Singapore Overview

The island nation of the Republic of Singapore lies one degree north of the Equator in Southern Asia. The country includes the island of Singapore and 58 or so smaller islands.

Because of its efficient and determined government, Singapore has become a flourishing country that excels in trade and tourism and is a model to other developing nations. The capital city, also called Singapore, covers about a third of the area of the main island.

Although Singapore has a long history, its recent commercial development can be seen as beginning in 1819 when Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles annexed it for the British Crown. The purpose for the annexation was to establish a trading post for the East India Company.

Singapore is known by many different names, all with a certain fondness to their titles, such as "Surprising Singapore", "Garden City", "Golden City" and even "Instant Asia." All these descriptions fit and anyone who visits will soon agree. With its truly international atmosphere, all in just under 618 square km it has all the attractions a visitor could wish to find.

It is a vibrant metropolis where close on 3 million Chinese, Malays, Indians and Eurasians live and work side-by-side. It has a thriving business and financial centre, is the world's busiest port and its airport serves more than 60 major airlines, including the country's own international carrier, Singapore Airlines, daily. Communications and transport, including its hi-tech Mass Rapid Transit system and taxis make getting around and doing business simple and convenient.

Singapore has an astonishing mix of old ethnic areas, modern offices and shopping complexes. It has over 70 world-class hotels, 18 lush golf courses, and a host of tourist attractions. From classical symphonies to Chinese operas, jazz to ballet, rock to Hollywood's latest hits, Singapore offers unlimited entertainment.

There is so much to do whether you are a sport enthusiast or interested in leisurely activities. Hire a sailboard at the East Coast Parkway, or bike along the 8 km track. Swim at a sandy beach, feast on seafood at a clutch of nearby restaurants, or try your hand at kite flying. Catch a ferry to the outlying islands of St John's and Kusu, where swimming lagoons and cool, shady groves combine to make for a relaxing day out of the city. Drop into the Bukit Timah Turf Club for a day of horse racing at one of Asia's most beautiful courses, or watch a polo match at the Singapore Polo Club. You can play a round of golf, or brush up on your tennis at the hotel courts or nearby public facilities. All in all Singapore offers a world of attractions.

CLIMATE

Located just 1 degree north of the equator, Singapore enjoys a warm tropical weather that is relatively calm and consistent throughout the year. The average daily temperature is 26.7 deg.C with a mean temperature of 30.8 deg.C occurring in the afternoons and a minimum of 23.8 deg.C just before dawn. Relative humidity often exceeds 90 percent at night and in the early hours of the morning shortly before sunrise. On dry afternoons it is usually between 60 and 70 percent. Rainfall is most abundant during the Northeast Monsoon season from November to January. Much of the rain falls in sudden showers. February is usually the sunniest month while December is often the wettest. However, July and August are the hottest months when average temperatures are at their peak.

NOTE: All first time travellers to Singapore should take a look at our "tips" pages as there are a number of rules and regulations you'll need to acquaint yourself with before setting foot in the country.