Marina Bay ~ lies the signature skyline of Singapore (Part 2)

continuation from:

........... Marina Bay ~ lies the signature skyline of Singapore (Part 1)

The conspicuous design of Marina Bay Sands from Singapore Flyer.

               6) Marina Bay Sands and Parks ~ is the focal point of Marina Bay. Just the impressive architectural design of this superb structure has a story in itself. It’s like a building holding a huge luxury ship which is about to sail in the horizon (ahahaha!). Hey hey hey please don't get me wrong that is only how i see the building (hehehe!). Since it is one of the famous landmarks, we told ourselves that no matter what happen we need to witness firsthand the grandeur of this iconic hotel and finally…… here we are (hehehe!).

It is an integrated resort considered as the ‘world’s most expensive stand alone casino property at a staggering SGD 8 billion’ Whew!!! What can you say about that huh? It’s a one-stop destination for business, leisure and entertainment that offers world class luxury casino and hotel complete with 5-star restaurant, a museum,  expo and convention facilities, glamorous shopping mall, two state-of-the-art theaters, sensational nightlife, and of course the stunning ‘Skypark’ that capped the three 55-storey towers.

Balong inside 'The Shoppe' of MBS.

Looks like the river in Venice, ayt? (hehehe!). Actually, the boat is called Sampan, they used it before for fishing.

               7) The Shoppe @ Marina Bay Sands ~ MBS is not just mainly about casinos and hotel as this is also called the place for everything that you fancy with. That's why, we spent much of our time roaming around ‘The Shoppe’ and feed ourselves with luxury items that are only reachable in our dreams (ahahaha!). Even we can’t afford to buy one at least we experienced it personally (ahahaha!). 

Famous international brands can be found inside 'The Shoppe'/

Most of the internationally known fashion brands have its own exclusives lavish boutiques in here such as Prada, Cartier, Chanel, Ralph Lauren, Hermes, Gucci, Chopard, Vertu and a lot more that creates a modern shopping mecca that rivals the fashion capitals of the world. Why bother to go to New York, Paris, or Milan if you can find luxury items that you wanted to have here, ayt? (hmmmmm I was just dreaming ok? ~ ahahaha)

Entrance to the Sands SkyPark.

The 360 degree view at the top of the Skypark.

              8) Sky Sands and Skypark ~ is another attraction with a price within Marina Bay Sands (ahahaha!). Don’t get me wrong please as we only paid SGD 20 and that is equivalent to PHP 660 or USD 15 per person (ahahaha!). Actually, it is not supposed to be in our list to visit because we already been to Singapore Flyer but if we missed this out pretty sure we feel gutted if we haven’t seen the best 360-degree panoramic view of whole Singapore and beyond. 

Balong is busy taking pics of the surroundings.

Paying a visit to this man-made marvel should be in your to do list (believe me!) because this is an architectural masterpiece crowning the three hotel towers of MBS at 200 meters in the sky. It is also home to the ‘world’s largest public cantilever’ covering 1.2 hectare tropical oasis housing a public observatory deck. Please note however, that guest who only paid SGD 20 has no access to the famous infinity pool, but if you wanted to stay for a night in the hotel then you’re free to go in. Hmmmm to spend PHP 8,500 for a night in a room? Nah, better luck next time I guess (ahahaha!)

The famous crystal pavilion of Louis Vuitton, first in Southeast Asia.

                   9) Louis Vuitton Island Maison  ~ After few hours of wandering around, we find our way out of Marina Bay Sands and roamed around the exterior of the resort. We’ve seen two pavilions just adjacent to MBS. The first one houses two internationally known nightclubs, the 'Avalon' and the 'Pangea' while the other one dwells the 'world’s largest boutique of Louis Vuitton Island Maison'. Both are situated amidst the Marina Bay's breathtaking landscape. There is a floating bridge just in case you’re interested to visit both places. For party goers, Avalon and Pangea are best for you; whereas, if you like to shop lavishly then visits the amazing crystal pavilion of LV Maison. It is the 'first Louis Vuitton Maison in Southeast Asia' and was specially designed by internationally acclaimed award-winning architect Peter Marino.

