Starting out small in 1973, Singapore's Mandai Zoo has grown and modernised to become one of the most respected zoos in all of Asia. Over 2,800 animals from 300 species call this zoo home and reside in its much-applauded enclosures consisting of seemingly wide open spaces without barriers.Get to the zoo early to take part in the Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife programme. This is the only place in the world where you can breakfast in the pleasant, sociable company of plentiful orangutans. In fact, the zoo has a strong emphasis on primates. Stroll through their many enclosures to get up-close-and-personal with primates of all shapes, sizes and behaviours.However, our near relatives are not the only animals housed in this varied zoo. Visitors can interact with an unbelievable range of animals here, from riding on the backs of elephants in the rainforest section to hand feeding kangaroos in the Australian Outback. There's even a tundra habitat in the heart of humid Singapore, complete with its very own polar bear!If you fancy a bit of a break, take the kids to Kidzworld. Here, they'll be entertained and educated by the zoo's staff and will meet with the inhabitants of the zoo. For something more adventurous, you could try the night safari, when the zoo's nocturnal residents come out to play. Or, if you just want to slow it down a little and soak in your surroundings, take a leisurely stroll around the grounds. There is a wealth of beautiful flora blooming all around the zoo. And make sure to keep an eye out for the playful monkeys that swing between the trees.Singapore Zoo is easily reached by car from the city centre in about 30 minutes and there is plentiful paid parking once you get there. For those who prefer to use public transport, hop on the North-South line of the MRT and grab a connecting bus the rest of the way. The zoo is open daily and there is a small charge on entry.