Istana Open House

       On the International Labor Day, my friend and I went to Istana, the presidential palace of Singapore. Istana means the palace in Malay. Every year, Istana is open to public five times; they are Chinese New Year, Labor Day, National Day, Hari Raya Puasa, and Deepavali. Fortunately, I can have this chance to visit and enjoy the beautiful sight of Istana.

       Istana is located at bustling Orchard Road, the downtown of Singapore. First knowing that, I was surprised at its location and thought it must be a small area since the Orchard is almost blocked with tall buildings and continuous flow of people and cars. However, only after I enter it, did I know my mistake; Istana has an area of more than 100 acres, like a big park.

       Upon entering Istana, there was a large green area and a large lake, called swan pond. So called because of swan once inhabited in it, swan lake is the biggest lake among the four lakes in Istana grounds. Actually, the first impression Istana gave me is not its royal style but the feeling of being close to nature. Walking through the green area, we arrived at the Centre Gate of Istana, which has a two doors gate. I wondered why there were two doors side by side of one gate; I guess maybe one is for going in and one is for going out. We walked in and there were a parrot exhibition with someone standing by to amuse audiences.

       Along the road leading to the Istana, there were many large green areas with trees and flowers. We two girls took a lot of photos on the grounds, besides the flowering shrubs and along the roads, jumping, laughing and posing many funny postures. We enjoyed ourselves in taking photos with the beautiful scenery and did not mind other visitors looking at us, which I think is the happiest part of this visit.

       Walking and taking photos we finally reached Istana, which was similar to some neo-Palladian style buildings, but it had a tropical layout like a Malay House. The white wall, statuesque columns, deep verandahs, louvered windows and paneled doors all highlighted the royal atmosphere. We were astonished by the greatness and magnificence of this building. The first floor was open to public and visitors can see the inside of Istana. We went into Istana and were shocked by the splendid and resplendent decoration. Some valuable gifts given by others countries were displayed and I found a picture drawing the panda was given by China. Gifts from different countries had different kinds of styles, which showed the culture of different countries. Unfortunately, taking photos was not allowed in the Istana; otherwise, I definitely took a lot of photos and showed them to my parents and friends.

       Going out from Istana, we continued taking photos around Istana, enjoying ourselves. We just spent half day to visit Istana. Though the time was short, we really had a lot fun together. Thanks to the Istana open house, we can have a sight of the presidential palace of a country. However, in China, we ordinary people have no chance to visit the so called presidential palace. Thus, if my parents and friends come to Singapore at the right time, I must lead them to visit Istana.