Why Upland should not ignore Singapore

I have been privileged to have visited more than 30 Countries in Africa, Europe, Asia, Middle East, and North America. I have also been to more than 100 Towns, Municipalities and Cities in the several continents of the World. I’m originally from Zambia in Central Africa. I have lived in Mansa, Milenge, Luanshya, Lusaka in Zambia, Roberston Quay and Bedok in the City State of Singapore, Martarrie and New Orleans in Louisiana, Highland Heights and Cleveland in Ohio, Kissimmee and Orlando in Florida in the United States.

I could have chosen to write about any of these very interesting Cities like New Orleans, the Crescent City with its famous Bourbon Street within the famous French Quarters adjacent to the Canal Street and its never ending ceremonies including the famous crazy Madi gras.

For the purpose of Upland, I propose, choose and recommend Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is a sovereign island city-state in Southeast Asia just South of Malaysia to be favorably considered without any further delays.

The Panoramic view of Singapore - courtesy photo by Singapore Tourism

Why Singapore one would ask? For a start, Singaporeans have penchant liking and are passionately inclined to go after Non-Fungible Tokens – NFTs. Smiling to myself. I like the City. It is addictive. Once you live there, you nostalgically wish to go back. Very clean, very orderly, secure, safe, organized, highly automated and digitalized, systems, institutions, Departments, Organizations and governance work, and no chewing of gum. It is illegal.

The 32 year old Singaporean of Indian Origin blockchain entrepreneur (whose most prized possession is a Personal Computer (PC) and a Watch paid a record $69.3 million for a digital artwork looks. He lives in an apartment and has never bought any priced immovable property.

On 06/04/2021, another younger Singaporean Justin Sun, the founder of TRON won the bid for the first-ever Golden Whale Pass as an NFT in an auction hosted by NFT Glee in association with Bitcoin 2021 in Miami, Florida, USA. The pass gives the holder JUSTIN lifetime whale access to all future Bitcoin Conference events as well as multiple VIP benefits at the Bitcoin 2021 conference. The hammer price of 12.6 BTC makes the Golden Whale Pass the highest-priced Bitcoin NFT ever. Singapore’s millionaire density, or percentage of millionaires in the total population was 5.5% in 2020, the second-highest in Asia after Hong Kong’s 8.3%.

A tweet by Dallas Mavericks owner and entrepreneur Mark Cuban pertaining to Virtual real estate in a place called Decentraland made me inclined to share the glimpse story of Singapore and hope that the World take keen interest in the NFTs and Upland City of Singapore.

As an expatriate, foreign national or international employee, my family and I relocated from Africa in January 2015 aboard Business Class of Emirates Airlines and landed at changiairport.com. Changi has taken the top spot in the Best Awards and the best International Airport in the World for eight straight consecutive years. The global hub hasn’t been resting on its laurels. In April 2019, the opening of Jewel Changi Airport, a massive stand-alone complex, added some extra sparkle to this top-flight facility. Jewel’s indoor waterfall, children’s playgrounds, street-food–style vendors, and numerous shops are cool enough that even locals make day trips to this airport for fun — high praise by any standard. Interestingly, Singapore Airlines, a major presence at Changi, was this year’s top international carrier for the 25th straight year. Seems when it comes to air travel, Singapore simply does everything right.

We landed at Changi International Airport on 12th January 2015 and after airport formalities, the special airport shuttle dropped us at the Somerset Hotel in Robertson Quay. This is the tranquil place located along the Singapore River. An affluent neighborhood  which is remarkably and vastly different from Clarke Quay, which is situated along the same river. While Clarke Quay is known for its clubbing and partying culture, Robertson Quay is where you go for some chill vibes and a home to pretty promenades and a colorfully iconic bridge the Alkaff Bridge which resembles a tongkang, a light boat commonly used to transport goods up and down the Singapore River in the past.

Our Household goods came later through the Port of Singapore  which refers to the collective facilities and terminals that conduct maritime trade, and which handle Singapore's harbors and shipping. It is ranked as the top maritime capital of the world since 2015. The Port of Singapore is currently the world's second-busiest port in terms of total shipping tonnage, it also transships a fifth of the world's shipping containers, half of the world's annual supply of crude oil, and is the world's busiest transshipment port. It was also the busiest port in terms of total cargo tonnage handled until 2005 when it was surpassed by the Port of Shanghai. Thousands of ships drop anchor in the harbour, connecting the port to over 600 other ports in 123 countries and spread over six continents.

On 20th January 2015, I officially reported for work on the 33rd Floor of Tower 1 at Marina Bay Financial Centre (MBFC). MBFC seamlessly integrates living, working and leisure in style at the best address located along Marina Bay in the heart of Singapore’s central business district. Standing at 33, 50 and 46 storeys high, each of the three skyscrapers offer breathtaking views of Singapore’s city skyline. They call MBFC “A City in a Garden”, where spaces are functional, beautiful and green. Designed by New York based architects Kohn Pedersen Fox, the towers simulate crystalline forms, sculpted into a dominant focal point that overlooks the scenic skyline along the Marina Bay waterfront.

