Singapore, a city that roars, that’s full of life. Because what do you get when you combine Chinese, European, Indian and Malay heritage into one island state three times the size of Washington D.C.? You get life – and plenty of it. You get a global financial center, a shopping paradise, a dining and entertainment destination, a city that you’ll need seven to several days to explore. Because Singapore knows how to surprise travellers. First, it is actually part of an archipelago of 63 islands, mostly uninhabited. Second, it has more historical buildings that you can fit inside an encyclopaedia, giant man-made Supertrees, impressive sculptures and waterfront gardens, suspended walkways, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at Cloud Forest, a 35-metre tall mountain surrounded by mist and covered in lush flora. Or go for a walk on the 10km stretch of connected green spaces along the south of the island. Known as the Southern Ridges, this spectacular walkway links Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Kent Ridge Park, as well as Labrador Nature Reserve and the gardening-focused resource centre known as Hort Park. Singapore is also the food capital of Asia where you’ll experience a fusion of flavours unique to this city. Top restaurants compete with street food stalls (of which some have been awarded Michelin stars!). And whether it’s shopping for souvenirs, or something a little more extravagant, Singapore’s shopping scene comes in all forms. The city is packed with more malls per square mile than any other country in the world. Start at Orchard Road for 2.2km of mega-malls, home to endless luxury boutiques and designer brands (you could literally spend an entire day here). Then head for Chinatown Street Market for traditional candles, artwork and clothing. And finally, the hipster-haven that is Haji Lane, a narrow road lined with vintage stores. This is the perfect city for a safe family holiday, combining green spaces, shopping, art and food and a perfect introduction to Asia.