Singapore

Singapore, an island city-state off southern Malaysia, is a global financial center with a tropical climate and multicultural population. Its colonial core centers on the Padang, a cricket field since the 1830s and now flanked by grand buildings such as City Hall, with its 18 Corinthian columns. In Singapore's circa-1820 Chinatown stands the red-and-gold Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, said to house one of Buddha's teeth.

Marina Bay Sands

Set in 3 ultra-modern buildings overlooking Marina Bay, this posh hotel is across the road from luxe stores at The Shoppes and 2 minutes' walk from Bayfront MRT station.

Yotel Singapore

Set in a high-rise building with city views, this polished hotel is a 3-minute walk from shopping on Orchard Road.