The immaculately landscaped green spaces, sky terraces and gardens across the development are designed to fuel the workday experience for maximum employee well-being and productivity. MBFC has state-of-the-art technologies and environmentally smart building innovations such as the District Cooling System, energy-saving ventilation systems as well as mechanical and electrical systems that reduce the impact on the environment without compromising comfort. Work life balance was maintained.

I personally took this picture (on the left) of Marina Bay Financial Centre in 2014 from the 50th Floor of Marina Bay Sands Hotel Tower 1

I scribbled these personal notes in my Hotel Room at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore in 2015.

There is Burj Khalifa in Dubai, Sydney Opera House in Australia, Taj Mahal in India, Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia, Buckingham Palace in London, Kaaba in Mecca, Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, Eiffel Tower in Paris, Statue of Liberty in the USA, the Petronas Towers in Malaysia, Findeco House in Zambia, Egypt has Pyramids and Singapore has Marina Bay Sands.

Marina Bay Sands is an integrated resort fronting Marina Bay in Singapore.

Developed by Las Vegas Sands, it was billed as the world's most expensive standalone casino property at USD8 billion, including the land cost. Land space, life and living in Singapore can be costly.

Singapore had topped 131 cities globally to become the world's most expensive city to live in 2014, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The city's strong currency combined with the high cost of running a car and soaring utility bills contributed to Singapore topping the list. It was also the most expensive place in the world to buy clothes. Singapore replaced Tokyo, which topped the list in 2013.

It was our weekend staycation. Marina Bay Sands Hotel had been our weekend second home. It was an agreed-upon way of a family celebrating a special thanksgiving occasion for one of the family members. Two rooms at level number 50 were not only high enough regarding height levels, but the cost was also equally high. But, when you come to think of it, this property was  arguably the most expensive place on Earth at least in 2015 before the Dubai and Saudi Arabia Buildings. You pay for quality, you pay for security, and you pay for cleanliness. You pay for high standards. The Marina Bay Hotel is home to the World's famous Sands Sky Park on the 57th floor, atop three Magnificent towers where the available family members enjoyed a breathtaking 360• view of Singapore skyline and an integrated resort fronting Marina Bay in Singapore.

First opened in 2011, Marina Bay Sands® has established itself as one of Singapore’s most versatile attractions. You can opt for a luxury stay at their 55-storey hotel, shop till you drop at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands®, or soak up a little art and culture at the ArtScience Museum™.

Marina Bay Sands®’ sloping towers and sky-high Infinity Pool have interesting stories behind them, too—Tower 1 of the hotel has a 26-degree slope, which is considered prosperous since the individual digits add up to 8, a lucky number in Chinese culture; and the Infinity Pool is an auspicious symbol of a lake at the top of a mountain.

The Marina Bay Sands® SkyPark is a roof like no other, perched 200 metres in the air featuring an infinity pool and observation deck.

There used to be the Room at the top, Sky on 57, KU DETA nightclub was equally tempting. The girls took a relaxing dip in the stunning World's highest Infinity swimming pool located on the 57th floor. Never remind yourself of the term acrophobia. What else can you say; this is the highest infinity pool in the world located at the Sands Sky Park on Level 57 of this magnificently designed hotel!

Thanks to the no inclement weather, the lush gardens and Sky Park observation Deck - a gravity-defying cantilever was a special treat.

It looks like a celestial surfboard or a spaceship docking on a tripod. No matter where your imagination takes you, the Marina Bay Sands® SkyPark is a wondrous feat of engineering.

Designed by visionary architect Moshe Safdie, the SkyPark floats atop the three soaring Marina Bay Sands® hotel towers.

Giant observation deck

This gravity-defying platform is one of the largest in the world. The 1.2-hectare SkyPark stretches longer than the Eiffel Tower laid down and is large enough to park four and a half A380 Jumbo Jets.

It houses a ticketed observation deck, lush gardens, top-notch restaurants and an exclusive, infinity-edge swimming pool with a legendary view.

The 150-metre pool, the world’s largest elevated body of water outdoors, has been designed with a vanishing edge. It is as if there is nothing between the swimmer and the skyscrapers in front of them.

Those taking a dip feel like they are swimming among the clouds, perched so high in the sky with the most majestic scenery at their feet. However, only hotel guests can swim in the pool and enter the SkyPark free of charge.

Magnificent views

Visitors not staying at the hotel can buy tickets to the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck, which offers you unobstructed 360-degree views of the Singapore skyline.

