Singapore：Your Guide to the Entertainment Mecca of South-east Asia

Located at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, this state-of-the-art megalopolis is famed for its mouth-watering hawker centers, paradise of shopping plazas and Sentosa Island, home of some of South-east Asia's best entertainment venues. Here's a handy list of ten things you shouldn't miss when visiting Singapore.

1. Merlion Park

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Famed for the iconic merlion statue, this half-fish half-lion has long been the symbol for the city of Singapore. The park area also offers stunning views over Marina Bay and the towering skyscrapers of the financial district. It's also a great vantage point for the light and water show that takes place every night from 8pm.

2. Gardens by the Bay

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An oasis of greenery in the Singaporean concrete jungle, the Gardens by the Bay is a picturesque complex of gardens, greenhouse domes and artistic structures. The gardens are especially famous for its Supertree Grove, a series of tall structures wrapped in plants and vines that gives the appearance of some sort of huge alien tree species. Pictures of the gardens really don't do it justice, especially at night as the 'trees' are all lit up emitting an imposing impressive spectacle. Be sure to check out the Cloud Forest, a huge towering structure covered in exotic plants in one of the garden's conservatories.

3. Sentosa Island

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This island mecca of entertainment and resorts is often the focal point for many trips to the Lion City. Along with its beaches perfect for relaxation and soaking in the Singaporean sun, Sentosa is home to Universal Studios Singapore, one of the most popular theme parks in all of Asia. The park also includes two golf courses, numerous hotels, casinos and a water park.

4. Orchard Road

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If you've come to Singapore for its reputation as a haven for shopping, Orchard Road will probably be your first foray into the Lion City. Flanked on both sides by shops and malls full of more shops, those with a bottomless wallet could spend all day wandering around the multitude of luxury global brands you can find here. Some of the most popular shopaholic spots include the impressive futuristic-looking ION Orchard, the Chinese-style Tangs and Plaza Singapura. If you still need to burn through some more cash there are plenty of other malls and shops lining the street for you to choose from.

5. Marina Bay Sands

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Opposite the iconic Merlion Statue looms the impressive Marina Bay Sands building, unique for its distinctive shape, which looks like a giant surfboard on top of three huge towers. At the top is one of the most popular attractions in Singapore, an infinity pool with gorgeous views across the bay and over the concrete jungle of the financial district. Unfortunately access to the pool is only for guests of the hotel, but you can still enjoy the iconic view from the observation deck at the top which is open to non-hotel guests.

6. Singapore Zoo

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One of the largest and most popular zoos in the world, the Singapore Zoo should not be missed on a trip to the Lion City. Featuring an astonishing amount of exotic and endangered animals, the zoo does a fantastic job of recreating their natural habitats in its expansive grounds. Especially popular is the Night Safari, a separate open-air zoo which houses a range of nocturnal creatures lit up by artificial moon light.

7. Singapore Flyer

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This huge Ferris wheel towers over Marina Bay offering stunning views over the surrounding area. Similar in design to the London Eye. the flyer holds huge observation pods that can fit in 80 people at a time. Particularly impressive during sunset and in the evening, from the top you can see over many of the famous landmarks of downtown Singapore including the Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and the Merlion Park.

8. Arab Street

Photo by Richie Chan/shutterstock

One of Singapore's oldest quarters, Arab Street was originally a piece of land dedicated to the ethnic Malay population. Now it's a trendy area full of hip cafes, colorful shops and popular eateries. Start by heading to Haji Lane for its colorful, funky murals that decorate the walls and work your way along the artsy boutiques selling a range of goods from glamorous fabrics to glitzy Turkish lamps.

9. Clarke Quay

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Holding an important place in the history of Singapore, Clarke Quay was once a bustling hub of trade in the 19th and 20th centuries. Now it's one of the prime nightlife spots in the city, with the vibrant riverside location hosting a variety of nightclubs, bars and restaurants perfect for partying into the early hours of the morning.

10. Raffles Hotel

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This beautiful colonial-era building is one of the oldest buildings in the Lion City and a perfect way to feel the area's fascinating history an important port city of the British Empire. First built as a beach house in the early 1830's, it was renovated into a luxury hotel around 60 years later. Apart from just admiring the stunning facade and interior design, the hotel is famous for its Long Bar where the Singapore Sling was first created. Unfortunately the hotel is currently closed for renovations finishing in mid-2019, however you can still visit the bar to try the city's iconic cocktail.

◎ Closing

After waltzing your way around Singapore's famous attractions, be sure to hit up one of the hawker centers and sample some of the delectable cuisine the city is renowned for. Popular eating holes include the Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat and Little India's Tekka Centre for some mouth-watering South Indian delights.

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