Singapore receives record visitors in August

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Singapore said Wednesday a record 911,000 visitors went to the city-state in August, the highest ever for that month.

Last month's arrivals were 4.7 percent higher than last year and were fuelled in part by a record 114,000 visitors from China, surpassing the previous peak of 113,000 recorded in July 2006, the Singapore Tourism Board said.

"August is typically a peak travel month for visitors from China as it coincides with school summer holidays," it said.

Apart from China, arrivals from Indonesia, Australia, Japan and India also contributed to the record-breaking month, it said.

Hotels in the city-state enjoyed average room occupancy of almost 90 percent and earned nearly 160 million Singapore dollars (107 million US) in room revenues last month with average room rates of 198 dollars, the tourism board said.

Lacking natural attractions, Singapore has embarked on a major campaign to spruce up its tourist appeal.

It has plans for new attractions including two casino resorts, expected to open by 2010, and is trying to become an arts and entertainment centre.
It is to host its first Formula One Grand Prix event later next year.

This news is taken from Singapore Tourist.