Little India and Arab Street

Singapore is just north of the equator, at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, and is linked to Malaysia by a causeway. It consists of a main island and over 50 islets, one of which is Sentosa, Singapore's famous resort island.

However, its compact size belies its economic growth. In just 150 years, Singapore has grown into a thriving centre of commerce and industry. Its former role as an entrepot has diminished, as the Republic has increased its manufacturing base.

Singapore is the busiest port in the world with over 600 shipping lines sending super tankers, container ships and passenger liners to share the busy waters with coastal fishing vessels and wooden lighters. One of the world's major oil refining and distribution centres, Singapore is also a major supplier of electronic components and a leader in shipbuilding and repairing.

It has also become one of the most important financial centres of Asia, with more than 130 banks. Business dealings are facilitated by Singapore's superb communications network which links the Republic to the rest of the world via satellite, 24-hour telegraph and telephone systems.

Singapore's strategic location, excellent facilities, fascinating cultural contrasts and tourist attractions contribute to its success as a leading destination for both business and pleasure.

A world away from Orchard Road, Little India in Serangoon Road is the place to look for silk sari lengths, handlooms, brassware and jewellery. Street activities and small businesses such as spice grinders and garland makers will interest you every bit as much as the shopping. The mystique and enchantment of India come alive even more vividly at the Little India Arcade.

Little India stretches from Rochor Canal to Lavendar Street, centred around Serangoon Road, embodies the vibrant and colourful culture of the Indian community in Singapore. While early Indians resided in Chulia Street near Chinatown, most of them settled to the present Little India beacause of the introduction of cattle rearing on the fertile land of Rochor River. Immigrants from Madras, Calcutta and Malaya joined them soon after. Today, Little India is the emotional and commercial cenre of the local Indian community, including the many foreign workers from India who gather there every Sunday for familiar taste of home. The best time to visit Little India is early morning when you can enjoy the spicy aromas, the colourful traditions, the strains of sitar music and colourful garlands being made. And not forgetting the numerous eatries, where you can eat all you want for under S$5.

Singapore's climate is warm and humid, with only slight variations between the average maximum of 31 degrees Celcius and minimum of 23 degrees Celcius. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy sunbathing, swimming, sailing and other water sports. But for those who do not enjoy the tropical climate, Singapore is sheltered from the worst effects of the sun with air-conditioning in almost all of its shops, hotels, office buildings and restaurants.

Rain falls throughout the year, with more consistent rain coming during the monsoon season from November to January. Showers are usually sudden and heavy, but also brief and refreshing.