere else, many are beginning to stay longer. At first glance, Singapore appears shockingly ultra modern and anonymous, but this is an undeniably Asian city where Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions from feng shui to ancestor worship create part of the everyday landscape and the
colorful contrasts that bring the city to life.
There are varieties of sightseeing in Singapore. This is a city where the first impression is that of man's achievements; the efficient and aesthetically pleasing Changi Airport is regarded as the world's best airports. But here, world firsts are becoming commonplace, for example Suntec City has the biggest man-made fountain, the Night Safari is the first night zoo and the world's highest man-made waterfall, at 30m (98ft), is at Jurong Bird Park in Singapore.
If you can withstand Heat and humidity, the most efficient way to get to know local culture is on foot, especially around Chinatown, Little India and Geylang Serai in the heart of the city. These areas especially illustrate how Singapore's successful economy is based upon ancient traditions, rituals and beliefs. It is usually this combination that entices people, but for a healthy dose of pure consumerism and entirely modern architecture, Orchard Road is ideal.
For more options of sightseeing in Singapore you can head towards the "Arab Street", this is the Muslim centre of Singapore. The Sultan Mosque dominates the area, a fantastic building with its impressive gold dome and vast prayer hall. Arab Street itself is a riot of colorful textiles from all over Asia at very low prices. The Asian Civilizations Museum Opened in 1997,is a museum which mounts cultural and anthropological exhibits covering the major civilizations of China, India and Southeast
Asia, from prehistory to the present day.
The Botanic Gardens is another place for sightseeing in Singapore. These world-famous tropical gardens are definitely worth a visit. Visitors can enjoy lush greenery and a beautiful orchid garden in the heart of the city. It is located at the intersection of Holland Road and Napier Street.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Singapore is one of only two cities in the world to have a significant area of primary rain forest within its boundaries the other being Rio de Janeiro. This 81-hectare reserve is only 12 km from the city centre. At the heart of the reserve lies Singapore's highest point Bukit Timah Hill at 162.5 m above sea level. Well-marked paths lead through the jungle. Along the way, walkers can enjoy exotic birds, butterflies, inquisitive monkeys, squirrels, flying lemurs and other wildlife. This is a wonderful sightseeing in Singapore.
Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom Museum houses thousands of exotic, colorful butterflies which flutter around you as you wander through this park. You can view fireflies in a special enclosure where you can see thousands of fireflies glimmering in the dark. Your family will enjoy this sightseeing in Singapore.
Chijmes which was formerly the site of the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus, Chijmes is a unique blend of historical architecture and modern restoration. The Gothic Chapel, erected in 1890, is a showcase of plasterwork, delicate wall frescoes and stained glass. The Caldwell House has a sunken forecourt, waterfalls and fountains. The complex is now home to art galleries, boutiques and a lavish selection of restaurants, wine bars and cafes. It gives an unique opportunity of sightseeing in Singapore.
Among other interesting sightseeing in Singapore are Chinese Garden,Chinatown,Changi Prison Chapel and Museum,Chinaman Scholars Gallery,Civilian War Memorial,city hall,the Singapore Crocodilarium and many more places.
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