Singapore swing

GETTING THERE:

From LAX, Singapore Airlines offers nonstop and direct (stop, no change of planes) service. All Nippon, Cathay Pacific, China Air, EVA, Malaysia, Northwest, Thai and United offer connecting service (change of planes). Restricted round-trip fares begin at $900.

TELEPHONES:

To call the numbers below from the U.S., dial 011 (the international dialing code), 65 (country code for Singapore) and the local number.

WHERE TO STAY:

The Sentosa Resort & Spa, 2 Bukit Manis Road; 6275-0331, vwww.thesentosa.com. Sentosa’s luxury destination. Lushly landscaped 214-room hotel is home to posh Spa Botanica. Doubles from $263.

Rasa Sentosa Resort, 101 Siloso Road; 6275-0100, vwww.shangri-la.com. The island’s only beachfront hotel is a 459-room family-oriented resort with spa, fitness center and pool and a variety of dining venues. Doubles from $178.

WHERE TO EAT:

The Cliff at the Sentosa Resort & Spa (see above). Architecturally stunning and romantic open-air venue by the sea. Fish figures prominently on the menu. Main dishes $25-$49.

Il Lido, 27 Bukit Manis Road at Singapore Golf Club; 6866-1977, vwww.il-lido.com. This year-old restaurant with top-end Italian fare and sophisticated décor is a magnet for mainland Singaporeans. Main dishes $19-$28.

Trapizza at Rasa Sentosa Resort, 6376-2662. A casual, family-friendly spot for pasta, pizza and salads right on Siloso Beach. (It takes its name from the flying trapeze adventure adjacent.) Main dishes $8-$12.

TO LEARN MORE:

Singapore: Singapore Tourism Board, (323) 677-0808, www.visitsingapore.com. Also see vwww.sentosa.com.sg.

— Beverly Beyette