|
|||||||||||||||||||||
 |
 |
 |
|||||||||||||||||||
 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
| Singapore |
SINGAPORE Singapore is an island off the southern tip of Malaysia, linked to it by a causeway. It evolved from a sleepy fishing village in the early 1900s to become one of Asia's economic leaders. Singapore's full calendar of events showcases a spectrum of cultural celebrations and shopping activities. The early summer months bustle in anticipation of the Singapore Sale - a time when tourists can cash in on the competitive prices of electronic equipment, jewelry and other merchandise. The business activity thrives amidst the celebration of Chinese, Hindu and Muslim festivals that punctuate the year with their colorful representations. These include the Chinese New Year, Ramadan, Hari Raya Puasa, Vesak Day, the Dragon Boat Festival, Festival of the Hungry Ghosts and Thaipusam. CLIMATE IN SINGAPORE Singapore experiences a tropical climate with hot, humid weather all year round. Temperatures remain high with daytime averages of 86°F (30°C). Humidity is usually above 75%. Singapore has two distinct monsoon seasons, the North Eastern season being from December to March and the South Western season from June to September. November to December is the rainy season. June to August is the best time to travel to Singapore, although it is still rainy and humid and travellers should pack accordingly. VISA INFORMATION FOR TOURISTS Travelers should hold confirmed documents and tickets for onward or return travel and enough funds to cover their stay. Male travelers with long hair are advised to tie their hair back on arrival. Women who are six months pregnant or more may be refused entry. All nationals, regardless of visa requirements, may be issued with a Social Visitor's Pass on arrival allowing for a stay of 14 or 30 days provided their visit is for tourist or business purposes. Extensions are possible for S$40, but initial Pass is free. Passports must be valid for at least six months from date of arrival. ATTRACTIONS AND THIGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE Places must visit Sentosa Underwater World: This is Asia’s most exiting tropical oceanarium. Walking among the sharks with their steely gazes and the hundreds of shoals of glimmering fish; the abundant marine life makes you wonder if you are travelling in a dream. This is the entrance to Underwater World, an attraction in Sentosa that provides an introduction to the aquamarine world of fishes, corals and others that will prove to be both enlightening and enjoyable. It has an 80-metre submerged acrylic tunnel, allowing you to see over 2 500 marine animals in close proximity. Opens from 9am to 9pm daily. Fantasy Island: Fantasy Island is one of the biggest water theme parks in Asia with a wide variety of rides and treats for everyone. Enjoy thrilling roller coaster rides down gushing water slides. Fantasy Island also provides imaging cashing services. VolcanoLand: VolcanoLand, where you will discover the secrets of the ancient Mayan Civilization and the legendary Mount Prospero, re-creates a journey into the centre of the earth, and traces the origins of the world and the evolution of life. See some of the last works of Professor Hugo II and his trusty robot, IGO-NOGO, an acronym for—(you find out for yourself)! Take the challenge and follow them on an exciting journey to the Kingdom of Fire. The remnants of prehistoric creatures are also fossilised and preserved for all to see. You will finally get to meet the God of Fire at the final stage of your journey. The Merlion: The Merlion is a legendary creature that has the head of a lion and a body of a fish. Sentosa's Merlion Tower is one of Singapore's national monuments and as its name implies, it is built as a replica of the Merlion itself. Its construction was completed and it was officially opened to the public in 1996, making it one of Sentosa's newest attractions. The 37-m high Merlion Tower offers a fantastic and panoramic view of Sentosa and beyond. Sentosa Orchid Gardens: The Sentosa Orchid Gardens offers a variety of orchids to your viewing pleasure. There’s a clock made of flowers, a carp pond and a Japanese teahouse, too. Nature Walk/ Dragon Trails: Meandering through the lush secondary rainforest, the 1.5km walk is adorned by monkeys, squirrels, over 20 species of birds and unique insects such as cicadas and crickets. Look out for "dragons" and "snakes" while you stroll, as they appear almost everywhere! Fort Siloso: The Japanese were marching down to Southeast Asia on their quest to conquer the whole of Asia. The British had no choice but to defend Singapore, one of the most important colonies found in Asia; they built Fort Siloso. And it still stands, preserved from the ravages of time, on the island of Sentosa, a reminder of the presence of the vigilant British soldiers on the fair island. Several tunnels and underground passages led into the some of the Fort's storerooms, where vital supplies and equipment were kept for use. After restoration in the 1980's, the cannons were returned to their places of 40 years ago. Travel back in time and witness the military officers in their living quarters. This is just what Fort Siloso does; it literally, brings you into the past, the turbulent years of World War. Central Beach: One of the three beaches in Sentosa, the Central Beach will give you a great time under the sun! Swim or rent surf boards and canoes…anything you can name. Look out for the "Monkey Shows", an outlet for the talented monkeys to display their tricks! Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom Museum: A walk-in aviary with over 2 500 free-flying butterflies and 4 000 insects. See human-faced insects, deadly scorpions and learn more about the insect kingdom. Maritime Museum: Watercraft that used to ply Singapore’s waters are on show here. In the past, pirate ships were a common occurrence on Singapore waters. Now they are not, but found in the Maritime Museum. Learn more about the maritime history of Singapore at the Maritime Museum. Palau Ubin Kusu Island Sisters Island St. John’s Island |
|