Singapore, capital city of Singapore

Singapore is the capital city of Singapore

Once dismissed as bland and tasteless, Singapore has evolved into one of Southeast Asia's most enjoyable cities. From its past as a colonial outpost, the capital has transformed into a soulful, diverse and rich city known for its fashion emporiums, dozens of parks, architectural legacy and absorbing cultural life. The food alone is enough to make Singapore a premier destination, but the city also draws visitors with its stylish nightlife, distinct neighborhoods, adventure activities, natural beauty and vibrant energy.

Throw yourself into the cultural heart of the capital in Chinatown. The lively neighborhood provides a glimpse into the city's history with its faithful restoration of temples, shops and residences. Traditional businesses thrive, selling everything from incense to silk garments and herbal remedies. It is easy to lose yourself in the bustling alleyways, but that is part of the Chinatown experience.

Singapore is home to some of Asia's best museums. More than 7,000 drawings, prints, paintings, sculptures and photographs are on display at the Singapore Art Museum, and the National Museum showcases some of the country's greatest treasures. Walking through the American Civilizations Museum is like taking a crash course in the continent's history, and the Peranakan Museum tells the story of Singapore's first settlers.

Singapore is the only world capital that contains a patch of primary rainforest within its borders. The 164-acre Bukit Timah Nature Reserve contains more plant species than the entire North American continent, including more than 840 flowering plants. The dense forest is home to over 500 species of animals, including long-tailed macaques, flying lemurs and fairy bluebirds. Although the trails are easy to follow alone, a local guide can offer valuable insight into the ecosystem.

If you would rather explore Singapore's nature in a slightly more controlled environment, head to the city's world-class zoo. Most of the animals are allowed to roam freely in natural habitats. Orangutans climb trees right above visitors' heads, proboscis monkeys swing from branches, and mouse deer, kangaroos and lemurs often scamper right across the pathways. At night, the zoo puts on special safaris that highlight nocturnal creatures like leopards and the Malayan tiger.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the Botanic Gardens. The bucolic retreat is filled with elderly people doing tai-chi, local dog-walkers, joggers and people-watchers enjoying the virgin rainforest. The nearby National Orchid Garden contains over 1,000 species of orchid and is one of the most lovely places in the city.

Adventurous travelers can get the best view of the city from the 165-meter-high Flyer, the world's largest observation wheel. The 30-minute ride is worth the steep admission and most enjoyable at night, when the downtown skyscrapers glitter with neon lights.

The religious diversity of Singapore is quite remarkable, and non-followers are welcome at most religious sites. Those particularly worth a visit include the Burmese Buddhist Temple, Arab Street's stately Masjid Sultan, Chinatown's fanciful Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple and the expansive monastery near Ang Mo Kio.

The small city-state is packed with other notable sights, including the shops of Orchard Road, Little India, the thriving commercial district of Clarke Quay, the Jurong Bird Park, the Arab Quarter and the Marine Life Park, the world's largest oceanarium.