Singapore by Exotik

A modern and prosperous city, Singapore is an object of fascination for Westerners as well as an introduction to Asia: the ethnic, religious and cultural diversity of this city gives some insight into the complexity of an entire continent. Singapore is a city-state of Southeast Asia. Its area is 719 km2 and has a little less than 200 km of coastline. It comprises 63 islands, the main one being Pulau Ujong (584.8 km2). This island is very densely urbanized, but the lush vegetation “even in the city center” has earned Singapore the nickname of “garden city”. Singapore has more than 5 million people whose origins are diverse: Chinese, Malay, Indian and many other cultures from neighboring or western countries. There are in particular many Eurasians (born to a European parent and another Asian). All these cultures mix and thus form the Singaporean culture. This culture is essentially based on respect for others. The official language is English, which allows all Singaporeans to understand each other, because all are bilingual and speak their native language. Singapore is home to mosques, Buddhist temples, Taoist temples, Hindu temples and churches, offering everyone the opportunity to practice their own religion. Must-sees GARDENS BY THE BAY: Huge botanical garden and ultra modern architecture, it is the lung of the city of 101 hectares. The park is subdivided into three gardens, Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden and Bay Central Garden. Here, we know why the city-state is called “Garden City”. SRI MARIAMMAN TEMPLE: The oldest and most important Indian temple in Singapore (1827), listed as a historical monument, with walls decorated with polychrome figures, it is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman known to heal the worst epidemics. HAWKER CENTER: In Singapore, hawker centers (or food courts) are a must. These large restaurant complexes never fail to fill up. In the front of the stands with impeccable hygiene, we enjoy dim sum, rice dumplings or chilly crab, for a modest price, in an incomparable atmosphere. CHINATOWN: In the bustling Chinatown, with its pagodas, silk shops, herbalist shops and calligraphy workshops, the atmosphere is unique. Visit the Heritage Center to immerse yourself in the historic Chinatown and attend a tea ceremony at Tea Chapter.

Language

Malay, Tamil, English and Mandarin.

Weather

 Located one degree north of the equator, Singapore enjoys a warm and humid climate with an average of 20 to 30°C throughout the year. The driest season is from May to September. The northeastern monsoon causes many showers between October-November and January. 

Electricity

The electricity is 230 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Entry requirements

 Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country. 

Communication

International access code: 00 International dialing code: 65 Concerning national calls made in Singapore, it is not necessary to dial the 65 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 65 and finally the local phone number in Singapore.

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