Exploring Singapore: Top attractions in the Lion City
WVR - Singapore is known as the most beautiful and cleanest island nation in the world. The diamond-shaped island consisting of one main island and 63 small islands has been an irresistible attraction for international tourists.
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| Merlion Park, home to the Merlion statue - the mythic symbol of Singapore and easily the most popular attraction on the whole island. (Photo: Getty Images) |
Must-Visit Destinations
Upon arriving in Singapore, it’s a must for visitors to check-in at iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands and Sentosa Island.
Marina Bay Sands is a luxurious business and resort complex, comprising three 55-story towers. It is a hub of vibrant commercial centers with over 300 diverse shops and a state-of-the-art casino spanning an area of 15,000 square meters.
Particularly, Marina Bay Sands is located near Merlion Park, home to the iconic Merlion statue. The sea lion statue weighs 70 tons and is 8.7m high, its mouth spouts a stream towards Marina Bay, resembling a painting. The statue faces East, symbolizing prosperity for the island nation. The Merlion is the mascot of Singapore that is easily recognizable whenever mentioned.
Sentosa Island is the fourth largest island in Singapore. Although the name Sentosa means peace and tranquility, the entire island is a vibrant entertainment complex in Asia, combined with heritage centers and nature parks. Sentosa has a 2 km long beach, and every year, Sentosa Island extends a bit into the sea due to unique constructions designed and built by tourism investors.
Situated on Sentosa Island, the S.E.A. Aquarium is an impressive oceanarium complex, showcasing over 100,000 marine creatures from 800 species and more than 20,000 types of corals. The aquarium also boasts the world’s longest lazy river (620m) and the world’s largest collection of stingrays. Visitors to this place will be overwhelmed by the scale of the large aquariums, which house a multitude of marine species cohabiting together.
| Singapore, known as the Lion City, gets its name from the Malay words singa, which means “lion,” and pura, which means “city.” |
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| MacRitchie Reservoir is a famous destination for nature lovers in Singapore. (Source: Getty Images) |
The Land of ‘Green Lungs’
Known as the greenest, cleanest, and most beautiful island nation in the world, Singapore is not short of wonderful green parks. Visiting and relaxing in the fresh air under the lush green trees is a exceptional experience that Singapore’s nature offers to international tourists.
Foremost among these natural wonders is the Botanic Gardens - Singapore’s inaugural natural heritage site recognized by UNESCO in 2015. It stands as one of the most expansive and ancient botanical gardens in existence today and is perceived as a ‘green lungs’ nestled in the heart of Singapore city. In stark contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle, the Botanic Gardens offers visitors a serene, tranquil world and the impeccable beauty derived from nature. The Botanic Gardens is partitioned into five distinct smaller gardens, allowing visitors to explore each garden and acquaint themselves with a variety of plant species.
The most popular attraction of this place is the National Orchid Garden, which houses thousands of orchid species, referred to as Very Important Plants (VIP). Notably, over 200 hybrid orchid species in this garden have been named after various heads of state and leaders who have visited Singapore.
Next up is MacRitchie Reservoir, one of the most splendid green spaces in this island nation. Established in 1867, this vast natural garden is home to numerous indigenous species. Visitors to MacRitchie Reservoir can enjoy a stroll along an 11 km trail nestled within the tropical forest or partake in kayaking and canoeing. The best time to come here is early morning, when the air is cool and fresh. In particular, everyone will enjoy walking on the famous Treetop Walk, a 250 m-long suspension bridge, where one can relax, take in the panoramic view of the park, and traverse the vibrant tropical canopy below.
Unlike the two aforementioned “gardens”, Rainforest Lumina is a place where technology and nature intertwine. Living up to its reputation as a nation of technological advancement, Singapore knows how to apply technology to provide visitors with a multi-sensory journey, immersing themselves in nature and technology at Rainforest Lumina, the latest attraction within the Singapore Zoo.
Here, visitors will embark on a virtual interactive journey on a 1km night walk, immersed in a space of light, sound, and nature with the characteristics of more than 10 different tropical forests. Although there are no flesh-and-blood animals, the lights, music, display images, and interactive features will make your journey through the tropical forest incredibly lively and impressive.
