Indeed, Singapore boasts a contemporary allure reminiscent of sci-fi cinema. Yet, delve into its enigmatic past – from its name genesis to the multitude of islands that surround it. Discover captivating Singaporean facts beyond the textbooks.
There are not just 1, but 64 islands in Singapore
There is a mosaic of 64 islands.
Did you know? Singapore encompasses not just one island, but a stunning ensemble of 64 offshore islets encircling the main landmass. Among these, Sentosa reigns as a favored resort island, while sanctuaries like Pulau Ubin, St John’s Island, and Sisters’ Islands beckon nature enthusiasts. Brace for sun-soaked adventures!
It’s home to First Night Zoo in the World
The nocturnal wonderland Visitors on a tram see a Malayan Tapir in Night Safari Singapore Singapore’s Night Safari promises an unparalleled nocturnal encounter—unveiling the world’s pioneer night zoo. Launched in 1994, this 35-hectare sanctuary showcases over 1,000 animals across 120 diverse species, thriving within their authentic nighttime habitats.
Embark on the 40-minute Guided Tram Ride to survey the park’s prime attractions or wander along its interlinked walking trails for an extraordinary zoo journey.
It’s a City of (Man-made) waterfalls
Cascading wonders of water The HSBC Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi, Mandai Wildlife Reserve notes the inception of Singapore’s inaugural man-made waterfall in 1971, which tumbles from a 30-meter height — a soaring spectacle nestled within Jurong Bird Park’s aviary.
Venture to Cloud Forest, Gardens by the Bay, to encounter another artificial pinnacle. A colossal 35-meter waterfall takes center stage in this mist-draped conservatory, hosting plant life from tropical highlands.
And don’t miss the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the HSBC Rain Vortex, soaring 40 meters amidst the lush indoor sanctuary of Jewel Changi Airport.
The locals speak Singlish, not just English
Embracing Singlish A postcard with the Singaporean slang word “Chope” Discover the vibrant tapestry of Singlish, Singapore’s vivid local slang — frequent exclamations like ‘lah’ and ‘leh’ naturally punctuate conversations among locals.
Singlish, a medley of colloquial phrases and idioms, mirrors Singapore’s multicultural spirit. For instance, “chope” signifies reserving a seat, often claimed with tissue paper packets at hawker centers!
Engage with locals using the endearing terms “Aunties” and “Uncles” for cab drivers and stall owners, a respectful nod to elder figures. Tread cautiously, as these terms reflect age and familiarity-avoid offense!
Singapore pioneered the First F1 night race
Racing through the night, racecars turn the first corner at the FORMULA ONE Singapore Grand Prix Since 2008, the Grand Prix Season Singapore has dazzled with concerts, racing, and entertainment for Formula One enthusiasts of all ages.
A trailblazer, the FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX redefined racing history as the inaugural night race in 2008. The intricate Marina Bay street circuit, adorned with radiant floodlights, boasts an unrivaled 23 corners, capturing the essence of Singapore’s iconic skyline.
The Singapore GP promises nonstop excitement and adrenaline, reigniting a racing spectacle like no other.
The first Botanic Gardens were at Fort Canning
The garden of all things flora opened its gates at Fort Canning Hill in 1822 but its run ended seven years later. It was then reopened to the public once again in 1836 but left abandoned in 1846 – what luck! Eventually, the Singapore Botanic Gardens that we know and love was founded in 1859 at its present home at Bukit Timah. It’s also honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It’s one of the World’s Greenest Cities
Verdant haven in the cityscape Daytime outdoors distant frontal shot of young couple hiking on trail Photo by Lim Wei Xiang Behind its towering skyscrapers lies a green sanctuary; nearly half of Singapore’s land—roughly 700 square kilometers—is veiled in lush foliage. Amidst numerous parks and gardens, botanical surprises thrive in unconventional spaces. PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering exemplifies the hotel-in-a-garden concept, flaunting a four-story cascading vertical garden.
