Travellers from all over the world have been seduced by Singapore's oriental charm over the last 12 months as the south-east Asian country's tourist board announced that tourist figures were nine per cent higher than in 2005.
The growth is consistent with other nations in the region as travellers spread their horizons east, taking up long-haul journeys to the Orient in record numbers.
South Korea, China and the Philippines all experienced growth of over 20 per cent, while India's tourist figures jumped 13 per cent.
Singapore offers culturally curious visitors with a snapshot of the Far East cased within one of the smallest 20 countries in the world and where Western home comforts are readily available.
The city itself has a thriving nightlife with establishments ranging from the boisterous - try the Lantern Beer Garden on Collyer Quay - to a laid back jazz vibe - Harry's on Boat Quay – to the clubber's favourite nightspot – Zouk.
Although based on one main land mass, Singapore is actually a collection of 63 islets and due to its proximity to the equator, the country experiences near-summer weather conditions all year round.
Island-hopping and water sports are particularly popular among backpackers, who often stop over on their way to Australia and New Zealand.
In
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