The independent city-state of Singapore is actually a 620 square kilometre low lying island on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula; the narrow Johore Strait separates it from Malaysia. There are no prominent relief features although a number of hills rise to a maximum elevation of 174 meters (571 feet) in the central area. Singapore is comprised of the main island and more than 50 adjacent islands. Being situated just north of the equator ensures a wet tropical climate. This is especially true of the months from November through to January when frequent sunny breaks and showers dominate.

Orchard Road in Singapore by night

Today about three-quarters of Singaporeans are Chinese while the two largest ethnic minority groups are Malay and Indian. Population density is staggering as urbanization stands at a full 100%. Singapore has four official languages: Chinese, Malay, Tamil, and English. Education is a priority and no doubt has had significant impact on the economic success of the nation. The people of Singapore enjoy one of the highest standards of living in the Asia Pacific region.

More than a remarkable seaport, Singapore is a city of finance and trade where many multinational corporations maintain regional headquarters. For the visitor to Singapore, this is revealed in a bustling city of skyscrapers towering over the facades of colonial landmarks. Efficient rapid transit whisks you to any one of dozens of locales noted for sightseeing, shopping, or entertainment. Various riverboat excursions ply the waters of the Singapore River where one can relax and absorb the fascinating city that grew up along its banks.

Singapore National Museum

Places of interest along the meandering waterway include Boat Quay and Clarke Quay-perfect for an evening stroll, dinner and watching live street performances among the cluster of shops, boutiques and eateries. The Padang, a great expanse of lawn and site of civic, state and recreational events, is encircled by a number of historic buildings such as the Parliament House, the Supreme Court, City Hall, Victoria Theatre and the Singapore Cricket Club. Attractive museums, mosques and temples sprinkle the city like a salute to urban accomplishment. Singapore is the epitome of a fast-paced, well organized, clean and respectable metropolis-so don't spit!

Skyline of Shenton, Singapore, at night

Should the city begin to crowd around you, take the cable car to Sentosa. Just minutes away from the crush of the city, this tranquil island presents you with beautiful sandy beaches and nature trails. You can also enjoy some great entertainment at Asia's most exciting sea world exhibition. Historical sites and museums invite quiet consideration and discovery. Kusu, Pulau Ubin, St. John's Island, Lazarus, and the Sisters Islands offer other distractions and opportunities to escape. Be warned, however, because before long, the allure of Singapore will tempt you to return.