Singapore is an economic giant and has been Southeast Asia's most modern city for over a century. The city blends Malay, Chinese, Arab, Indian and English cultures and religion. Its unique ethnic tapestry affords visitors a wide array of sightseeing and culinary opportunities and a full calendar of traditional festivals and holidays. In addition, Singapore offers luxury hotels, delectable cuisine and great shopping. The country includes the island of Singapore and 58 or so smaller islands and because of its efficient and determined government, Singapore has become a flourishing country that excels in trade and tourism. The capital city, also called Singapore, covers about a third of the area of the main island. Located at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore's tropical climate welcomes travellers all year round. The award winning Changi Airport provides airlinks to major cities around the world and the local train and subway systems are clean, fast and efficient. In addition, its state-of-the-art cruise terminal has established Singapore as one of the premier cruising centers of South East Asia and an exciting port of call on any Asian cruise itinerary.
Forming the core of downtown Singapore is the Colonial District with each surrounding enclave exhibiting its own flavor. From the aromatic spice stores of Little India, to the tumbledown backstreets of Chinatown or the Arab Quarter, whose cluttered stores sell fine cloths and silks, Singapore amalgamates it all with equal zest and fervour.
North of the city, are two nature preserves, Bukit Timah and the Central Catchment Area, along with the splendid Singapore Zoological Gardens. The east coast features good seafood restaurants set on long stretches of sandy beach. In addition, there are over fifty islands and islets within Singaporean waters, all of which can be reached with varying degrees of ease. Day trips are popular to Sentosa, the island amusement arcade which is linked to the south coast by a short causeway and cable car. Music, theatre, nightlife all are abundant in this remarkable city.
Although Singapore is a year-round destination, the best time to visit Singapore is from December to June. The months of February to April fall within Singapore's dry season and is typically when the country has the least amount of rain, the lowest humidity, and the most sunshine.