Sentosa Island - The Playground of Singapore

Singapore is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, situated in the southern tip of Malaysian Peninsula, in South-East Asia. The nation consists of a main island, covering an area of about 690 square kilometers. The main island in turn contains more than 50 small islands, among which perhaps the most significant one is Sentosa Island, sometimes referred to as 'the Playground of Singapore.'

Located less than a kilometer from Singapore, in the Central Southern Belt - Sentosa is a fishing village turned one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. Prior to its transformation to an international resort, Sentosa also once served as a military base of the British. With pleasant atmosphere, rich culture, well manicured areas, fantastic beaches, and lush green rain forests, Sentosa has become a must-visit destination in the country.

Places of interest in Sentosa range from breathtaking natural attractions to amazing man-made attractions. Most popular among the landmarks in the Sentosa is the Underwater World, Singapore, an incredible oceanarium, which is home to more than 2,500 fish of about 250 species that have been collected from across the world.

This incomparable attraction is a great way to experience the bewildering life beneath the sea. A dolphin lagoon is also within the oceanarium, which in turn provides opportunities for the visitors to swim as well as play with different types of dolphins including Humpback Dolphins, apart from enabling you to feed and interact with this intelligent creature.

Another not to miss attraction in the destination is the Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom, boasting of more than 15,000 beautiful butterflies of about 50 species. Also, found in the park is a section exclusively for housing more than 2500 species of insects such as giant spiders, scorpions, and rhino beetles.

Attractions in Sentosa also include Fountain Gardens, whose focal points are three fountains, all of them offering mesmerizing sight to the sightseers. During night, the fountains are illuminated with different colors, thereby creating a mind blowing scene. Modeled in the style of a European garden, it is also home to some rare flora covering a myriad of astounding plant species. Additionally, highlights in the garden contain Villa Gamberaria, an elegant garden designed in Italian style, and a mini amphitheatre, where dramas as well as musical performances are conducted regularly.

Sentosa has something for everyone. For instance, for history buffs, Sentosa has some options in the form of Fort Siloso, which was built by the British during the 1880s in order to safeguard the western entrance to the harbor. Likewise, nature enthusiasts should not miss attractions such as Sentosa Orchid Garden, with more than 200 species of orchids, and Herb and Spice Garden, where you can see almost all type of herbs and spices on their trees, and above all, Enchanted Grove of Tembusu, which is a picturesque nature reserve spread across about two hectares of lush green area. In addition, for beach bums, some popular choices are Palawan Beach, Tanjong Beach, which is an ideal destination for travelers seeking peace and solitude, and Siloso Beach, a much favored destination for volleyball freaks.

Other must see landmarks in the destination are 4D Magix, a highly sophisticated theater offering mind-boggling movie magic; Carlsberg Sky Tower, the tallest observatory tower in Asia that render picturesque vistas of Sentosa and Southern islands; and The Merlion, which stands at a height of about 37 meters.

Aside these, an array of attractions can be enjoyed here such as kayaking, sailing, and sea canoeing. After a day or two of sightseeing as well as enjoyment of several activities, go for a rejuvenating spa treatment or massage. This in turn enables you to feel fresh as well as relaxed. Above all, Sentosa is also much famed as a dining destination, with a plenty of restaurants, pubs, bars, and fast food stores.

With these scores of attractions as well as activities to see and do, it is not a wonder why people from every nook and corner to spend a relaxed holiday amid natural settings. Hence, Sentosa has excellent accommodation choices to satisfy every pocket and preference. For those seeking luxury, a host of upscale lodging choices are available coupled with most sophisticated facilities such as rooms attached with top end comforts, superb dining facilities, and ultra modern fitness facilities.

About The Author-- Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently owns and manages 54 hotels under Shangri-La and Traders brands with a rooms inventory of over 27,000. Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties featuring extensive luxury facilities and services.

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