Located at the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore is a dynamic island city where culture, innovation, and opportunity thrive. A tropical metropolis blending world-class infrastructure with rich heritage, it is a melting pot of diverse traditions, languages, and flavors. From vibrant hawker centers to cutting-edge research hubs, Singapore is where people, ideas, and industries connect to shape the future.
Often referred to as a cultural melting pot, Singapore is a multicultural society celebrating Chinese, Malay, Indian, Eurasians and other ethnic communities.
The four main languages used to converse are a vibrant expression of Singapore's cultural diversity. They are Chinese, Malay, Tamil, and English, with English as our main spoken language and Malay as our national language.
Singapore's cultural diversity is reflected in its rich religious landscape, with various faiths coexisting harmoniously. The city's skyline features the towering minarets of mosques, the elegant spires of gothic cathedrals, the intricate deities adorning Hindu temples, and the distinctive rooftops of Chinese temples. The country is home to a wide range of religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, Sikhism, and Taoism, each contributing to its vibrant and multicultural identity.
From pristine rainforests to coastal wetlands, Singapore has masterfully integrated nature into its urban landscape, earning its reputation as a "City in a Garden." Whether for adventure, relaxation, or conservation, these natural spaces provide an oasis of greenery amid the city’s modern skyline.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and thriving wetland ecosystem. Spanning over 202 hectares, it features mangroves, mudflats, freshwater ponds, and coastal forests, serving as a crucial habitat for migratory birds, including egrets, sandpipers, and herons. The reserve is also home to native wildlife like mudskippers, otters, monitor lizards, and estuarine crocodiles. Visitors can explore its network of boardwalks, observation hides, and trails, offering close-up encounters with nature. Sungei Buloh plays a vital role in conservation and education, showcasing Singapore’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage while providing a tranquil escape for nature lovers.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve is Singapore’s premier wildlife and eco-tourism hub, home to some of the world's leading zoological parks. Located in northern Singapore, it encompasses Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, and Bird Paradise, with the upcoming Rainforest Wild set to further enhance conservation efforts. It offers immersive wildlife experiences, from nocturnal safaris to river ecosystems and free-flight aviaries. Committed to conservation and sustainability, Mandai plays a key role in species protection and habitat preservation globally, making it a top destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is Singapore’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforest, covering 163 hectares and home to the island’s highest natural point, Bukit Timah Hill (163.63m). As one of the last primary rainforests in Singapore, it shelters a rich variety of flora and fauna, including towering dipterocarp trees, long-tailed macaques, colugos, and rare birds. The reserve features challenging hiking trails, a nature education center, and a scenic summit viewpoint. A vital conservation area, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve offers visitors a glimpse into Singapore’s rich natural heritage while promoting ecological preservation.
Labrador Nature Reserve is a coastal park and historical site in Singapore, known for its rich biodiversity, scenic waterfront views, and World War II relics. Part of the Southern Ridges, it features lush mangroves, rocky shores, and coastal forests, supporting diverse wildlife like monitor lizards, kingfishers, and mudskippers. The reserve also houses remnants of Fort Pasir Panjang, including underground tunnels and artillery guns, offering insight into Singapore’s wartime past. With its nature trails, sea-facing boardwalks, and historical significance, Labrador Nature Reserve is a unique blend of nature, heritage, and recreation, making it a serene escape from the city.
MacRitchie Reservoir is Singapore’s oldest and largest reservoir, surrounded by a lush secondary rainforest within the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. A popular spot for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, it is home to diverse flora and fauna, including long-tailed macaques, colugos, monitor lizards, and rare birds.
