Singapore may be a speck on the map of Southeast Asia, but it is a country with huge diversity, culture, and history. It is a complex balance of modern shopping malls and skyscrapers, and traditional cuisine, religion, and heritage.

The country is made up of a main island – Singapore – and more than 50 smaller ones. The main island is what travelers typically think of as Singapore, the city-state that seamlessly mixes influences from Europe, the Middle East, and China into a unique culture all its own. In fact, the country’s official languages reflect the wide diversity: Malay, Mandarin Chinese, English, and Tamil – and most residents can speak at least two languages fluently.

The city grew up around the Singapore River which cuts through the southern part of the main island and is dotted by the historic district, Chinatown, and Little India – neighborhood enclaves that welcome visitors with their exotic foods and historical architecture. Outside of the urban area are all the charms of a suburban settlement including local schools, clinics, shops, and museums. It is fascinating to simply explore a neighborhood by walking in and out of shops and talking with local vendors.