Esplanade Theatres on the Bay

Lonely Planet review

One of Southeast Asia's must stunning pieces of architecture, the Esplanade was created to announce Singapore's arrival on the world arts scene - and also as a challenge to the city's deep-seated conservatism. It succeeded on both counts, with a year-round programme of opera, classical music, jazz, theatre, dance and a host of fringe events. Taking a guided tour - or a self-guided iTour using an electronic guide - is a great way of exploring this iconic structure.

The website lists upcoming performances. The controversial exterior is an assembly of variously angled aluminium shades, with shapes that reference natural geometries and traditional Asian reed weavings, maximising natural light while shielding the glass roof from the sun. At night, internal lighting sets the building aglow.

Whatever you think of the design, there's no doubting the Esplanade's success as an arts venue, with a non-stop programme of international and local dance, opera, classical music, jazz, cultural festivals, puppetry, recitals, installations and exhibitions wowing the masses.