SINGAPORE
Singapore happened to be the first country that I ever traveled to outside of India. I am a regular visitor now to the Lion City, as it is popularly known, and have forged a deeper connection over a period of time.
Here are some places that are must-see if you are in the city-state:
Changi Airport
Well, the first thing that your eyes will see when you land in Singapore Is its globally renowned Airport- Changi Airport. I first set foot there in 2011 and it seemed spectacular then too. But known for their spellbinding creativity, Singaporeans always keep their focus on how to constantly reinvent the wheel. Changi Airport has been ranked as the best airport in the world since the last eight years- The reason- constant Innovation. Jewel Changi Airport, a mixed-use development facility inside the airport, was opened to the public in 2019, consists of lush green architecture, a variety of trees and shrubs, restaurants, shopping, and retail outlets. It also allows visitors to see the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls.
Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands (MBS) is without the semblance of a doubt the most iconic destination in Singapore. Located in close proximity to the city’s Central business district, it has an awe-inspiring architecture that is steeped in luxury.
It is an integrated resort consisting of 2,561 rooms hotel as well as the largest rooftop in the world, the ship-shaped Skypark Infinity Pool. The swimming pool there is easily the highlight of Marina Bay Sands and is certainly an experience of a lifetime (It is by no means an ordinary pool experience). Skypark offers bars, gardens, restaurants along with an observation deck from where you can get a breath-taking panoramic view of Singapore.
Here’s a caveat though- to visit the bar there is a certain dress code that one needs to follow. Go for Smart Casuals rather than shorts to have an uninterrupted fun experience. MBS also boasts of an array of high-end shopping malls and numerous entertainment choices.
Talking about entertainment no better than a visit to the uber-cool Casino at MBS. But do make sure you are in the smart casual attire to enjoy yourself.
Atop Marina Bay Sands
Gardens by the Bay
Not far away from Marina Bay Sands, lies the horticultural attraction “Gardens by the bay”. It is a model of sustainable architecture and a paradise for nature enthusiasts. It is a botanical garden home to more than 15,00,000 different varieties of plants.
Main highlights include:
World of Plants: The World of plants provides deep insights into the different varieties of plants and trees and is a visual treat and a great learning opportunity for nature lovers.
Flower Dome: Once you enter this heavenly abode full of floral diversity, you will not be surprised that it finds a mention in the 2015 Guinness Book of World Records. A ground-breaking concept, it features a constantly changing display of numerous flowers and plants. It consists of various gardens namely Olive Grove, Australian Garden, The Baobabs, South African Garden, Mediterranean Garden, Succulent Garden, South American Garden, and California Garden. Each of the gardens listed above contains lush green exotic plants and flowers from the Mediterranean and semi-arid regions.
Supertree Grove: With a height that ranges between 25 and 50 metres and spread over 101 hectares, they are called “Supertrees” for a good reason. The colossal artificial supertrees are solar-powered vertical gardens containing a variety of tropical flowers and ferns atop its steel structure. The nighttime is especially a spectacular experience as the Gardens are lit up with different lights and sounds.
Supertree Grove
OCBC Skyway:
The OCBC Skyway is a 128-metre-long aerial walkway that provides the tourists with a bird’s eye view of the gardens and its supertrees. It is approximately 22 m high and offers a breath-taking experience. Strolling through the greens is an adventure of a different kind and is certain to have a positive long-lasting impact on the mind and soul.
Supertree Observatory, an observation deck located right at the top of the grove, provides a panoramic view of Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay (see image below). The observatory also offers the tourists an immersive experience by engaging them with sophisticated technology.
OCBC Skyway
OCBC Skyway
Cloud Forest: Engulfed by mist, Cloud Forest is a 0.8 Hectares large and 35 m long tropical highland that is shrouded in verdant greenery. It also consists of a spectacular indoor waterfall which makes it so divine. The walkways through the cloud forest will give you an opportunity to learn about the exceptional biodiversity
Clod Forest Cloud Forest Cloud Forest