Yesterday’s title Merlion city derives from the iconic mythical creature symbolizing this city.  Half fish, half lion.  Fish honors original fishing village, lion represents transformation to the financial and cultural hub it is today.

     It is a concrete version of paradise, interspersed with lots of greenery, hard vs. soft.  Hot vs. cold, as the temperature is so warm but inside so cool.

     We head to the outskirts, Bird Paradise.  Wonderful get away with close up views of different species.  Pleasurable to just explore and be educated as well.

    At night we meet Michael at Daniel’s Quay.He takes us to a little dumping and noodle establishment. OMG- sorry to be repetitive, but it is extraordinary.  All types of dumplings including a dessert one and bowls of seasoned meat and noodles, fantastic!  The bumboat then takes us on a nighttime journey.  These wooden boats were used in the 19 C to transport goods.  A fairytale atmosphere of lighted bridges, waterside restaurants, towering buildings, hotels…. Another magical evening.

*In the last photo you see Michael’s home hotel Ascot, it was once a colonial giant on the water, now it is dwarfed by its surroundings.  Big vs. giant, another contrast in this phenomenal metropolis.