Ashes in the Light

Even though I’m from Singapore, I recently found myself rediscovering Gardens by the Bay. This time, was accompanying overseas friends who were bringing their children there for the first time. It’s always nice playing host, but there’s something extra special about seeing familiar places through fresh eyes — especially kids’ eyes!

We started at the Flower Dome, where the vibrant blooms and themed gardens were as stunning as ever. The little ones were wide-eyed at the explosion of colors and textures — and honestly, so were we. It’s one of those places that never really gets old.

Then came the Cloud Forest, and with it, a huge surprise: a full-on Jurassic World exhibit! 🦖

I hadn’t known what to expect, but it was way more immersive and interactive than I imagined. Think life-sized dinosaurs that moved, growled, and loomed out from the mist — all set within the lush greenery and dramatic waterfalls of the dome. The kids were completely captivated (and maybe a tiny bit spooked), and the adults? Equally amazed.

What I thought would be a simple day out turned into something so much more. Watching the kids experience everything for the first time made me appreciate how incredible this place really is — and how much effort goes into keeping it fresh and exciting.

🌿 Travel Tip

If you’re planning a visit to Gardens by the Bay — especially with kids — set aside more time than you think you’ll need. There’s so much to explore and immerse yourself in, from the flowers to the exhibits to the sheer scale of the domes. Slow down, take it all in — it’s absolutely worth it.

Have you revisited a local spot that surprised you in the best way? Or taken young ones somewhere that reminded you of the magic in everyday places? Drop your stories in the comments — I’d love to hear them!