Dine at LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar or savor a cocktail at CE LA VI—located atop the Sands SkyPark—and witness an unforgettable panoramic view of the Singapore skyline.

After experiencing the slice of heaven that is the SkyPark, descend to earth where a world of shopping, dining and entertainment attractions awaits you at the rest of the Marina Bay Sands® integrated resort.

Gardens by the Bay

The lush and beautiful Gardens by the Bay is dominated by the sleekly sculptured biodomes—marvels of architecture, design and engineering.

It’s hard to miss the sprawling 101-hectare lot right by the water in Marina Bay. Two huge futuristic structures rise out of the greenery at Gardens by the Bay, which was designed with environmental sustainability in mind.

These are the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest cooled conservatories, which was listed in the 2015 Guinness World Records as the world’s largest glass greenhouse. The freestanding unsupported glass roofs enclose expansive spaces, unmarred by any pillar or column.

Besides ultra-modern design, the conservatories also use cutting-edge technologies for better energy efficiency.

Cool domes

The Flower Dome replicates the cool-dry climate of regions like California and South Africa, and boasts more than 32,000 plants comprising some 160 species, cultivars and varieties.

Not to be missed is the cool, misty Cloud Forest Dome, with its 35-metre tall “Cloud Mountain”, covered in orchids, ferns and bromeliads and containing a spectacular 30-metre-tall indoor waterfall.

Splendid Supertrees

You’ll recognise the distinctive Supertrees—25 to 50-metre-tall vertical gardens that collect rainwater, generate solar power and act as venting ducts for the park’s conservatories.

If you’re in the mood for a spectacular view, take the OCBC Skyway, a 128-metre-long walkway suspended between two Supertrees, for a bird’s eye view of the park. The Supertree Observatory—located atop the tallest of the 18 Supertrees—boasts a spectacular vista of Marina Bay from 50 metres up in the air.

As dusk falls, the Garden Rhapsody comes on. This dazzling light and sound show takes place nightly amid the Supertrees. Then dine at romantic Pollen in the Flower Dome, restaurants at the Supertree Food Hall or Satay by the Bay for hearty local food.

That is me riding my bike in 2014 in Singapore. In the background is Marina Bay Sands, Singapore flyer and the Marina Bay Flower Domes.

Sentosa Island - the State of Fun

With its pristine beaches, exciting attractions and tropical landscapes, the State of Fun is sure to leave you spellbound. Before it was known as Sentosa, this island just off Singapore’s southern coast was a British military fortress. After the Japanese Occupation in World War II, Singapore returned to British rule, and the island was renamed “Sentosa” which translates to “peace and tranquility.”

Over the course of its remarkable history, Sentosa has transformed into a beloved island resort, best known for its tropical beaches, luxurious hotels and thrilling attractions. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a day of bold exploration, a world of adventure awaits you at Sentosa.

My partner and I chilling with children at Sentosa Beach 2015

Avid explorers looking to discover the island’s varied charms and natural landscapes will be able to choose from a range of inspiring activities. Great for Upland. To get your bearings, take reference from three beaches that span Sentosa’s coastline. Each beach holds its own unique charm: Siloso Beach is the island’s most bustling stretch, and home to various restaurants and attractions; Palawan Beach’s playgrounds, parks and lagoon are perfect for families, and Tanjong Beach is ideal for a tranquil getaway.

Drop by the S.E.A. Aquarium™ for a trip under the sea. One of the largest oceanariums on the planet, this attraction is home to more than 100,000 marine animals, allowing for up-close encounters with fascinating creatures from the deep.

To live out your dreams of rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous, pay a visit to Madame Tussauds Singapore. This world-famous wax museum is home to figurines of some of the world’s most notable individuals, ranging from pop phenoms like Michael Jackson, stars of the silver screen like Marilyn Monroe and political figures like Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama.

Thrilling activities await

Soar high on adrenaline, as you partake in Sentosa’s various thrill-seeking attractions.

To live out your dreams of soaring like a superhero, drop by iFly Singapore, the world’s largest wind tunnel for indoor skydiving. The 18-foot-tall acrylic ‘glass walls’—allow you to enjoy panoramic views of the South China Sea and Siloso Beach. State-of-the-art technology will lend you wings in an experience that simulates free falls from heights of 12,000 to 3,000 feet. First timers need not fret, as trained professionals will be on hand to guide you.

For more high-octane activity, BRAVE new heights at the Mega Adventure Park - Singapore. The park’s star attraction—dubbed the MegaZip—is Southeast Asia’s steepest zip wire. Those courageous enough to hop on this adrenaline-pumping ride will get to experience a whole new perspective of Sentosa's lush jungles and white beaches from 450 metres in the air. Other activities include a high ropes course, rock climbing wall and a 15-metre free fall simulator.

