JOURNEY THROUGH SINGAPORE O n the surface, Singapore appears to be a brash, modern city just like many in the West. But beneath this veneer you will find a fascinating blend of Asian cultures. It is a nation at a crossroads, as Stamford Raffles realized when he ‘leased’ the island for the British in the nineteenth century. He turned the island into a thriving trading port between East and West. Mass migrations from the region and elsewhere further transformed Singapore. In 1959, the British granted Singapore self-governance. An attempt in 1963 to merge with Malaysia failed due to tensions in the alliance, thus in 1965 Singapore became an independent nation. Strong leadership led to a new and modern Singapore: safe, clean and successful—a wealthy little country with a big reputation. Contents Welcome to the City of the Future! The Dynamic Melting Pot of Asia Singapore’s Rich Colonial Heritage Marina Bay and the Financial District Exploring the Singapore River The Traditional Charms of Chinatown Orchard Road—A Shoppers’ Paradise Little India—Singapore’s Most Colourful District Kampong Glam and Arab Street Singapore’s Famous Botanic Gardens Sentosa Island—A Tropical Playground The Singapore Zoo, River Safari and Night Safari The Jurong Bird Park The Jurong Lake Gardens