Singapore

ASEAN Member Country since July 1967

Capital: Singapore
Head of State: President S R Nathan
Head of Government: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong
Languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, Tamil
Area (sq. km): 697
Population: 4,200,000 (2004)
GDP (USD): 137.5 billion (2006 estimate)

Singapore is perhaps the ideal gateway to Southeast Asia, where visitors will marvel at its wealth of history and culture, all perfectly packaged in a safe, pristinely clean environment. One can take a rickshaw to Chinatown, cruise on a bumboat down the Singapore River, sample spices and saris in Little India, explore Malay culture at Kampung Glam, and even check out World War II relics at Fort Siloso on the magnificent island resort of Sentosa!

Beyond the diverse sights and activities, visitors will surely enjoy sampling the two passions of all Singaporeans: eating and shopping. Hawker centers serve up affordable and delicious meals which combine the best of Singapore’s Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions, while a walk down Orchard Road will give visitors the chance to purchase the latest fashions, gadgets and souvenirs.

Singapore has traditionally been a trading hub for the region since the colonial era, and has carried on this legacy into the present day. The country has vigorously encouraged foreign investment, and because of its corruption-free government and skilled workforce, Singapore has managed to attract over 3000 multinational corporations to conduct business on this small island. To sustain its incredible growth rate of 8% per annum over the past 40 years, the country continues to innovate and find advanced niches like biotechnology and financial services that will help to keep Singapore’s edge in the 21st century.

Singapore’s reputation for efficiency and development should not disappoint, as visitors will enjoy the swiftness of the Mass Rapid Transit trains and the ability of taxis and buses to take one right to one’s doorstep. Along the journey, visitors can take in the lush greenery all around, which has earned Singapore its reputation as a “garden city”.

After dark, Singapore’s offerings of art, theater and music from all over the world should keep one well-occupied, while trips to the night safari to see the exotic animals or even to a bar or club for a drink with friends will surely serve as wonderful ways to cap a great trip.