One of its highlights is the TreeTop Walk, a 250-meter suspension bridge standing 25 meters above ground, offering panoramic views of the rainforest canopy. The reservoir also features scenic trails, such as the MacRitchie Nature Trail and Jelutong Tower, providing immersive nature experiences. A key site for conservation and recreation, MacRitchie Reservoir is a tranquil escape into nature, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Jurong Lake Gardens is Singapore’s largest national garden in the heartlands, spanning 90 hectares around Jurong Lake. Designed as a green sanctuary for the community, it seamlessly integrates nature, play, and recreation while promoting biodiversity and sustainability. It features Lakeside Garden, with wetland trails and a nature-themed play area, and the Chinese and Japanese Gardens, blending traditional and modern landscapes. The Garden Promenade offers scenic waterfront views, making it a hub for recreation, biodiversity, and community engagement.
Jurong Lake Gardens is Singapore’s largest national garden in the heartlands, spanning 90 hectares around Jurong Lake. Designed as a green sanctuary for the community, it seamlessly integrates nature, play, and recreation while promoting biodiversity and sustainability. It features Lakeside Garden, with wetland trails and a nature-themed play area, and the Chinese and Japanese Gardens, blending traditional and modern landscapes. The Garden Promenade offers scenic waterfront views, making it a hub for recreation, biodiversity, and community engagement.
Pulau Ubin is a rustic island getaway off Singapore’s northeastern coast, offering a glimpse into traditional kampong life and untouched nature. Known for its lush forests, granite quarries, and diverse ecosystems, the island is a popular destination for cycling, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore its mangroves, coastal boardwalks, and rich biodiversity, home to wild boars, hornbills, and monitor lizards.
One of Pulau Ubin’s most famous attractions is Chek Jawa Wetlands, a unique intertidal ecosystem where six different habitats—including mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass lagoons—meet. The coastal boardwalk and Jejawi Tower offer stunning views of the wetland’s rich marine life, including horseshoe crabs, mudskippers, and sea stars. With its unspoiled landscapes and rich biodiversity, Pulau Ubin and Chek Jawa Wetlands provide a rare escape into Singapore’s natural heritage, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Sentosa is Singapore’s ultimate island getaway, known for its thrilling attractions, pristine beaches, and luxurious resorts. Located just off the southern coast, Sentosa is a hub for adventure, entertainment, and relaxation, attracting both locals and tourists. Sentosa is a great place to enjoy scenic views, see many exciting attractions, as well as to learn more about Singapore's history during British colonial rule. With its mix of excitement, relaxation, and luxury, Sentosa is a must-visit destination that perfectly embodies Singapore’s spirit of fun and adventure.
The island is home to Universal Studios Singapore, where world-class roller coasters and immersive movie-themed rides provide endless excitement. Adventure seekers can take on Mega Adventure Park’s zip lines, the AJ Hackett Bungy Jump, luge race at Skyline Luge, or experience indoor skydiving at iFly Singapore. For water lovers, Adventure Cove Waterpark offers high-speed slides, snorkeling with marine life, and a relaxing lazy river.
Sentosa’s beaches—Siloso, Palawan, and Tanjong—provide the perfect setting for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and waterfront dining. The island also features Resorts World Sentosa, home to S.E.A. Aquarium, Dolphin Island, and world-class hotels and casinos.
For a more leisurely experience, visitors can take in breathtaking panoramic views from SkyHelix Sentosa, ride the Sentosa Cable Car, or explore the historical Fort Siloso. Sentosa’s vibrant nightlife scene includes beach clubs, waterfront bars, and spectacular light shows.
Coney Island Park is a tranquil and eco-friendly nature reserve located off Punggol, offering a rustic escape with coastal forests, casuarina woodlands, and diverse wildlife. Known for its sustainable design, the park uses recycled timber from fallen trees for signage and benches, while maintaining its natural ecosystems.
With cycling and hiking trails, scenic beaches, and hidden boardwalks, Coney Island is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, home to over 80 bird species, butterflies, and small mammals. The island’s secluded beaches and mangrove habitats add to its charm, providing a peaceful retreat from urban life. As a biodiversity hotspot and eco-conscious park, Coney Island Park offers visitors a unique nature experience while preserving Singapore’s natural heritage.
