Conveniently linked by a kilometre-long causeway to the southern tip of Malaysia, the tiny city-state of Singapore (just 580 square kilometres) makes a gentle gateway for many first-time travellers to Asia, providing Western standards of comfort and hygiene alongside traditional Chinese, Malay and Indian enclaves. Its downtown areas are dense with towering skyscrapers and gleaming shopping malls, yet the island retains an abundance of nature reserves and lush, tropical greeneryThere are large shopping malls on Orchard Road and Marina Square area. The hotels here offer great harbour views. You can also visit Little India, Chinatown and Arab Street, or take the cross-harbour cable car to the beaches and the theme parks of Sentosa Island.The variety of attractions in this country are amazing.