Explore the five cultures of Singapore
2010-05-17
One of the key elements to an international vacation is exploring a new and different culture that provides travelers with a different outlook on life than that which they are accustomed to. Fortunately for those planning a vacation to Singapore, there are a number of cultures that they can choose to explore at their whim.
As a cosmopolitan global city, Singapore has emerged as a force in the Asian Pacific due to its strong ports, its resilient economy and its broad populace. The island nation is effectively a city-state that is comprised of citizens representing Chinese, Malay, Indian, Asian and Caucasian backgrounds due to its history as both a naval power and an immigrant haven.
Travelers seeking to explore the Chinese aspect of the country's culture will want to head to Chinatown, a bustling community filled with a number of touristy destinations and shops and the stoic Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, which features a number of statues, artifacts and the 10,000 Buddhas Pagoda, which is adorned with a giant prayer wheel.
For a more central Asian cultural experience there is Little India, a colorful area highlighted by the beautiful sculptures adorning the Sri Veeramakaliamman temple roof. The native Malay culture can also be explored in the Bugis and Kampong Glam section of town.