FAQ

Singapore is a small country in Southeast Asia, with a population of just under 6 million.  It is located on an island just across the bridge from Malaysia and a short ferry ride from (parts of) Indonesia.  (The island is about 50km from east to west, and 30m from north to south.)  

Singapore is on the equator, and the weather in Singapore is the same year round.  The average temperature in July is (88F, 31C).  Nor is July especially rainy.

One thing Singapore is known for is its food culture.  Singapore is a melding of different cultures, and Singaporean food is influenced by Chinese, Malaysian, Indonesia, and Indian cuisine.  (The name for the traditional Singaporeans is Peranakan, and is a unique straits culture.)  Singapore is known both for its exquisite high-end restaurants, as well it its local street food. 

In fact, Singapore is famous for its "Hawker Centres," where you can get your chicken-rice or your Char Kway Teow.  (While you're here, don't forget to try some laksa, some rojak, and some carrot cake---which contains no carrots and is not a cake.). Singapore, being an island, is also known for its seafood, and another must-try dish in Singapore is the Chili Crab (or perhaps the Pepper Crab, if you prefer).  

And while many know Singapore for its eponymous drink, the Singapore Sling, you would be better off exploring its cocktail bars and their bespoke drinks. 

While parts of Singapore are big business and big bustle, it is also an incredibly green city.  Take some time to stroll in the Botanical Garden, or do the TreeTop walk at the Macritchie Reservoir.  The Gardens by the Bay (and the Supertrees, pictured above with the Marina Bay Sands Hotel in the background), make a pleasant afternoon.  And if you want a pretty beach, drop by Sentosa, where you can relax on the beach or do some stand-up paddleboard (seemingly the hot activity of the year).

Other favourite activities around Singapore include:

• Explore Singapore's various neighbourhoods, such as Little India, Chinatown, and Kampong Glam (the Muslim Quarter).  Singapore consists of a highly diverse population, with many interesting nooks to explore.

• The National Gallery, the Asian Civilisation Museum, and the Singapore Art Museum provide a deep coverage of Singaporean and Asian art and culture.  Smaller galleries of contemporary artists make for an interesting view into the current Singaporean art scene.

• The Night Safari (a zoo that opens only at night), along with Bird Paradise, the (regular) Zoo, and the River Wonders, make for a large does of animals in your day.

• Pulau Ubin, a small island 10 minutes off the coast where you can walk (or kayak)  among the mangroves.

• The Southern Islands (e.g., Kusu Island, Lazarus Island, etc.).  Charter a boat for the day for a nice time out on the water.