While Singapore may now be one of the most modern, developed and prosperous countries in Southeast Asia, it started off as a simple British trading outpost. Founded in 1819 by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, the country has come a long way. It is now a hub for commerce, shopping, tourism and entertainment in Asia and enjoys a large amount of tourist traffic each year. It is the vacation destination of choice for most people who want to get a taste of Asia but who also want to enjoy all the facilities of a well-developed nation.
The Singapore River is a large navigable river that flows through the country’s renowned Central Business District. Originally outposts were developed along the river as they were easy to access by boat. In fact, the first Singaporean settlement was located on the northern banks of the Singapore River and although the country currently has an excellent road system, development along the river banks still continue. While the northern region contains many important government buildings, most new developments are situated along the southern banks where one can find many sparkling new skyscrapers. In between them one can find some of the island’s best nightclubs, shops and restaurants.
While shopping along the riverside is not the same as shopping along Orchard Road, it can be an interesting experience. There are plenty of good shops located by the river and it is possible to purchase a wide variety of goods here. Clarke Quay has quite a few shopping spots. Built during the late 1800s Clarke Quay has hardly aged. The open air markets, the little shophouses, the roadside pushcarts are all reminiscent of a simpler time. One can find good woodcrafts, jewellery, pottery, and other handicrafts that are apt to make excellent souvenirs.
Getting here is easy thanks to the MRT. Singapore’s public transport system is efficient and far reaching and tourists can save themselves a lot of hassle by finding accommodation near an MRT station. La Residenza Serviced Suites offer well placed serviced apartments Singapore. Boasting a terrific location and excellent service it is undoubtedly one of the best Singapore apartment hotels around.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
Google+
