2009 Reasons to Enjoy Singapore

Indulge in Uniquely Singapore

``Unique" is the word that best captures Singapore ― a vibrant, dynamic global city rich in contrasts and color, where different ethnic groups and religions co-exist harmoniously, and where exciting experiences abound, from exotic local food to international fashion labels, and from tranquil nature parks to pulsating nightlife.

Supported by a safe and secure environment and cutting-edge infrastructure, visitors can enjoy luxurious accommodations and lifestyle offerings such as gourmet dining venues, five-star wellness and spa facilities, world-class arts performances and entertainment, as well as a vibrant nightlife year-round.

In 2008, Singapore welcomed 10.1 million visitors and generated a record $14.8 billion in Singaporean dollars in tourism receipts.

It's a small wonder, for Singapore has so much to offer, making it a must-visit destination.

Rich Tapestry of Cultures, Traditions

In this exciting city of contrasts, one can visit Singapore's oldest Hindu Temple, a mosque, and a Chinese temple, all within a stone's throw from each other in Singapore's historic Chinatown.

Multiculturalism is simply the way of life in Singapore.

Visit the ethnic districts of the city and immerse in the colors, tastes and sounds of each culture, reflected in their delicacies, festivals, customs, architecture, and of course, people.

Fusion of Historical, Modern Influences

More cultural variety can be found in Singapore's colonial past, where the architectural elegance of buildings and historical landmarks in the civic district blend with the backdrop of modern skyscrapers.

See history come to life in the city's many museums, and be inspired by the heroic, inspirational and intriguing stories from Singapore's colorful beginnings.

City Within a Garden

Singapore is affectionately termed the ``Garden City' because of its various parks and gardens, which offer lush landscaped retreats from urban life.

Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens with its array of botanical and horticultural attractions, including the national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim, or the recently-opened gardening hub ― HortPark ― which spans an area of 23 hectares.

Venture into nature reserves and discover an astonishing variety of plants, animals and insect life.

With activities such as bird-watching, fishing, trekking, treetop walks and history trails, experience how nature and greenery is a distinctive feature of the Singaporean landscape. And coming in 2010, keep an eye out for the spectacular gardens by the bay.

Culinary Haven

Singaporeans are known to love their food, so visitors can look forward to a gastronomic adventure with local and international fare, characterized by a multitude of aromas and flavors that distinguish Singapore as the food capital of Asia.

Local dishes that simply must be tried include chilli crab (crabs served in a hearty, sweet and spicy gravy), roti prata (Indian pancake, or flatbread), and Hainanese chicken rice (flavorful rice cooked in chicken stock, served with steamed or roast chicken).

With a wide range of sumptuous delights offered by all the different ethnic groups, you will need to make several trips around the island to try them all.

The assortment of eateries extends from the hawker center, a bustling complex home to stalls selling tasty meals on the cheap, to award-winning fine dining restaurants.

Shopping Paradise

Singaporeans don't need a special occasion to indulge in another of their favorite pastimes ― shopping ― and you won't either, once you experience the extensive selection of quality products on display at the diverse mix of shopping venues.

Check out the newest shopping outlets, like Illuma and Orchard Central, or the iconic ION Orchard & 313@Somerset, to open by the year's end.

From prestigious international labels to the local brands, which have garnered faithful followers, there is something to suit every budget, taste and fancy.

Singapore offers quality assurance, after-sales service and authentic products to give shoppers piece of mind.

Shopaholics will have yet another reason to rejoice: Late Night Shopping. The regular feature every Saturday along Orchard Road offers bargains, mall promotions and street performances, adding even more vibrancy to Singapore's premier shopping street.

A Happening Hotspot for All-Night Partying

The city never sleeps!

Come nightfall, take your pick from crowd-favorite locales such as Zouk and St. James Power Station, or the try some of newest bars and clubs in the city, such as the Supperclub and the Butter Factory.

There is also the region's iconic night entertainment belt, Clarke Quay, a virtually 24-hour entertainment zone with an exciting mix of dining and nightlife venues, such as the Cannery.

Experience the Ibiza spirit in Singapore at Cafe Del Mar on Sentosa, or step away from the clubbing crowd and into one of the new pubs or restaurants that have sprung up in suburbs such as Tanglin Village, Rochester Park and Keppel Bay.

2009 Reasons to Enjoy Singapore

Launched in February, ``2009 Reasons to enjoy Singapore" is a yearlong marketing campaign launched by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to generate local and overseas demand, and to drive value through enhancing visitor experience.

Leveraging on its key signature events, the STB works with industry partners to develop attractive and value-for-money promotions made available throughout the year, drive homing the message that visitors can enjoy Singapore even during the economic downturn.

More information can be found at www.visitsingapore.com/2009reasons.

Nothing Comes Close

Also look out for the 2009 Formula One SingTel Singapore Grand Prix in September ― still the first and only night race on the Formula One calendar.

The race is the highlight of the Singapore GP Season, a celebratory showcase of various Formula One-themed activities, entertainment events and festivals held over two weekends from Sept. 18 to 27.

The Singapore GP Season will present visitors a total race experience unlike any other.

2009 will culminate with the opening of Singapore's first-ever Integrated Resort ― the Marina Bay Sands.

Singapore's second integrated resort ― Resorts World at Sentosa ― will follow in 2010.

Singapore is truly a city like no other. With its warm and friendly people, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and year-round calendar of entertainment, there is so much waiting to be experienced, a world of possibilities not found anywhere else.