I was lucky to chaperone international students on a learning journey to Gardens by the Bay today. The trip aimed to help them bond with their local buddies and gain a deeper appreciation of Singapore and its marvels.

Our learning began even before we stepped inside the Flower Dome. We were treated to the sight of Supertrees (which run on electricity) as well as bird’s nest ferns.

Upon entering the Flower Dome, our facilitator explained to us the innovative features that help keep it cool. Since the plants on display come from all over the world, Singaporeans need to be resourceful in helping them adapt to this foreign environment. I dare say that we have pulled out all the stops, from underground pipes to cooling vents to transparent glass that keeps out the heat.

The highlight was of course the plants. I had a great time learning about some unusual plants. For instance, the woolly cactus (from Bolivia) produces wool around its flowers so that bats won’t be daunted by its spikes and will pollinate it at night. The kangaroo paw (from Australia) showcases flowers that resemble a kangaroo’s paw. The monkey puzzle tree (the iconic tree from Chile) doesn’t bear fruits and is so named because of its spiky branches. The ancestors of the monkey puzzle tree lived in the same era as the dinosaurs! Wow!

Yes, I enjoyed myself tremendously.