Singapore

A Wonderful Day in Singapore’s Golden Garden

Shelley and I spent a day exploring the beautiful Gardens by the Bay. It is a huge, world-famous nature park and located in Singapore’s Marina Bay area. What an amazing spot with more than 100 hectares.  We spent the afternoon and evening wandering through the park, taking in the unique features and plants. There were themed areas and different things to see at every turn.

Everywhere we looked there were exotic flowers, towering greenery, and designed landscapes.

The Coco-de-Mer palm tree

 Some areas felt like stepping into Jurassic Park. We came to a large palm tree which was a Coco de mer. It is a rare palm tree native to the islands of the Seychelles. It is famous for producing the largest and heaviest seed in the world, which can weigh up to 25 kilograms (55 pounds). The tree grows for hundreds of years, reaching heights of over 30 meters (100 feet). Its unique double-lobed coconut has made it one of the most unusual plants on Earth.

Just a little further down the path we came to a Jurassic Park Gyrosphere which fit perfectly into the environment.

Shelley inside the glass-encased Gyrosphere.

Other areas were themed more like the wild Jungle.

There were even Lions and tigers.


One of the things that impressed us most was the incredible architecture throughout the park. The futuristic buildings blended perfectly with the gardens which enhanced the feeling of being in Jurassic Park.

One of the highlights of the day was simply taking our time and enjoying the atmosphere together.  As evening approached, we made our way toward the famous artificial trees for the light show.

Standing beneath those towering structures was an incredible sight on its own. There was a sky walkway which people could walk in among the trees. 

we wandered around looking at all the different trees and found a spot to settle in below one of the tress and wait for the light show.

At  dusk the music and lights started and the trees came to life.

It was truly an amazing experience with the glowing colours and music filled the air. It created a truly magical experience.


Shelley and I laid at the base of one of the trees enjoying the cool evening and took it all in. The combination of lights, music, and the Singapore skyline made the moment feel unforgettable. It was one of those experiences that reminds us how wonderful travel can be and how special it is to share those moments together.

“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” – Gustave Flaubert

Singapore

Sunset, Wine & Sky High Views in Singapore

After having sushi and asian food for nearly two weeks, we decided to enjoy a more traditional meal. We made a reservations at LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, at the top of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel.

View from the grounds of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel.

Even getting to dinner felt like part of the adventure. We explored and walk through the hotel area until we reached the Elevator for the restaurant.  The ride up in the elevator was an experience in itself as we soared the 57 stories to the restaurant high above the city. As the doors opened, we were met with breathtaking panoramic views, there were trees and plants in among the space. It made it feel like we were on a floating garden path.

Shelley and Ray in the viewing area of the Marina Sands Hotel

There was a viewing area before entering the restaurant that people could enjoy if they did not have a restaurant reservation.  We were fortunate to have someone take our photo for us. It overlooked the bay and we could see all the ships in the bay and the Gardens by the Bay Park.

We were greeted by the maitre d’ and we were brought to our table which was on the outside in a stunning exterior section of the restaurant. The views were spectacular and photos do not do them justice. The city skyline stretched across the bay.

The atmosphere was perfect, it was not too hot and very relaxed with soft music in the background.  We ordered our meal and a bottle of Italian wine and took in the moment. It felt somewhat surreal and incredible.  The meal was delicious with fresh pasta, pesto and Italian flavours. A welcome change from so much sushi during our travels through Japan.

The service staff were very friendly and did not make us feel rushed at all. Instead they encouraged us to stay and watch the sunset and water and light show. So we slowly enjoyed our wine throughout the evening, watching the sky change colours as the sun began to set.

The setting itself was unforgettable and it made the entire night feel magical. 

Glow of the sunset from the rooftop of the Marina Bay Sands

Shortly after the sunset, there was a water and light show directly below us in the bay. We watched from the railing as they did an amazing lazer light with music and co-ordinated water fountain  show. It lasted about twenty minutes and was beautiful to watch.

Water and lazer light show

Marina Bay Sands is truly a piece of art. Standing there, surrounded by its incredible architecture and sweeping views,  it was one of those “pinch yourself” moments.  Without question, it was one of the highlights of our travels to Singapore and a memory we will treasure for years to come.

Sometimes travel is about discovering the unfamiliar, and sometimes it is about finding comfort and joy in something timeless and delicious.

”Life is short and the world is wide” – Simon Raven

Singapore

Singapore Temple and Chinatown

We went to Singapore to explore this modern city. We began our adventure by exploring Chinatown.

Every street had something interesting to discover. The colourful buildings gave the area so much character, with bright shutters, lanterns hanging overhead, and murals tucked into alleyways.

We explored the small shops that lined the streets, they were selling everything from souvenirs and silk scarves to herbal medicines. 

There was even some odd looking ducks and chickens for sale. 

The food stalls were interesting and there were all kinds of different foods, dishes and snacks.  

