Singapore

Singapore just acquired complete independence from the United Kingdom and became a sovereign state in 1965, but it is now a financial powerhouse and one of Southeast Asia's most enjoyable countries to visit.

Singapore doesn't have many beaches due to its size and location, unless you consider the three at Sentosa Island resort, which are modest but offer silky white sands and protected lagoons with clear blue waters, but it makes up for it with themed activities, lush rain forests, and bustling seaside entertainment.

Singapore has quickly established itself as a thrilling destination, with its own Universal Studios park and a 50-meter bungee jump from a tower over the beach to the Marina Bay Sands resort and its rooftop, which contains an infinity pool and a skybridge.

Official name: Republic of Singapore

National language: Malay

Location: Off the southern tip of the Malay peninsula and 137 km north of the equator