Singapore is a city of convergence; it is a place where eclectic cultures and religions peacefully coexist, where tradition and the past meet innovation and modernity. These different, though essential, components of Singapore's makeup do not just exist in separate realms of the city; instead, they intermingle and blend in an environment of mutual respect and appreciation. This mix of culture is a point of pride for Singapore, as well as a major attraction for visitors. During your stay in Singapore for conference, we strongly recommend visiting the various community neighborhoods and experiencing for yourself what makes Singapore so unique.

The population of Singapore is comprised of three main ethnic groups: Chinese, Malay, and Indian. According to the 2009 Population Trends Report released by the Singapore Department of Statistics, 74% of Singapore's inhabitants are of Chinese ethnicity, 13% Malay, and 9.2% Indian. Peranakans (a mix of Chinese and Malay ethnicity and culture) and Eurasians (descendants of the Europeans and locals who intermingled during colonial times) rank fourth and fifth. Both groups make up less than 1% of the population. Each of these distinct groups is well represented in the city, so consider visiting any of the following sites for a taste, and appreciation, for their diverse cultures.

Chinatown
Chinatown is an expansive neighborhood, founded by Chinese immigrants who first came to live and work in Singapore. Pagoda Street-once a hub for street peddlers, slave traders, and opium dens-runs through the heart of Chinatown. Today, Pagoda Street is lined with antique and art stalls, street markets, as well as temples and mosques. It serves a great starting point for anyone venturing through Chinatown, and there is much to do and see.

Purchase tickets at a Chinese opera house where you can take in a traditional or modern performance. Attend a Chinese tea appreciation session in one of the many tea houses located in Chinatown. A majority of the Chinese population is Buddhist, and Chinatown is a great place to visit Buddhist temples. Make a stop at Thekchen Choling, a Tibet Buddhist temple considered a place of physical and spiritual healing. Illustrating Singapore's reputation as a cultural melting pot, Chinatown is also home to Islamic mosques and Hindu temples, such as the Sri Mariamman Temple. Should you venture to any place of worship, modest dress is required and it is recommended that women wear trousers or long skirts.

When you get hungry, head over to Smith Street (appropriately known as Chinatown Food Street) and find booth after booth of delicious and authentic local fare. The booths are open from 3pm to 11pm on weekdays, and from noon to 1am on weekends. Or for trendier options, head to Club Street, where you can find gourmet restaurants and eateries, as well as a posh nightlife scene.

Geylang Serai
The culture of the next largest ethnic group-the Malays-is best represented in the Geylang Serai area. Here one can experience Malay music, shopping, and cuisine all within a short walking distance. Visit Malay Village in Geylang Serai to watch traditional Malay dancers or visit shops selling skillfully woven textiles and crafts. Next, head over to Kampong Glam and Arab Street. The Malays are descendants of the island's native inhabitants and the majority is Sunni Muslim. The Sultan Mosque is considered one of Singapore's most impressive and significant religious buildings. The mosque is known for its massive golden dome, and for its sheer size: it can hold over 5,000 worshippers.

Please note that most shops and restaurants are closed on Sundays and also on Fridays at midday.

Little India
The neighborhood of Little India is a colorful and lively hub of Indian culture and tradition in the city-state. Singapore has one of the world's highest overseas of Indians, most of whom originate from South India. There are over 30 Hindu temples to visit in Singapore, as well as bazaar-style markets, and visual and performing arts groups stationed throughout the neighborhood. With so many fun and interesting spectacles to behold, ICA is sponsoring a Walking Tour of Little India as a special event during conference. The dinner and tour of Little India costs only $25 USD and is offered on both Wednesday, 23 June and Thursday 24 June. You can select to participate when you register for conference and still to come, the Little India tour will be highlighted in the May issue of the Newsletter.

Katong
The neighborhood of Katong is the perfect place to get a mix of Chinese, Indian, and Malay cultures, as well as a feel for the Peranakan and Eurasian influence. Katong and Joo Chiat Road serve as a reminder of days-gone-by, exemplified by well-preserved colorful terrace homes that once belonged to wealthy Peranakan traders. These houses were built with elevated structures to protect against the tide, and are designed with a strong western architectural influence. The shops in this neighborhood are also noteworthy, selling handcrafted ceramic tiles, Peranakan outfits, and house wares. While in Katong, visit the Chili Padi Nyonya Restaurant, one of the most popular and highly decorated restaurants in Singapore, to enjoy some award-winning Peranakan cuisine.

For more information and for useful tips for planning your visit, visit Singapore Tourism Board's website at https://app.stb.gov.sg/asp/index.asp or www.yoursingapore.com.