The Merlion was first designed as an emblem for the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) in 1964 – the lion head with a fish body resting on a crest of waves quickly became Singapore’s icon to the rest of the world.
Originally located at the Merlion Park by the Esplanade Bridge, the Merlion and the Cub became a popular tourist attraction for visitors. The installation ceremony took place on 15 September 1972, officiated by the then Prime Minister of Singapore, Mr Lee Kuan Yew.
Today, the Merlion has found a new home just 120 metres away from its original location, adjacent to one Fullerton.
Measuring 8.6 metres high and weighing 70 tonnes, the Merlion statue was built from cement fondue by the late Singapore craftsman, Mr Lim Nang Seng. A second and smaller Merlion statue, measuring two metres high and weighing three tones, was also built by Mr Lim. The body was made of cement fondue, the skin from porcelain plates and eyes from small red teacups.
Sentosa Island
A slice of paradise right in our doorstep, Sentosa offers a kaleidoscope of attractions and activities. Once you step afoot the island, be mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty of the lush greenery peppered with exciting attractions that will certainly blow you away! It’s a themed attraction, tropical resort, nature park and heritage centre all rolled into one!
Stretching 3.2km long, soak up the sun along Sentosa’s sun-kissed beaches while engaging in various sports activities or simply chilling out at beachfront bars/pubs. Siloso Beach, dubbed Singapore’s Hippest Beach is the perfect spot for the young and restless.
Jurong Bird Park
Fly, flap, flutter, float… With over 9,000 feathered friends from 600 species, Jurong BirdPark is one of Asia Pacific’s most impressive bird parks. If you are looking for a quick break from the hustle and bustle of the Singapore urban lifestyle, visit the Jurong BirdPark where 9,000 colourful birds of 600 species will amaze you with their variety, shapes and sizes.
The newly revamped BirdPark offers a range of new and exciting exhibits and facilities which are truly breathtaking and worth your while. Make sure you pay a visit to the 2007 ASEANTA winner for Best ASEAN New Tourist Attraction - The African Wetlands. This African-themed exhibit with African huts and a body of water, houses endangered birds like the Shoebill, the African Crowned Crane, the Saddle-Billed Stork and more...
Open: 9 am - 6 pm (daily). Getting There: Take the MRT to Boon Lay Station (EW27), then take SBS bus 194 or 251.
Little India
As you step into Little India, be prepared for an overpowering of the senses! First, you will be greeted by the strong, heady scent of spices and jasminegarlands, followed by the treasure trove of silverware, brassware, ethnic jewelry and colourful silk saris, dazzling to behold.
Today, Little India is the focal point of Singapore's Indian community. Its spice-scented streets beckon you to a cornucopia of ethnic jewellery, jasmine garlands and silk saris. From the large Tekka Centre and Little India Arcade to the small provision shops, Little India is packed with interesting things to discover. During Deepavali (usually between Oct/Nov), the Indian Festival of Lights, Little India is transformed into a fairyland of gaily decorated, brightly lit streets bustling with shoppers. Witness also the faith of devotees during the colourful and ritualistic Thaipusam in Jan/Feb each year.
Getting There: Take the north east line to NE7, Little India station or take SBS bus number 65 from Orchard Road, alight at Tekka Market along Serangoon Road. Chinatown
Singapore's Chinatown evolved around 1821 when the first Chinese junk arrived from Xiamen, Fujian province in China. The passengers, all men, set up home around the south of the Singapore River which is known today as Telok Ayer. Chinatown’s local name - Niu Che Shui (Bullock Cart Water) arose from the fact each household at that time had to collect fresh water from the wells in Ann Siang Hill and Spring Street, using bullock-drawn carts.
Getting There: A short walk from Outram Park (EW16/NE3) or Chinatown (NE4) MRT Stations. |