Fact 1: The National Icon
Singapore is world-renowned for its national icon, the 'Merlion'. The mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish represents the origin of Singapore as a "fishing village" - the fish body - and its lion head signifies the original name of Singapore, 'Singapura' or 'Lion City'.
Fact 2: The Fantasy Land
Singapore is home to the only fantasy-themed park in the world that remains open for 24 hours, the 'Haw Par Villa'. It features more than 1,000 statues and 150 giant dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese mythology, folklore, legends, and history.
Fact 3: The Green City
Despite being a bustling modern city, Singapore is commonly known as 'The City in a Garden', because more than 50% of its area is covered by greenery. There are more than 50 major parks and 4 nature reserves in this city-state, making it an urban jungle.
Fact 4: The Language Proficiency
Singaporeans are largely bilingual. Due to its multicultural society, most Singaporeans speak their mother tongue – Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and English. English is the most commonly spoken language in Singapore, with over 80% of population being fluent.
Fact 5: Inventors of the 'Singapore Sling'
Singapore is the birthplace of the world-famous cocktail, the 'Singapore Sling'. The pink, fruity drink was first served up to thirsty travelers at Raffles Hotel's Long Bar in 1915 and has been a popular choice among tourists ever since.
Fact 6: It's a Fine City
Often humorously referred to as a 'fine city', Singapore is known for its strict regulation and enforcement with hefty fines. There are fines for littering, chewing gum, jaywalking and even not flushing public toilets!
Fact 7: World's First Night Zoo
The Night Safari in Singapore is the world's first nocturnal zoo and one of the most popular tourist attractions. The park houses over 2,500 animals representing over 130 species.
Fact 8: The Unique Timezone
Singapore has created its very own, unique timezone. Technically, it should fall into the same timezone as Malaysia and Taiwan which is GMT+8. However, the country currently operates on Singapore Standard Time which is GMT+8:30.
Fact 9: High Home Ownership
Singapore has one of the highest rates of home ownership in the world. Over 90% of Singapore residents own their home.
Fact 10: Largest Rooftop Infinity Pool
Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore has the largest rooftop infinity pool in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city from 57 levels above.
Fact 11: Building Heights
In Singapore, buildings are not allowed to be taller than 280 meters. There are currently three buildings of this height - OUB Centre, UOB Plaza and Republic Plaza.
Fact 12: Most Expensive City
Singapore was ranked the world's most expensive city to live in 2019. It's also one of the world's wealthiest cities.
Fact 13: Michelin Street Food
Singapore is home to the world's cheapest Michelin-starred meal. At just under two dollars, you can have a meal at a Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle.
Fact 14: Jewel Changi Airport
Singapore's Airport, Changi, has been named the best airport in the world several times. It features a rooftop swimming pool, movie theaters, a butterfly garden, and a slide.
Fact 15: Clean Water Everywhere
Singapore has top-quality tap water. The water is well-treated, and it's completely safe to drink right out of the tap.
Fact 16: The Only Island City-State
Singapore is the only island city-state in the world. It is located on an island in Southeast Asia, and it's both a city and a country at the same time.
Fact 17: The Rapid Progress
Singapore has moved from the third world to the first world in a single generation, under the leadership of Lee Kuan Yew, its first Prime Minister.
Fact 18: Land Reclamation Project
Over the years, Singapore’s land area has expanded from 581.5 square kilometers in the 1960s to 724.2 square kilometers today, due to extensive land reclamation projects.
Fact 19: Lightning capital
Singapore has one of the highest rates of lightning activity in the world. The city’s location near the equator contributes to its high rate of lightning activity.
Fact 20: No agricultural activity
Due to its small size and high urbanization, Singapore doesn’t engage in significant agricultural activity. The majority of its food needs to be imported.