Introduction

The Union of International Associations (UIA) ranks Singapore among the world’s top 10 convention venues and has named it the top convention venue in Asia for over a decade.

Singapore’s strategic location makes it one of the busiest crossroads in the world. Most major Asian capital cities are within a six-hour radius of flying time and all ASEAN capitals are within a three and a half-hour flying radius. With over 70 international airlines linking Singapore to 175 cities in 55 countries, Singapore is a major transportation hub and a popular stopover for long haul travellers. Once in the Lion City, inexpensive taxis are plentiful and there is a comprehensive bus network and efficient Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. Singapore has a well-developed infrastructure to meet all business needs. The city has been ranked seventh among 59 countries for infrastructure in the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2003.

Singapore offers a wide range of accommodation from international standard hotels to economy class facilities like budget lodgings and service apartments to cater to the different needs of all delegates.

Singapore has over 100 hotels offering close to 37,000 rooms which are mostly located in the city centre and are within easy walking distance to meeting venues, attractions and shopping centres. It is an affordable destination with reasonable hotel room rates.

English is the most common language in Singapore. Other commonly spoken languages include Mandarin, Malay, Tamil, and some other dialects.

The first nation-wide broadband information infrastructure in the world is available island wide and Singapore has also established high-speed connectivity to more than 30 countries.

With such an exciting diversity of ethnic cultures and attractions, there is always something to do in Singapore. The Lion City also offers duty-free shopping, more than 30 tempting local, Asian and international cuisine plus sports galore including of lush golf courses!

Let the spectacular array of arts events enchant you all year round. Singapore has it all, from fine art and antique exhibitions, award-winning music and dance extravagances, to cutting-edge drama, film and comedy. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of traditional Chinese opera, embark on a leisurely exploration of our arts district, visit our museums and check out various performing arts venues and institutions, including the famous Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay.

For the young and young at heart, Singapore offers a range of night activities which will keep you partying all night long. From jazz and house music to tribal and Top 40, Singapore offers a play-list of dance clubs for any generation. Those who want something more relaxed may enjoy a night at a number of pubs in the city or just recline comfortably at a jazz lounge where world-class jazz can be heard. After a hectic night of activity, settle down at one of the many 24-hour coffeehouses in the city and superb food stalls scattered throughout the island. Teochew porridge, caramel bean curd or just coffee and cake are just some satisfying ways in which Singaporeans end a pleasant evening.

Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world, where both locals and tourists can walk along the streets late at night without fear. The nation’s general economic prosperity and professional, effective police force contribute to the low crime rate, and enable continued success in controlling crime and enhancing personal security.

Travellers may wish to note that Singapore is globally ranked third in "protection of personal security and private property" and first in "social cohesion as a priority for the government" by the World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY) 2002, published by the International Institute for Management Development. The WCY also identified Singapore as the most politically stable country in Asia. There is a wide selection of attractions and public places of interest to keep delegates, spouses and accompanying persons occupied throughout their stay in Singapore. From theme attractions to offshore islands, landmarks, museums and places of worship, Singapore offers endless unique experiences, waiting to be discovered.