Tag: Singapore

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Singapore, Singapore, in Southeast Asia.

SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
The surprising superstitions of the Lion City
Superstitions are like culinary specialties: every part of the world has its own, and discovering those of new countries is always an experience, if not tasty, at least fun.

Singapore is no exception to the rule in Southeast Asia that gives pride of place to the supernatural and offers some surprising sparks of superstition that you can observe with a smile or take home with you, should they bring you luck… You never know.

Let’s start with a belief that will please the cheapskates: you don’t gift watches or shoes in Singapore.
Watches symbolise the end and ‘giving a clock’ in Mandarin sounds very similar to ‘attending a funeral’.
To avoid bringing death, no watches or clocks are given. For shoes, the same battle: the shoe is pronounced the same way as evil in Mandarin. So it’s in terrible taste to give shoes. Two beliefs that can save a lot of money…

Cutting your nails after dark is also forbidden. In Singapore, this practice is believed to attract angry spirits who could bring misfortune to the house and its inhabitants. Never point at the moon, either, especially if it is full. The risk? Finding yourself with the tips of your ears cut off in your sleep. Also to be avoided is whistling at night. This practice, which is harmless everywhere else, seems to please ghosts in this part of the world. Whistle at night, and you could end up with a string of not-always-benevolent ghosts hanging around your neck. Fortunately, the best way to deal with this is to wash your feet and face when you get home to ward off the wandering spirits.

Another rule of the Lion City, also found in Vietnam, is that you don’t take photos of three people. Two, yes. Four, yes, but three, no. It’s bad luck for the person in the middle to be the first to die.

Finally, let’s finish with a rather amusing and intriguing superstition involving new owners, a new flat or house, and a pineapple. For good fortune to fall upon a new house and its owners or occupants, when they first enter their new home, they must knock on the door three times and shout ‘huat ah’ (good luck) as they roll a pineapple around. Derived from Feng Shui, this practice is said to purify the premises. The story doesn’t say whether a tin of pineapples will do the trick..

Today’s Excursion – Singapore on your own

Orchard Road Self-exploration
Orchard Road is the symbol of consumerism. Singapore is the world’s largest consumer, and a good reflection of this is
Orchard Road – an avenue of 2km with a concentration of over 50 shopping centers. The best and the most exclusive brands can be found here. However, there are also shopping centers at affordable prices for all budgets. The malls are both above and below the street, and all are connected by “connections,” so there is no need to go outside to go from one place to another. For shopaholics, this is THE street. It is a stylish and cosmopolitan street where you can find anything.

China Town Self-exploration
In Chinatown, stroll along Pagoda Street and get a glimpse of the Chinese-influenced curios, accessories, apparel, and much
more. It is a good place to hunt for local souvenirs and gifts to take home. You can also view the Sri Mariamman Temple, which dates back to 1827 and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Chinatown Food Street is one of Singapore’s best places to eat tasty and authentic local food. The venue is roofed and has an integrated cooling system, making it a perfect all-day dining spot in Chinatown in any weather. You can find the array encompassing a wide range of flavors from across Singapore, China, and the rest of Asia. If it is your first time to Chinatown Food Street – or if you are picky when choosing what to eat – it might be a bit tricky to decide what to go for.

Marina Bay Center Self-exploration
Before you head back to your ship, you will have an opportunity to marvel at the architectural icons that dot the impressive skyline of this tiny city-state at Marina Bay Center. You may wish to walk along the scenic waterfront promenade decorated with artistic sculptures. If you have yet to see more skylines, head up 57 stories to the SkyPark Observation Deck, which boasts picturesque views of the panoramic vistas of Marina Bay and Singapore’s world-class cityscape.

Asian Culture Museum

The highlight was visiting the Asian Cultural Museum. The Special Exhibit was Pagoda Oddessy, featuring the China Pavillion at San Francisco’s 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition. 84 hand-carved model pagodas based on real structures offer a tantalizing glimpse of China’s rich architectural heritage.

Tonight’s dinner was in Alantide Restaurant.

LIMELITE
TONIGHT’S SHOW

Experience a magnificent evening of musical entertainment at its best! Limelite is a dynamic show featuring the best musical theater from New York’s Broadway and London’s West End and some of the most iconic movie musicals.

Join your Silversea Singers and Dancers as we bring this Broadway experience t hits from past productions, including Grease, ABBA and The Greatest Showman.

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Singapore.

SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
The City of Gardens’ Skyscrapers and Soaring Structures
Advanced, airy, and elevated, Singapore is a spectacular, futuristic vision of utopian city life. A healthy population of almost six million calls it home. Still, this city is designed with space to breathe, gorgeous outdoor parks, massive indoor greenhouses, and beautiful recreational spaces spread between the City of Gardens’ skyscrapers and soaring structures.

Once a quiet fishing village, it is now a glistening island city-state and an international beacon of science, education, and technology. Singapore is almost intimidatingly clean – and the hyper-efficient public transport system whips residents and visitors across the city’s neighborhoods in a heartbeat. Glorious fountains and audacious skyscrapers loom up – nodding to traditional feng shui beliefs – and putting on dazzling illuminated displays after dark. The lush green botanical gardens are a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 52 hectares and decorated with impressive colorful orchids.

