SINGAPORE offers plenty to do and see. Since it's warm year-round, a vacation can be planned at any time, which gives holiday planners tons of flexibility. If you want action, there are the roller coasters at Universal Studios Singapore and the Singapore Flyer. For more leisurely pursuits, check out the beaches on Sentosa Island or the orchids at the botanic gardens.


Places to go:

? Singapore Flyer

Similar to a giant ferris wheel, each module on the Flyer can hold 28 people. It provides great views of Sentosa Island and on a clear day they say you can see Indonesia and Malaysia. As for lovers, it's believed that if you make a wish when the Flyer reaches the top, the gods will hear your wish and your lover will be blessed.


? SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands

Sitting on the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands hotel, SkyPark is about 200 meters high and gives splendid views of Singapore. It's big enough to park four-and-a-half A380 jumbo jets. The park also features sightseeing platforms, lush gardens, upscale restaurants and an infinity-edged swimming pool.


? Beaches of Sentosa

Sentosa Island has three beaches - Tanjong Beach, Palawan Beach and Siloso Beach. You can take a silent walk at Tanjong Beach, or enjoy the sea view at Palawa Beach or try various water sports at Siloso Beach.


? Mount Faber

At only 105 meters, it's not really a mountain, but it still offers good views of the city. Mount Faber is also a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city below.


? Singapore Botanic Gardens

It's one of the most popular destinations for Singaporean families on weekends. There are more than 6,000 orchids and other plants. The Jacob Ballas Children's Garden teaches children about plants.


? East Coast Park

This is an ideal place for picnics and barbecues as the park features tennis courts, a bowling alley, water sports facilities and a beach game zone for children. Along the beach there is a bicycle path stretching 12 kilometers and a footpath that meanders for 15 kilometers.


? Chocolate Research Facility

This modern chocolatier offers more than 100 colorful chocolates.


? Singapore Zoo

Aside from the usual collection of animals, reptiles and birds, the Singapore Zoo is the only one in the world that allows tourists to dine with orangutans. Hard to believe, but true. Advance bookings are recommended to avoid being disappointed.


? NEWater Exhibition Center

NEWater is the brand name given to reclaimed water produced by Singapore's Public Utilities Board. It is waste water that has been purified using dual-membrane (via microfiltration and reverse osmosis) and ultraviolet technologies, as well as conventional water treatment processes. Humans can drink NEWater.

At the center, visitors can see how the wastewater is purified and taste NEWater.


? Philatelic Museum

Singapore Philatelic Museum is the first stamp museum in Southeast Asia. Learn about the history of Singapore and stamps. Besides that, you can also pick a postcard and mail it from the museum.


? Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore features everything from roller coasters to various other attractions based on movies such as "Shrek" and "Jurassic Park." Guaranteed to be a hit with children.


? Henderson Waves

The bridge is about 12 stories high and provides beautiful views of the city. It's also used frequently in romance scenes for local TV series.


? Universities and Colleges

Singapore has three famous public universities - the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University and Singapore Management University. All three are open to the public.

Besides public universities, there are also plenty private education institutes in Singapore for parents to choose for their children. These include the popular Lasalle Art College and Nanyang Art College.


? Wave House

This wave pool produces 3-meter-high waves and you can learn to surf here. There are special zones for beginners to learn how to stand on a surfboard and other simple skills.


? MINT Toy Museum

MINT Toy Museum displays a lot of antique toys, including souvenirs from Disneyland. The collection also boasts popular toys such as Astro Boy, Spiderman and Popeye, as well as Japanese toys made before World War II.


Where to eat:

? PS Cafe

PS Cafe in Dempsey Hill is famous for its hearty brunch, featuring everything from bacon and eggs to asparagus sandwiches and great desserts. The nice setting provides good views of the hill.


? Telok Ayer Market

Telok Ayer Market was first established in 1894. These days, more than barbecue sellers line the street after 7pm every day. You never need to worry about going to bed on an empty stomach after a late night as some stalls stay open for 24 hours.

? Cafe Del Mar

Cafe Del Mar is at Siloso Beach on Sentosa Island and is sometimes compared with Ibiza in Barcelona. You can sit back, relax and slowly sip some great cocktails and try some Spanish food, or you can mingle with others and make new friends.


? Zouk

If you can only go to one bar during your stay in Singapore, Zouk is a good choice. It grooves to the beat, and its international reputation attracts top DJs such as Carl Cox, Paul Oakenfold, the Chemical Brothers and Primal Scream. Every Wednesday is Mambo Jambo night.


? The Cliff

With soft lights, delicate decoration and perfect service, the Cliff can be considered one of the most romantic restaurants on Sentosa Island. Ask for a table on the balcony and enjoy the view of the seascape.


? II Lido

This famous Italian restaurant attracts a fair amount of celebrities as regular guests. A meal at sunset is highly recommended.

? Cornery Popcorn

Cornery is a famous popcorn seller. With colorful and unique flavors, it's always popular with children and teenagers.


? Ben & Jerry's

It's hard to top ice cream on a hot day. Ben & Jerry's ice cream features a bunch of flavors such as Chunky Monkey.

Keep in mind that you can design your own vacation at www.yoursingapore.com.