Asia > Singapore

An archipelago of just about 682 km² located at the level of the equator, Singapore benefits from a hot and wet tropical climate throughout the year with temperatures varying between 20°C and 30°C.

The highest levels of rainfall are reached in November and January while the dry season extends between the months of May and July.

City-state of Asia, Singapore counts more than four and a half million inhabitants. The city has a great ethnic and cultural diversity, and an astonishing economic dynamism.

You will be able to discover several aspects of Asian civilization there by strolling around various city districts such as Chinatown, Little India, Arab Street or the colonial district with its British monuments.

You may also explore the modern side of the city at Orchard Road, with its shopping centres and its restaurants. The Peranakan Showhouse Museum is also here, created in a collection of old houses.

Many events will probably take place during your stay, notable events worth watching out for include: Chinese New Year's day, the festival of Arts devoted to the theatre and the dance, which takes place every two years, the Kusu Island pilgrimage which is dedicated to the god of prosperity, or Deepavali, in November, in the district of Little India.

You will certainly enjoy the Leisure Park at East Coast Park, where you will be able to enjoy various sports, and you may wish to visit the Singapore Crocodilarium, unless you prefer relaxing on the beach.

Transport: the city is served by the international airport of Changi, located around twenty kilometres away on the East coast of the island and the centre of the air traffic communications, and you can move around very easily in the city thanks to the varied and very effective forms of public transport; subway, buses and taxis. Air-conditioned buses as well as ferries have regular services from Singapore to Malaysia and some Indonesian islands. Once in the town centre, it is better to use the very well known MRT (Mas Rapid Transit), an ultramodern subway which covers practically all the districts including the commercial zone of Orchard Road. And finally, for short distance travel in or around the city, use the train which will guarantee your comfort and safety.

Budget: In spite of its appearance as a large metropolis, life in Singapore is relatively inexpensive. For approximately 4 euros you will be able to taste the local specialties and for accommodation, plan for between 10 and 100 euros for a hotel room depending on the level of comfort desired.

Health: The dengue fever and the ‘chikungunya’ are endemic in Singapore. So you should have anti-mosquito lotions and patches to guarantee maximum protection against these diseases of which the most prominent symptoms are fever and aches.