Singapore

At a Glance

Singapore is a city-state of extraordinary efficiency, multiculturalism, and ambition, where Malay, Chinese, Indian, and colonial British influences combine in a society that takes its food, its gardens, and its airports with equal seriousness. The tropical botanical heritage, the Hawker Centre food culture, and the seamless urban design make it one of the most liveable places in Asia. Those seeking spontaneity or chaos may find it too controlled, but for those who value order, diversity, and excellent food, it is hard to beat.

• Went from third-world to first-world in a single generation — Lee Kuan Yew's phrase, and roughly accurate.
• Chewing gum was banned from 1992 to 2004, and is still restricted.
• More millionaires per capita than anywhere outside Monaco and Liechtenstein.