Singapore Tours & Holidays

Tiny Singapore occupies little more than a dot on the world map, although it's still not small enough to rate as one of the world's smallest. Located in South-East Asia on the southern end of the Malaysian Peninsula, most of Singapore is highly urbanized, with most residents living in flats and skyscrapers in built up areas. A small proportion (about 10%) of Singapore's land is dedicated to forests and agriculture, with the rest being considered developed, urban environments.

Singapore has a typical tropical climate year round - hot and humid with equal amounts of sunshine and rain. The temperature range stays mostly in the 32°C (90°F) and rarely drops below 20°C (70°F) degrees at night. Although there are two monsoon seasons, rain is present year round, usually in the form of thunderstorms and short bursts of torrential rain. Thankfully the sun also shines year round - so although the weather can be unpredictable, the sun will usually prevail, making it the perfect Holiday destination.

1. Chili crab

Singaporean Chili Crab could be considered one of the world's favourite dishes from this region. Invented back in 1950, chili crab can now be found everywhere in Singapore - from high-end restaurants to simple hawker stalls. A must try when on holiday in Singapore.

2. Fish-head curry

This aromatic, spicy dish with a South Indian and Chinese heritage features a whole red snapper stewed in coconut milk, tamarind juice, spices and chili. The strong flavour and presence of a whole fish head may turn some people off, but for those with a strong stomach and desire for heat in their food, you can't go past this curry.

3. Chicken rice

This Hainanese-style Singaporean stalwart is unofficially considered Singapore's national dish. Featuring poached or fried chicken and steamed rice with sides of chicken stock, soy, and chili, this is the ideal dish for those wanting simple flavours and ingredients done well.

4. Ice cream sandwich

Head to the mobile ice cream carts located along Orchard Road to find this indulgent sweet treat. Traditional flavours (like chocolate and strawberry) get a run alongside more exotic flavours (durian or sweet corn ice cream anyone?). This slice of creamy sugar wrapped in sweet bread is the perfect antidote to the steamy Singaporean climate.

5. Fried carrot cake

No, this dish isn't made by putting a sweet carrot cake in a deep fryer. Rather, it's a popular savoury meal in Singapore also known as Chai Tow Kuay. And it just gets stranger when you consider that there are no carrots in this dish, but rather white radish, garlic, chili and coriander. Oddities aside, this street-food favourite is a cheap and easy meat-free meal, a top choice for vegetarian travellers.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

• Chinese New Year

• Labour Day

• Vesak Day

• Hari Raya Puasa

• National Day

Please note dates of Singapore's public holidays may vary.