February 13, 2023
Singapore
As we docked just before sunrise the incredible skyline of Singapore came into view.
Singapore officially the Republic of Singapore, is a sovereign island country and city-state in maritime Southeast Asia. Singapore’s land mass has increased by 25% since the country’s independence as a result of extensive land reclamation projects. It has the third highest population density in the world. With a multicultural population and recognizing the need to respect cultural identities of the major ethnic groups within the nation.
Getting through immigrations in Singapore is not fun. Over 2 hours standing in lines is never fun and when it begins at 6:00am it is not even close to fun. Finally my group got though the chaos and we were headed off on our adventure.
We headed to the National Orchid Gardens. Since 1859, orchids have been closely associated with the Gardens. The products of the Gardens’ orchid breeding program, which began in 1928, have an incredible place where they can be displayed in their full splendor. The gardens have over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids on display. The VIP section has orchids that were created for dignitaries who have visited. The featured photo is the one that was breed for Princess Diana! This stop was my favorite of the day. After the crazy start to the day this was a serene retreat and the orchids were so beautiful. Sorry I posted so many pictures but I had a hard time limiting them out of the hundreds of pictures I took.
After the incredible gardens we left to explore the small, bustling area of Little India, which is overflowing with garland makers, Indian jewelers, and spice sellers.
Kampong Glam boasts an array of traditional stores, restaurants, and Malay heritage sites, the grand Sultan Mosque.
In Chinatown, we experience the chanting of the Buddhist monks. Yes, I did some silly pictures with the rabbits that were around for the Chinese New Year because it is the year of the rabbit. Inside the temple we said prayers and chanted as we rotated the prayer drum. I did ask for forgiveness for taking the picture of the chanting monks…oops!
We hiked down to take a picture of the Indian temple, which has the detailed animal sculptures but was disappointed that it had construction obstructing the view.
At the river front I was able to get photos of the waterfront including the cool building that has an observation deck shaped like a boat. Going to go there when we return on the 23rd.
The Merlin water fountain is a combination of a lion and a fish.
Our last stop of the day was at Raffles hotel where the Singapore Sling was created. For only $50.00 you too can have a Singapore Sling at the Long bar.
Tomorrow is another day in Singapore and I am headed to the zoo!!
One of my favorite posts yet! I love the orchids. The photo of you is wonderful and it is great to see your smiling face. You certainly look like you’re in your Heaven. I think I’d skip the pricey Sling and opt for a glass of wine. LOL. Have fun!! We love watching.
What a beautiful, exciting, interesting and very clean city! I had the opportunity to live there for a few months 50 years ago, right across from the botanical gardens. Loved seeing what it looks like now through your pics. Thanks!