                                                            The welcoming hand of Singapore, the facade of Arts Science Museum.

                   10) Arts Science Museum ~ Just nearby to the Maison is 'largest private museum in Singapore'. I was particularly fascinated by the “existence” of a museum near a casino because these two don’t seem to blend but here it was (fascinating!!! ~ ahahaha!).  There’s absolutely no need to do background reading or be an art enthusiast to “properly appreciate the arts” just the façade of this building will explain everything. The architecture is said to be a form reminiscent of a lotus flower; however, locals and tourist referred this as ‘the welcoming hand of Singapore’ to greet guests from across the globe. We supposed to attend the Harry Potter exhibit, but unfortunately, the exhibition starts two days after our flight back to Manila. Well, since we won't be able to witness the exhibit; thus, we just enjoy the interesting surroundings and took lots of pictures as souvenirs.

 

The distinct design of Esplanade from the SkyPark.

               11) Esplanade ~ is one of the interesting and architecturally unique that we witness while in Marina Bay. Aside from MBS, its conspicuous and distinct architecture is very astounding too as its design is a precise replica of ‘durian’ cut into two. Do you happen know what durian looks like? Better google it then (ahahaha!). Kidding aside, it is a well known Southeast Asian tropical fruit which is too common in the southern part of the Philippines too. We have few trees at home and sigh! I missed the taste! (ahahaha!). The 2 oblong shape of the structure is undeniably outstanding and the roof is covered with thorn-like panel which is assembled scrupulously.

Balong at the edge of the cantilever, am afraid of heights but i have to do this as well just to have the souvenir pics. (ahahaha!)

Signage information explains that the Esplanade or colloquially known to locals as ‘The Big Durian’, officially opened on the 12^th of October, 2002. It was developed at a cost of about 600 Million Singapore Dollars which is equivalent to a staggering P19.8 Billion or USD 460 Million! Whew! I may not be able to have that amount throughout my existence but just the experience of being in here is more than enough I guess (ahahaha!)

 

The enduring icon of Singapore ~ The Merlion!

               12) Merlion Park ~ Man, man, man….. the enduring icon of Singapore (hehehe!). If we talked about Singapore, pretty sure first thing that comes to mind is of course the infamous statue of ‘merlion’. Well, you never been here if you haven’t seen for real this proud figure that’s well-known as a tourist trademark of this lion city.  Lion’s probably never lived here unless you go to their pristinely maintained animal sanctuary in Mandai Lake where Singapore Zoological Garden and Night Safari is located. The zoo is homed to white tigers, one of the most popular attractions they have because of their rarity and exceptional beauty. 

The view of the Merlion from the Double Helix Bridge.

The park is situated at the mouth of Singapore River that connects with Marina Bay. From 'The Shoppe' of Marina Bay Sands, no need for you to hire a taxi or ride a bus as this spot is situated just opposite of the bay that can be travelled ‘on foot’ merely around 10 - 15 minutes. The Merlion figure may be dwarfed from afar but this is a must-stop and not to be missed site for all visitors. This is the proud symbol of Singapore Tourism Board (STB).

                13) Makansutra, Gluttons Bay ~ is the best place for dinner as per suggestions of BFF Lemwuel. Well, we are new here; thus, his advise really matters (ahahaha!).  Makansutra is located in the premises of Esplanade. There are so many stalls in here selling typical Singaporean dishes. Better bring your families and friends and pamper them to experience the unique and exclusive street food dining experience in a spectacular setting of the  magnificent skyline view.

The fantastic view of Marina Bay Sands from Makansutra vicinity.

Prices ranges from SGD 3 to 15 depends on what you order of course. Comparing to other ‘hawker center’, prices is a bit expensive because of its location. There are so many stalls to choose from that offers, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Javanese and local dishes that you will truly enjoy. Ooopppsss they have Filipino cuisine too it’s just that am fed up with Pinoy foods already, thus better explore local flare (hehehe ~ mwaaa Philippines!). Just the smell of the food outside is so enticing. If you have a date afterwards, this is a 'no no' place as you will be engulfed with smoke pretty sure (ahahaha!).

