For an island this small, Singapore sure has far more than its share of attractions. From idyllic, lonely stretches of beach and full blown amusement parks to solemn Buddhist shrines and cool, quiet museums… We present here a sampling of the attractions the island has to offer.
Famous Sites:
The Merlion.
The iconic symbol of Singapore, the Merlion statue is situated at the mouth of the Singapore river, the Merlion to Singapore is what the Statue of Liberty is to the United States. The statue itself is a depiction of a mythical half fish / half lion creature, and celebrates the republic's legendary past. According to the "Malay Annals" a collection of histories from the 15th and 16th centuries, a Sri Vijayan prince from Sumatra island by the name of Sang Nila Utama, sighted a lion while his ship was landing on the island and decided to name the island Singapura, from the Sanskrit words "Singa" (Lion) and "Pura" (City). The lion head of the statue signifies the island's name and the fish tail, synbolises Temasek, Singapore's ancient name.
Designed and crafted by Mr. Lim Nang Seng, it was officially installed in the year 1972, by Prime Minister, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew. The Merlion is a popular tourist attraction and the promontory it's situated on offers excellent views and photo opportunities of the Marina Bay and the silhouette of the city's skyline, including One Fullerton and the Esplanade.
Take the MRT to Raffles Place Station, then walk. It's near the Fullerton Hotel.
Raffles Statue.
The statue of Singapore's founder, Sir Stamford Raffles, is situated at the spot where he was believed to have first come ashore. The site offers excellent views of the
Boat Quay and Raffles Place.
Take the MRT to Raffles Place Station, then walk, it's near the North Boat Quay
The War Memorial.
A tribute to the people who died during the Second World War, this memorial stands near the City Hall MRT station. The Japanese occupied Singapore for three years from 1942 to 1945 and during this time, many civilians died in the brutal occupation by the Japanese Imperial Army. The memorial is comprised of four white columns and reaches some 230 feet into the sky.
Take the MRT to City Hall station, it's a short walk away from there.