10 Fun Facts About Singapore

Amazing Things You Never Knew About Singapore

Beyond the skyline and bustling city centre lies a Singapore filled with surprises — from natural wonders to cultural quirks, discover the stories that make this city-state unique.

64 islands

More than just one island

Singapore’s territory includes 64 offshore islands, such as Sentosa, Pulau Ubin, St John’s Island, and Sisters’ Islands — each offering unique landscapes and experiences.

Wildlife at night

World’s first night zoo

The Night Safari, opened in 1994, spans 35 hectares and is home to over 1,000 animals in naturalistic night-time habitats. Explore via a tram ride or four interconnected walking trails.

Indoor wonders

City of waterfalls

From the 35-metre Cloud Forest waterfall at Gardens by the Bay to the 40-metre HSBC Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore blends architecture with nature in spectacular ways.

Local lingo

Singlish charm

Singlish, a mix of English, Malay, Chinese, and Indian languages, adds colour to conversations. Words like lah, leh, and chope are part of daily speech.

Racing first

Formula 1 night race

Since 2008, the Marina Bay Street Circuit has hosted the world’s first Formula 1 night race, famous for its 23 corners and dazzling floodlit views.

Urban greenery

One of the greenest cities

Nearly half of Singapore’s land is under green cover, with rich biodiversity in nature reserves like Bukit Timah and striking vertical gardens like PARKROYAL on Pickering.

UNESCO status

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Founded in 1859, the gardens became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015 and feature the renowned National Orchid Garden with over 200 hybrid varieties named after VIPs.

Neighbourhood gems

Beyond the usual

Explore Tiong Bahru’s Art Deco charm, Joo Chiat’s colourful shophouses, and Everton Park’s cosy cafés — all offering a different slice of Singapore life.

Year-round events

Always something to celebrate

From the Singapore Food Festival to the HSBC World Rugby Sevens, the city’s calendar is packed with cultural, sports, and arts events year-round.

Lion or tiger?

The Merlion’s origins

Singapore’s name, Singapura, means “lion city”, inspired by a 14th-century sighting by a Sumatran prince — though the animal may actually have been a tiger.

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