 

                14) Clarke Quay ~ is the place where all the party begins (hehehe!). I can’t imagine how do this beautifully transformed Clarke Quay be a busy commercial hub plied by stevedores, traders, fisherman and other’s in the past. The transformation is really amazing as these 5 blocks of restored multihued shophouses,  warehouse and godowns turns out to be a lively lifestyle and entertainment center of restaurant, wine bars, entertainment spots, retails shops and lot more!

The distinct features that you can find along Clarke Quay is their winding lanes which are all covered by umbrella-like canopies. Each stand has its own climate controlled unit to battle the humid weather and shield shoppers and pub goers from seasonal tropical rains. It’s interesting to watch as every minute the color change into purple, yellow, red and blue creating a modern and cosmopolitan ambiance amidst the traditions and history. 

 

                15) Central Business District (CBD) ~ If you like architecture then you're in for a treat! This is the main highlight when you’re in Marina Bay as this area is packed with all sorts of phenomenal architecture. For years, Central Business District (CBD) was simply a place where people went to work as it comprise the core of Singapore’s financial activities but now it is surrounded with lots of endless entertainment packages for every tourist to enjoy. We even get lost in here many times because there are so many buildings blockings our way (ahahaha!).

The CBD are known for its signature skyline that lined up the horizon and oh yeah! prepare yourself to be AWED!!!!Just witnessing the lined up of buildings is an architectural marvel to take pleasure in…. (Whew!!!) It is where you can see Singapore’s uber-modern side, where malls and MRT station can be found underground connected via interlinked with wide arrays of retails and dining options for tourist with time and money to burn.

Actually, there are still so many attraction within Marina Bay that we never been to like the Gardens By The Bay, the Marina Barrage, the Asian Civilization Museum, and the notorious F1 race every September.  However, if given a chance to go back to Singapore again, we will not missed to visit these.

So there you go, need to pause now guys (hehehe!). Hmmmm what a litany ~ my apology! (ahahaha!).

 

Have a great day and night everyone.

 

Cheerssssssssssssssssssssssss!!!

 

 

Enan signing off.

 

 

SMILE!!!

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Clarke Quay ~ boys night out along Singapore River

3 River Valley Road,

Singapore 179024

This is what the scene always at night in Clarke Quay.

Ok I admit it, I am a nocturnal person and prefer to go to bars and disco to have some fun (Well, that was before I met Balong ~ ahahaha!). However, if there is an opportunity to have some bar hopping and rave parties, I do indulge myself for ‘guilty pleasure’ sometimes (ahahaha!). I know that Balong hated me to go to ‘bars’ but am always glad that he is always accompany every time that I have ‘urge’ to it (ahahaha!). Reasons why I prefer to dance as it seems like my whole body is in trance and most of the problems I have just disappear in a snap (really!). There is something into dancing that fells like it electrocutes me, it really hypnotize me, you know! I just let my body do the moves to the rhythm and that’s it (ahahaha!).

Balong spotted a mercedez benz taxi just beside a 7/11 store, he yelled at me saying "take a picture of me please'  ahahaha!'

I love dancing, I love night life and everything in between as simple as that (ahahaha!). Ironically, I hate drinking (beer, vodka whatever!) even socially and I hate smoking either. I just don’t know why but not a single alcohol brand even the mild one cooperate with my palate (ahahaha!). I always have those making faces stuff when I drink, while Balong on the other hand loves to enjoy his moderate drinking but not into smoking as well.

We’ve been to most parts of Singapore already but we haven’t visited some of the nightlifes that exist within yet. A vacation is not complete unless a visit to a pub, a night or two should be on your bucket list. We supposed to go to Avalon and Pangea near the Marina Bay Sands the 2^nd day that we’ve been here but  we changed our mind as we detour to Singapore’s Night Safari in Mandai Lake. It took us around an hour of travel to Bonlay from Marina Bay but it was worth it. To encounter the nocturnal animals firsthand was an experience not to forget.

