Welcome to Singapore’s Urban Oasis
Hey there fellow travelers! Are you looking for a city that offers the perfect blend of modernity and nature? Look no further than Singapore! Known as the “Garden City”, this small island nation is dotted with numerous lush green spaces that will leave you in awe. Join me as I take you on a journey to discover the urban oasis of Singapore – its beautiful gardens.
Exploring Gardens by the Bay
One of the most iconic and must-visit gardens in Singapore is Gardens by the Bay. Located in the heart of the city, this 101-hectare garden is a true marvel of modern horticulture. As I stepped into the gardens, I was greeted by the towering Supertrees that seemed straight out of a sci-fi movie. These tree-like structures not only serve as vertical gardens but also harness solar energy to power the light and sound show at night. Trust me, watching the Supertrees come alive with dazzling lights and music is an experience you won’t forget.
But that’s not all, Gardens by the Bay is also home to the world’s largest glass greenhouse – the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest. As a flower enthusiast, I was in heaven at the Flower Dome, which is a Mediterranean-style garden showcasing a variety of flowers and plants from different regions of the world. The Cloud Forest, on the other hand, is a misty wonderland with a 35-meter tall indoor waterfall and a diverse collection of plants from tropical highlands.
Getting Lost in the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Next on our garden adventure is the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning over 82 hectares, this garden is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. As I strolled through the gardens, I was amazed by the variety of flora and fauna, from the colorful orchids in the National Orchid Garden to the serene lakes and bridges in the Rainforest. Don’t forget to visit the iconic National Orchid Garden, which houses over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids, including the national flower of Singapore – the Vanda Miss Joaquim.
If you’re feeling hungry, head to the Botanic Gardens’ Food for Thought cafe, where you can enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by nature. And to top it off, the garden also has free concerts and performances at the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage on weekends, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.
Wandering through the Singapore Zoo
Yes, you read that right – a zoo in a blog post about gardens. But trust me, the Singapore Zoo is unlike any other zoo you’ve been to. Known for its open-concept and naturalistic enclosures, the zoo is home to over 2,800 animals from 300 species, including many rare and endangered species. As I walked through the zoo, I felt like I was in a rainforest, with lush vegetation and waterfalls surrounding me.
The highlight of my visit was the Fragile Forest exhibit, where I got to walk through a giant aviary and interact with free-roaming animals such as lemurs, sloths, and flying foxes. It was an unforgettable experience that I highly recommend. And if you’re an animal lover like me, don’t miss the chance to have breakfast with orangutans at the zoo’s Ah Meng Restaurant.
Discovering the Hidden Gems at Singapore’s Neighborhood Gardens
While the previously mentioned gardens are the popular tourist spots, Singapore is also home to many hidden gems in its neighborhood gardens. One such gem is the Tiong Bahru Park, located in the quaint Tiong Bahru neighborhood. This park features a unique playground that resembles a train and a suspension bridge that offers a stunning view of the park. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk.
Another neighborhood garden that stole my heart is the HortPark. This park is a gardener’s paradise, with themed gardens and educational displays that provide valuable insights into gardening. I spent hours exploring the various gardens, from the Butterfly Garden to the Balinese Garden, and even got to try my hand at terrarium-making at the HortCentre.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s gardens are more than just beautiful green spaces, they are a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving nature amidst its urban landscape. As I bid farewell to this urban oasis, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences and memories these gardens had given me. So next time you’re in Singapore, make sure to take a break from the city’s skyscrapers and immerse yourself in the peaceful and breathtaking gardens of this vibrant city. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
