"Inspiration is all it takes"

Niece and nephew went to River Hongbao in Marina, after a hiatus of 2 years. The impression the exhibits on the floating platform gave me was, I think they have cut down budget for this annual fair. The stalls selling food and other stuff were obviously lesser. The exhibits on the platform were not that many, apart from the usual 12 animals, one huge ox fronting our city business district skyline, the Chai Shen Ye (Wealth God), some soldiers and canons, a pagoda and some figurines of generals (er, I am not sure what they were). The way the exhibits were displayed was a little scattered. Even the background of the IR casino in construction was messy. The skyline as well as the Flyer did not enhance the grand feeling and picturesque view.

And one photo which I took of our skyline, made me especially uncomfortable. Despite the breathtaking view of our modern buildings, there was a dark cloud hovering and flanking over our business district for the longest time. The waters were calm, but seemed too still for my comfort. I did not feel the vibrancy which should be imminent with our hustle and bustle of the city, and especially during CNY period and before the commencement of the Chingay Parade at the Padang nearby.

The kids asked me at the end of the 30-minute visit, "like that only ah?". We need something more interesting to attract the visitors if this is going to be an annual thingy. If the exhibits next year are going to be similar as this year, I would not bother to visit again. Perhaps they should have organised some performances/concerts or have some celebrities be ambassadors to attract audiences, have some contests and competitions like a Dragon boat race on the river. Or construct a special Chai Shen Ye statue nearby ON the waters and organised short boat rides for people to reach the statue and be blessed at sea by the Chai Shen Ye. Or even have some well-known retailers conduct their warehouse sale at (temporary) premises nearby (Singaporeans love sales, right?). Or engage well-known restaurants to have dine-in facilities at a special makan street at special prices for those few days the River Hongbao is on. Singaporeans love to eat and a bargain. Maybe we can have a Cats competition as well (because next year is the year of the Tiger). Or we can invite some real white tigers from the zoo there as a special program). I may be babbling nonsense here, but we need new ideas to attract the CNY crowds lah.

Love this pix I took of nephew. Perhaps it says it all, "Inspiration is all it takes". The people behind River Hongbao needs some inspiration and new ideas, man.