PAssion Wave is a water sports and adventure hub in Singapore, offering a variety of kayaking, stand-up paddling (SUP), and outdoor adventure experiences. Operated by the People’s Association, it has several locations across the island like PAssion Wave @ Marina Bay and PAssion Wave @ East Coast.
At PAssion Wave @ Marina Bay, visitors can kayak or paddleboard while enjoying stunning views of the city skyline, Marina Bay Sands, and the Singapore Flyer. This location is ideal for beginners and urban explorers looking for a unique water adventure in the heart of the city.
For nature lovers, PAssion Wave @ East Coast and other outlets like Sembawang and Jurong Lake Gardens offer a more scenic, nature-immersed experience. These locations feature mangrove kayaking, coastal clean-up activities, and environmental workshops, promoting sustainability and conservation.
With affordable rentals, courses for beginners, and community-based programs, PAssion Wave provides an exciting way for both adventure seekers and families to explore Singapore’s waterways, coastlines, and nature reserves while staying active and engaged.
Haw Par Villa is a one-of-a-kind adventure park, offering a surreal journey through Chinese mythology and folklore. Its most famous attraction, the Ten Courts of Hell, features gruesome dioramas depicting afterlife punishments, making it one of Singapore’s most unconventional thrill spots. The park also houses over 1,000 statues portraying legendary tales and Hell’s Museum, which explores death and the afterlife. Night tours add a spooky twist, making Haw Par Villa a must-visit for mythological storytelling and eerie adventures.
Used to be where seafaring people (known as Bugis) from South Sulawesi, Indonesia, could sail up, moor their boats and trade, now the Bugis district is a vibrant and historically rich area known for its blend of cultural heritage, shopping, and nightlife. Here you find Bugis Street Market, one of Singapore’s largest street markets, known for its affordable fashion, souvenirs, and street food. Bugis Junction and Bugis+ are two interconnected shopping malls located in the Downtown Core of Singapore. These two malls have a variety of good eateries, as well as many affordable shopping options. Located in the central region of Singapore, Bugis is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Kampong Glam, nested within the Bugis District, is known for its rich Malay and Arab heritage, vibrant street art, and eclectic mix of traditional and modern attractions. Centered around Sultan Mosque, a striking golden-domed landmark, the area was once home to Malay royalty and is now a cultural hub filled with heritage shophouses, trendy cafés, and Middle Eastern eateries.
Haji Lane is one of Singapore’s trendiest and most vibrant streets, known for its indie boutiques, colorful street art, and hipster cafés. Tucked within Kampong Glam, this narrow alleyway is a haven for fashion lovers, offering unique local and international designer stores, vintage shops, and handcrafted accessories. The walls are adorned with eye-catching murals, making it a popular spot for photography. By day, it’s a shopper’s paradise with quirky finds, while at night, it transforms into a lively nightlife scene with cozy bars, live music, and alfresco dining. With its eclectic charm and bohemian vibe, Haji Lane is a must-visit for those seeking a blend of heritage and contemporary culture.
The Kwam Im Thong Hood Cho Temple is a traditional Chinese Temple situated at Waterloo Street. This temple is of great significance to the Buddhist Community in Singapore, and is believed to bring worshippers good luck after praying to the Kuan Yin, also known as the Goddess of Mercy.
Sri Krishnan Temple is a Hindu Temple in Singapore. It is one of Singapore's oldest temples and is the only South Indian temple in Singapore dedicated to Krishna and his consort Rukmini. The Sri Krishnan Temple and the nearby Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple are known for having evolved a social practice termed "cross-worshipping", where many devotees of either temple also worship at the other. This practice is commonly seen as a microcosm of Singapore's multi-religious society.
Chinatown Singapore is a lively district blending rich Chinese heritage with modern attractions. Historic shophouses, temples, and markets sit alongside trendy bars and boutiques. Highlights include the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, and the bustling Chinatown Street Market, known for local delicacies like dim sum and bak kwa. The Chinatown Heritage Centre offers insight into early Chinese settlers' lives. A mix of tradition and modernity, Chinatown is a must-visit cultural hub.
