Hi Everyone,
Todays post is special. It is in these uncertain times that it is important to remember this is not the norm. Whilst we are restricted in our travel now, dreams are always possible. One day travel too will be possible once again.
Here is a little summary of one of my favourite places in the world – Singapore.
History
Singapore dates back to the 14th century. At the time it was part of the Sri Vijayan Empire and called Temasek (meaning “sea town”). The name “Singapore” is derived from the Malay word “Singapura” or “lion city”. According to legend a visiting Sri Vijayan prince, Sang Nila Utama, saw an animal he mistook for a lion (probably a tiger) and Singapore’s modern name was born.
Keep reading for more about “Singapore in a Nutshell – a Virtual Tour”.
Singapore in a Nutshell – a Virtual Tour
From the architecturally stunning Marina bay to old town feel of bustling China town. Adventurous Sentosa Island, pretty Geyling area and natural reserves of the Southern Ridges. This post will give you a lovely insight into Singapore in a nutshell.
Marina Bay
Art Science Museum
Such an interesting area – be sure to go into the Art Science Museum – a great place for all ages to simply get lost in another world.
Gardens by the Bay
The Marina Bay is also home to the Gardens by the Bay. Visit at night to witness a sound-and-light show at the futuristic gardens. During the day you can access the world’s largest greenhouse, where you can admire exotic flowers and experience a cloud forest.
Marina Bay Sands
The top of Marina Bay Sand’s Skypark was a real experience to remember. A roof top like no other, perched 200 metres in the air with observation deck in the clouds. We had the most amazing time at the night club on top. The night light show was one of the most impressive I have ever seen.
The pictures above were taken from the Lantern bar, across the river from Marina Bay Sands. My heart still pines for another cocktail whilst watching the impressive light show.
China Town
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Singapore’s newest temple. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum (BTRTM) was founded in 2002 by Venerable Shi Fazhao. The Temple is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha, meaning ‘The Compassionate One’.
One of the most spectacular sights is the sacred solid gold 2-metre stupa on the 4th floor. On the roof, there is an impressive pagoda with a large prayer wheel.
The Buddhist Culture Museum on the third-floor houses about 300 Buddhist artefacts from all around Asia including China, Thailand, Myanmar, and Pakistan.
Free English-language tours every Tuesday and Thursday. The little teahouse on the 2nd floor is a nice place to relax after the tour, which usually lasts about an hour.
Thian Hock Keng Temple
Once established as a trading port Singapore had an influx of migrants from China. Everyone hoping to make their fortune and then return back home to the mainland. It was a long taxing journey and the first port of call in those days would be the Thian Hock Keng Temple built in 1839. A Sea Goddess temple.
Be sure to walk around the outside back of the temple to see the mural depicting Singapore’s history.
Have coffee and traditional Singapore toast breakfast down the road at Ya Kun Kaya Toast.
Read the inspiring story behind the humble beginnings of this coffee house here.
Sentosa Island
With each visit to Singapore Sentosa Island simply becomes more and more exciting. Here you see me braving the zip line – an experience not to be missed.
However don’t forget to visit Universal Studios, the Adventure Cove Waterpark amongst other attractions,
Last but not least save some time to relax at the beach with cocktails and famous truffle fries.
Geyling
One could say the Geyling area in Singapore is full of controversies. Also known as the red light district in Singapore. It is one of my personal favourite areas because of the pretty Peranakan houses.
A setting often used by bridal parties for their official wedding photos.
The Intan
One of the most inspiring things I did last trip to Singapore was to visit Alvin at the Intan. With a deep love for all things Peranakan, he devoted his home to be a haven for the treasures of the Peranakan Culture.
I did fall in love with his slipper collection…
When you visit be prepared for the most delicious traditional tea and delicatisies…
Southern Ridges
Imagine walking across a bridge 36-metres above the road connecting two hilltops. We did just that at Henderson Waves, a distinctive wave-like structure consisting of a series of undulating curved ‘ribs’, also Singapore’s highest pedestrian bridge.
A great place for taking scenic city views or interesting architectural shots of the bridge itself.
Such a fun experience being in the middle of a city and 10km natural park space at the same time.
More information about the Southern Ridges here.
Just a small re-visit of Singapore.
For more information you might like to read:
“Singapore in a Nutshell – a Virtual Tour” was written in collaboration with the Singapore Tourist Board but all opinions are my own. It was one of my most difficult posts to write in a long time because it reminded me of just how much I miss Singapore and would like to go back as soon as possible.
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I love Singapore so much! Thank you for a lovely break-from-reality-tour of Singapore! I want a pair of those beaded shoes from Intan so bad but I can’t keep them on my feet! Wrong shape or something! I can’t wait to travel again to my two favourite places, Singapore and Zurich! Now you have to do a Zurich tour!