When he visited the city in 1885, the zoologist William Hornaday likened Singapore to “a big desk, full of drawers and pigeon holes, where everything has its place and can always be found.” Amazingly, in spite of the turbulent history Southeast Asia has witnessed over the past century or so, the remark remains as pertinent today as it was when it was made.
The city on the diamond-shaped peninsula is indeed supremely well organized and spotlessly clean. Critics argue this orderliness has come at the cost of Singapore’s soul (most of downtown’s antique buildings have been bulldozed to make way for malls and offices) but the pay offs are plain for all to see.
Chief among them is an all pervasive prosperity that’s decidedly untypical for Asia. An ultra-modern skyline bristling with glass-sided towers bears witness to the record-breaking economic growth of the past four decades – though huddled beneath them, if you look hard enough, are characterful remnants of the colony’s 19th beginnings, including some sumptuous Chinese temples and clan halls. The shopping’s every bit as terrific as they say, too, whether you’re after a designer item of quirky souvenir from a local street stall.
Efficient and modern, but with a fascinating multi-ethnic makeup and plenty of sights to keep you busy, Singapore is the obvious choice for extended layovers on longer tours, or for a quick side-trip if you’re exploring other countries in the region.
7 days from £4495 per person
This journey takes you from Singapore through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Penang, offering the perfect blend of relaxation on board and inspiring exploration off the train, including snorkelling, island exploration and fascinating cultural tours.
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Experience
Bartender, Ngiam Tong Boon, is credited with inventing the world-famous Singapore Sling, a smooth, slow, sweet cocktail with a complex flavour which aficionados will best enjoy in Raffles’ old-world Billards Room bar
Experience
Using sketches, original photos, information boards and other pieces of evocative memorabilia, the Changi Prison Museum tells the stories of some of those civilians and soldiers who were interred in this hell-hole
Experience
Thian Hock Keng was where Chinese immigrants to Singapore used to come to give thanks to Ma Zu (‘Goddess of the Sea’) for their safe passage.
Experience
Sentosa is the most accessible and visitor-friendly of the small islands scattered immediately south of Singapore. Cable cars from Mount Faber on the mainland shuttle visitors across and back to the harbour-front through the day.
Now is the time to begin planning your next adventures in Asia. Our Travel Specialists are ready to take your call and discuss the perfect getaway you have been dreaming of.
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