The Istana Open House

The Istana is the official residence of the President of Singapore. Istana is a malay word for Palace. Just like any presidential palace it is where the setting president receives and entertains state guests. The building was completed in 1869 and gone major renovation in 1996 and was completed in 1998.

The Istana is sited on top of a hill in a100 acres land along Orchard Road. During national holidays, the Istana grounds is opened to the public from 8:30 to 6:00 pm and admission is free for Singaporeans and for others including tourists are required to pay an entrance fee of $1 per person. There are a variety of performances on the grounds at certain time during the day. Visitors can have photos taken with the President when he come by to greet visitors.

Esplanade Roof Garden

Two Saturdays ago I spent an afternoon at the roof garden of the Esplanade for a photo shoot. Because it was that afternoon were the full rehearsal of the National Day Parade was held. Though the parade ground is at The Padang, this year's venue for the annual National Day Parade, but some of the activities can be viewed from the roof garden.

July missed out

I have no single entry the whole month of July. Procrastination and busy work are the reasons for no update. I went back home second week of July for a week short vacation. The week before that I was rushing out some office work need to complete before I go for work off. Add to that I was rushing up shopping for presents to bring home, not that I bought more but what consumed more time was deciding and picking what to bring home.