Singapore (officially the Republic of Singapore) is an island nation in Southeast Asia. Its capital is Singapore City. The population is approximately 6.04 million, with 4.18 million citizens and permanent residents. Total land area: ~735.2 km². National language: Malay. Official languages: Malay, Mandarin, English, Tamil.
- 🇸🇬 Developed Economy:
Singapore is a developed country with a per capita GDP of ~US$91,000. It was once dubbed one of the “Four Asian Tigers” due to rapid economic growth from the 1960s to 1990s.
(Image: Merlion statue) - Dominant Chinese Population:
~74% of Singaporeans are ethnically Chinese, primarily from Guangdong, Fujian, and Hainan provinces. Mandarin is widely spoken. - Historical Names:
Ancient names include “Temasek.” Nicknames: “Lion City” (狮城) and “Star Island” (星岛). Chinese students affectionately call it “Po Island” (坡岛). - World’s Most Powerful Passport:
🇸🇬 Singaporean passport holders enjoy visa-free access to 193 countries/regions – ranking #1 globally. - Garden City:
Known as the “Garden Nation” for its abundant greenery and exceptionally clean streets. - Largest Banknote (Discontinued):
Issued the world’s highest-value note: S$10,000 (~¥55,800 RMB). Ceased circulation in October 2014. - Smaller Than Hong Kong:
Total area is just 66% of Hong Kong’s size. - Strict Anti-Graffiti Laws:
Public graffiti without permission may lead to caning, fines, or imprisonment. - Toilet Flush Rule:
Not flushing public toilets is illegal. First-time offenders face fines of S$150–S$500. - Hawker Centers & Cash Culture:
While e-payment is common, ~2/3 of hawker stalls only accept cash. Hawker culture is a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.
Tip: Carry small cash when visiting! - Resource Dependency:
Highly reliant on imports (food, energy, daily goods). Water sources include:- Imports from Malaysia
- Desalination plants
- Recycled wastewater (NEWater)
(Image: Desalination facility)
- Fast Internet, No “Wi-Fi Piracy”:
Internet speed ranks 2nd globally (after Chile). Unauthorized Wi-Fi access is illegal. Use public Wi-Fi or local SIMs. - Food Paradise:
Fusion cuisine highlights:
Hainanese Chicken Rice, Chili Crab, Laksa, Satay, Bak Kut Teh, Kaya Toast, Fishball Noodles.
(Image: Hainanese Chicken Rice) - “Chope” Culture:
Locals rarely cook – meals at hawker centers cost S$3–S$8. Rule: “Chope” (reserve) seats with tissue packets. - HDB Flats:
~80% live in government-built HDB flats (35 m² 2-room to 90 m² 4-room units). Each block has hawker centers, clinics, supermarkets, and playgrounds.
(Image: HDB flats) - No Durians on Public Transport:
Ban on carrying durians in metros/buses – fines up to S$500 (~US$370) for disturbing others with strong odors.
(Image: Durian) - Air-Con Nation:
Tropical climate with no distinct seasons. ~40% of household electricity powers air-conditioning. Indoors: icy; outdoors: sweltering.
(Image: Electricity bill) - Begging Ban:
Begging in public is illegal under the Begging Act – offenders face fines or jail time.
Final Question:
If you travel abroad, would you choose Singapore?
Or have you been? Share your experience!