Singapore: Futuristic Wonderland
Text & photos by Diane Steimers Mohr
On the way to dive for two weeks in Indonesia, my husband Gary and I booked a pre-trip excursion to Singapore. Gary had been there many times for business, but never had time to see much of this beautiful country. We arrived at night, checked into the Pan Pacific Singapore, got to our room and opened our curtains to an amazing view of the Marina Bay skyline. Wow! Gorgeous!
Later, that evening, we took a cruise around Marina Bay for a closer vantage point, enjoying the bright lights of the hotels, restaurants, docks and Merlion, of course.
Over the next three days, we hired a private driver/guide and visited the Marina Bay Sands Hotel (for drinks overlooking the night skyline and light show), Gardens by the Bay (daytime tour and evening light show at SuperTree Grove), Little India and China Town.
We also spent a day at the Singapore Botanic Gardens (and their amazing Orchid Garden), walked around Marina Bay and Clarke Quay, and shopped on Orchard Road.
We ate the famous Chili Crab at Jumbo Seafood (the original location at East Coast Seafood Centre, on the water), ate local fare at a Hawker Center, ate lots of amazing Asian cuisine, and had to taste Durian (Nasty!)
An unexpected highlight was Jewel, the new “waterfall” at the Changi airport. Get to the airport an hour early for your departure so you have time to take this in.
A must-see! Singapore may become a regular stop to and from our annual Pacific dive trips.
Dian Steimers Mohr: After a 35 year career in Finance and Accounting, I retired and now enjoy time advancing my photography skills while travelling the world. Whether its scuba diving, learning history, hiking, boating or tasting through different wine regions, our travels have taken us to many spectacular places. Favorite quote: “I haven’t been everywhere, but its on my list.” – Susan Sontag