Despite being an island, Singapore is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world.  The Changi Airport is rated as the best in the world as is Singapore Airlines.  Tourism is a major contributor to its economy, attracting over 18 million visitors in 2018.  Singapore welcomes over one million Indian tourists every year to the country! Some of the well-known landmarks of Singapore include the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Orchard Road and Sentosa Island.

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The largest port city in Southeast Asia, Singapore has a history that can be traced back to the 11th century when it was inhabited by fishermen and pirates.  Once part of the Sumatran empire, Singapore faced attacks from the South Indian King, Rajendra of Chola as well as the Javanese Kingdom.  It fell into decay for many centuries before being revived by the East India Company under Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819.  Singapore became a British colony and a residency of India.  In 1867, Singapore became a Crown Colony.