But anyway, during our 4^th day of our stay in Singapore, our tour guide slash best friends Llowel and Lemwuel suggested that we need to visit one of the known night spots here. Well, who am I to refuse it, ayt? (ahahaha!). that’s my medicine, for goodness sake!…… am not a vampire that is for sure but wandering at night along with Balong and friends is the best ever. 

One of the many themed bars inside the Clarke Quay.

Since we were still in Sentosa, we headed to the hotel first. I told them that we need to freshen up first or take a power nap in order to have ample energy to enjoy. We have a full packed itinerary that day, we visited most of the attractions in Sentosa from 10:ooam until 8:oopm. It was almost 12 hours of wandering and if we combine all the minutes of walking that we’ve been through it’s around 3 to 4 hours max (non-stop! ~ ahahaha!). There are lots of mode of transportation available but to visit one attraction to another requires plenty of walking.

We wake up at exactly 10:oopm, we need to do so inorder to quantify all the days that we’ve been here. We headed straight to Kallang Station (EW10), the closest MRT from our hotel. It’s almost around 10ish when we left and feels like we own the whole train compartment as no one is around (ahahaha!). We direct then to Outram Park Station (EW16/ NE3) and alight to Clarke Quay (NE5), where crowds bustling around. 

On our way out of Clarke Quay MRT Station, the contemporary shopping mall of ‘The Central’’ located atop the station welcomed us right away. It’s a five-storey shopping mall along the Singapore River in the Central Area. It’s Singapore’s first purpose-built SOHO (small office/home office) units. What I fond about the place is their unique and distinct Japanese theme with wide variety of stalls and outlets to choose from.

The Red Lamshade on the hallway of 'The Central' attracts my attention as if there were already many people seated but to find out those extra feet were just mannequins (ahahaha!)

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Giordano outlet in 'The Central. The four of us were busy which color to choose.

There are so many art pieces scattered around too and I love the 'Red Lampshade' that can be found on the hall way. The artist made an illusion that there are so many people setting inside only to find out that there were only few and the rest were all mannequins (ahahaha!). The design is so unique and distinct as when you get in the mall, its striking red color will attract your attention. The stylish building has lots of shops comprising f&b and fashion related merchandise and services. 

After few minutes of roaming, the four of us (Balong, Llowel, Lemwuel and myself) decided to go to Giordano and buy one dress (plain color) each that cost us only SGD 12 around PHP 400 or USD 10 per piece. We’re glad because the store manager is a Filipino and he help us all along. They have discounted sale at that time but we only bought a few just a souvenir that we’ve been here.

The Promenade just outside of 'The Central'

On our way out of ‘The Central’, the long stretch of Singapore River Promenade for pedestrians to enjoy a pleasant walk along the waterfront from Anderson Bridge all the way to Kim Seng Bridge can be found. Visitors can stroll along the entire stretch of the river comfortably from Boat Quay, Clarke Quay to Robertson Quay and back. The comprehensive network of walkways, underpass and footbridges across the river provides connectivity and for recreational use. From here, you’ll see the Clarke Quay, the Riversidepoint, and the famous GMAX.

What I like about the promenade, it’s spacious and there are no blockage buildings that interrupts the view of the river. It is surrounded with flowering plants and trees. Lots of benches and tired seats besides the river too for visitors to seat on. Aside from strolling along, you can also explore Singapore River on a river taxi and you can find one station in the boat quay area. 

Rules and regulation to follow. Obey or pay the fines! (ahahaha!)

As a norm here, we’ve seen lots of reminders and rules around. It’s just a piece of advice for the locals/visitors to be aware of all the do’s and don’ts here. Please note that once you violate the law expect yourself to pay fines or either way you’ll do community service or worst be put in jail.

The lovely and graceful street performer just near the bridge to Clarke Quay.

The detailed map of Clarke Quay, showing the 5 blocks within the area.

