Rustic old-world charm on a bumboat.
These wooden boats once carried cargo up and down the river. Today, they carry tourists eager to get a different look at Singapore from the vantage point of sailing along the Singapore River and Marina Bay.
Taking a night ride is a relaxing way to see the city twinkle and shine. One of the things I like about Singapore is that so many of the buildings are different shapes from each other.
Our guide was very informative, detailing a bit of history and a bit of modern life, pointing out buildings and landmarks of interest as we sailed along. The skyscrapers reaching for the stars towered high above us.
The bright lights of the Marina Bay Sands show a different viewpoint of this iconic Singapore feature than by day, especially with the shimmer of reflected lights in the water. The new Apple store sits on top of the water, and indeed looks like a round apple. (centre of the photo below)
If you time your trip just right, you can even see the light and sound show from the water.
The bum boat starts and leaves from Clarke Quay.
Clarke Quay
The Quay has plenty of restaurants and night life for you to enjoy both before and after your cruise. There are also hawkers markets on the main street if you wish to eat food like a local. You will find a variety of live music in the different bars. Sitting outside in the warm evening air is a lovely respite from the heat of the tropical Singaporean day. A cold drink in one hand and great music is a perfect way to spend an evening in this glorious town.
BigBus Singapore Night Tour
I had been on the Big Bus Day tour and enjoyed the open top double storey experience, so was excited to do the night tour. The day tour had complimentary headsets with pre-recorded commentary. The night tour had a live guide, and he knew his stuff. Our first stop was at Marina Barrage. This was a lovely grassy area by the river where local families were picnicking and flying kites. It was a great way to see what activities Singaporeans enjoy.
Then we stopped at Lau Pa Sat (meaning old market in the Hokkien dialect), an old Victorian-styled market made of cast iron. This paradise of delectable dishes, both local and international, is a foodies delight. There are over 80 food stalls. Bring cash, as most do not accept eftpos.
Lau Pa Sat is open 24 hours a day, but at night, the street next to the market - Boon Tat Street - becomes Satay Street. Satays are cooked out in the open and the longest stalls are the best, number 8 and 9. Our tour included a couple of samples, and then we had some free time to buy and enjoy dinner. Satay, a cold beer, fellow travellers and some live music.
I could easily have settled into this delightful market all night. However, the best was yet to come. Back on the bus and we headed for the Gardens Rhapsody at the super trees.
This awesome visual light and sound spectacular was truly amazing. Our guide knew the best viewing vantage point, and I know that I held my breath at times, it was so beautiful. Walking around the park area, you can also witness some of their amazing light displays at ground level.
We then had the option of getting back on the bus or heading to the Marina Bay light show.
Garden Rhapsody
Also known as Gardens by the Bay light and sound show, the supertrees light up at 7.45 and 8.45 each evening and lasts for fifteen minutes. This is a free event. It can be viewed from under the Supertree or from the grove. For a fee. guests can see the show up close from the skywalk. I chose to see it from the grove, and it was spectacular.
Click here for more information, including a small video of the show.
Marina Bay Sands Light and Water Show
Water jets, arts projections and dancing laser lights make up this 15-minute show over the water at Marina Bay Sands. I watched the show one night from the event plaza in front of the shops, and the next night from the water on a boat tour. Colourful designs and patterns are projected onto droplets of water. It is a magical experience and I felt joyful whilst watching it. It was a very mindful experience, and all your thoughts are concentrated on how beautiful the show is.
Night Safari Ticket at Singapore Zoo
Six geographical zones and over 1,000 animals are able to be enjoyed at Singapore Zoo. This is also the world's first noctural zoo. Many of the animals are nocturnal and seeing them at night allows you to glimpse behaviour that isn't often see during the day. The habitats here have been designed specifically to suit each individual animal, without high fences to block your view. It is a good idea to do what I did and prebook your timed ticket, as this is a very popular attraction. A tram takes guests around the park and a running commentary gives insight into the different animals. You can also hop on, hop off the tram and explore the marked trails by foot.
The Creatures of the Night Show should definitely not be missed. Trained handlers show the skills of some night predators, which is entertaining and educational. It was funny to see one animal sorting rubbish correctly into different receptacles. If only some humans were that well trained!
There are several food stalls at the night zoo. It was a nice way to end a pleasant evening. I had caught a cab from Sentosa Island to the zoo, as I was running short on time - $25. After the safari, show and dinner, I caught a $3 shuttlebus to the MRT, and then public transport to Clarke Quay, which was less than $1.
Happy Travels!
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