Of course, no visit to Singapore would be complete without trying durian, the famous fruit known for its incredibly strong smell.

People either love it or hate it, and after finally working up the courage to try some, Shelley did not care for it at all and I quickly discovered we were definitely in the “hate it” category.

 

The smell alone was enough to make us hesitate, and the taste did not win us over either. It was an experience and we have no plans to try it again anytime soon. 

While walking through the markets, we came across a large laughing Buddha statue that locals said brings good luck if you rub its belly. Of course, Shelley and I could not resist giving it a try.

While wandering through Chinatown, we came across the Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple.

The temple immediately caught our attention with its colourful entrance tower covered in detailed statues of Hindu gods and mythical figures.

The details were impressive and quite interesting to see all the different statues within the tower.

Built in 1827, the temple has an important place of worship for Singapore’s Hindu community. 

All along the walls surrounding the temple there were different Hindu gods. We took off our shoes and headed into the temple, inside was ornate and decorated with carvings and other decorations.

The intricate carvings and decorations were beautiful to see up close.


We had a full first day exploring Chinatown and of course the temperature and humidity was quite high. 32 degrees Celsius and humidity was around 85 to 90 percent. 

We stopped along the way to enjoy some refreshments and just to take it all in. We had a great day and it was a great start to our adventures in Singapore. 

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”

Japan

A Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony

When we arrived for the ceremony,  we entered into a beautifully simple tea room where we removed our shoes and sat together on  the floor on the tatami mats.  Our host was a professional Tea Master who had spent many years learning the craft.

As the ceremony began, we learned that the ritual is deeply influenced by Zen Buddhism, emphasizing mindfulness, harmony, and appreciation for the present moment.

Watching the Tea Master work was interesting. Every movement was deliberate and practiced, with very slow and deliberate focus. 

We listened as the history and culture of tea making in Japan was explained. The Tea Master showed us the different aspects of making the tea.  

Boiling water which is located in the floor was carefully added to the vibrant green tea powder, and then mixed skillfully with a bamboo whisk until a delicate froth formed on top.

We watched as he explained each step of the process. From how to whisk the tea to the etiquette involved in serving and drinking the tea. We learned the proper way to hold the bowl, turn it respectfully before sipping, and appreciate the craftsmanship of the cup itself.

Then he encouraged us to come forward and make the tea. Shelley tried it first and he explained how to scoop the right amount of matcha tea power into the cup. 

He then showed her the amount and how to pour the hot water into the cup and then finally how to whisk the tea. It was quite the process.

Before tasting the matcha tea, we were served traditional Japanese sweets. Their delicate sweetness balanced the bold, earthy flavour of the matcha.

Ray making his Macha tea.
Shelley enjoying the macha tea.

We actually enjoyed the matcha tea more than we expected. It was earthy and yet easy to drink.  It was another unique glimpse into the deep traditions and culture of Japan. We felt completely immersed in Japanese culture.

お風呂は体をリフレッシュさせ、お茶は心をリフレッシュさせる

Japan

Traditional pottery

We went for a unique tour in a small village outside of Uji Kyoto and the highlight was the opportunity to visit a traditional pottery kiln that has been operating for over 200 years. One of unique aspects of the tour was that they have maintained the original kiln system. This way they are preserving techniques and craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations. 

Touring the historic kiln itself was quite interesting. It was vey special watching the local Potter trying to explain the processes with very limited english. They used signs to help convey the process. it was touching how passionate they are towards their craft.

We learned that the kiln was built on a hill to allow the heat to naturally rise up through the different compartments of the Kiln. It is fired only once each year, using the same traditional methods that artisans have relied on for centuries. They also have a modern kiln system that they use for day to day operations. 

Bundle of wood used to fire the traditional kiln

Standing inside and learning about the careful preparation and patience required for the firing of the original kiln gave us a real appreciation for the dedication involved in this art form. They carry bundles of wood to the kiln area and it takes hundreds and hundreds of bundles for the process. They remain awake on shifts to complete the firing process.

After the kiln tour, we visited the workshop and store  where we were shown how the pottery is made from start to finish. Watching the craftsmen shape and prepare the clay was fascinating.

Their attention to detail and steady hands reflected years of experience and pride in their work.

Potter dipping each cup into a pain mix for the base of each cup.

They explained how each piece are made and hand painted.

The artist paints each piece freehand and does not use any template making each piece unique.

Artist hand painting pottery pieces

One of the most best part of the day was having the chance to paint our own bowls by hand. Neither of us are professional artists, but that made the experience even more fun.

Shelley painting a piece of pottery.

The entire day was both interesting and enjoyable. Beyond simply seeing pottery, we were able to experience a living tradition and gain insight into the amazing culture and craftsmanship of Japan. 

美しいものにはすべて、不完全さという特徴が備わっている

Life is too short to wait for adventure!