Singapore
is a vibrant mix of futuristic innovation and rich cultural heritage.
Discover surprising facts, hidden stories and unique insights that
reveal the deeper character of this extraordinary Southeast Asian
city-state.
• Singapore has one of the world’s strictest chewing gum laws — most gum is banned unless medically approved.
• The entire city-state can be crossed by car in under an hour.
• Singapore is one of the world’s greenest cities, with over 50% green coverage.
• The Merlion, half lion and half fish, symbolises Singapore’s origins.
• There are more than 60 islands in the nation, not just the main one.
• Singapore pioneered the world’s first “smart nation” initiative.
• It opened the world’s first night-time Formula 1 Grand Prix.
• Changi Airport consistently ranks as one of the world’s best.
• The country leads globally in vertical farming and water recycling technology.
• Eating or drinking on public transport is prohibited and fined.
• Queueing is taken seriously — cutting the line is socially unacceptable.
• Public behaviour is expected to be calm and orderly.
• Bringing durian into hotels or public transport is widely banned due to its strong smell.
• Littering and vandalism carry heavy penalties.
• Lee Kuan Yew is regarded as the founding father of modern Singapore.
• Joseph Schooling won Singapore’s first-ever Olympic gold medal.
• Stefanie Sun is one of the biggest Mandopop stars in Asia.
• Kishore Mahbubani is globally known for his insights into geopolitics and diplomacy.
• Marina Bay Sands is one of the most recognisable urban skylines in the world.
• Gardens by the Bay showcases futuristic “Supertrees” and biodome conservatories.
• Sentosa Island is a major leisure destination with beaches, attractions and resorts.
• Singapore’s hawker centres are UNESCO-recognised cultural treasures.
• Despite its size, Singapore has rich biodiversity, including wild otters and hornbills.
• Singapore is a blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian cultures.
• English is widely spoken, alongside Mandarin, Malay and Tamil.
• Locals love eating out — food is a huge part of daily life.
• The concept of “kiasu” reflects a playful cultural attitude towards not wanting to miss out.
• Hawker food favourites include chicken rice, laksa, satay and chilli crab.
• “Singlish” is a unique, expressive local creole used in casual speech.
• Festivals such as Deepavali, Chinese New Year and Hari Raya are widely celebrated.
• Shopping centres are a big part of daily leisure time.
• Singapore was a vital trading port long before British arrival.
• Raffles founded modern Singapore in 1819.
• The island was occupied during World War II before becoming independent in 1965.
• Shophouses in Chinatown, Kampong Glam and Little India preserve historic architecture.
• Jewel Changi Airport features the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.
• MacRitchie Reservoir offers rainforest trails only minutes from the city.
• Pulau Ubin preserves Singapore’s rustic, pre-modern village life.
• The Henderson Waves is the country’s highest pedestrian bridge.
• Singapore has 60+ islands.
• Chewing gum is heavily restricted.
• Hawker food is UNESCO-recognised.
• The world’s first night F1 race is held here.
• Gardens by the Bay is globally iconic.
• Jewel Changi has the tallest indoor waterfall.
• It’s one of the world’s safest cities.
• English is widely spoken.
• Singapore became independent in 1965.
• Durian is banned on public transport.
• Public transport fines are strict.
• Otters roam freely in some areas.