Mrs Lea writes...
Eight hours' sleep was most restorative to the system and we set off on foot this morning, clutching what will henceforth be coined the 'obligatory Starbucks' (I've introduced Dr Burgess to the joys of frappucino). A short - and super cheap - bus ride to the marina found us buying tickets to Cloud Forest, where we indulged in more than your average oohing and aahing. The waterfall entrance alone cued Mr Johnson and Dr Burgess running to embrace it!
Whilst I haven't visited the Eden Project, I imagine one might compare the two - this is a vast glass dome which houses vegetation from all around the world. I found myself gazing at lush greenery (the descriptions don't do it justice so the pictures hopefully close the gap) from Brazil, Africa, Australia, to name but a few. Lego plant displays were also a big attraction. SkyWalk is not for the faint-hearted, yet a total must-do: a circular pathway from the top to the bottom. Suffice to say I took a calming breath before peering over the side!
Lunch was a nourishing bowl of vegetarian jasmine rice and water - you very quickly appreciate the necessity of staying hydrated. Once finished, we toured the Flower Dome, a second vast space which was declared World Building of the Year at the World Architecture Festival in 2012. Our timing was impeccable - it also just happened to house famous Thai jazz saxophonist Koh Mr Saxman...my absolute favourite instrument. Instantly emotive and such a lush environment in which to be lucky enough to experience his music. Driftwood dragons, breathtaking orchids, cacti and succulents (I'm a little late to the succulents party but love their appearance) were the order of the afternoon.
'La Famille de Voyageurs' is a unique bronze piece designed and made by French sculptor Bruno Catalano. It depicts a travelling family visiting Gardens by the Bay before leaving for the airport to travel home. As they depart this tropical garden city, they take with them beautiful memories and leave a part of themselves behind. Already, we predict the same will happen to the four of us, as we fly home on Saturday August 29th.
This evening we are very lucky to be dining with the principal of our host school and very much look forward to sharing educational insights, ahead of our first day as guests tomorrow in his school.