The modern Singapore was founded as a British trading colony in 1819. Officially, Singapore city is the capital, largest city and chief port of Republic of Singapore. Nowadays, urbanization has almost omitted the distinction between Singapore and Singapore city. It is densely populated with Chinese, Malays and Indians. Hence, culture of Singapore is a perfect amalgamation of Indians and Chinese culture.
The founder of modern Singapore “Sir Stamford Raffles” founded the Raffles place which is globally known as the mercantile hub of Singapore and the home sky scrapers. Chinatown Singapore was originally designated for Chinese settlement by Stamford Raffles. This is also known as Niu Che Shui in Chinese and Kreta Ayer in Malay. These names mean Bullock Cart water.
The major strengthening in terms of social and cultural homogeneity can be seen here after the 1959 general election. Singapore merged with Malaya, Sarawak and Sabah on August 1963 under the 1962 referendum and formed the federation of Malaysia. But, it could not last long and eventually separated from the federation on August 1965. Nevertheless, it is known as the Switzerland of Asia.
Bustling hawker centers and 24 hours coffee shops offer the best of nutritious and delicious food from all parts of Asia. Orchard Road and Suntec city in Singapore are known as shopping meccas. Bungee jumping and dance on bartops all night long are few major attractions of Singapore nightlife. Alcohol is very expensive and chewing gum can be purchased here only from a pharmacy shop.
Singapore weather is usually sunny with no distinct seasons. Sudden rain falls almost daily. It is advisable to carry an umbrella all the time especially in afternoon. Republic of Singapore has very strict drug laws and death penalty is mandatory for drug trafficking. Thus, it is the safest one city in the world. But low crime does not mean no crime. Hence one must be alert in crowded areas and does not forget the common sense entirely. |
