Singapore: An Urban Botanical Wonderland

Nature lovers – this one’s for you. Although you may not think that visiting a big urban centre like Singapore would be fun for those of us happier in the wide expanses of Earth’s natural mountains, valleys and forests, the city’s green initiatives actually put Singapore on the map for the eco-loving visitor. This buzzing Asian metropolis has given itself the challenge of becoming one of the world’s greenest cities, and you can see this as you wander through the streets: plants peek out from every possible nook and cranny. The best place for seeing Singapore’s green initiatives first-hand is the Gardens by the Bay complex, where you’ll find the Supertree Grove, botanical gardens, Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest. Read on for what to see during your visit to Singapore:

Supertree Grove

Be prepared to feel like you’ve stumbled onto another planet as you wander between the gigantic tree-like structures in the Supertree Grove. Each “tree” is a vertical garden made up of a number of different plant species, but also energy generating powerhouse that harnesses solar power, as well as collecting rain water to be used for the garden’s fountain displays. Enjoy a panoramic view from up top by taking the OCBC Skyway between some of the trees.

Flower Dome

Plant-lovers will be in heaven in this clever greenhouse, home to several different gardens representing different regions around the world. Here you’ll find familiar plants growing alongside exotic species such as Baobabs and a plethora of cacti. You’ll need to buy a ticket for this one, but it’s well worth it for seeing the largest greenhouse in the entire world. You can also purchase combined tickets for the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest Dome (below).

Cloud Forest Dome

This was definitely my favourite attraction in Singapore: where else in the world can you find a towering indoor waterfall? The atmosphere in the dome is designed to replicate a tropical mountain rainforest, and a huge sky-high walkway guides you around the dome, through lush green jungle and warm clouds.

Perhaps the best attraction of all however is the city itself, a true success story that sees a triumphant marriage of economics and nature: Singapore’s green initiatives have actually helped it become a mecca for foreign investors and big business, transforming the once dirty and rubbish-strewn port into an attractive, liveable modern city. Hopefully we can all take some inspiration from this, with the realisation that economic policies and environmental concerns do not have to be at odds with each other. Here’s to the future of the green city.