FINANCIAL DISTRICT. Designed by architect George Coleman and built in 1835, this was Singapore's first church. From the outside, it's attractive in its simplicity, with Doric columns and pilasters. The theme continues inside, where arched windows let the breeze flow through the circular, white-painted congregation hall. Recognized as a national historic landmark, the church was also the first to install electricity (1909). Today, the church holds occasional religious services, and functions as exhibition space for public events such as the Singapore Bienniale.

CHINATOWN. Shophouses are two- or three-story buildings unique to Asia ­ most are found in Malaysia and Singapore. Primarily built during the early 1900s, the structures housed businesses on the ground floor and living quarters on the upper floors. This museum occupies three of these structures, displaying different time periods in the history of Singapore's Chinatown. Dioramas are based on the recollections of former residents, and using authentic period details, depict the cramped quarters people shared with extended families and sometimes even strangers. Interesting and inspiring to say the least!

With its Moorish, Chinese and European architecture and Islamic, Chinese and Christian symbols, this beautiful and unique mosque definitely stands out, and is recognized as a national monument. Although there have been many additions and renovations since the initial construction in 1846, the onion-domed main prayer hall with yellow and green stained glass windows remains true to its original look. The complex is comprised of a number of buildings, such as a school and a minaret that was noted for its six-degree tilt (fixed during the 1990s). Named for a Malay-born businesswoman who donated the land and is interred in a special room at the back of the mosque. Visitors are welcome outside of prayer times; note that shorts are not permitted, and shoes must be removed before entering. Women should avoid wearing short skirts or sleeveless, backless or low-cut tops.

A moving tribute to the men and women who gave their lives in defense of Singapore and Malaysia during WWII, the Kranji War Memorial is a sprawling complex of monuments and cemetery plots. The graves of 4000 military personnel are marked with simple white stones, while the names of 24,000 additional personnel whose remains were lost are inscribed on 12 columns. Several other memorials commemorate soldiers and civilians who died during the Japanese occupation. The vast quantity of names and markers is astonishing.

When it was completed in the mid 1800s, the Istana Kampong Gelam functioned as a residence for the son of a sultan. Today, the palace houses the Malay Heritage Museum which has nine engrossing galleries devoted to the history and influence of Malays in Singapore. Another historic building in the compound, the Gedung Kuning, now operates as Restoran Tepak Sireh, a restaurant serving traditional Malay fare. On Wednesdays and Sundays the museum offers cultural programs featuring traditional dance, martial arts and music; pottery and batik-making programs are offered on occasion as well. Special exhibits and programs may require additional fees.