Little India is known for its colorful streets, bustling markets, and authentic Indian heritage. Located along Serangoon Road, it is a sensory feast of spice-scented air, bright sarees, and lively music. The area is home to iconic landmarks like the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples, and the Indian Heritage Centre, which showcases the history of the Indian community in Singapore.
Tekka Centre is a must-visit for delicious South and North Indian cuisine, from biryani to dosa, while Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour shopping mall, offers everything from electronics to Indian sweets. During Deepavali, the streets light up with dazzling decorations and festive markets, making Little India a dynamic and immersive cultural experience year-round.
Marina Bay is Singapore’s iconic waterfront district, renowned for its stunning skyline, luxury attractions, and world-class entertainment. At its heart is Marina Bay Sands, a landmark integrated resort featuring a casino, luxury shopping mall, a large theatre, "celebrity chef" restaurants, two floating crystal pavilions (the Louis Vuitton Island Mansion and the Floating Apple Store), and the breathtaking SkyPark with panoramic city views.
The ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands is an iconic lotus-shaped landmark blending art, science, and technology. It hosts dynamic exhibitions, including the immersive "Future World", and showcases topics from space exploration to sustainability. With interactive and thought-provoking displays, it offers a unique multisensory experience that inspires creativity and curiosity.
Gardens by the Bay (GBTB) is a stunning futuristic garden that seamlessly blends nature with technology. Spanning 101 hectares, it features the iconic Supertree Grove, comprising 18 towering Supertrees ranging from 25 to 50 meters tall. An elevated walkway connects two of these vertical gardens, offering visitors breathtaking aerial views of the landscape. At night, the Supertrees come alive with Garden Rhapsody, a mesmerizing light and sound show, transforming the Supertrees into a dazzling spectacle.
GBTB is home to two massive conservatories, which utilize cutting-edge sustainable cooling technology. The Flower Dome, the world’s largest glass greenhouse, replicates a cool-dry Mediterranean climate, featuring a changing Flower Field and eight themed gardens showcasing exotic plants from five continents. The Cloud Forest, a taller yet slightly smaller conservatory, recreates cool, moist mountain conditions and houses the 42-meter Cloud Mountain, where visitors descend a circular walkway through a 35-meter indoor waterfall.
To maintain optimal temperatures while reducing energy consumption, the conservatories use an innovative Cooling System that dehumidifies incoming air before cooling, while chilled water pipes beneath the floor regulate temperature efficiently. The Supertrees also play a role in sustainability, acting as exhaust towers for the conservatories’ cooling system and harnessing solar energy.
With immersive attractions like Floral Fantasy and various themed gardens, GBTB exemplifies sustainability, technology, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit urban oasis.
Jewel Changi Airport is a world-class lifestyle and retail complex seamlessly integrated with Changi Airport, offering a unique mix of nature, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Its most striking feature is the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall at 40 meters, cascading through a stunning glass dome surrounded by the lush Shiseido Forest Valley.
Spanning ten floors (five above ground and five basement levels), Jewel houses over 280 shops and restaurants, a hotel, and attractions like the Canopy Park, featuring hedge mazes, sky nets, and mist-filled discovery zones. Designed as a multi-sensory experience, Jewel combines architecture, nature, and retail to create an unforgettable destination for travelers and visitors alike. Jewel is a great place to visit if you're interested in dining, scenic landscapes, luxury shopping, as well as souvenir shopping at the basement floor.
Singlish is an informal, colloquial form of English that is used in Singapore. It contains non-standard features of the English language and is influenced by Malay, Indian languages (such as Tamil and Hindi), and the main Chinese dialects spoken in Singapore (such as Hokkien, Cantonese and Teochew).
Below are examples of common Singlish words used in Singapore: