2 October 2009

Night. The best time to ride the Singapore Flyer.

I’ve seen it all before, but I wasn’t prepared to give up the night lights altogether. And so, I took the middle path and went on a sunset spin. As my capsule ascended, the last vestige of sunlight streaked across the darkening sky, dramatising the backdrop behind the Singapore skyline. Turning around, a grand view of the then-upcoming Singapore Grand Prix grandstand and pit lane hit me. What a special treat it was for my fellow passengers and I! Dazzling floodlights lit the pit lane – on not just any night, but our night!

“You have reached the highest point. You are now on top of the world,” a pre-recorded voice declared, marking mid-journey. At this point, I was awashed with both a sense of pride over the horizon that lay before me, as well as an inkling of sadness that my ride was half over. Thankfully, before the latter intensified its hold on me, the beautiful vista on the descent proved stronger. I was back in awe. So was every camera lens in the cabin, all now pointed towards the gem-like city lights across Singapore.

Just think, the next time you’re here, all these will have changed. With the soon-to-be-completed Marina Bay Sands Resort & Casino and surrounding developments, the Marina Bay area will boast a brand new skyline no less, if not more, breathtaking.

Even before my feet landed back on solid ground, I had changed my mind. The best time to ride the Singapore Flyer isn’t the night. It’s dusk.

First stop, Singapore Flyer. It’s your best introduction to Singapore. Your flight satisfaction does depend on several uncontrollable factors like weather conditions and cabin companions, but you can raise its probability by consulting local weather reports. Once assured, an MRT ride to the City Hall station and a 10-15 minutes’ walk – mostly through a cool underpass – will take you there.

For More Info

The Singapore Flyer
www.singaporeflyer.com.sg