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!!!

.

 

Merlion Park ~ well-knowed tourist icon of Singapore

One Fullerton 
Singapore 049213

Singapore is internationally recognized as a garden city where nature and manmade landscape goes along harmoniously. Your visit to South East Asia is incomplete if Singapore is not on your bucket list as this country maybe small, yet there are so many things you can do in here. We only stayed for 7 days; however, it was a complete and very well planned itinerary as we visited successfully most of the tourist spot we intended to.

View of Merlion Park surrounded by stunning skyline.

If we talked about Singapore, pretty sure first thing that comes to mind is of course the infamous icon of ‘merlion’. Well, you never had been here if you haven’t seen for real this proud statue 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. 

View of Singapore Central Business District from the double helix bridge.

Since the renowned merlion park is situated in the heart of marina bay, we spent one whole day in here starting from 9:00am until 8:00pm before we headed to Clark Quay for a drink night out. I am not really ‘a drinker’ but I don’t want to deprived Balong, Lemwuel, and Llowel to have a dose of alcohol, noh! (ahahaha!).

Tourists trying to have a piece of potong ice cream.

Most of the known tourist spot can be found mushrooming here which includes Art Science Museum, Esplanade Park, Asian Civilization Museum, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Barage, Sands Skypark, Singapore Flyer, The Art House, The Float, The Fullerton Heritage Gallery, the Helix, Victoria Theatre and Victoria Concert hall, Youth Olympic Park and a lot more.

Uncle may I have a slice of durian flavor, pleaseeee .... :)

We would like to visit all these attractions but because of time constraints, we only resolute on spot that we can accommodate for a day. We started an early morning walk to ‘Fountain of Wealth’ in Suntec City, then a 30-minute flight of ‘The Flyer’ in Raffles Avenue at noon time, passing through the pedestrian of ‘Helix Bridge’ in Bayfrount Avenue and an afternoon ‘siesta’ in ‘Marina Bay Sands and Skypark (MBS)’. We wanted to stay in the ‘Public Observation Deck’ in the 57^th floor of MBS till sunset but there are no benches available to sit-on unless you'll order something in Ku De Ta restaurant. Sitting on the wooden floorboards is strictly prohibited too; thus, we decided to leave the tower and headed directly to Merlion Park.

Singapore Skyline from the Float at Marina Bay.

Merlion 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. You will pass through the ‘double helix bridge’ where spectacular panoramic view of Singapore's skyscape that comprises the central business district is truly impeccable. 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’s tourism board which the intricate design is so distinct and conspicuous. 

Close and closer to our main goal! The Merlion.

On our way to the park, we were too busy taking snaps of the vicinity and seen an ice cream push cart in the junction of Bay Front and Raffles Avenue. We stopped for a while and were curious how it differs from ‘sorbetes’ of the Philippines. Locally, they called this [‘potong' (cut) ice cream] where a block of ice cream are sliced around 1-inch thick and wrapped by either bread or wafer of your choice. There were already so many tourists from different nationalities surrounding the brightly colored parasol; thus, we queued as well. Chocolate, vanilla, sweet corn, yam, red bean, mango, durian, and lots more are available just in case you wanted to have a taste of tropical and classic flavours.

Balong at the underground bridge near Esplanade.

At first, I thought it was ‘Selecta’ (known ice cream brand in the Philippines) as the logo quite resembles, but I was mistaken as they named it ‘Wall’s’. We ordered durian, mango and vanilla that cost us SGD 1 each that is equivalent to P33.00 per slice. Quite expensive, huh? Well, to treat yourself a portion of frozen delight to fight one hot/humid afternoon, it's worth every penny. And know what the verdict comparing to 'sorbetes' in the Philippines? It taste absolutely the same, the difference is solely the price.

Crowd of tourists trying to have a picture with the 'Merlion'.

After almost an hour of wandering, at last we arrived at the archetypal symbol of Singapore the Merlion. The vicinity is already flocked with tourist from around the world and we need to wait for a few minutes just to have a nice view and background of the sculpture. 

Signage direction to Merlion park located in Fullerton Road.

This iconic structure represents the head of the lion and the body of the fish.  Its name Merlion is a combined word of ‘mer’ (sea) and lion which translates as 'singa' in Sanskrit. It is a mythical creature used as a mascot and national personifications of Singapore. The fish body signifies the humble past of the country when it was a fishing village called “Temasek” while the lion head represents the present Singapore's original name ~ Singapura: meaning Lion City. The Merlion is housed here in the 2,500 square meter park just opposite of Fullerton Hotel surrounded by humongous skyline of Marina Bay. 

Edwin Thumboo's poem on display beside the Merlion Statue.

While waiting for our turn to have a photo of the perpetually-regurgitating national icon, I took the camera from Balong and have panoramic shots of all the spots that surrounds the bay. Please don’t get confused with another replica of a much larger Merlion that resides in Sentosa Island; this Merlion is the original design that has been watching over Singapore River since 1972! The sculpture is 8.6 meters high and weighing around 70 tons and was designed by Alec Fraser-Brunner. Kwan Sai Kheong is the one who conceptualized this merlion where an endless jet of water sprouts from its jaws which was then created by Nah Seng in 1972.  There is a cub at the back that is around 2 meters high, but unfortunately it was under construction when we visit.

One of the river tour station is just beside the Merlion Park.

Locating this place wherever you maybe is very easy, take an MRT and get off at Raffles Place. Walk towards Fullerton hotel then cross the road and voila! You are in merlion park in about 5 minutes. This is an excellent place to just sit around and unwind. There is a long cemented podium to sit-on in the bay promenade should you want to have a chit chat just don't forget to bring a bag of chips and a bottle of drinks if you may. 

There are five merlion statues that are officially recognized by the Singapore Tourism board. 1) this original statue that face the marina bay, 2) the 2 meter cub behind the original statue, 3) the 37-meter tall replica in Sentosa, 4) the 3 meter tall glazed polymarble statue at Tourism court, and 5) the 3 meter tall polymarble statue on Mount Faber.

After few hours of wandering and as darkness about to set, we left the park and headed to our hotel for a power nap and getting ready for a night out in Clark Quay. So there you go, just in case you are in Singapore, this is a stopover not to forget. Happy traveling everyone!

Have a great day and night too.

Enan signing off..

Cheeeeeeerrrrrrrrrriooossss

SMILE :)