Charming Singapore 迷人的新加坡

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Mention this tiny island nation off the tip of the Malay Peninsula and people may envision a prim, repressive society that puts drug dealers to death, censors movies and TV, and fines ordinary citizens for chewing gum.

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　　That＇s unfortunate, because this former British trading colony of 4.6 million, now an international financial and high-tech hub, is surprisingly convivial and has much to offer: world-class nature parks and museums, an exciting Pan-Asiatic cultural blend, unique cuisine, sparkling high-rises and diverse ethnic enclaves. .

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　　And you can chew gum, under recently relaxed rules. Just make sure it＇s sugarless and teeth-whitening 一 the only kind that can be sold.

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　　The greening of Singapore is largely the work of its 20th century founder and now Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew, dubbed by some the ＇＇ monster gardener.＇＇

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　　There is a Chinatown in Singapore, a predominantly Chinese city. You＇ll also find a Little India and an Arab Quarter. Highlights of a walking tour included the ornate 19th century Thian Hock Keng Temple, crafted without nails; a modern 　　Chinese medicine store; and tiny but historic Sago Street, with its ＇＇ wet market＇＇ full of tropical fruits, fish, live frogs and more.

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　　Singapore＇s main zoo is large and lavishly landscaped, with minimal barriers between animals and humans. It＇s so humane that it recently treated its Komodo dragon lizard for a nerve disorder and depression with acupuncture. At last report, the patient was on the mend.