Gardens of Singapore

Off the the Singapore Botanical Gardens

After breakfast at the hotel we are back to exploring the city.

It is very safe here. People don’t even jaywalk and it is a punishable crime to spit on the streets. There are many signs out warning of criminal charges for those who molest, steal or take pictures up skirts. I think this is one of the cleanest countries we have ever visited.

John’s backpack is checked as we enter the subway station. Then the guard asks if we need directions for our route. Very friendly.

The train takes us right to the entrance to the Singapore Botanical Gardens.

The gardens are extensive and beautiful. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are free except for the orchid gardens which are $5 for adults and $3 for seniors. I will let the pictures do the talking. Absolutely exquisite.

We see numerous monitor lizards in the park.

It is very hot (32 degrees) and the bright sun makes it feel even hotter. We stick to the shade of the trees.

Little India, Kampong Glam and Bugis Market

After the Botanical Gardens we take the subway to Little India, taking a look around at its temples ( Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple), shops and restaurants before making our way to the Arabic district of Kampong Glam. Calls to prayer come from the Abdul Gafoor Mosque. This area has a lovely vibe. We stop for a break and some lunch at a restaurant in one of its picturesque streets. My feet are so ready for a break.

We check out the nearby Bugis Market, a massive indoor market place then head back to the hotel for a rest break.

Gardens on the Bay

Next we take the subway to Gardens on the Bay. The whole area is beautiful. We first go into the Flower Dome which is currently dragon themed for the upcoming Chinese New Year and the Year of the Dragon. My Chinese zodiac sign is also the Dragon! Everywhere you look there are gorgeous displays.

The next pavilion we check out is the Cloud Forest. We are greeted by a multi-floored, super high waterfall. It really is a show stopper. An elevator transports us to the top of the pavilion (and waterfall). We work our way down through numerous walkways and displays.

Super Tree Grove

By now, it’s dusk and we make our way to the Super Tree Grove where we watch the Light Show. Click here for a short video.

Extravagant Mall and Sound and Water Show

We get dinner from the nearby Food Hall then we watch part of a stage show at Gardens on the Bay before heading towards the extravagant Marina Bay Sands Hotel. Night time views of the area with all its lights are gorgeous.We cross through the hotel to the over the top Shops of the Marina Bay Sands. This high end mall is decorated to the hilt for Chinese New Year.

A sound and light show on water in front of the mall only adds to the night’s magic. Click here for a short video. We are both pooped by the time we return to our hotel. Today we walked 30,185 steps.