Our visit to Singapore didn’t go as planned.  I booked a cruise to end in Singapore adding on five days  to be able really explore this intriguing city/state. I wanted to see it all…..and then I got sicker than I have been in years. I spent two days in bed in the hotel, basically canceling everything, including a special birthday dinner at a Japanese fusion rooftop restaurant. 

Yep, it sucked….. 

But the last day I did get out to see some of what most tourists go to see.

Marina Sands

First is Marina Sands.  This is the iconic structure has has become Singapore’s symbol around the world. It’s a huge three part structure with what appears to be a boat on top. 

The complex includes restaurants, a hotel, observation deck, shops, art work and probably a lot of stuff I didn’t see. 

The view from the roof was great. I enjoyed capturing some images in the shiny floors in the shopping area where I loved the whimsy of the store windows.

Gardens by the Bay

Probably even as famous are the Gardens with the electric trees.  I think they must be incredible at night.  That didn’t work out for us but I can only imagine.  I also heard from a friend that there’s an incredible light show in that area. Next trip. 

The gardens were beautiful inside a big dome.  I was particularly drawn to the colorful displays.  

I also liked the art work mixed in with all the plants.  This is ,a piece by Y. Kusama who appears to be everywhere. She’s a Japanese artist known for her polka dots.  I think of her as the Andy Warhol of her generation. 

This sculpture caught my eye.  I’ve seen a similar one in New York City. I wish I had captured the name so I could look the artist up. 

There’s a second dome that houses a water fall and what appealed to me—Chihuly glass flowers. He’s a Seattle based artist who does charming public art. After all the color in the garden, it was a nice contrast to see these in black and white.  

I wasn’t happy with any of my water fall shots, but it was fun to play with the geometrics of the dome. 

And as always, there’s nothing quite like some people watching in their interesting attire. I’d love a pair of the purple shoes.  And I wondering if these ladies always dress alike. 

Please note that DesignDestinations is now on an every other Monday schedule.