Singapore and Bintan Destination Guide
The place
Singapore is an island linked by two causeways to mainland Malaysia. Getting around is a joy whether using the ultra-efficient underground (MRT) or local buses. On an island the size of Singapore, it’s no surprise that nothing is far away. Whether you choose to stay amidst the hustle and bustle of the shops on Orchard Road or in the lively harbour area, you will be well placed to visit all the sights. Singapore is safe and clean, the people are polite and friendly and English is widely spoken.
The culture
Singapore is the most westernised of the Asian cities, but around every corner, you will see signs of its cultural diversity. Chinatown, Little India, Peranakan District (Katong) and the Colonial District sit comfortably alongside each other in a city which is rich in history and variety.
The shopping
Orchard Road is the place to be for your shot of retail therapy. It’s the Oxford Street of Singapore and is jammed with shopping malls and huge department stores along with outlets sporting well-known brand names. Scotts Road and Marina Square also have their share of excellent shopping. Singapore may not be the cheapest of Far Eastern cities, but there are bargains to be had and the quality is excellent. Good value buys are watches, photo and video equipment, electrical appliances, computers, prescription glasses and designer clothing.
The nightlife
As you might expect from a city of such cultural diversity,
Singapore is dining heaven. There is every kind of food imaginable
whether your taste runs to perching on a stool by the road at a local
hawker stall or dressing up to dine in some of the finest restaurants
in the world. In recent years, Clarke Quay and Boat Quay have become
the places to be. Situated on the waterfront, they are buzzing with
life, street entertainers and a choice of restaurants and bars to suit
everyone. If you are a people watcher, you will love the al fresco
dining as you watch the world go by. New for 2010 is the Marina bay Sands, a leisure and entertainment complex which will feature a Las Vegas style casino, shopping, restaurants, bars and a hotel.
The events
Mid Autumn festival: Sep 10
Singapore Grand Prix: 24-26 Sep 10
Singapore Sevens (Rugby): Nov 10
Singapore food festival festival: Jul 11
The facts
Geography: linked to Malaysia by two causeways, the main island of Singapore is 26 miles long and 14 miles wide with a population of 4 million. It also encompasses some 63 offshore islands.
Language: the four official languages are Mandarin, Malay, Tamil and English.
Passports: you will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return.
Visas: visas are not required for full British passport holders. Non-British passport holders should check with Singapore High Commission for documentation requirements.
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time: Singapore is approximately 13 hours by non-stop flight from the UK
Local time: GMT + 8 hours
Currency: Singapore dollar
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Singapore - Map
