Home of the Singapore Sling and final thoughts on Singapore

23 September

This morning felt bitter sweet - I'm excited to see the family but sad to say farewell to the lads and to an incredible weekend in Singapore.  The problem was, how do I top such a phenomenal weekend?!  Well, after spending the weekend surrounded by engines and testosterone, I opted for a girly afternoon of shopping and dining at where-else but the home of the Singapore Sling- Raffles.

The building was beautiful with its colonial features and open terrace.  My Gran and Grandad had been for high-tea and I believe that AG (Auntie Gillian) had sampled their cocktail menu in the past.  I decided on the tea. It certainly wasn't Tetley but it was still pretty good considering the fact that most of Asia think Lipton is "proper tea".  I managed a bit of shopping and a few souvenirs before heading back to the hostel and bidding farewell to the lads.

In the evening, I went with the German crew to see the lightshow at Marina Bay, paid a trip to China Town, packed my bag and crawled into bed.  Tomorrow I fly to Perth for some well-earnt TLC!

Final thoughts on Singapore:

Food: You can get any cuisine here from Vietnamese and Thai to American/European!  I liked that about it, variety is the spice of life after all.

Shopping: It's certainly one of the better places I've been to but yet it's still pretty expensive for Asia.

Culture: There is certainly a lot to cover in a few days but beyond that I think I'd get a little bored.  3-5 days is plenty as a tourist.

Would I go back? Most definitely.  There are a few places that I didn't get chance to go to. I would certainly pick it as a stop-over again.

Next stop: Perth

Singapore - A weekend of non-stop F1 action

20 September

Having battled taxis, a bus and immigration, I made it to Singapore in good time.  Once thing I have noticed on this trip is the lack of information given to tourists.  As we arrived into the city centre, the bus pulled in, hurled our bags out and sent us our merry way.  I had no idea where I was and there wasn't even a taxi insight.  Luckily for me, a local spotted that I was a little lost and guided me to the metro station.  Having used these systems a number of times now, I found my way fairly easily.  

I'd booked 5 nights in The River City Inn in Clarke Quay.  Given its glowing reviews on tripadvisor, I was expecting a lot and it definitely met my expectations.  It was 5 min walk to the metro but more importantly 10 min walk to the circuit.  The negative was the 2 flight walk-up but I got over that fairly quickly. At first I thought I was the only one going to the race, but it soon became apparent that there were quite a few of us.  Upon arrival, I met a German couple who were also heading out to get their tickets/lanyards. The girl had bought her bf the tickets for his birthday - cute huh?  We collected them from a rather up market hotel next too the town hall and the main entrance.  They provided you with some much needed ear plugs and Information pack.  As we stepped through the gate, I heard the first roar from a V8 engine.  I remember smiling and thinking to myself "you definitely made the right decision".  That sound just gives me goosebumps all over.  Before sitting down to watch practice 1 and 2 , I went to the stand to buy a cap and top, McLaren of course!  Yes, I'd become a super-fan...

21 September

That morning we all sat at the breakfast table and analysed the practice sessions.  It was so nice to be around like-minded enthusiasts many of whom had travelled from Europe or Oz, just for the race.  Many people say that this race is special.  I'm not sure whether it's the location or because it's a night race but they are spot on.  It's honestly like no other.

Before heading to qualifying, I took a wander around Singapore to get my bearings and decided to buy a SIM card.  In reality it was only a tenner, but it meant that I could steam the commentary.  I also bought a new SD card for my camera and stumbled across M&S where I stocked up on Percy Pigs...for the kids of course!

Qualifying was close but as predicted Vettel was as on pole with Rosberg closely in 2nd.  My seats were perfect as I was close to the track but I also had a glorious view over Marina Bay.  However, I wish I'd been on a corner as taking photos was pretty tough at times.  Luckily for me, the other lads took some great shots too.  In the evening, we went to watch The Killers play their set.  As usual, I pushed my way to the middle and danced like a crazy person until the early hours.

22 September

After spending the morning analysing the qualifying results, I took a wander to Marina Bay and one of the most famous hotels in Singapore- Marina Bay Sands.  Unlike the quaint features of Raffles, this hotel consists of 3 towers including a casino and a shopping centre.  It also has a roof top pool the length of buildings with a view to die for.  It really is quite something.  Is it worth the $25 fee?!  Yes but there are ways and means around it. I went to the concierge desk and ask for a ticket to the roof top bar. As with most of the places in Singapore, there was a dress-code and providing you adhered to it, the entrance fee was free.  The views were memorable and the pool was quite something too!

