SINGAPORE

In its own way, Singapore is an oasis in Southeast Asia. It enjoys a low crime rate, and its infrastructure-from road and mass transit systems to a state-of-the-art airport at Changi-is highly sophisticated. The city is also clean, so much so that for years people have been banned by law from chewing gum on its streets, and eating on the subway can result in a hefty fine. This modern, dynamic destination - which classifies itself as a pro or con, depending on one's sensibilities - is to cities what Disney is to theme parks. Technically a city-state, Singapore, connected by man-made bridges with Malaysia, consists of the main island and more than 60 surrounding islets. The mainland stretches 42 kilometers from east to west and 23 kilometers from north to south. In the north, it shares a border with Malaysia; in the south, islands belonging to Indonesia can be visited via a short ferry ride. Singapore lies just north of the equator and is sultry, tropical, and humid year-round. Singapore is one of the world's major banking and transportation centers. It is one of the most popular ports of call for those traveling between Europe and Australia. Yet, Singapore is among the 20 smallest nations in the world - although, with 5.6 million people (6,430 per square kilometer), it is also the second-most densely populated country. Despite its busy streets, shopping areas, and public transportation, it doesn't normally feel as crowded as the large city centers of the United States. Its modern design helps eliminate any feeling of congestion. Like Hong Kong, Singapore is a city with great cultural diversity, well-developed infrastructure, and a very cosmopolitan feel. Popular with cruise lines for day port calls, as well as embarkation, Singapore is easily navigable, with most tourist attractions concentrated in three areas: Orchard Road, the Colonial District, and Sentosa.