Gardens by the Bay is Finally Open!

Remember how we spent Christmas day at Marina Bay Sands Skypark? If you click the link, you will see one photo that shows the ongoing construction of Gardens by the Bay as of 25th December 2011.

Gardens by the Bay | Singapore

Yesterday 29th June 2012, Bay South Garden; part of the billion dollar nature-meets-technology superpark, spanning 101 hectars, finally opened to the public.

Main attractions include:

1) Cloud Forest

Cloud Forest Cooled Conservatory | Gardens by the Bay

*The Cloud Forest is slightly smaller at 0.8 hectares. It replicates the cool moist conditions found in tropical mountain regions between 1000 to 3000 metres above sea level. It features a ‘Cloud Mountain’, accessible by an elevator, and visitors will be able to descend the mountain via a circular path where a 35-metre waterfall provides visitors with refreshing cool air.

2) Flower Dome

Flower Dome Cooled Conservatory | Gardens by the Bay

*The Flower Dome is the larger of the two, at 1.2 hectares. It replicates cool dry conditions and will feature permanent displays of plants found in the Mediterranean and semi-arid tropical regions. A changing display field has also been incorporated to enable flower shows and displays to be held within the Conservatory.

3) Supertrees

Supertrees | Gardens by the Bay

*Supertrees are tree-like structures that dominate the Gardens landscape with heights that range between 25 and 50 metres. They are vertical gardens that perform a multitude of functions, which include planting, shading and working as environmental engines for the gardens.

The Supertrees are home to enclaves of unique and exotic ferns, vines, orchids and also a vast collection of bromeliads such as Tillandsia, amongst other plants. They are fitted with environmental technologies that mimic the ecological function of trees – photovoltaic cells that harness solar energy which can be used for some of the functions of the Supertrees, such as lightings, just like how trees photosynthesize; collection of rainwater for use in irrigation and fountain displays, just like how trees absorb rainwater for growth. The Supertrees also serve air intake and exhaust functions as part of the Conservatories’ cooling systems.

There will also be an elevated walkway between some of the larger Supertrees for visitors to enjoy a breathtaking aerial view of the Gardens. A F&B outlet has also been planned atop the 50-metre Supertree. At night, the Supertrees come alive with lighting and project media.

 4) Dragonfly Lake

Dragonfly Lake | Gardens by the Bay

"Immerse yourself in the fascinating world that exists beyond the surface of the lakes. More than a thing of beauty, the lakes are a rich source of aquatic life from fish to plants. These plants act as a natural eco-filter to cleanse water that has been captured from run-offs or pumped in from the connecting Marina reservoir. Filter beds comprising aquatic reeds are strategically located where the water enters and discharges from the lake system." ~ SOURCE

5) Heritage Gardens

One of the Four Themed Heritage Gardens | Gardens by the Bay

"The Heritage Gardens is a collection of four themed gardens that will take you through the history and culture of Singapore’s three main ethnic groups and colonial past." ~ SOURCE

Here are the scenes I captured at the second day of it's most awaited opening.

The overwhelming crowd.

The "flower nymphs" performing a pollen dance.

Superlong queue at the ticketing counter.

Three of the 18 amazing supertrees! Can't wait to photograph it at night.

Nature meets technology!

Nature love + appreciative eyes = Happiness

My superblessed family. 

Spreading peace, love and happiness from ours to yours! Till our next visit to the superpark. We have yet to climb up the aerial walkway and check out the two conservatories.

FYI: Bay East and Bay Central gardens will be ready by 2015.

USEFUL INFORMATION: (SOURCE)

Entry to the garden is free, but admission fees will apply to the two conservatories, the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, and at the 128m-long aerial walkway. Please refer to the following table for special discounted tickets for locals and residents.

Rates	Non-residents (Two conservatories)	Residents (Two conservatories)	Residents (One conservatory)	Aerial walkway
Adult	$28	$20	$12	$5
Senior citizen(over 60)	$28	$15	$8	$5
Child(3-12)	$15	$12	$8	$3