Singapore

Singapore or the Republic of Singapore, is the world's only island city-state that is as densely populated as it is covered with tropical flora, parks and gardens. Singapore is also commonly known as the Garden City. Singapore is home to 5.4 million people of different racial backgrounds such as Chinese, Malays, Indians and Eurasians living in harmony. Sample each ethnic's group cuisines in hawker centres and restaurants. Visit popular tourist attractions such as Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Resorts World Sentosa and the Night Safari. Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Gardens is the first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO's World Heritage List. It is the first in Asia and the third botanic gardens inscribed in the world following Orto botanico di Padova and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The Singapore Botanic Gardens' lush botanical oasis is home to stunning flora and fauna as well as attractions like the National Orchid Garden and Jacob Ballas Children's Garden. Tourists can also hit the Siloso Beach on Sentosa for surfing, go on exhilarating rides at Universal Studio Singapore and flowboarding at Wave House Sentosa. Indulge in retail therapy in the shopping belt of Singapore where Ion Orchard, Tangs, Robinsons and The Heeren offer amazing deals as well as high-end brands.

Capital: Singapore, Dialing code: +65, Currency: Singapore dollar, Population: 5.39 million (2013), When to Visit: All year-round, Climate: Tropical rainforest climate, cool season Dec - Jan and hot season April-May