Singapore at night (left) and the statue of Sir Stamford Raffles (right)	Located at one of the crossroads of the world, Singapore's strategic position has helped it grow into a major centre for trade, communications and tourism.
It is linked to Malaysia by two causeway bridges and the key islands of the Riau archipelago of Indonesia are just a quick ferry trip away. Thailand and the Philippines are a short plane journey away and Singapore, with an airport served by more than 69 airlines, is very much the gateway to South-East Asia.
The venue for ISER 2004 will be in a 5-star hotel and most likely in Marina Square, one of Singapore's largest shopping complexes and within walking distance from the Esplanade, Suntec City International Convention Center, and the subway stop ("City Hall").
The new performing art centre, Esplanade - Theatre on the Bay, opened in October 2002.	With its small land size and well-organized transportation system, every part of Singapore is within reach in less than one hour travel. Amidst the busy schedule of the conference, there will always be time for one to sneak in a shopping trip down Orchard Road, a meal or two in one of the exquisite restaurants, a taste of local gourmet and delicacies at the hawker centres, a relaxing trip to the Night Safari, or even a weekend away on one the thousands of islands in South East Asia - which may not be a bad idea for a short summer break.