Travel guide Singapore City
Singapore City : Practical information for travel
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Singapore City : What to see, what to do ?
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Singapore City : Featured articles
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Singapore City : Discover
While Singapore is often associated with its futuristic skyscrapers, its role as a financial hub and its position as a crossroads to Southeast Asia, the reality is far more nuanced. Behind this rather slick image, Singapore has much more to offer. The Lion City boasts a rich colonial heritage, lively traditions and fascinating folklore. Its legends, its history as a trading post and the blending of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Western cultures give it a singular identity. A city of contrasts, it is as attractive for its temples and architecture as it is for its colorful festivals and abundant gastronomy. Here, cultural diversity goes hand in hand with a deep respect between communities that coexist harmoniously. Singapore is a mosaic in perpetual motion, where innovation rubs shoulders with heritage, and where every visitor is invited to follow the effervescent rhythm of this tropical splendor.
Singapore City : The 12 keywords
#Business
In 50 years, the city-state has proved its economic worth. The government has successfully implemented a development strategy aimed at attracting foreign capital. Even if administrative formalities are simplified, it's not always easy to break into the Singaporean market. The Asian dragon is a magnet, so competition is fierce!
#Chewing gum
Don't throw a piece of gum on the public highway, the joke can cost you S$1,000! A law banning chewing gum dates back to 1992, and you will find that the tarmac is not stained with white spots. It is said that a death row inmate is said to have asked for gum as a last wish, as a provocation. It was refused.
#Durian
Its smell is particular, it will quickly become familiar. This fruit that can be found in all the markets of Southeast Asia, in Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong or Bangkok, has a foul smell, but you will have to taste it to get an idea. During the season prices vary depending on quality and ripeness. Talk to the amateurs!
#Festival
Festivals with a wide variety of themes follow one another, making boredom a thing of the past in Singapore! In January alone, there's Chinese New Year, Pongal (4 days of Indian festivities) andArt Fair Week. Whether you're a fan of culture, music, sport or food, there's a festival to suit you.
#Hub
Aware of the competition from its neighbours, Singapore must constantly renew itself and find innovative ways of development, this is the "hubomania". Winner of the international architecture prize in 2016, Changi Airport is constantly innovating to bring a breath of fresh air to the many travellers passing through the city-state.
#Lah
It's the final touch that gives Singlish its charm. Don't be surprised if someone nods and says " ok lah "; and if a cab replies " cannot lah ", it's not going to your destination.
#Mall
Be aware that you can get lost in some of Singapore's huge malls. Don't worry, the interactive maps are there to help you. If you're a luxury shopper, some malls specialize in this, while others offer the latest fashion brands, with a food court on one of the floors.
#Eat
The heat doesn't dampen the appetite, and eating is a national sport. The choice is dense: food courts, fast-food restaurants, bistros and even Michelin-starred restaurants. You'll find this multiculturalism in the food courts, where all styles and social levels mingle. Here, food is shared, so don't hesitate to order several dishes and share.
#Merlion
This lion-headed fish-shaped statue recalls the legend of Sang Nila Utama, who spotted a lion from his boat on Singapore land. The original model stands at the mouth of the Singapore River, offering a panoramic view of the bay and skyscrapers in the background. A replica has been built on Sentosa Island.
#Mixed
In Singapore, diversity is the watchword. Different ethnic groups, religions and cultures live together in perfect harmony. Every major religious holiday is a pretext for celebrations for all. As for the urban landscape, traditional shophouses rub shoulders with the most audacious skyscrapers and colonial-style buildings.
#Singlish
Singaporean English or Singlish is a variant of several languages that have emerged over the last few decades. Over the years, English has become tinged with the influences of the various cultures present on the territory. Add " lah " to the end of your sentences and you'll be bilingual! So... can you speak singlish? Can lah? Cannot lah?
#Vanda Miss Joachim
Singapore's national flower, this natural hybrid orchid was found in 1893 in the garden of Miss Agnes Joachim, daughter of a wealthy merchant. Singaporeans have a passion for orchids, and the National Orchid Garden is a must-see, where you can admire no fewer than 6,000 species in a unique setting.
You are from here, if...
Respect the rules. Singapore is renowned for its cleanliness and safety, so make sure you obey the rules or risk a fine. Numerous signs dotted around the city will inform you of what is forbidden.
Don't throw cigarette butts on the ground, and respect the authorized smoking areas in the street and on terraces.
Call a cab by making a gesture with your hand, but without raising it... It's an art!
You shake hands with your interlocutor. Kissing on the cheek is a Latin habit, and Asians are not used to it, which can make them feel uncomfortable.
You appreciate ethnic diversity. Switching from one culture to another is highly instructive and mind-opening, and that's what makes Singapore so charming.
You enjoy sharing food with friends. It's customary to order a variety of dishes and share them, so that you can sample as many as possible, and above all for a convivial meal.