After an easy flight from Semarang to Singapore we arrived to our hotel hungry. It was after lunch but before dinner so the concierge recommended Komala Vila (a place suggested by a fellow traveler in Ubud). We had the most delicious dosai and uthappam at one of Singapore’s oldest Indian vegetarian restaurants. We were so hungry we forgot to take photos. After eating we walked back to our hotel via markets and the famous Raffles Hotel.
Takashi Murakami had a show called “From Superflat to Bubblewrap” at the STPI Creative Workship and Gallery. The theory of superflat references flattened form in Japanese animation and pop culture. The show itself had several iconic pieces and others that were darker than his iconic smile flowers.
The walk home along the Singapore River took us past numerous bridges and sites like Trader’s Market, the Empress Place Building, Merlion Park, Esplanade Park and spectacular views.
We made plans to visit Gardens by the Bay and then have dinner at Pollen and return to the Garden at night. When we arrived it was so crowded that we knew our plans had to change-there was a long line just to buy tickets and a 45 minute wait to get into the gardens. We walked around the waterfront and went to dinner a few minutes early.
The restaurant is adjacent to the Gardens and allowed us to visit between our first and second courses.
The gardens were beautiful and the food was delicious!
We even went outside to see fireworks during dessert!
The walk back to our hotel included a stunning night views of the city, the Helix bridge and the Singapore Flyer.
Before walking back we stopped in the Shops at Marina Bay Sands Mall (the mall attached to the three tall buildings). The mall was packed at 9pm. It was three levels of luxury shops. There was even a river with boat rides inside and a giant play area for kids with a light show on the ground.
Yueh Hai Ching Temple is an UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage award temple with gold gilding and ornate details. It was built in 1826 and is the oldest Teochew temple in Singapore. Originally it was to give thanks to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea but now it is known as the “Love Temple” for love seekers to get Yue Lao’s blessing.
The walk along around the city, along the water, through the Marina Bay Sands and over the Helix bridge were equally as beautiful during the day and sunset as it was at night. We made a quick stop into the Louis Vuitton island store. Sunshine liked a green alligator purse that cost a mere $28K.
Kampong Glam is significant for its location near the Malay and Muslims communities. It was where the Malay royalty once lived and the Masjid Sultan residents. The area was filled with cute shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Set within the Art Deco Parkview Hotel was an odd and aptly named ‘Disturbing Narratives’ art show. It was true to its name.
Our hotel was steps away from the Jazz in July performances at the Esplanade concourse and outdoor theaters. We heard Lester Ang and the Chicago Jazz Connection played Ray Charles and other jazz standards one night and Yvette Atienza performed a tribute to Cole Porter the following night. It was a great way to end our stay in Singapore.