Singapore

Singapore is definitely the city of the future. Everything is imported. Except for the weather, Nature (including human nature) is completely under control. And, thanks to air-conditioning in buses, trains (and stations), cars, malls, houses and hotels, it is possible to endure the heat and humidity by minimizing exposure to it. Here are some highlights:

This sign governs behavior on the SuperTrees shown below.

17 "Supertrees" dwarf the people seen in the distant center. Designed by Zaha Hadid, they dominate the amazing Gardens By The Bay. Some are connected by elevated walkways. They are covered with plants and supposedly collect rainwater. Behind them, part of the monstrous Marina Bay Sands Hotel, designed by Moshe Safdie and owned by Sheldon Adelson.

A boat-like roof park tops the 2,500 room, triple buildings of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, allegedly having the world's largest infinity pool. The only reason I would consider going into or up on this monument to grandiosity would be that given by Oscar Wilde when asked why he was spending so much time dining at the Eiffel Tower. "It's the only place where I can't see it."

The incredible Gardens By The Bay have two gigantic enclosed, air-conditioned structures, one a sort of tropical rain forest, the other a flower/tree garden. The contents and scale are amazing.

The subway system (MRT) is superb, clean, fast and fully air-conditioned. The tracks are completely sealed off. Doors open in coordination with the arriving train doors. Escalators are everywhere.

They even show you where to stand while waiting for the doors to open.

The poles for holding on are generous.

Durians are forbidden in the subway.

As for taxis, they are plentiful, reasonably-priced and air-conditioned. However, you may have to wait in highly organized areas to get one.

If you are lucky, after visiting the Gardens By The Bay you can watch boats sponsored by various banks and financial institutions race in the bay in front of the buildings owned by their companies.

You can be sure of sanitary conditions when you eat out.

These are some of the things which left me puzzled about Singapore. is it for real?