Looking for a great location to produce content you're passionate about for global audiences? So were we. Our newest digital studio needed to be in a unique place, and we found one in cosmopolitan Singapore.
This tiny Asian island-state, founded in the 19th century as a British trading colony, is one of the world's most prosperous countries, has the world's busiest port, and has been consistently rated as the "Most Business Friendly Economy in the World." Singapore's lush tropical climate and diverse, multi-racial population are further enhanced by its modern amenities, delicious food, great shopping and vibrant nightlife. Thousands of foreign expats work here — you could be one of them.
Language
English is one of the four official languages in Singapore, and the primary language of business here, so you'll find it easy to communicate. (A colloquial patois, Singlish, is spoken on the streets.). Most signs and official publications are in English as well, so you'll find your way around, both literally and figuratively.Getting Around
Public transportation is the way to go in Singapore. The MRT train drops you off within a couple hundred yards of Lucasfilm Animation Singapore's front doorway. There's also a very good bus system. Taxis, regulated by the government, have very reasonable fares. Need to travel outside the city? There's rail service to neighboring Malaysia, ferry service to Indonesia, and flights to just about everywhere from Changi International Airport (rated the world's best). In other words, you won't need a car.Things to Do
For such a small island, Singapore offers plenty to do and see. Start at the iconic statue that anchors Merlion Park. Nearby, the refurbished and still grand Raffles Hotel offers Victorian elegance and the beloved Singapore Sling. The 21st-century part of the city is taking shape at two new resorts, Marina Bay (future home of the Double Helix Bridge and Gardens by the Bay) and Sentosa. Get breathtaking views from atop the city's newest attraction, the Singapore Flyer, a giant Ferris wheel scheduled to open in 2008. Good eats and good times after dark can be enjoyed now at Clarke Quay and Boat Quay.The city's distinctive ethnic neighborhoods — Geylang Serai (the Malay village), Chinatown and Little India — are ideal for wandering through; they're where you can sample some of the city's delicious cuisine. Historic places of worship, such as Sri Mariamman Temple and Sultan Mosque, capture the essence of this nation-state's diverse populations.
You may be in an urban environment, but there are plenty of hidden pockets of nature as well. Wander through the leafy Singapore Botanic Gardens, say hello to the animals at the Singapore Zoo, or bring the kids to the Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom. Explore the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, the city's remaining original tropical forest.
The National Museum, Singapore's oldest, focuses on the island's rich history. The Singapore Art Museum is dedicated to the works of the region's visual artists. Science Centre Singapore includes an IMAX theater and an observatory (one of the few located near the Equator). The red dot design museum showcases excellent design in both present-day and future products. Singapore's Biennale is a new, biannual showcase of contemporary artists; the next one's scheduled for 2008.
For performing arts, look no further than Singapore's newest crown jewel, the Esplanade, a world-class performing arts center that hosts live theatre, dance and the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, among others.
Food/Drink
Singapore is the self-proclaimed "Food Capital of Asia" and with good reason. The cuisine reflects the island's ethnic influences, which means delicious Chinese, Indian, and Malay dishes.Not only can you find an incredibly diverse selection of restaurants and eateries here, but some of the best food is served inexpensively and quickly at communal "hawker centers." Seafood is popular, especially at restaurants on the East Coast (don't miss the chili-and-black-pepper crab!). Special culinary events include the World Gourmet Summit held every April and the Singapore Food Festival which takes place in July. And don't forget to stop by the Raffles Hotel for an authentic, world-famous Singapore Sling cocktail.
Shopping
Shopping is a very popular activity here — nowhere more than on Orchard Road, the city's premier shopping belt, packed with literally hundreds of shops from small boutiques to large department stores. Bugis features street-stall ambience and products for the young and trendy. Kampong Glam and Arab Street are renowned for their textiles and batiks. For handicrafts and antiques, try the Malay Village in Geylang Serai.Sports
Singaporeans take their sports seriously, filling up beaches, parks and activity centers (especially on weekends). For those who like being on (or in) the water, there's swimming, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and water skiing, not to mention scuba diving in the rich coral reefs of Pulau Hantu. Back on land, Singaporeans play soccer, cricket, badminton, volleyball, table tennis and golf (at more than a dozen different courses) Spectators can cheer on the horses at the venerable Singapore Turf Club.