If a day of sun, sand and surf is up your alley, spend the afternoon at Hydrodash instead. Located along the waters of Palawan Beach, Singapore’s first floating aquapark is an unforgettable experience for the young and the young at heart. Romp with your family and loved ones as you slide, slip and splash through the zones of this massive inflatable obstacle course.

After all that fast-paced action, wind down and experience Sentosa and Faber Peak as you take a ride on the Cable Car Sky Network, and soak in a stunning bird’s-eye view of Sentosa island and Mount Faber.

Clarke Quay and Boat Quay

Whether you’re looking to dance up a storm or indulge in a pint, Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are bound to slake your thirst for entertainment nightlife.

PARKROYAL on Pickering is a luxurious garden oasis in downtown Singapore.

Half-fish and half-lion, the iconic Merlion resides at the Merlion Park waterfront.

You’ve probably seen images of Singapore’s national icon, the mythical Merlion with the head of a lion and the body of a fish.

The Merlion's body symbolizes Singapore's humble beginnings as a fishing village when it was called Temasek, which comes from the same root as the word tasek ('lake' in Malay).

Its head represents Singapore’s original name, Singapura, or ‘lion city’ in Malay.

Today, you can glimpse this legend at Merlion Park. Spouting water from its mouth, the Merlion statue stands tall at 8.6 metres and weighs 70 tons.

This icon is a must-see for tourists visiting Singapore, similar to other significant landmarks around the world.

So, in 2002, the Merlion was relocated 120 metres away from the original position to where it stands in Merlion Park today, in front of Fullerton Hotel and overlooking Marina Bay.

The park also houses a smaller Merlion statue. Known as the ‘Merlion cub’, it stands at two metres tall and weighs three tons.

The original sculpture and its cub are the most well-known among the seven approved Merlion statues in Singapore.

Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

Originally named after its neighboring Esplanade Park, one of the oldest public parks in Singapore, the iconic 60,000-square-metre Performing Arts centre is affectionately dubbed ‘The Durian’ by locals due to its spiky architectural exterior. Having been in the works since the 1970s, the Esplanade was set up as a hub where Singaporeans can engage with and be inspired by the local arts and culture scene.

Since opening its doors in 2002, the Esplanade has revolutionized the Arts in Singapore and grown into a bustling hub for shopping, dining and entertainment. The venue showcases a range of performances all year round, from free shows held by the bay, to yearly festivals such as Baybeats, da:ns festival, Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts, and many more.

Singapore Flyer

Standing at 165 metres above ground is Asia’s largest observation wheel, the Singapore Flyer. Launched in 2008, the wheel is a favorite tourist attraction due to its vantage point offering stunning panoramic views of Marina Bay and th­e city. Over the years, the Singapore Flyer has also become a significant feature in the backdrop of the FORMULA ONE Singapore Grand Prix Marina Bay Street Circuit

Family members and in Singapore – 2014 at the Singapore Flyer

Helix Bridge

Opened in 2010, the Helix Bridge is the longest pedestrian bridge in Singapore and serves as a link way between Marina Centre and the Bayfront area. Its unique form is modelled after the double helix DNA, symbolizing “life and continuity, renewal and growth”. Look out for the pairs of colored letters ‘c’ and ‘g’, as well as ‘a’ and ‘t’ on the bridge, which represent the four bases of DNA—a fun detail that will please the science geeks among us.

 I took the first 2 pictures November 2015. The 3rd  picture courtesy of Singapore Tourism

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a good tipple with the wind in your hair and a great view of the city lights. My friend Teza and his wife, and my wife and I paid a visit to and took our drinking escapades to a higher level (literally).

1-Altitude

With a 360-degree view of the city from a perch atop the 63rd floor of One Raffles Place, 1-Altitude is the world’s highest alfresco bar, and provides the perfect combination of stunning sunset views and buzzing nightlife. With its top-rate ambience and sophisticated vibes, this watering hole is certainly a cut above the rest. Pro-tip: Pay a visit to the Upper Viewing Gallery for the most unobstructed view of Singapore’s cityscape.

I was later transferred to Changi Business Park, another Financial hub located at Changi South, eastern part of Singapore. It is launched in 1977 by JTC Corporation to host a good mixture of business companies and enterprises dealing with software and date, knowledge intensive facilities, high technology business and research and development institutes.  

Changi Business Park covers an area of 71.07 hectare of land which has a tenure lease of 30 years. Lessee companies are free to construct their facilities on the land which are allocated to them. The companies are also given a choice to opt for a revisable land rental payment scheme or an Upfront Premium payment scheme. 

Upland in Singapore. If not now, when? If not Singapore, which other City? Singapore for Upland. Thank me later.

Emmanuel Kunda Kalaba – Global Citizen. Zambian living in USA advocating for Upland in Singapore.