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Singapore is an island of 646 sq. km, about
the size of Chicago. It is located at one of the crossroads of the world.
Singapore's strategic position has helped it grow into a major center
for trade, communications, and tourism. Its geographical location is 96km
north of the equator, between longitude 103 degrees 36' East and 104 degrees
25' East. Singapore is often touted as a concrete jungle with close to
90% of the population living in flats and an ever-changing skyline of
monumental buildings. Government and private enterprises also conduct
an orchestra of automation that makes Singapore one of the world's most
efficient societies. Yet Singapore has also been known as a green city.
There is a wealth of flora and fauna here that is beyond our own imagination.
Two causeway bridges link Malaysia, which
is just north of Singapore. The key islands of the Riau Archipelago of
Indonesia are also just a quick ferry trip away, whereas Thailand and
the Philippines are a short plane journey away. Singapore, with an airport
served by more than 69 airlines, is very much the gateway to Southeast
Asia
Singapore's climate is warm and humid,
with temperatures ranging from 23 degree Celsius to 31 degree Celsius.
This makes it ideal for those who enjoy sunbathing, swimming, sailing,
and other water sports. For those who do not enjoy the tropical climate,
Singapore is sheltered from the worst effects of the sun with air-conditioning
in almost all of its buildings, including restaurants. Rain falls throughout
the year with more consistent rain during the monsoon season from November
to January. Showers are usually sudden and heavy, but brief and refreshing.
Singapore is 8 hours ahead from GMT.

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