Nevertheless, despite the glaring blunder, this remains a stunning place that deserves to be highlighted for the right reasons.

Gardens by the Bay, which opened its doors in 2012, comprises three waterfront gardens: Bay South, East, and Central.

There are three conservatories here – Flower Dome, Cloud Forest as well as Floral Fantasy with over 15,000 blooms of vibrant flowering plants hanging from the ceiling,

There is also the OCBC Skyway. Suspended at 22 metres above the ground, it makes for an ideal spot to take photographs of the breathtaking surroundings.

Incidentally, Gardens by the Bay has received several awards including one Guinness World Records award for Largest Glass Greenhouse for Flower Dome in 2015.

During a recent trip, the FMT team visited the beautiful Flower Dome and Cloud Forest conservatories.

Flower Dome

Flower Dome is home to plants from diverse habitats from the Mediterranean region to the savannahs of South Africa.

From a large African Baobab tree to an olive tree estimated to be at least 1,000 years old, walking through this cool place – where temperatures range from 23°C to 25°C – is a wonderful respite from the city heat.

Despite the name of this conservatory, there are several plants – namely cacti – that stand out.

One such example is the golden rat-tailed cactus, or “Cleistocactus winteri”. It is a striking sight, because, as its name denotes, it has slim golden spines resembling a rat’s tail!

The golden barrel cactus, or “Echinocactus grusonii” also has a unique appearance – and one can’t help drawing similarities to a pumpkin. Curiously, it is also known as “mother-in-law’s cushion”.

However, given the spines spotted on this particular cactus, it appears that whoever gave it such a name must not have been very fond of their mother-in-law.

The snake plant, or “Sansevieria kirkii var pulchra Coppertone” also makes a cheeky reference to mothers-in-law, as these are known as “mother-in-law’s tongue”. Although to be fair, they are also apparently known as “mother’s tongue”.

At first glance, its leaves may look dead or diseased, but it is really just a clever way the plant protects itself against predators.

Cloud Forest

The Cloud Forest conservatory is a beautiful mist-filled space dominated by a jaw-dropping 35-metre-high waterfall within.

Here, the atmosphere is cool and serene as temperatures are approximately 23°C to 25°C. A beautiful view of the Marina Bay waterfront adds to its tranquillity.

The beauty of nature is also gloriously on display here. The sun-changing Begonia or the “Begonia solimutata” in particular, is known for its heart-shaped leaves and cluster of pretty white flowers.

The Kashmir cypress, or the “Cupressus cashmeriana”, is also a striking sight. After all, the towering tree, with its silky and scale-like looking leaves, looks almost graceful in nature.

The Orchid Haven meanwhile is not to be missed. Spanning approximately 280 square metres, you’ll be mesmerised by the burst of vivid colour from the hundreds of orchids in full bloom here.

Overall, for many living in urban jungles, Gardens by the Bay provides a wonderful experience of learning more about nature and hopefully appreciating its beauty.

To truly enjoy the experience, allocate ample time so you can leisurely stroll through the grounds and fully partake of the beauty of nature.

Gardens by the Bay is a unique experience as it gives you a nature getaway right smack in cosmopolitan Singapore.

Learn more about Gardens by the Bay via its website, Facebook, and Instagram profiles.

Gardens by the Bay
18, Marina Gardens Drive
Singapore 018593

Contact: +65-6420 6848