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Published: June 15th 2007
Singapore botanical gardens
Orchids so beautiful that even Steve enjoyed himself. We've spent the last 3 nights in Singapore and have had a great time. Singapore IS a western city - it's like we've landed back in the US and that was a welcome break after our travels in Vietnam and Laos. No, "Hello, you buy from me!" or haggling in shops. In fact, we've enjoyed the air conditioning and modern amenities so much that we stayed an extra night (we had originally booked 2). We spent most of the time wandering around the streets, visiting the museums (some of the best we've ever been to, like the Asian Civilizations Museum), going to Starbucks (of course!) and shopping (the summer clothes here are awesome!). We even found semi-reasonable accommodation (about $60US night) at the 7th Story Hotel (a backpackers hotel right near the Bugis station).
The city's reputation as clean and orderly is well deserved. There are signs everywhere warning you what to do and what not to do - such as "J-walking kills" and "Keep our bathrooms clean by drying your hands!". It's almost like being a kid again and having your mum constantly reminding you what to do all the time. While this was a bit unnerving at
The forbidden fruit
Hey you! Put the Durian down slowly and take two steps back! first, it does seem to result in a safe, orderly community - it's like they've taken the best parts of a wholesome US city and left out all the ugly, bad bits. What's also appealing about Singapore is how family-centric it is. Everywhere you go there are kids and tons of American/British mothers pushing strollers and having girlie lunches. Also, people here speak English everywhere, so it's very comfortable to visit and get around. It's a place we'd love to spend more time one day, even for a summer internship.
Despite our love for Singapore, the travel bug has bitten again and we're now in Kota Kinabalu (Malasia). This is on the eastern part of Malaysia on the island of Borneo. We've got some adventures planned for the next week and will probably be out of email range, but if you get a chance, take a look at these links to where we're visiting next:
Mt. Kinabalu (the highest in SE Asia) climb (fingers crossed that we can get accommodation):
Mt. Kinabalu Mabul Island diving (4 nights of diving heaven):
Sipadan Water Village P.S. The lie on the last blog post was the "Embalmed Cobra In Rice Whiskey Street "....all others
Do's and don'ts in Singapore
What it takes to tame Chinese public behavior. were true!
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vanessa griffiths
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Its nice that you guys got a break from haggling.. i would be worried about getting into trouble there as well! Love the photos, keep em coming:) I am vicariously living thru you both.