Or breathe in the freshest air by wandering the canopy-strung bridges of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Head for the iconic Marina Bay – a landmark of the city crowned by three interconnected towers, which watch out over island-sprinkled waters. Jaunt between Little India and the atmospheric Chinatown in minutes, where beautiful temples – like the Chinese Thian Hock Keng Temple and Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple add rich cultural intrigue. Singapore’s cuisine is a mouthwatering fusion of its Indian, Chinese, Indonesian, and Malay influences, taking and enhancing the best of each. Enjoy dishes in towering restaurants, or toast the glowing skyline with the city’s eponymous gin-soaked cocktail – a Singapore Sling.

SIGHTS
• Gardens by the Bay
• Chinatown
• Orchard Road
• Marina Bay Sands Singapore
• Singapore Botanic Garden
• Supertree Grove
• Singapore Flyer

SHOPPING
Orchard Road is a 2.2 km long, tree-lined, one-way street in Singapore known for its shopping, dining, entertainment, and hotel. Orchard Road’s main boulevard is filled with iconic shopping malls, luxury fashion, and renowned international brands.

Today’s Excursion – Gardens by The Bay & Observation Deck at Marina Bay Sands
Singapore’s new icon, a 250-acre (101-hectare) horticultural attraction, seems to be the nation’s most beautiful, with more than 1.5 million rare plants in giant domed conservatories. Visit Gardens by the Bay and see why it captures the essence of Singapore – the premier tropical Garden City – making Singapore a leading global city of the 21st century.
Gardens by the Bay
Depart the pier for the short drive to the Gardens by the Bay, Singapore’s new, iconic, approximately 250-acre (about 101-
hectare) horticultural attraction. With more than 250,000 rare plants in giant domed conservatories, the Gardens by the Bay
truly captures the essence of Singapore, the ‘Garden City.’
Cloud Forest, Flower Dome
Upon arrival, walk through the Cloud Forest, a mysterious world veiled in mist. The approximately 115-
foot-high Crystal Mountain is covered in lush vegetation from tropical highlands and shrouds the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Stroll by the waterfall, meandering through the old forests of conifers and ferns that comprise this unique environment.
Next, step into the Flower Dome, the 2015 Guinness World Record-holder as the world’s biggest glass nursery. The Flower
Dome replicates the cool-dry climate of Mediterranean regions and features towering baobabs, succulent plants, and 1,000-
year-old olive trees. During a guided tour of the Flower Dome, marvel at its extraordinary natural beauty, and spectacular and
innovative designs.

SkyPark Observation Deck
Your final stop is at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. Proceed to the 57th-floor, approximately 650-foot-high (about 198-metre)
SkyPark Observation Deck to marvel at the spectacular panoramic views and photo opportunities overlooking the city.
Your tour concludes with a short drive back to the pier.

World Crusie Event

Singapore: A Bird’s Eye View

Get a bird’s eye view of Singapore as you enjoy a 360° look at the dazzling skyline with private access to the SkyPark Observation Deck of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel right in the city’s heart. Sip on a Singapore Sling and enjoy gourmet food from the city’s street markets, 57 stories up.

Whisked via dedicated Silversea express elevator to this privileged playground high above the Lion City, you’ll stroll under an evening sky illuminated by starlight, fireworks, projected artwork, and entertaining surprises. Graze on local culinary classics infused with a modern twist—Savour expertly mixed drinks. And revel in the incomparable magic of Singapore.

Where in the World Are We?

Singapore is located in Southeast Asia.

SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
DID YOU KNOW THE SURPRISING SUPERSTITIONS OF THE LION CITY?

Superstitions are like culinary specialties: every part of the world has its own, and discovering those new countries
is always an experience, if not tasty, then at least fun. Singapore is no exception to the rule in Southeast Asia that
gives pride of place to the supernatural and offers some surprising sparks of superstition that you can observe with a
smile or take home with you, should they bring you luck… You never know.

Let’s start with a belief that will please the cheapskates: you don’t give watches or shoes in Singapore. Watches
symbolize the end, and ‘giving a clock’ in Mandarin sounds similar to ‘attending a funeral.’ To avoid bringing death,
no watches or clocks are given. For shoes, the same battle: the shoe is pronounced the same way as evil in Mandarin. So
it’s in awful taste to give shoes. Two beliefs that can save a lot of money…

Cutting your nails after dark is also forbidden. In Singapore, this practice is believed to attract angry spirits who
could bring misfortune to the house and its inhabitants. Never point at the moon, either, especially a full moon. The risk?
Finding yourself with the tips of your ears cut off in your sleep. Also to be avoided is whistling at night. This practice,
which is harmless everywhere else, seems to please ghosts in this part of the world. Whistle at night, and you could
end up with a string of not-always-benevolent ghosts hanging around your neck. Fortunately, the best way to deal with
this is to wash your feet and face when you get home to ward off the wandering spirits.

