Singapore at Night: The city all aglow

Grandiose structures light up as the sun sets late over the Singapore horizon. Then you’ll see the many attractions of Singapore at a different light, figuratively and literally. You can indulge in the magical allure of Singapore after dark. Be mesmerized by the shimmering cityscape, lively night markets, delectable cuisine, and vibrant nightlife scene. This is Singapore at night.

We spent our first afternoon at Orchard Road, known for its many shopping malls and high-end stores. Prada, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch…name it and they have it. The whole stretch is a temptation to open your wallet and give in to the many products that seem to lure you.

Tourists and locals can be found in Orchard Road. One particular mall, the Lucky Plaza, has stores featuring Filipino products and services.

It was there in Orchard Road where we were to meet our respective friends who have settled in Singapore. Our meeting place was by the entrance of H&M store at Somerset. As we sat there and watched the many pedestrians cross the streets in throngs, we looked up at the birds flying overhead us and chirping in the trees.

As the sky grew dark, Orchard Road lit up and the luxury brand signs became brighter than ever. Bars start to play music. But the pedestrians never fade.  When you can’t find them in the streets, you’ll see them inside the malls.

The day after, we spent our sunset crossing the Esplanade Bridge, coming from the durian-shaped Esplanade, with its prickly roof, to the Merlion. From light blue to violet to dark blue, Singapore’s skyline glowed with the tiny lighted windows of the skyscrapers. Maybank, HSBC, and other buildings stood tall behind the historic Fullerton Hotel.

The best of all was the Marina Bay Sands that looked like a floating submarine from afar, held together by three towering columns. It was built recently and it was something new to my sight. The Singapore flyer and the helix bridge were visible next to Marina Bay Sands while boats cruise in front of us. Later on, a laser light show from the Marina Bay Sands caught everyone’s attention within the vicinity.

It was amazing seeing the Merlion up close. There were just too many people hanging out there at that time. I looked to the other side of the Esplanade Bridge and the thorny tips of the Esplanade are a bit discernible. There seems to be a show happening at the outdoor theater beside it.

The night also comes alive at Clarke Quay. People board the boats that traverse through the Singapore River towards Marina Bay. Restaurants and bars are aplenty at Clarke Quay and there were even street performers doing their tricks for people to watch. Many dine al fresco, enjoying the Singapore open air and the beautiful view of the river at night.

There is truly a different vibe in Singapore when dark sets in. But darkness never consumes Singapore because the city lights and the radiant energy of the people animate this Asian city-state at night.