Singapore
Day 1
I am a convert for the online check in process...Its genius. I walked straight past the hoards of technically deficient, deposited my bag and went straight through to the Departure lounge. Took all of 3 minutes. Gone are my years of having to get there 4 hours early to try and get a seat with any kind of legroom.
13 hours later and I arrived in Singapore. Now most of you know now that Singapore was never on my agenda. British Airways forced me in to it due to Cabin Crew strikes. However, they've just sent me an e-mail saying that the strike has been called off and I can return to my original booking if I like...Hmm thanks, but thats going to be kinda complicated now.
Having said all that BA have given me a 5* hotel right in the centre for next to nothing. Its proper posh, I darent touch anything. All the staff know my name...and thats starting to freak me out. Particularly this morning when I bumbed into a cleaner in the corridor, who said 'Good morning Mr Garner'.
Anyway first stop was food...I'm in the middle of Chinatown, so it wasnt hard to find anything. I'm about 3 minutes from a large night market, which is just a free for all foodwise. It was a bit daunting and whilst I was just about to leave and find somewhere a little less chaotic, I was accosted by some men who were trying to convince me to get some food in their restaurant. Apparently it was an Indian restaurant and they knew that English men couldnt resist a curry. I replied in a typically English way, that I hadnt come all the way to Singapore and wander round china town to have a curry. It turns out they were actually Nepalese and undertsood my predicament. They decided that they would cook me their favourite Nepal dish from scratch. I could really refuse. Partcularly when they offered Beer. It was pretty devine actually...I'm pleased they accosted me now.
Day 2
Ok I'm struggling with the Jetlag a bit...
Decided to explore today...Wander around the city in crazy heat, taking various pictures of the Skyline and random buildings. I tried to get in The Raffles Hotel, but was kicked out for looking like a ruffian... Apparently my legs offended an old lady...*#%$!
A taxi driver pulled up beside me and offered to take me 'to the shops for $3'. I very politely said thanks but I didnt need to go to the shops and I was happy walking. ' No no I take you to the shops for $3' he replied. Again I shook me head and tried to walk on. 'Ok I take you to the shops and throw in a lady as well'. That got me a bit stunned actually and I just looked at him blankly. "Ok for $3 I take you to the shops and get you a lady..I have beer in the car...you can drink on the way'. Needless to say I managed, eventually, to get out of the situation...I wasnt that intrigued to find out want sort of lady $3 can get you in Singapore.
Anyway thats my first post done...Tomorrow night I fly to Sydney..for 2 days before Julie and Kieran arrive on Saturday. Not got any accomodation sorted yet...Thats job number 1 when I get there.
I'll post some pictures when I can work out how to do it.