Another rule of the Lion City, also found in Vietnam, is that you don’t take photos of three people. Two, yes.
Four, yes, but three, no. It’s bad luck for the person in the middle to be the first to die.

Finally, let’s finish with a rather amusing and intriguing superstition involving new owners, a new flat or house, and
a pineapple. For good fortune to fall upon a new house and its owners or occupants, when they first enter their new
home, they must knock on the door three times and shout ‘huat ah’ (good luck) as they roll a pineapple around.
Derived from Feng Shui, this practice is said to purify the premises. The story doesn’t say, however, whether a tin of
pineapples will do the trick…

SIGHTS

• Singapore Zoo
• Universal Studios Singapore
• SkyPark Observation Deck
• S.E.A. Aquarium
• Clarke Quay
• Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

CLOUD FOREST
This magnificent greenhouse-like glass dome can be seen from miles away and is just as stunning inside as it is from out. Home to one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls and a lush mountain clad with plants from around the world, Cloud Forest rewards the curious and adventurous. Go on a fascinating journey of discovery and get up close with some of the world’s most exotic plant species as you stroll along its unique aerial walkways.

Today’s Excursion – Singapore Local Experience

Singapore is well-known for its bustling activity along its streets and waterfront. We explored the sights and sounds up close as we ran around on the city’s different forms of transportation: river boats, MRT (Subway), and trishaws. We departed the pier on foot with your guide. Our guide led us through the city with a Singapore survival kit of essential items like a map, coins for the subway, mineral water, tiger balm ointment, and a sandalwood fan.

City Highlights
We explored Chinatown, where the streets are lined with century-old shophouses that sell food and trinkets. We strolled along Pagoda Street and saw the Chinese-influenced trinkets, accessories, apparel, and more.
We viewed the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum and the Sri Mariamman Temple, which dates back to 1827 and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.

Check out today’s Chronicle.

Where in the World Are We?

Singapore is the City Nation at the end of Malaysia in Southeast Asia.

SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
EXPLORE AN EXCITING MELTING POT OF CULTURE AND HISTORY

Advanced, airy, and elevated Singapore is a spectacular futuristic vision of utopian city life. A healthy population of
almost six million calls it home. Still, this city is designed with space to breathe and gorgeous outdoor parks, massive
indoor greenhouses, and beautiful recreational spaces spread between the City of Gardens’ skyscrapers and soaring
structures. Glorious fountains and audacious skyscrapers loom up – nodding to traditional feng shui beliefs – and
putting on dazzling illuminated displays after dark.

The lush green botanical gardens are a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 52 hectares and decorated
with impressive colorful orchids. Or breathe in the freshest air by wandering the canopy-strung bridges of MacRitchie Reservoir Park.

GARDENS BY THE BAY
Explore this beautifully designed green space and wander through the Bay East Garden, perfect for enjoying the vibrant plant life and escaping the bustling city momentarily. Visit the Supertree Grove, a cluster of iconic, futuristic structures designed to perform environmentally sustainable functions, and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall in the Cloud Forest Dome.

SIGHTS

• Marina Bay Sands
• Orchard Road
• Botanic Gardens
• Chinatown
• National Museum of Singapore
• Jewel Changi Airport

Today’s activities included:

Bridge

Tonight’s dinner was at The Restaurant

Today’s Excursion – Mesmerizing Singapore By Night

We discovered beautiful Singapore by night during this scenic sightseeing journey by cable car, bus, and riverboat.

Singapore, Cable Car Station & Ride, Sentosa Island, Wings of Time

We departed the pier for a short walk to the Cable Car Station on Sentosa Island and back to the Cable Car Station. We boarded transportation and drove to Sentosa Island, where we saw the spectacular, award-winning outdoor night show Wings of Time. This epic tale of courage, mystery, and magic held us spellbound while taking us on a magical adventure through several exotic vistas via the fabric of time. We were mesmerized by awe-inspiring displays of water, lasers, fire effects, and music.

Coach Bay, Clarke Quay, Riverboat-Cruise, Singapore River, Merlion Park & Statue, Marina Bay
After the show, we returned to nearby Coach Bay, where we transferred to Clarke Quay, a vibrantly orchestrated and delightful blend of modern and traditional architecture that reflects Singapore’s rich heritage. We embarked on a riverboat for a scenic, 30-minute cruise down the Singapore River. Along the way, we saw the skyline of the Singapore Commercial District and passed by iconic sites like Merlion Park, where a half-fish, half-lion statue spouts water from its mouth, 28 feet tall and weighs 77 tons. We marveled at the expansive Marina Bay area, with its architectural icons dotting the impressive skyline.

Fullerton Bay Hotel, Cocktail, City Skyline, 360-Degree Views
After disembarking our riverboat, we walked to the nearby Fullerton Bay Hotel, offering the best views of Singapore’s city skyline. We relaxed with a cocktail and enjoyed our surroundings’ breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities.

Check out today’s Chronicle.