Helix Bridge ~ World’s first double helix bridge

Raffles Avenue 
besides Benjamin Sheares Bridge
Marina Bay, Singapore

Entrance of the pedestrian bridge.

Just for the span of 4 hours; Balong, Lemwuel and myself have already visited 4 tourist attractions in Singapore that we considered top of our list (crazy itinerary as it was ~ ahahaha!). We visited the ‘Fountain of Wealth’ ~ world’s largest fountain in 1998, ‘Singapore Flyer’ ~ world’s largest observation wheel, ‘Youth Olympic Park’ ~ Singapore’s first art park, and the ‘Helix Bridge’ ~ world’s first double helix curved bridge. Look at that, which country would top that huh? (ahahaha!). Singapore’s is known to have several attractions that are named either ‘the world’s largest’ or ‘the world’s first’ trademark (come on!!!!). No wonder there are so many tourist who come here and we are one of those visitors who were mesmerized by this country.

View of the Youth Olympic Park and Helix Bridge from Singapore Flyer

Right after our 30-minute flight in 'Singapore Flyer', we headed directly to Marina Bay Sands and Park. Just on our way out, we’ve seen gatherings of armies with several booths and banners inviting Singaporean citizens to be a part of the reservist. We’ve seen trainees distributing leaflets and it’s a good opportunity for Balong to have a picture with them (just a souvenir though ~ ahahaha!). I wish to have a picture with them too but BFF and Balong just left me behind (ammmmmmppp!!! ~ ahahaha!). What can I do? Well, just run after them then (ahahaha!).

Y.O.G. ~ Youth Olympic Games held on August 2010.

[On the side note: Our drama starts here as well (ahahaha!), as Balong and I had a fight because of my wallet!!! (I know it was my fault really ~ waaaaaaaaaa..) Haysssssss… and guess who was our mediator? Our BFF of course, Lemwuel Janoya! I don’t want to explain further, but Helix Bridge was the sole witness (ahahaha!).]

The logo that commemorates the first Youth Olympic Games in Singapore.

Anyway, enough of the drama and let the journey begins (ahahaha!). We passed through the “Youth Olympic Park’ which is located in the junction of Raffles Avenue and the Bayfront Bridge. It's Singapore’ first art park which visitors can enjoy an enriching and interactive art experience. All the Youth Olympians of the world who joined the commemoration has its own name written in a granite slab posted in a replica of 3 obelisk design forming a triangle. I was searching for the list of Philippine representatives; however, I can’t find it anywhere. There is one slab missing in one of the obelisk and maybe the list can be found in there.

The three obelisk with names listed of all the participants around the world.

There are so many artworks in the vicinity that is so interesting. Several collages of the participants on the wall just underneath the huge ‘Youth Olympic Park’ signage is what I fond the most. Even I wasn’t able to witness the event personally but seeing all of their ‘Kodak moment’ was good enough as if I was in there too.

Collage that i love the most. Have you seen the picture of a Filipino representative with a ball on his hand?

There is as well a landscaped maze featuring a replica of a mountain with a wind-activated figurine of a girl at the top that holds a flag with the words ‘I want to scale the highest mountain in the world’. We spent half an hour in the park while taking some shots for this blog. There is no tour in here actually, this is just a small park around ¼ hectare that memorialize the first ever Youth Olympic in Singapore way back in August 2010.

'I want to scale the highest mountain in the world' ~ dream big!!!!

After several shots we left the park and witness the ‘world’s first double helix bridge”. If you are an engineer, an architect or just mere visitors like us, you will be amazed how beautiful the bridge really is. Starting from the entrance you will be transported to an iconic marvel that only Singapore have so far. In order for you to learn about the history and what is the purpose of the pedestrian bridge, have a minute to stop for a while in the opening of the bridge just after the ‘Youth Olympic Park’ as there is a signage in there that specifies in details what is ‘helix bridge’ all about.

Double Helix Bridge detailed information.

I can’t say much with regards to Engineering or Architectural terminology as am not one of them; however, to express my opinion on how stunning the bridge is, way more than words can say. Just prepare yourself to be awed once you have any plan to visit the place. Personally, this is the most beautiful bridge I’ve seen; the design itself is incredibly intricate, really AWESOME! Well, great enough as it’s considered as the world’s first curved bridge that sits right beside the flyover that links 'Youth Olympic Park to Marina Bay Sands. It is a landmark bridge that helps complete the circulation around the Marina Bay, alongside the vehicular Benjamin Sheares Bridge.

This is what the helix model look like.

Getting in the bridge is like you’re entering a see-through cylinder, where you can see its frame intertwined to each other. This has become a showcase of futuristic architecture in Singapore and is a perfect place for photo taking. If your focus is just the pedestrian bridge itself, it’s really overwhelming; however, to include into consideration the breathtaking beauty of panoramic view of Singapore’s skyscraper and the Marina Bay from multiple angles then it's amazingly PERFECT!

