A gateway to Asia and beyond, Singapore is a young, dynamic nation and a cosmopolitan city of possibilities

Singapore is located in the heart of Southeast Asia, at the southern tier of the Malay Peninsula. Singapore is made of 1 main island, but also 62 smaller islands as well, which lie off its southern coast.

Lying close to the equator means Singapore enjoys a sunny tropical climate all year round. The climate tends to be warm and sunny, with average daytime temperatures of 31C, dropping to around 24C in the evenings.

Rain falls throughout the year, but traditionally, the monsoon season will be between November to February. Downpours tend to be irregular, sudden and usually brief, bringing a freshness to the atmosphere.

The original habitants were Malay fishermen, but after the arrival of Stamford Raffles and the establishment of British trading post, Singapore became a magnet that drew hundreds of thousands of migrants and merchants. Seeking a better life for themselves and their families, they came from the southern provinces of China, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East. Though intermarriages have taken place over the years, each racial group within Singapore has retained its own cultural identity while developing as an integral part of the Singapore community.

Singapore's migrant history laid the foundation for a multicultural society that prides itself in social harmony and the celebration of diverse cultures and ways of life. Today, Singapore's population of five million people comprises 77% Chinese, 14% Malays, 8% Indians and 1% Eurasians and people of other descent who have chosen to make Singapore their home.