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The elegant Fairmont Hotel Singapore is the perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy the best that Singapore has to offer. If you're interested in art, the Singapore Art Museum is a must-see destination! Located in what was once a Catholic boys' school, the Singapore Art Museum has the largest public collection of modern and contemporary Asian art in the world. If you're interested in more modern art and collectibles, you definitely won't want to miss MINT (Moment of Imagination and Nostalgia with Toys). This impressive collection was amassed by Chang Ya Fa who started collecting at the age of 6. Today his collection of toys and related ephemera like comics and posters amounts to more than 50,000 items, of which only about 3% is actually displayed at any given time in this custom-built 5 story structure. You'll see everything from pre-war Japanese toys to a teddy bear collection, Chinese comic covers from the 1920s, Tintin collectibles, Disneyana, Betty Boop collectibles and an amazing collection of other items from over 25 countries. The National Museum of Singapore is located in the financial district. Originally built in 1887, this beautiful neo-classical former library now features a sleek glass-and-metal extension, plus a painstakingly restored stained glass rotunda along with tasteful modern design touches. Here you'll find a range of permanent and visiting exhibitions on local and Asian culture that cover everything from history to food, art and fashion. There are even kid-friendly interactive exhibitions to keep the youngsters entertained. The Armenian Church, formally known as the Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator, is another favorite historic site in the financial district. This was Singapore's first church, which was designed by architect George Coleman and built in 1835. The church has an attractively simple exterior, with Doric columns and pilasters. This elegant simplicity continues inside, where tall arched windows let the breeze flow through the circular congregation hall. Today, the church is recognized as a national historic landmark. Occasional religious services are still held here, and the church also functions as exhibition space for public events such as the Singapore Bienniale. While you're in the financial district, don't forget to visit the Asian Civilizations Museum. This fascinating museum is dedicated to showcasing the many diverse cultures of Asia all in one location. There are currently eleven galleries with exhibits focusing on the Singapore River, China, Southeast Asia, South Asia and West Asia. Even the smallest countries, such as Java, are included. The Asian Civilizations Museum building also includes some excellent restaurants and eateries including Bar Opiume, IndoChine Waterfront Restaurant, and Siem Reap II Café. And for a truly exotic experience, spend some time at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple also known as the Chettiar Hindu Temple. Chettiars were wealthy property owners and early bankers who influenced Singapore's economic growth by lending money to start-up entrepreneurs. This temple was constructed in 1860 but it has been completely renovated and enhanced since then. Today it is one of the grandest and most impressive in Singapore, with sculptures, rosewood doors, arches and columns, all dedicated to Lord Thendayuthapani, also known as Lord Murugan. No matter what your sightseeing preferences, you'll certainly no shortage of activities to make your stay in Singapore memorable when you stay at the Fairmont Hotel Singapore.
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