Singapore is renowned for being one of the most cosmopolitan spots on earth, and with good reason. When it comes to entertainment or relaxation, few places can offer the full array of choices found on the island.

Simply inhabiting Singapore places one right in the very midst of what many would consider to be the most luxurious beaches and resorts in the world, especially given the country's proximity to Malaysia and Indonesia. From sun worshipping to the spa scene, visitors and residents have an abundance of choices unavailable to most others. Some of the best stretches of beaches are found on Sentosa - beach volleyball, bars and outdoor dining options are available. East Coast Park is popular with families on weekends – bicycles, roller-blades and skateboards are common sights in the park; while windsurfing and cable skiing dominate the waters. Many hotels and spas offer attractive day spa packages, beauty treatments and relaxation massages targeted at residents (i.e., non-tourists). In general, spa facilities in Singapore enjoy a high reputation for being clean and well maintained, with good professional service.

For parks and gardens, the Botanic Gardens is a popular spot for expatriates and locals alike. On weekends, this dog-friendly park packs a punch with groups of people involved in various activities – from sketching, to tai-chi (Chinese martial art cum exercise) to lazy picnics and students on a 'nature walk'.

As with any major city, there are numerous activities to partake of. Singaporeans are very fond of watching movies. Catching a blockbuster / first-run movies at one of the plush, state-of-the-art cinemas found all over Singapore is another national pastime. Some cinemas organize movie marathons on weekends. Shopping and eating are the other "national" / perennial past-times.

When it comes to dining, few places offer the eclectic mix available on the island. This is a country proud of its culinary heritage, specializing in Asian fare, but offering every imaginable type of international cuisine a person could possibly desire. After the lights go down, the city sports a wide array of pubs, clubs and discotheques to keep urban revelers out and about.

As for sports in Singapore, you can enjoy everything from excellent sports fishing to playing golf at some of the most prestigious clubs in Southeast Asia. For the busy expatriate executive, there is a mind-staggering range of gymnasiums and sports clubs found all over Singapore – from the chic to the "posy", to the modest and the luxurious. Many fitness clubs also offer a range of indoor exercises, such as Pilates and yoga.