The world's first double helix bridge with Marina Bay Sands on the background.

I was just wondering how do they built the pedestrian bridge since I’ve seen a lot of screws connecting one stainless steel to the other (ahahaha!)? Well, you should ruminate what you learned in biology class at school for you to understand the design, since the idea concept was resembled to the DNA structure. I passed my biology class way back and still remember the project we have with regards to DNA model and I witness its grandeur in here (ahahaha!).

View of the Double Helix Bridge from one of the 5 platforms.

You know that there is also a story behind this architecturally unique bridge? They said that the design was inspired by yin and yang in Feng Shui that brings wealth, happiness and prosperity. The tubes from the inner and outer helix that coiled from separate direction symbolizes life and continuity, renewal, everlasting abundance, and growth. If I am not mistaken, most of the structures in Singapore has significant meaning like the one in 'Fountain of Wealth' in Suntec City? Well, who wouldn't want to have some good luck, right? (hehehe!)

BFF Lemwuel said that the bridge is even more beautiful at night as there are light productions in the bridge. He advised, that the best time to visit would be around 6:30 PM onwards, when the sun just about to call it a day. Unfortunately, we haven’t experienced that since we were too tired that night right after our dinner in Makasuntra (ahahaha!).

Breathtaking view of Singapore's skyline.

The only down side in here, there is no place for shelter; there are some fritted-glass and steel glass canopies that provides shades; yet, if rains pours better run for yourself inside the  Marina Mall or else be ready to get wet (ahahaha!) However, despite the minor flaw, Kudos to a good job.

The under-bridge passage for boats to Marina Barrage.

So that’s it for now, to complete your  memorable experience in Singapore, be sure to visit this engineering marvel situated in the heart of the city.

The captivating view of Arts Science Museum, Marina Bay Sands, and the marvelous Helix Bridge.

After our tour, we treated ourselves with my favorite dirty ice cream for SGD 1.20 each. Try it for yourself.

Have a great day/night everyone…


Singapore Zoological Garden is coming up next.

Cheeriiioooossss!!

Enan signing off……..
 


:)

The Singapore Flyer ~ World's Largest Observation Wheel

30 Raffles Avenue 
Singapore 039803

One of the 28 capsules of the Singapore Flyer.

Before we visit Singapore, Me and Balong did a lot of research and planning trying to make sure that we are all well aware of the top 20 best tourist spots of this small yet amazing country. We told ourselves that each tourist should be visited and planned meticulously in order not to encounter problem along the way. What’s great about touring Singapore, all of its landmarks are accessible either by train or bus which you can find almost everywhere, but expect plenty of walking (as in A LOT!). Taking a taxi is way too expensive unless you're in a hurry to go to certain places. The only thing you need to worry about, having enough money in your pocket (ahahaha!)…

The signage at the entrance.

The view of the Flyer on our way to the Singapore's 1960's food street

At first, we were hesitant which spot to choose between “The Singapore Flyer” and “Marina Sky Sands and Park” since both attractions encompasses the beauty of Singapore's skyline from bird’s eye view. Balong, BFF Lemwuel and myself were arguing about it and we ended up, visiting both trademarks (ahahaha!) Sometimes in order for you not to be disappointed, you just have to go with your instinct no matter what your doubts be (ahahaha!).

The 3 tickets we bought that cost us SGD 29.50 each.

The exact replica of 'The Singapore Flyer' found at the 'Journey of Dreams'

Right after we visit the ‘Fountain of Wealth’, we left directly to the Marina Centre where ‘Singapore Flyer’ is located. It drizzled yet it didn’t stop us to our destination. We always stick to the plans “no buts and no ifs” (ahahaha!). We make sure that whatever plans for that day, it should happen no matter what. We only have one (1) week to explore and we should maximize it if possible (ahahaha!)….. Thanks God because after a few minutes the rain suddenly stopped. That is how notoriously unpredictable tropical countries like Singapore are; sometimes the weather is perfect yet suddenly rain pours (come on!!!!!). I was praying actually that it should seize as we haven’t brought any shirt; we don’t wanna be soaked in wet no!!! (waaaaaaaa…).

Trademarks of Singapore's on a concave cinematic screen.

The Journey of Dreams

If you would like to take the MRT, it is so easy to locate then. One can take the MRT and stop at City Hall Station or Promenade Station which will provide you with a  mere five-minute walk to Singapore Flyer! From City Hall station, cross the road to Raffles Hotel and take bus 111, 106 or 133 from the bus stop in front of the hotel and alight at Temasek Avenue and cross the road to the Singapore Flyer.

Tourist spots in Singapore conceptualized in the 'Dreamscape'.

I just don't know how it happen, but it looks cool right?

