Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Gardens By The Bay

After much procrastination, I finally visited the much acclaimed Singapore Premier Botanical Garden: Gardens By The Bay. I initially had doubts whether this garden is any better than the conventional botanical gardens found around the world. Well, depending on what kind of themes you are looking for, you may like or hate it. This garden is very much an artificial garden with huge man-made structures like the Supertrees and conservatories. It is more extra-terrestrial than you would expect from a botanical garden. The conservatories are worth the visit especially the Tropical Forest conservatory. The gigantic man-made waterfall is magnificent. Outdoor gardens are free for the public but there is nothing much to expect from a hot tropical country except trees and more gigantic trees; the Supertrees. Should you visit this garden, plan your visit to start around 4pm. You'd have ample time to visit both conservatories and then walk around outside. Go to the central Supertrees around 6.30-7.30pm to see the Supertrees come to life with the beautiful sunset city as backdrop. After all this, you can cross the pedestrian bridge over to Marina Bay Sands Shopping Center. You can watch the musical fountain at 8pm right at the wooden deck facing the city.

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Thursday, May 16, 2013

Mini Travel Log: Sydney, Australia (2)

It is a rare opportunity for me to have a full day in Sydney. My last long stay here was more than 3 years ago. I revisited the Opera House and the Botanical Garden while enjoying the blue sunny day. I also braved the cold in the evening to view sunset over the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. It is an amazing sight of silhouettes and golden rays. If only the Opera House turns on its dome lights earlier, then it would have been a perfect evening for me.

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Related link: Mini Travel Log: Sydney, Australia (1)