Singapore Luxury City Guide: Since becoming a republic in 1965, Singapore has experienced exponential economic growth. It’s transformation from sleepy fishing village to a trade-centered economy to its current state of industry focused on services and luxury lifestyle – Singapore has created a niche for itself as a premier destination for the world’s elite.

Filled with a rich history, the island of Singapore seamlessly mingles old-world charm and new-world luxury. The industrialized city blends with the gorgeous rainforest and island surroundings, and the city-state’s cultural mix of Chinese, Indian and Malay ethnic groups offers an incomparable getaway with amazing dining options, world-class shopping, year-round events and one-of-a-kind experiences.

City Scene: Luxury residences and hotels continue to pop up throughout Singapore as the city continues to become an epicenter of elegance. The Cairnhill neighborhood puts you in close vicinity to Singapore’s shopping precinct; Sentosa Island provides the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city; and the Downtown Core encompasses Singapore’s vibrant diverse nightlife, eateries and cultural exhibits.

Cairnhill is home to the Ritz-Carlton Residences and many high-end boutiques and eateries. Orchard Road (Singapore’s premier shopping district), ION Orchard (the “center of gravity” for the city’s retail scene) and 313@somerset (an eight-story mall filled with fashion and lifestyle retailers) are just a few quick minutes away from the heart of the Cairnhill neighborhood.

Sentosa Island is located just south of the mainland and is Singapore’s premier island resorts. Located on the eastern coast of the island is Sentosa Cove – Singapore’s first and most exclusive marina residential community. Because of its prime beachfront location and tropical resort atmosphere, Sentosa Cove offers an unparalleled living experience. The island hosts annual signature events like the Barclays Singapore Open and The Singapore Yacht Show – a high-end, invitation-only event that brings together yachting aficionados from across the globe.

Must See’s and Do’s: The city of Singapore is filled so many things to see and do. Some notable options are the interactive theme parks and the zoos and gardens that explore the bounty of beauty the island has to offer.

It’s easy to spend endless hours at the Singapore Zoo or Jurong Bird Park – especially if opting for the Night Safari tour which gives guests a unique take of the animals in their habitats.

Singapore’s Botanic Garden is nearly 200 years old. Sit in on classes or take a stroll through the grounds to really see what the garden has to offer. The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is also another great way to take in the rich biodiversity of Singapore with more than 7,500 acres of flora and fauna.

For an all-day adventure, plan a trip to Universal Studios Singapore or Underwater World on Sentosa Island. Both theme parks offer interactive attractions and are great for a day with the family.

Wining and Dining: In creating a hotspot for the high-class, Singapore has filled itself with elegant eateries. No one does decadence like the French and the plethora of French dining options in the city have proven Singapore’s drive in the decadent direction.

Restaurant André was named one of “10 Restaurants Worth a Plane Ride” by The New York Times and “Best Restaurant of The Year 2013” by Gourmet & Travel Magazine. If those accolades don’t speak for themselves, the unique experience of each one of Chef André Chiang’s dishes will.

A seemingly unexpected option for one of the city’s best meals is Burnt Ends – an Australian barbeque restaurant. The newly opened casual restaurant uses authentic grilling, smoking, and roasting techniques and each meal is made with the freshest ingredients. The food menu changes daily to ensure the ingredients are at their peak freshness, but the wine menu is always stocked with specially imported Australian wines.

A night in Singapore doesn’t need to end after the wining and dining. Singapore’s nightlife is just as rich, fun and satisfying as its eateries. After dinner at one of the city’s fine restaurants, head over to Pangea – known for hosting A-list celebs like Madonna and Leonardo DiCaprio. The exclusive lounge – which offers VIP tables, bottle service, and music from world-renowned DJs – has revolutionized Singapore’s club scene to create a decadent and lavish experience for guests.

For the VIP: As Singapore continues to develop into a mecca for luxury, so do its VIP services. To enjoy Singapore in style, use some of these luxe amenities to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.

Nearly every destination on the island is easily accessible by car. Ace Drive Luxury Car Rental will transport you to your destination – whether it be a day of shopping or an adventurous getaway to Sentosa Island – in comfort and style.

If you’d simply like to relax while on your holiday, slip by the ESTHEVA Day Spa and see why it garnered six accolades from Harper’s Baazar’s Spa Awards in 2013.

GRANDATE Concierge will take care of anything you may need while in Singapore. From private jet charters to personal shoppers and exclusive city tours, GRANDATE Concierge will make sure you have a luxurious and unforgettable stay while on the island.