After brunch in Singapore’s 1960’s themed food street in the ground floor of the building, we left the food court and headed directly to the queu for buying the tickets, I forgot to bring some cash; hence, we used my credit card. It's the first time ever that I used my credit card abroad (haissssstt!). I was so hesitant at first but have no choice though as we haven’t seen any ATM. We bought 3 tickets for SGD 29.50 each, around P975.00 or USD23 per person.

The oneiroi’s orb ~ a tactical display using a myriad of circular artefacts from the past and the presnts to represents the Flyer's sperical shape. 

View of the terminal building that supports 'The Flyer'

Before heading to the flyer, we passed through the check point of the building just like in the airport. There is a conveyor security belt for baggage’s just to ensure safety for all the passengers. The construction of the flyer cost a staggering SGD 240 million; thus, security should be strict since it is one heck of an expensive ride, noh! (ahahaha!).

Inside the air-conditioned capsule, we are around 15.

Seeing the islands of Batam in Indonesia.

An interactive media 'Journey of dreams' attraction greeted us on our way up. We explored each corner of the exhibit as it provides visitors an in-depth understanding about Singapore's past, present and future. It also explains how this iconic and engineering marvel attraction was built starting from planning to its current actual wonder.

This is the first landscape view that caught us just on our way up.

It looks scary but look how beautiful the place is.

The 'Journey of Dreams' consists of 5 stations. First up, 'The Prelude'; as it names suggest, this is the introduction to all visitors who will enter the flyer. Every nationality that will pass through here will be greeted by 'Flyer character' in different languages. Next, is the 'Dreamscape' that exhibits' history images of Singapore in a concave panoramic screen. The third, 'The Discovery', it explains the story on how 'The Flyer' was built, it's structure, and it's 28 capsules. The fourth is the 'Fragment of Dreams'; this is where we stayed for a while as we played with the torch (ahahaha!). Well, other visitors do the same though (ahahaha!). In this very spot explains the compelling story of the dreams and aspirations that lie at the very heart of Singapore Flyer surrounded by nation's history and culture. And lastly, the 'Reservoir of Dreams' as it features the oneiroi’s orb, the planet, and the numeric.

The Marina barrage. We suppose to come here but we will plan it next time. This place is good for kite flying.

Lemwuel taking a pose while i was checking for the surroundings.

Right after our exciting visit to the 'Journey of Dreams' we headed to the boarding area. There were already many passengers' waiting in line and our excitements heats up (ahahaha!). Am afraid of heights really but I keep controlling myself since we paid SGD 88.50 noh! (ahahaha!).

 

The famous 'Gardens by the Bay'.

View of the Garden from the top.

Will visit this place soon. :)

Who will not be excited to see the breathtaking and stunning panoramic view of Singapore's skyscraper in different vantage point, ayt? We waited for a year for this and at last it came to reality. The Singapore Flyers stands at a stunning 165m, reaching 42-storey building, built over a three-story terminal building. Each of the 28 air-conditioned capsules is capable of holding 28 passengers but that is too compressed I guess. I never been to United Kingdom yet but this is the answer of Singapore to the famed London Eye; it's just that The Flyer is 30 meters higher thus it was considered as the 'World Largest Observation Wheel'.

The breathtaking view of the 'Merlion' from afar.

The Science Museum just outside of the Marina Bay Sands and Casino.

Getting in the air-conditioned capsule was an awesome experience (ignorance strikes again ~ ahahaha!). The staff divided the passengers by groups and on our pod we are around 15. I was a bit scared honestly, was just hoping that my fear of heights wouldn’t trigger (ahahaha!). It was a slow moving wheel and as if like you're riding a slow motion elevator (ahahaha!). You will not feel anything really; but when it revolve it's really incredible as you will see Singapore from many heights and multiple perspective points extending to the Indonesian islands of Batam and Bintan, as well as Johor, Malaysia. Once you’re up there, you really can’t put a price on the breathtaking view. Aside from surrounding islands, you’ll be treated to a visual 360° feast of iconic and historical landmarks and views of Singapore such as the Singapore River, the Merlion, the magnificent Marina Bay Sands and Parks, the Garden by the Bay, the Esplanade, the Raffles Place, the Fullertun Hotel, the Empress Place and a lot more!!!! (whew!!!)

The stunning 'Esplanade' that looks like Durian cut into two.

The beautiful skyline of Marina Bay.

The 30-minute flight to experience the magnificent skyline views, stunning scenery and waterfront architecture of Singapore with Balong and BFF was a guaranteed fun. Taking a flight on this SGD $240 million wheel is a one-of-a-kind experience that we will not forget. It's more than just a view, but a unique and moving experience in itself. Will we ever come back again? I guess we will as long as our family will come along with us J. Wanna try? Hop-in for you to experience the largest wheel of Fortune in it’s own rights.

This is what will awaits if you hop-in.

So there you go, that’s it for now….

Rainforest Discovery is up next.

Cheeeeerrrrrrrrrioooooooooossss

Enan signing off.

:)