A convenient stop for visitors en route to the Singapore Zoological Gardens, the Mandai Orchid Garden was set up in 1950 and is Singapore's oldest and largest commercial orchid garden. Colourful varieties of orchids are showcased all year round, amidst water gardens of floating water lilies. Watch orchid tenders at work and gain an insight into the various methods for cultivation. Visitors can purchase gift-wrapped orchids or even have them delivered to international destinations through the 'Orchid Gift Box Service'. There is a restaurant-cum-bar on the premises, which goes by the name Vanilla Pod - it offers a wonderful view of both the Water Garden and the Vintage Garden. A new bar is also in the process of being set up; Mokara will open up in January of 2006.