Singapore City Apartment Types

A vibrant, pulsating metropolis, Singapore is an incredibly popular destination that attracts millions of tourists and business travellers to its shores each year.

History

The 2nd century AD saw the first records of settlement in Singapore as an outpost of the Sumatran Srivijaya Empire with the Javanese name of Temasek (Sea Town). Between the 16th and 19th centuries Singapore was part of the Sultanate of Johor. In 1819 Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles landed on the shores of Singapore and, after seeing its potential as a major trading post, signed a treaty on behalf of the British East India Company with Sultan Hussein Shah. Singapore remained under the control of the Malay Sultan until 1824 when the island became a British colony, a move which marked the beginning of Singapore’s modern era. Singapore was granted its own cabinet and prime minister, with powers over all internal government bar defence and foreign affairs, in the 1950s and in 1963 Singapore was granted independence and in 1965 officially gained sovereignty  with Yusof bin Ishak as President and Lee Kuan Yew as Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore. Singapore grew rapidly under Lee Kuan Yew’s long term as prime minister (1959-1990) to become the cosmopolitan, prosperous and affluent metropolis we know today.

Getting In & Getting Around

Singapore is one of Southeast Asia’s largest hubs for air traffic. Changi International Airport is the main airport offering a wide range of international services. The airport is located some 20km (12miles) from the city centre and is connected by frequent transport links. Trains operate between Singapore and a number of Southeast Asian cities destinations Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Malacca and Bangkok. The city itself boasts a comprehensive and efficient transport network which consists of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and Light Rapid Transit (LRT) train networks, bus and taxi services.

Culture, Sights & Attractions

With its diverse mix of cultures and interesting history Singapore is a truly fascinating destination with so much to see and do. Explore the Singapore’s fascinating culture by touring the many temples, mosques and cathedrals that are scattered about the city or alternatively, wander some of the many museums the city is home to. The Singapore Flyer is the tallest ferris wheel in the world and offers great views over the city and beyond. Singapore Zoo is one of the world’s best and somewhere where you can see the endangered white rhino, polar bears and experience the famous night safari or for a more romantic setting why not go to Jurong Bird Park for a stroll in the walk-in aviary. Singapore is a great destination for the keen shopper. Head to the shopper’s paradise that is Orchard Road and indulge in the many luxury department stores, sprawling malls and kitsch souvenir shops.

Eating Out

Singapore is renowned for being the food capital of Southeast Asia and is a melting pot for cuisine from all corners of the globe. From the authentic Hawker Centres, open air stalls serving a range of delicious and cheap fare, to posh restaurants serving fine Indian, Japanese, French and Italian cuisine there is something in Singapore to suit every budget and taste.

Outside The City

Singapore is a great base for exploring some of the other highlights of Southeast Asia. The Indonesian island of Bintan is just a 90 minute ferry ride away and is great location for a spot of sunbathing, shopping and golf. Johor Bahru is a bustling Malaysian city located just across the causeway from Singapore. Here you can explore the historic sights, enjoy some water sports or indulge in some shopping or a round of golf. Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant capital of Malaysia, is easily reached either by plane or overnight train. Explore Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square), the pretty Lake Gardens or the brave the soaring heights of the Petronas Twin Towers. If you have plenty of time to spare then popular places like Bali, Bagkok and Penang are a short flight away.

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