Singapore, a city state perched at the southern tip of Malaysia, is a rich mixture of West and East and offers a great deal to see and do for such a small location, from cocktails at the historic Raffles Hotel to a hike in its rainforest.

Linked to Malaysia by a causeway, 'Singa Pura', or 'Lion City', is just 682 sq km. Singapore. The world's busiest port, a key Asian financial centre, and a major oil refining and distribution centre, the island is crowded, multi-cultural and heavily industrialised.

The earliest mention of Singapore is a third century Chinese account of Pu-luo-chung" (island at the end of a peninsula). Little is known about the state's early history until the 14th century, when it formed part of the Sri Vijayan empire.

Founded as a British colony in 1819, modern Singapore became a key trading post, refuelling stop and military base for the Empire. The state joined the Malaysian Federation in 1963 but separated two years later and became independent.

Singapore's economy boomed and it is now a prosperous city state, with similar per capita wealth to leading European nations.

Downtown Singapore is packed with vast skyscrapers and huge shopping malls, particularly on the stylish Orchard Road, in which tourists can purchase a dizzying array of goods, from state of the art electronic items to traditional Asian handicrafts. The downtown area is also home to the island's towering cathedral and many of its British residents.

Singapore currently has a population of almost 4.5 million, with large numbers of Chinese, Malay and Indian citizens. Areas of the city have nicknames like Chinatown, Little India and the Arab Quarter, and each of these has its own specific culture, restaurants, people and shops.

The Raffles hotel and its infamous Singapore Sling is an absolute must for any tourist. Singapore was established as a British trading post by Sir Stamford Raffles and the hotel stands as a monument to its colonial past.

The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is an area of rainforest beyond the city, with nature trails and jungle treks available. The park is home to more than 800 species of plants, as well as lemurs, pythons and a host of insect life.

Singapore also has the Zoological Gardens and their fascinating night safari tours, the Oriental Haw Par Villa mythological theme park, the beautiful Jurong Bird Park and Sentosa, an tiny island amusement arcade.

The village of Changi in the east of the island still retains a rural feel and has a stunning beach, while the Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple, built in 1823, captures Singapore's religious past and there are a number of festivals and events, both traditional and modern, throughout the year.

Singapore remains a favourite holiday destinations for travellers seeking new experiences outside Europe, with accommodation in all areas clean and comfortable. The temperature tends to remain around 30 C, with relatively steady levels of rain at all times of the year.

The affluent city state has a strict government and first-time tourists are warned to acquaint themselves with the regulations before travelling. For example, it is forbidden to neglect to flush a public toilet, chew gum and eat on the subway. However, the city is spotless and beautifully kept, with charming parks and excellent transport and amenities.

As expected with an island state, Singapore has some excellent seafood and there are numerous restaurants serving traditional dishes. For those looking to relax, there are several excellent spas, with massages and treatments on offer, while more active travellers can play a round of golf or party into the small hours at one of Singapore excellent clubs.