Winter Vacation Trip: Gardens by the Bay

The last time I was in Singapore (about 3 years ago) the Gardens by the Bay was still under construction. This time around I got to visit the attraction. It is built on reclaimed land. The main feature are the super tree structures that are actually built out of metal with plant life interwoven in them. Apparently there are also photovoltaic cells on them to collect sunlight for energy. There are two enclosed conservatories which you have to pay to enter but the Bay South Garden is free of charge and can be accessed via the MRT (subway system). The two conservatories are cooled but one of them details how they are sustainably cooling them both as not to use a lot of energy on air conditioning. Below are some pictures! I recommend visiting the conservatories and skywalk even though there are fees involved, I'd say it is worth it. If I think of anything else to say I'll update this post. Otherwise, enjoy the photos!

Gardens by the Bay

Website: http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en/home.html
Hours: Bay South Garden, 5:00 AM - 2:00 AM Daily. Other areas have varying hours.
Admission: Adults are S$28 if you want to visit both conservatories for non-Singapore residents. The skyway is S$5. There are some other activities such as a shuttle and audio tour (fee).
Getting there: I went via the Bayfront MRT station but there are other ways as well. http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en/plan-your-visit/visitor-information.html#!/getting-here-and-parking
What to bring/wear: Good walking shoes, a camera/camcorder if you want to take pictures, sunscreen and sunglasses are a good idea. Water if you get thirsty :) There are some food options available onsite.
Maps: http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en/the-gardens/gardenmap/map.html

Back from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Having returned from Brazil about a week ago, I wish I had had more time to explore this very picturesque country. Unfortunately, I was busy with work just about the whole time I was there. I had a brief moment to walk along the beaches and enjoy some local beverages and snacks when I first arrived. Other than that...it was all work and very little play. 

The main road in front of the chain of beaches (Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana) in Rio is shut down to cars on Sunday to allow pedestrian traffic only. Many people were skateboarding, roller blading, and biking in addition to taking leisurely strolls in the sun. I got to watch Footvolley on the beaches which I had never seen before. Volleyball is hard enough, adding in that you can't use your hands makes it very impressive to watch.

Also on Sunday, there is what is literally called the "Hippie Fair". This is basically an open air market where locals sell a variety of handmade goods, T-shirts, and other touristy items. I didn't buy any merchandise but I did enjoy a snack from one of the food stalls. I can't remember the name of the dish but it was a fried bread with a vegetable based sauce and shrimp...it was slightly spicy. 

Walking back on the beach, you can find small refreshment huts lining the edge of the sand. Most sell a variety of beverages and snacks, including fresh coconuts. I found Brazilians are proud of their beer and I also found it is cheap (with some brands owned by the Belgians thanks to Anheuser-Busch InBev).

As usual, I have a hotel room walk through along with the views from the balconies. I'll admit, it was one of the most scenic views I've had from a hotel room.

This was my first trip to South America...and my first brush with Portuguese. Enjoy the video!

~

Singapore Day 1: What a View!

I had dinner at the top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel. Check out the awesome view and delicious food!