Chinatown

Have you ever noticed that most major cities have a "Chinatown" region?  Singapore is no exception.  Chinatown has its own metro stop and immediately upon exiting the subway terminal you are greeted with a very welcoming sign. This area is definitely a tourist attraction.  Lots of trinkets and pretties for sale by vendors who line both sides of the street and beckon you to come and see their wares. 

Of course, what trip to Chinatown would be complete without a bite to eat?

Anything here look GOOD to EAT???

We actually ended up at the food court (or as they call them here in Singapore the "Hawker center") and had a delicious coconut smoothie and salad (as we are dieting).  Then it was back to browsing . . . .

Wouldn't the color of these chopsticks be great in making a quilt?

The colors on the buildings and lanterns were also beautiful.

Having just cleaned out my closets (as though I was dead -- getting rid of everything that I wouldn't want Troy to have to deal with), I did not buy any lollies.  But I did enjoy LOOKING at all that was offered.  And NO, I did not get either a tattoo or a massage.

As our walk-about Chinatown came to an end, the festooned streets glowed with lights and we wondered where the road will take us tomorrow -- check back to see!!

Getting in 10,000 steps

In an effort to meet our 10,000 steps-a-day fitbit goal, we took the metro to the Singapore Botanical Garden this morning after the torrential rain storm.  The plan was to walk the length of the park and visit the various sections such as the evolution garden, fragrant garden, and foliage garden. 

How plants change over time

It was amazing to see the really ancient looking plants.  I have no idea what kind of tree this is but it had pebbly bark, no leaves, and lichen growing along its side.

 THEN, we saw this creature searching for insects in the bamboo grove.

 Not too scary until you see the SIZE of this lizard!!!!!!

The Singapore Botanic Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It was established in 1859 by an Agri-Horticultural Society.  However, Singapore itself is only 51 years old and JUST celebrated the birthday of its founding.

 In celebration, Singpore flags are decorating apartment buildings, places of business, and private homes.  There was even a parade for the Singaporean swimmer who won the first gold medal for Singapore by beating Michael Phelps
at the Olympics.


We noticed this upcoming festival of biodiversity at the Gardens and have put it on our calendar to attend!

Yeah, yeah, I'm a bit sweaty -- but hey, it is HOT and HUMID here! 
Stay tuned as we continue down our sabbatical pathway . . . .