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Showing posts with the label Singapore

Dragonfly Lake and Bridge – A Serene Escape at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

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In the heart of Singapore’s iconic Gardens by the Bay , away from the buzz of the Supertree Grove and the conservatories, lies a tranquil oasis that captivates with its calm waters, verdant surroundings, and thoughtful design,  Dragonfly Lake . Spanning across this serene waterbody is the elegantly arched Dragonfly Bridge , connecting different sections of the Gardens while offering some of the most picturesque views in the area. Dragonfly Lake A Lake That Blends Beauty and Sustainability Dragonfly Lake is not just a scenic element in the Gardens; it plays an essential ecological role in the park’s design. As one of the two major lakes in Gardens by the Bay (the other being Kingfisher Lake), it functions as part of the park’s sustainable water management system . Rainwater is collected, filtered through aquatic plants, and used for irrigation throughout the gardens. The lake is named after the dragonflies that frequent this wetland environment, attracted by the native flora and...

Love the Last March – Sculptural Marvel with a Message in Singapore

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Along the scenic Marina Bay waterfront in Singapore, an extraordinary art installation invites visitors to pause, reflect, and engage with one of the most urgent conversations of our time -wildlife conservation. Titled “Love the Last March,” this monumental sculpture series is more than a visual delight; it is a global call to action. Love the Last March - Singapore A Powerful Procession in Bronze Unveiled in May 2023 to mark World Endangered Species Day , Love the Last March was created by renowned sculptors Gillie and Marc Schattner . This expansive bronze installation stretches across 192 meters , making it the longest sculpture in the world . It features 45 life-sized endangered animals marching in unison—symbolically “taking a stand” to remind humanity of what we are on the verge of losing. The procession includes a range of species from across continents— African elephants, Sumatran orangutans, Bengal tigers, snow leopards, cheetahs, pangolins , and many more. Each animal i...

Rain Vortex – The World's Tallest Indoor Waterfall at Jewel Changi

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Jewel Changi Airport, commonly known as Jewel, is one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks. It is a nature-themed entertainment and retail complex connected to one of the passenger terminals of Changi Airport. Among its many attractions, the centerpiece is the breathtaking Rain Vortex, the tallest indoor waterfall in the world. A Spectacular Sight The Rain Vortex, formerly known as the HSBC Rain Vortex, stands at an impressive height of 40 meters (130 feet). Water continuously recirculates and is pumped to the roof, where it free-falls through a circular opening at a rate of up to 37,850 liters per minute. The waterfall lands in a basement-level pool, with an acrylic funnel at the bottom preventing splashing and insulating sound. Architectural Marvel The Jewel’s unique toroid-shaped roof, which houses the Rain Vortex, consists of over 9,000 pieces of glass and spans 200 by 150 meters (660 by 490 feet). The roof features a sloped oculus that seamlessly integrates with the cascading wate...

Coney Island: A Serene Escape in Singapore

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Coney Island, also known as Pulau Serangoon, is a 133-hectare island located off the northeastern coast of Singapore, within the town of Punggol. Once earmarked for residential development, the island underwent land reclamation from 1975 to the 1990s. These efforts significantly reduced the channel between Punggol and the island to just 100 meters. However, instead of urbanization, the island has been transformed into a nature sanctuary, offering visitors a tranquil escape from city life. Coney Island Park: A Nature Haven On 10 October 2015, Coney Island Park was officially opened to the public, unveiling a 2-kilometer-long beach and a 2.4-kilometer path that integrates into Singapore’s park connector network. Managed by the National Parks Board, this 81-hectare nature park is home to a diverse range of habitats, including coastal forests, grasslands, and mangroves. The island’s rustic charm makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Exploring Co...

Marina Bay Sands – An Icon of Modern Architecture

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Marina Bay Sands is an architectural masterpiece that defines Singapore’s skyline. Opened in 2010, it was developed by Las Vegas Sands and designed by the renowned architect Moshe Safdie. With a staggering cost of approximately S$8 billion, it was the world’s most expensive standalone casino property at the time. Inspired by decks of cards, its design symbolizes balance and innovation, perfectly embodying Singapore’s global stature. From the outside, Marina Bay Sands is an awe-inspiring sight, especially at night. The structure features three towering 55-story buildings, seamlessly connected by the Sands SkyPark—a boat-shaped rooftop terrace that boldly defies conventional architectural norms. The SkyPark adds to its allure, seemingly floating above the city with its lush greenery and futuristic design. At night, the resort dazzles with its vibrant red and gold lights, reflecting its grandeur and modernity. Framed by the surrounding greenery and urban landscape, Marina Bay Sands stands...

Supertree Grove: A Symphony of Nature and Innovation

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Located in the heart of Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay, the Supertree Grove is a stunning marvel of modern engineering and ecological artistry. Inspired by the majestic trees of the rainforest, these towering structures redefine the boundaries of sustainable urban landscaping. With their intricate vertical gardens and vibrant light displays, the Supertrees captivate visitors by day and night alike. Rising up to 50 meters—equivalent to a 16-story building—the Supertrees stand as iconic sentinels of the garden. Their trunks are adorned with over 162,900 plants from more than 200 species, including bromeliads, orchids, ferns, and flowering climbers. These plants thrive in Singapore’s tropical climate, transforming the Supertrees into living walls of color and texture. The vertical planting panels are not just a visual delight but a testament to innovation. By harnessing sustainable technologies, seven of the Supertrees are equipped to harvest solar energy, while others are designed to col...

The Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay

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Located within the iconic Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, the Cloud Forest is a mesmerizing conservatory that offers a glimpse into the magical, misty worlds of high-altitude tropical forests. A journey here is a walk through lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and captivating digital art installations, making it a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and explorers alike. As you step into the Cloud Forest, you’re greeted by the gentle roar of a 35-meter waterfall , one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls. The mist-filled air carries the fresh, earthy aroma of water and foliage, instantly transporting you to the cool, moist climates of tropical mountain regions. This ambiance mimics the natural conditions found in cloud forests, typically located at elevations of 2,000 to 3,500 meters in regions across Southeast Asia, Tropical America, and Africa. The centerpiece of the Cloud Forest is a towering vertical garden known as the Cloud Mountain , accessible via a series of windin...

The Flower Dome at Singapore: A Global Showcase of Botanical Wonders

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The Flower Dome at Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay is a record-breaking architectural and botanical masterpiece, officially recognized as the world’s largest glass greenhouse by the 2015 Guinness World Records. Covering an area of 1.2 hectares (3.0 acres), the dome mimics the cool-dry climate of Mediterranean and semi-arid regions, providing an immersive experience into diverse plant life from around the world. The dome houses eight themed gardens, each showcasing flora from different continents: Baobabs and Bottle Trees : Iconic African species such as Adansonia digitata . Succulent Garden : Home to striking desert plants like Agave victoriae-reginae . Mediterranean Garden : A tribute to the Mediterranean region’s olive groves. South African, South American, and Australian Gardens : Featuring exotic plants such as Protea cynaroides and Anigozanthos species. California Garden : Highlighting native plants of the Golden State. At the heart of the Flower Dome lies the Flower Field, a cha...

Floral Fantasy: A Magical Escape into Nature's Wonderland in Singapore

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Just a stone's throw from Bayfront MRT station, Floral Fantasy at Gardens by the Bay offers visitors an enchanting escape into a world of suspended bouquets and creative floral arrangements. This vibrant attraction, nestled in the heart of Singapore, features a series of diverse garden landscapes that seamlessly flow into one another, creating a mesmerizing and immersive experience. As you wander through the meandering pathways of Floral Fantasy, you'll encounter four distinct garden themes: Dance, Float, Waltz, and Drift. Each theme is meticulously designed to transport you into a different floral wonderland, where the colors, scents, and textures of the blooms captivate your senses. This floral haven is a testament to Singapore's commitment to integrating nature into urban spaces, providing a serene retreat amidst the bustling cityscape. The "Dance" garden welcomes visitors with a breathtaking array of hanging floral arrangements that seem to dance in the air. M...

A Night to Remember

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Singapore's Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year (2024). This unique safari offers a chance to see over 900 animals from 100 species in their naturalistic nighttime habitats, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The Night Safari is more than just a zoo visit; it’s an immersive experience that transports visitors into the heart of the jungle under the cover of darkness. As you step into the park, the ambient sounds of the night and the soft glow of moonlight set the stage for a magical journey. The safari is divided into four walking trails and a tram ride, each offering a different perspective on nocturnal wildlife. The tram ride is a highlight of the Night Safari, providing a guided tour through seven geographical zones. This 40-minute journey takes you from the Himalayan Foothills to the Southeast Asian Rainforest, offering close encounters with animals like the Malayan tiger, Asia...

River Wonders in Singapore

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River Wonders, part of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve in Singapore, is Asia's first and only river-themed wildlife park. This unique park features over 11,000 animals from 260 species, showcasing a variety of river habitats from around the world. Visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of these ecosystems through several distinct zones, each offering a glimpse into the life that thrives along the world's iconic rivers. One of the main attractions at River Wonders is the Amazon Flooded Forest, home to the world’s largest freshwater aquarium. This exhibit replicates the seasonal flooding of the Amazon rainforest, where trees are submerged under ten meters of water. Visitors can observe fascinating aquatic life such as the manatees, arapaimas, and giant river otters. The giant river otters, in particular, are a highlight as they are displayed for the first time in Asia, providing a rare opportunity to witness these social and playful creatures up close. The Giant Panda Forest ...

Singapore Zoo - A Wildlife Wonderland

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Nestled in the Mandai Rainforest, the Singapore Zoo spans 26 hectares and is home to over 2,800 animals from 300 species. Renowned for its open-concept design, the zoo offers visitors a unique chance to observe animals in spacious, naturalistic habitats. Opened on June 27, 1973, the Singapore Zoo began with 270 animals across 72 species. It has since evolved into a premier wildlife park, drawing nearly 2 million visitors annually. The zoo is operated by the Mandai Wildlife Group, which also manages the Night Safari, River Wonders, Bird Paradise, and the forthcoming Rainforest Wild Park. Major Attractions: The Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia - Featuring Hamadryas baboons, Nubian ibexes, and banded mongooses, this exhibit replicates the geological and cultural landscape of Ethiopia. Rainforest Kidzworld -A family-friendly zone with water play areas, animal-themed rides, and interactive exhibits for children. Free-Ranging Orangutan Island - Visitors can watch orangutans swing above them, a ...