Tag Archives: Sentosa

Singapore the new tourism hotspot

Singapore is now widely considered the leisure and tourism capital of the 21st century, offering a wide mix of cultures, modern developments and strong economy, according to the San Francisco Examiner.

With a land area of about 270 square miles and population of around five million, the city-state has emerged as a hot spot for travellers who stay in five-star hotels, shop and gamble.

The report also praised the island’s open-air hawker centres, the city’s architecture, marina and skyline.

At the same time, some hot-button issues have been raised that people would like resolved, such as political openness, labour rights and environmental protection. Additionally, some have called for the preservation of open spaces as many mega developments continue to spring up.

But these projects may also be credited for enhancing Singapore’s tourism appeal. For instance, the recently completed 250-acre Gardens by the Bay features meticulously landscaped gardens, futuristic “supertrees” and other nature-inspired attractions.

The article also shed some light on concerns faced by its citizens, such as the high cost of living which could be associated with “Las Vegas-style materialism”.

“As Singapore opens itself more to the world, one hopes — for a country so embracing of modernity, yet so dependent on smart development, careful management of its resources and tourism — that they are getting the model right.”

Source : ProGuru – 6 May 2013

Fish House, Sentosa’s most ecofriendly property

Private homeowners in Singapore are now exercising greater effort to integrate the latest environmentally-friendly features into their homes, according to an article first published in The New Paper.

For instance, a two-storey bungalow at Sentosa called The Fish House (by Guz Architects) has received praise for being an environmentally-friendly property. Owned by hedge fund manager Stephen Fisher, the Fish House received the Architectural Design Award from the Singapore Institute of Architects in 2010.

The panel of judges were impressed with the way the house blended open spaces with sea views, showing its adaptability to the country’s tropical climate.

Comprising two pavilions, the house is made of wood and glass and is connected by a bamboo walkway on the second floor. It is also surrounded by a sea-facing infinity pool.

One pavilion has a pool verandah on the first floor while the kitchen, living and dining areas can be found on the second level.

The other pavilion houses the master bedroom and two other bedrooms.

Fisher, who has lived in the house since April 2009 together with his wife and two children cited the eco-friendly features of their home such as the photovoltaic cells on the roof which harness solar energy, a roof garden for beauty and ventilation and abalone shell decorations.

Other features include extended eaves for more shade and an underground audio-visual room covered in 12.7cm-thick acrylic walls that offer underwater views of the swimming pool.

Other Pictures: The Fish House by Guz Architects

Source PropertyGuru – 2012 Jul 24