Singapore has often been described as an economic epicenter of Asia, known for its uniformly efficient and hardworking corporate culture. Sleek, clean and above all punctual, Singapore is one of the more tranquil cities in the region minus the organized chaos, traffic infested roads and haggling street vendors that are typical of the Asian experience.
So is it any surprise that it is also a Mecca for tourists from across the globe to collectively let their hair down? Not at all, as Sentosa island has proved it over the years. This powerhouse of a resort island is perhaps the nation’s best known destination and most popular brand. Dominating the city’s sky scraping landscapes this holiday haven attracts a whopping five million visitors annually.
With more than 15,000 live butterflies divided between 50 species, the Butterfly Park is a nature lover’s dream come true. Located in an open-air conservatory guests can marvel at the park’s extensive collection of butterflies which includes the 6 inch long Papilio iswara to the minuscule inch length Eurema sari. Home to the 160 millimeter long Dynastes Hercules beetle, the Insect Kingdom at Sentosa is also a treat with its’ 3,000 species of the world’s rarest insects.
Why not step on to the best free standing observation deck on the island at the Tiger Sky Tower with its breathtaking views of the city from 131 meters above sea level. Visitors can glance over at neighboring Indonesia and Malaysia if the weather permits while the revolving cabin with glass windows offer guests an unparalleled view of the city below.
Movie buffs will also not be disappointed with what’s on offer at Sentosa as Southeast Asia’s original 4-dimensional theatre 4DMagix and Cineblast the nation’s only cinema ride compete for attention. With mind-blowing Digital Projection, life –like special effects and DTS 6.1 sound system ,it is hard to beat the cinematic experience at 4D Magix mainly due to its’ motion-sensitive seating. The state of the art sound and light technology, 6 axis motion scheme and the high definition wide screens of Cineblast are also well worth the time as it transports participants to the virtual world of film on a ride of a lifetime.
The iconic Merlion statue is another highlight on Sentosa, the 12 storey high statue can be viewed from the inside with panoramic views over the island and surrounding area. The Sentosa Luge & Skyride and Cable Cars also afford guests the thrill of exploring Sentosa in a unique way whether it’s in a gravity-propelled three wheeler cart or a suspended cable car.
Another hotspot in Sentosa is its’ pristinely sheltered beaches. Consisting of over two kilometers of prime shorefronts, it contains three major regions, Tanjong Beach, Palawan Beach and Siloso Beach. Palawan beach is renowned for its’ suspension bridge and trendy bars while Siloso Beach is ideal for volleyball enthusiast and other sporting activities the likes of mountain biking, skim boarding, rollerblading or canoeing.
As one of the first addition to Sentosa’s Resort World concept, Universal Studios is an attraction in itself. Being the country’s only cinema theme park, this Asian instalment of the U.S entertainment giant with over 24 thrilling rides and other attractions is definitely a must see venue. Mummies, dinosaurs and rides travelling at high speeds are just some of the features of this rollercoaster infested site.
Food enthusiasts can also enjoy a wide variety of dishes as some of the options include Sarpino’s Pizzeria, the Délifrance Café, Mövenpick Ice Cream, Mega Tian Siang Hot Pot Restaurant and the Tiger Skybar among many others.
Visitors who wish to secure comfortable and convenient accommodation need not look any further than the Traders Hotel Singapore. Stylishly furnished and well reputed, this quaint rest is a premier hotel in Singapore for all the right reasons.
