What's Singapore got?

Land and People:

Less than half the size of Beijing city, Singapore is commonly known as the "Little Red Dot". Its population is almost five million-strong, with more than one-fifth being foreigners, even as fertility rates continue to drop. Singaporeans of Chinese descent make up the ethnic majority, with large numbers of Malay, Indian and other residents. English is the language of government.

Name:

According to legend, a visiting prince of the surrounding Srivijaya kingdom in the 11th century mistook an animal he spotted for a lion - subsequently labeling the island "Singa Pura" (Lion City). The Merlion - a mythical fish with a lion's head - has since become the country's icon to the rest of the world.

Food: Singaporeans are justifiably proud of their cuisine, an eclectic mix of Asian and foreign influences that reflect the spices of the region and its immigrant history. Local foodies argue over popular offerings like chili crab, fish head curry or Hainanese chicken rice as the "national dish", while gourmet events and high-end restaurants continue to entice the world's best chefs and most discriminating diners to Singapore's shores.