In the 14th century, a Sumatran Malay prince came to this island, saw what he believed to be a lion (which was most likely a tiger), and therefore named it “Singapura.” Little did he know, that “Lion City” in Malay Sanskrit, would be an ideal name for Singapore to live up to. Lying one degree north of the equator, just below the southern most tip of continental Asia, this unique island city-state has become a power house since it’s short independence from British rule in 1965.

The three attributes most often associated with a lion also pertain to Singapore:

Courage: It is an island first inhabited by Malay, Chinese, and Indians courageous enough to start anew. To this day, there are four national languages for Singapore: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil.

Strength: It may be small in size, but Singapore has become a global leader. It is the 3rd largest foreign-exchange center, the 3rd leading global financial center, the 3rd largest oil-refining and trading center, and was ranked No.1 as global logistics hub. Not to mention, it’s international Changhi airport has more than 480 “World’s Best Airport” awards…for a reason. It may be small for now, but Singapore is actually growing in size. Literally. Due to land reclamation, it has grown by 23% in the last 50 years.

Beauty: Like a lion’s mane, Singapore has a distinct landscape. It’s architecture and natural tropical setting have been beautifully and masterfully woven to create a unique lush city canopied by tropical flora, parks, and gardens.

Overlooking Marina Bay

Visiting the Bruffs and sharing this beautiful country before their repatriation back to the US made this trip priceless.

Standing in front of this side of the world, before the other half becomes home again.

CHIJMES Hall. Formerly the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus Chapel,it provided a location for a girl’s school, orphanage, and refuge for women from 1904-1983. 

With a government initiative to enhance greenery and flora within the city, a multitude of cultural gardens and parks have transformed Singapore into a ‘city in a garden.’

Spanning 250 acres of reclaimed land, Gardens by the Bay miniaturizes the city with it’s Supertree Grove. 

Luke, Kate, Jack, and John…in the trees above the trees.

Singapore’s Skypark and the world’s longest infinity pool are set atop the Marina Bay Sands hotel. 

Less like a zoo and more like a nature preserve. Just beautiful.

A beautiful country built with courage became strong. Forever grateful we could experience ‘Lion City’ with the Bruffs.