biG feature
Earth’s Largest
Greenhouse Resembling mighty glass clam shells embossed with lattice-worked steel that glint in the sunlight, the 2 giant conservatories that make up part of Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay are a sight to behold, whether from an aerial perspective or as you stare outwards from within. Encompassing 8 separate gardens: The Flower Dome contains – Olive Grove, California, Mediterranean, South American, South African, Australian, Baobabs, and the Succulent gardens – a greenhouse that is testament to the value the city-state places on a seamless fusion of Mother Nature’s boons with the hightech fast paced lifestyle that defines the nation. Spread across 1.2 hectares: the diversity of plant species representing large swathes of the Earth, in tandem with the
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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
cool art installations and decorations on display, is a landscaped haven under one roof that pleases all. Whether you embark on a slow leisurely stroll taking deep breaths as you draw everything in, or you dash around on that platinum trophy side-quest to spot and log everything on display, your sense of sight is in for a treat. The elaborate wood-carved installations of animals both real and mythical were my personal favourite and made for a fun game of ‘I Spy’ as horses, lizards, wildcats, sloths, snakes, and an eagle can be seen under the watchful gaze of a treeperched dragon. The cavernous megastructure which holds the
Guinness World Record for the planet’s largest greenhouse brings to mind that of a large terrarium. With the aid of specially selected glass that minimises solar heat while still allowing optimum levels of sunlight for the flora, the climate controlled temperature averages around a pleasant 25°C. With Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS) no longer applying there is a strong sense of freedom being returned, as the latest rules in place allow for groups of any size to travel together while exploring this space. We recommend a good hour minimum to bask in your surroundings.
