Singapore the Garden City

Singapore's history is rich and diverse. It began as a trading post in the 14th century and then became part of the Malacca Sultanate. Over time, various powers controlled it, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. In 1819, Sir Stamford Raffles established Singapore as a British trading colony. It fell to the Japanese during World War II before returning to British control. In 1963, Singapore joined Malaysia but separated two years later due to political and economic differences. Since then, Singapore has rapidly developed into a prosperous city-state known for its strong economy, efficient governance, and multicultural society.

I am looking forward to visiting Singapore this summer. I find the country’s beauty quite captivating. I decided to research Singapore because it is the setting of my favorite movie “Crazy Rich Asians”. Additionally, my mother was born in Naasim Road, Singapore. This website will help me explore places I can visit this summer.

Raffles Hotel: The Raffles Hotel in Singapore is an iconic luxury hotel known for its colonial architecture and timeless elegance. Built in 1887, it has hosted numerous dignitaries, celebrities, and royalty. The hotel features lush tropical gardens, elegant suites, and historic landmarks such as the Long Bar, home of the famous Singapore Sling cocktail. Renowned for its impeccable service and attention to detail, the Raffles Hotel offers guests a glimpse into Singapore's colonial past while providing a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

From opening a new three-story main building in 1899 to a huge overhaul in 2019, Raffles Hotel has become Singapore's signature example of colonial architecture. Its white exterior and neo-Renaissance design include tropical necessities such as high ceilings and extensive verandas. Raffles Hotel is well-known for its history and luxurious ambiance, fun fact: this is also where the famous cocktail Singapore sling was invented.

Marina Bay Sands is a notable Singapore project from architect Moshe Safale. The hotel has become a signature part of the city's skyline, immediately identified by its three towers and cantilevered sky green, which hosts the world's largest floor-top infinity pool. There are 12 different room types at the Marina Bay Sands. All rooms come equipped with amenities such as access to the Sands SkyPark, entry to the Banyan Tree Fitness Club, a fully stocked minibar, and 24-hour room service. Measuring 6,770 square feet, the Chairman Suite is the largest available suite. It has four bedrooms, two living rooms, a baby grand piano, a private gym, and much more. The Shoppes at Marina Bay house Singapore's largest luxury jewelry collection and watch brands. Shoppers can receive Sands Rewards when purchasing items from brands like Burberry, Dior, and Prada. A shopping concierge is available for those who would like a professional to assist them with styling needs.

Originally named after its neighboring Esplanade Park, one of the parks in Singapore, the oldest park in Singapore, the iconic 60,000-square-meter performing arts center is affectionately dubbed "The Durian" by locals due to its spiky architectural exterior. Having been in the works since the 1970s, the Esplanade was set up as a hub where Singaporeans can engage with and be inspired by the local arts and culture scene. With its bold design, the space has become synonymous with the country, a funky complement to the symmetry of Marina Bay Sands and the nearby Singapore Flyer. Designed by leading local firm DP Architects, the space features a 1,600-seat Concert Hall where the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and other local, regional, and international music acts regularly perform. If you’re in the mood for some Shakespeare or a modern dance performance, chances are you’ll find it at the 2,000-seat Theatre next door.

A huge fish head and vegetables cooked in a curry and served with rice or bread usually accompanied by a glass of "Calamansi" or local lime juice. Its origins are in South India, with Chinese and Malay influences. In some versions, tamarind juice is added to give a sweet-sour taste. In some versions, tamarind juice is added to give a sweet-sour taste.

Guan Hoe Soon is one of the last few bastions of authentic dining in the historically Peranakan neighborhood of Joo Chiat. Opened in 1953 by Yap Chee Quee, the restaurant has always remained in the area, moving along Joo Chiat Road and finally settling on Joo Chiat Place. The shophouse dining room stocks a mini-museum of vintage tableware at the back including a dining set used at its original premises.

Bak Kut Teh and rice is a pork rib soup infused with Chinese herbs and spices, seasoned with light and dark soy sauce then simmered for hours usually accompanied by steamed rice and eaten as breakfast, Bak Kut Teh comes in all kinds of varieties the less-fatty version made with chicken and halal version for Muslims.

The music of Singapore is a rich tapestry reflecting its diverse cultural heritage, blending influences from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian communities, alongside Western traditions. Traditional Chinese music features instruments like the erhu and pipa, while Malay music includes the gambus and kompang, and Indian music showcases the veena and tabla. The unique Peranakan culture combines Chinese and Malay elements in genres like dondang sayang. Singapore also has a vibrant scene for Western classical music, with institutions like the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, and for pop and rock, with local bands gaining international recognition. The city’s multicultural landscape encourages fusion genres, mixing traditional Asian elements with contemporary styles such as jazz and EDM. Music festivals like the Singapore International Festival of Arts and Baybeats Music Festival further highlight this dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, positioning Singapore as a global hub for arts and entertainment

The culture of Singapore is a melange of Malay, South Asian, Southeast Asian and Eurasian culture and influences. The quintessential cosmopolitan, Singaporean culture has transformed greatly over the years. The indigenous culture of Singapore was originally influenced by Austronesian people who arrived here from Taiwan. During the course of many years, Singapore's culture was further influenced and inspired by multiple Chinese dynasties and other Asian countries which have eventually given shape to the eccentric and striking Singaporean culture that we see today.

Cheong Soo Pieng was another prominent Chinese-born Singaporean painter known for his abstract paintings. He along with Chen Wen Si, Georgette Chen, and Liu Kang founded the Nanyang style of art, one of the most important movements in Singapore's cultural history. He took up teaching at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, and began his vigouros styles, he is best known for his stylized depictions of Malay and Balinese women he worked in a unique aesthetic that blended Hindu, Chinese, and Modernist European influences. Cheong and Chen Wen His were founders of what became known as the Nanyang Style, a Southeast Asian art movement characterized by its use of graphic outlines and muted palettes in Chinese ink paintings.