Thriving biodiversity graces the City in a Garden’s many nature reserves, housing over 2,100 native vascular plant species. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve boasts more tree species in one hectare than North America’s total.
It’s home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and some unique ‘VIPs’
Sanctuary of VIP Orchids A walking trail at Singapore Botanic Gardens Bestowed UNESCO World Heritage status in 2015, the Singapore Botanic Gardens predates modern Singapore by over a century, with a legacy stretching over 150 years since 1859.
Crowning its allure, the National Orchid Garden presents a plethora of Very Important Plants (VIPs)—thousands of orchid species. Over 200 hybrid orchids honor luminaries from Nelson Mandela to actors like Jackie Chan, Zhou Xun, and Bae Yong Jun.
Numerous uncharted Neighborhoods await exploration
Hidden gems off the beaten path Shopfront of Plain Vanilla Bakery with bicycles parked in front. Beyond Chinatown, Kampong Gelam, and Little India, Singapore harbor hidden havens waiting to be explored.
Tiong Bahru’s Art Deco charm showcases hip eateries and boutiques, while Joo Chiat/Katong boasts vibrant shophouses and traditional culinary delights.
Emerging neighborhoods like Everton Park tempt with coffee joints, cafés, and delectable foodie delights. There’s always something to celebrate in Singapore.
There’s always something to celebrate in Singapore
Year-round celebrations Atmosphere at STREAT 2019 Never a dull moment! Singapore’s calendar brims with cultural fiestas, major sports events, art showcases, and lifestyle extravaganzas.
The HSBC World Rugby Singapore Sevens transforms the S$1.3 billion Singapore Sports Hub into a thrilling arena, hosting a gamut from live music to martial arts showdowns.
Indulge in the Singapore Food Festival, a culinary extravaganza celebrating traditional flavors and modern Mod-Sin cuisine—a feast for discerning palates.
The Lion City may actually have been inspired by a Tiger
Unmasking the origins of the Lion City An evening side view of the Merlion spouting water into the river The iconic Merlion—a lion-headed, fish-tailed marvel—symbolizes Singapore. Uncover the tale: Merlion traces its roots to “Singapura,” translating to “lion city” in Sanskrit. This name traces back to the 14th century when Sumatran prince Sang Nila Utama ruled Temasek.
Legend holds that the prince’s advisors identified a creature as a lion while on a hunting expedition. Although lions weren’t native to Singapore, tigers once roamed the wild until the 1930s. The Merlion’s story resonates with the island’s captivating history.
Anderson Bridge Has a Morbid Past
Completed in 1910 and named after then Governor of the Straits Settlements and High Commissioner for the Federated Malay States, Sir John Anderson, the steely exterior of Anderson Bridge looks like something out of a dystopian flick. But it has a morbid past too. Before becoming part of the famous F1 Singapore street circuit, it had severed heads of spies and criminals hung around it by soldiers during the Japanese Occupation as a deterrent.
But the oldest bridge is Cavenagh Bridge
Built in 1869, it was originally named Edinburgh Bridge after the Duke of Edinburgh’s visit. But it later became Cavenagh when it was named after the last India-appointed Governor of the Straits Settlement, Sir Orfeur Cavenagh. The Cavenagh coat of arms and original signages still stand at each end of the bridge that’s still used by pedestrians. Based on the vintage police notices that are still up, no vehicles – even cattle and horses – are allowed to cross to this date.
Believe you’ve uncovered all of Singapore’s mysteries? Think again! Embark on these must-have experiences and exhilarating city routes for an unforgettable adventure in Singapore.
(Credits: sftrajan, national parks board, oneworldjustgo, Steemit, OneThreeOneFour, Bottled Grove Photography, Cloud Productions, lpoholidays.in, Darren and Jade Photography, Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Singapore Zoo, Klook, Sentosa)