We’ve seen few performers along the promenade too but one performer struck our attention. We stopped for a while and glued our eyes because she is so good! She is using a metal ring and how she use it as a props is way beautiful. Her lines and extensions are just amazing. If you love the show, an SGD 5 ‘tip’ is very much appreciated. If you want to see some street performers, you can usually find them at the underground MRT’s or if you’re lucky along Central Business District (CBD).  

  At the Central Fountain, a battle of the band from different countries is about to start!

Along the way, we bought 4 pieces of ‘in can’ Carlsberg beer in 7/11 just nearby. Since I don’t like any alcoholic beverages, I gave to Balong what I have and I order a block of dirty ice cream along the bridge (ahahaha!). Well, I just don’t like the taste of beer, vodka, gin or whatever liquor is in there, am perfectly fine with the ice cream (ahahaha!).

At last, after few minutes of wandering we’re in Clarke Quay. Just on the bridge alone, you’ll see crowds hanging around. Can’t stop myself stomping as loud music can be heard everywhere. It’s quite hard to roam as party goers swarm the place. It feels like you’re in United Nation gathering as different nationalities do gather here to have some fun! (whew!)

The only bar I remember: Octapas! (ahahaha!)

We did check various restaurant and nightclubs that surrounds the vicinity too and Octapas is the only bar/dine in that struck to my head (ahahaha!).   We’ve seen also some tongkangs (moored Chinese Junks) docked near the bridge that have been refurbished into floating pubs and restaurants.

Unique dinner roof just beside the River. It looks like an inverted tart (hehehe!)

International bar outlets can be found in here too.

I can’t imagine how do this beautifully transformed Clarke Quay be a busy commercial hub plied by stevedores, traders, fisherman and other’s in the past. The transformation is really amazing as these 5 blocks of restored multihued shophouses,  warehouse and godowns turns out to be a lively lifestyle and entertainment center of restaurant, wine bars, entertainment spots, retails shope and lot more!

Famous umbrella-like canopies that covers the whole winding lanes.

The distinct features that you can find along Clarke Quay is their winding lanes which are all covered by umbrella-like canopies. Each stand has its own climate controlled unit to battle the humid weather of Singapore. It also shield shoppers and pub goers from seasonal tropical rains. It’s interesting to watch as every minute the color change into purple, yellow, red and blue creating a modern and cosmopolitan ambiance amidst the traditions and history.

Wanna try? hmmmmm not now! (ahahaha!)

First franchise in Singapore which was brought from New Zealand.

It's like you were thrown 200 meters away from the ground to the sky (ahahaha!)

Just in the corner of the promenade is the newest attraction in Singapore, the GMAX Reverse Bungy & GX-5 Extreme Swing from New Zealand. If you love adventure then challenge yourself here, it’s more than 100 percent adrenaline rush! Confidence is a requirement plus prepare yourself to squeal! The louder you scream the better! (ahahaha!).

It's scary yet there are so many people lining up just to experience the reverse bungy! (ahahaha!)

Hmmmmm since we have no plan to try, Balong find his way to experience it. Sit like a king, huh? (ahahaha!)

After spending few minutes, we headed to Central Fountain Square and fortunate enough to see Music Matters LIVE night out. It’s awesome to see local and international bands performing in here and Balong seems enjoying as he was jumping up and down while listening to the music. If I am not mistaken the lyrics were in Malay and he’s like ‘O YEAH!’ (ahahaha!).

The host of the mini battle concert.

USS

NIDJI

Clarke Quay is worth a visit for dining and entertainment destination while in Singapore. It’s friendly, colorful and festive ambiance filled our night here and we enjoyed it BIGTIME! We will visit this spot all over again once we’re here. If you like to barhop furiously with everything under one roof, then the place is perfect for you. No one will judge you on what you wear as long as you’re comfortable like we do (ahahaha!). To find out the latest updated and happenings; visit their official page: www.clarkequay.com.sg.

We ended up Balong having some time talking with these friendly girls. hmmmmm, ok! (hehehe!)

That’s it for now guys.

Have a great day and night!

Cheerioooooooooooooossss!!!

Enan signing off.

SMILE.

:)

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