The name Singapore is derived from the word ?Singapura? or ?Lion City? as legend has it that a Sumatran prince sighted a beast that looked like a lion when he first set foot on the island in the 14th century. In the year 1819, Sir Stamford Raffles founded Singapore and established a British trading station on this island.
Singapore?s people are largely descendants of immigrants from the Malay Peninsula, China and the Indian
sub-continent. The population is comprised of 76.7% Chinese, 13.9% Malay, 7.9% Indian and 1.5% others. As for religion the ratio comprises of 31% Taoist, 28% Buddhist, 18% Muslim, 10% Christian and 4% Hindu. There are 4 official languages ? Malay, Chinese (Mandarin), Tamil and English. Malay is the national language and English is the language of administration as well as the medium of instruction in schools and other educational institutions. The National Anthem is sung in the Malay language.
The colours of the Singapore flag represent red for brotherhood and equality; white for purity and virtue. The crescent moon represents a young nation on the rise. The five stars stand for Singapore?s ideals of democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality.?
A lion head, the national symbol of Singapore symbolises courage, strength and excellence.
Vanda Miss Joaquim is the national flower which epitomises Singapore?s quest for progress and excellence in all aspects of life.
As a melting pot of many cultures, Singapore enjoys many colourful festivals. The Chinese celebrate Chinese New Year, the Dragon Boat Festival and the Mid Autumn Festival with mouth-watering delicacies created just for those occasions. The Muslims look forward to Hari Raya Puasa & Hari Raya Haji and the Hindus have Thaipusam and Deepavali. These festivals are occasions for all Singaporeans to come together to share their
culture and traditions.
Due to it?s diverse culture, Singapore has become a food haven, offering a cosmopolitan range of cuisines ranging from Mongolian to South African and Japanese to a host of European choices. Of course, you should not miss Singapore?s famed local specialities, Chilli Crab and Hainanese Chicken Rice. You should also try Laksa (rice noodles in coconut curry gravy with shrimp, egg and chicken as garnishing) and Nasi Padang (rice with various spicy dishes). For casual dining, eat at a kopitiam, which is a traditional type of coffee shop serving a large variety of local food. For breakfast, order some Kaya (sweet coconut egg jam) on charcoal-toasted bread and enjoy with a cup of local coffee. Another great combination is roti prata (Indian pancake) and teh
tarik (?pulled? tea).
There are many places of interest including The Merlion, Chinatown, Little India, Jurong Bird Park (with the world?s largest Southeast Asian bird collection), the Night Safari, the Singapore Zoological Gardens and the Singapore Science Centre. Sentosa Island deemed, Asia?s Favourite Playground, is home to an exciting array of themed attractions, award-winning spa retreats, lush rainforests, golden sandy beaches, resort accommodations, world-renowned golf courses, a deep-water yachting marina and luxurious residences. Spread over 500 hectares, the vibrant island resort is ideal for both business and leisure and is easily accessible by bus, cable car or ferry.
Latest addition to the Singapore?s entertainment scene would be Marina Bay Sands. It?s a magnificent destination for entertainment, business and shopping, delivering once-in-a-lifetime experiences. This landmark building is situated in the heart of Singapore?s central business district. With a luxury hotel, state-of-the art convention and exhibition facilities, theatres, and some of the best shopping and dining in the region, this is the place to go for world-class entertainment.
Last but not least, a must see is the famous shopping belt ? Orchard Road. Spanning almost 2.2km, Orchard Road is a one-way street flanked by distinctive shopping malls on both sides of the road. Outside of the malls, the main thoroughfare is immaculately landscaped with flowers and greenery as is ubiquitous in this Garden City. Each iconic mall is a shopper?s haven offering its own selection of retail, dining and entertainment opportunities. Promising to please any taste or budget, the shopping belt comprises nearly 800,000 sq m of stores and restaurants, from designer brands to fast fashion and from upscale restaurants to food courts.The Orchard Road experience is a lifestyle experience and is one of Singapore?s biggest tourist draws.
Source: http://www.khamtakla.org/unique-facts-about-singapore.htm
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