In the evening, it was time for the main event- the race!  I met up the Perth lads to watch the Porshe race then I hung around to watch the drivers parade.  It was so strange being up close to some of my idols but one I'll never forget.  The race was unsurprisingly won by Vettel meaning it was time to drown our sorrows!  We headed for the arena to watch Rhianna and managed to spot the German lads (Seb and Andre) in the crowd.  After dancing the night away, we all agreed to end of weekend in style- drinking beer on the famous "drinking bridge" followed by more beer and dancing at a bar in Clarke Quay.  Clay Andre and I walked to get a maccies at 5.30am not realising the breakfast menu had started thus disappointed faced all round but a good end to a great weekend.

Final thoughts on Malaysia

So what are my final thoughts on Malaysia:

Food: Malaysian food is a tough one for me.  I love some bits and hate others.  For the first time on this trip, I've actually not enjoyed all the food I ate.  This being said, I've found so dishes that I'd definitely eat again.

Culture: Although I only got to spend time in KL, I still experienced the culture.  I particularly enjoyed the Batu Caves.  

Kuala Lumpa:  I'm not going to lie, I hadn't heard great things about the capital but to my surprise, I loved it.  It's busy but not crazy, simple to navigate and easy to navigate.  Everything is on your doorstep!

Highlight: Other than seeing the beautiful Katie and meeting up with my new friends Danny and Dellyn, it would be the KL tower.  Spectacular building and a great view of the city.

Would I go again?  Most certainly.  I wish I had managed to get to the islands and explore other parts of the country but I plan to go back again, so that's for my next trip.

Next stop: Singapore

My week in Kuala Lumpa

13 September

I took the early morning flight to KL.  Having arrived and cleared customs safely, I took a cab into town.    It was quite a way from the airport so I inevitably fell asleep.  The hostel was clean and situated on one of the most famous streets for food in Malaysia, which resulted in food then bed!

14 September

I spent the morning wandering around the district of Bukit Bintang area of KL.  As with most cities, it's fairly built up but unlike Bangkok, it wasn't busily.  In the afternoon, I met up with Danny and Dellyn, a couple I'd met at the cookery school for drinks.  Dellyn and I then decided that we deserved a little bit of luxury and got our nails done.  It's the first time I've felt like a girl in a long time and nice it was too.

15 September

Today, we went up the Twin towers. They are two tall towers with a walking platform in between.  You not only have viewing access from there but also from floor 89.  I may have done this a few times now but I think its one of the best ways to see a city.

16 September

After the kind lady in Pai lost most of my clothes, it was time to go shopping.  Clothes may not be as cheap as they were in Cambodia and Thailand but they will still be a downsight less than in Singapore. In the the evening, I took a cab to meet Katie.  I know Katie via Alyn, a friend from home and we've grown increasingly closer as time has passed.  Katie is from KL so was the perfect guide to show me around.  She was on a flying visit from the UK, which just so happened to be the time I was in Malaysia too.  The original plan was to go to a Chinese/Malaysia wedding but sadly that didn't come off.  Katie had to deal with some urgent business in London and then we got lost!  We ended the evening having traditional Malaysian food in Bukit Bintang.

17 September

The only point that is worth mentioning about today is that I tried a fruit called 'Duran' and...it was vile!!!  It is green and not only smells but tastes of smelly feet.  Never ever again!

19 September

It's my last night in KL so Katie and I decided to head to the Batu Caves.  After a short detour we arrived just after sunset.  Upon approach, you are greeted by a large golden Buddha and 200 or so steep steps and they were steep!!  How Katie managed to do it in heels, I will never know.  Thankfully the view more than made up for it.  After wandering round the caves for 30 mins or so, it was time to head back into town.  I met up with Dellyn for a few quiet drinks and girly chat.  The perfect way to bid farewell to KL.

My last few days and final thoughts on Thailand

12 September

I took the boat from Phi Phi to Phuket.  It was a large almost cruise ship style boat.  The crossing was nice and simple and we made good time.  Upon arrival, I searched for a taxi and avoiding all the illegal toutts.  It turns out that they all worked for one company.  As with most things in Asia, I was told that I'd have to pay a single persons excess to travel alone.  Luckily for me, a lovely German couple offered to share a cab with me!

I spent the evening wandering around the city centre and eating Pad See Ew which is a type of Thai noodle dish.  Phuket wasn't the place for me, seedy and distasteful.  Certainly not a place I intend on returning to.

So this brings my Thai adventure to an end, so what are my final thoughts:

1. Bangkok- an enjoyable city to spend a reasonable amount of time in.  There are so many different areas, don't just stick to the tourist traps.  The skyline at night is something I will never forget!

2. Food- The food is better than I could've ever imagined, particularly the street food.  At first I was a little wary but in fact it's often cleaner and much nicer!  The cooking course was also a definite highlight.

3. Culture- There is so much more to thailand than just party, party!  One of my highlights was certainly elephant trekking near Kanchanaburi and the temples around Chiang Mai.

4. The islands- Easily the nicer islands were Railay and Maya.  2 places I would certainly visit again.  I hope that I can spend more time on the other islands next time I go back!

5. Unforgettable moments - my birthday in a sky bar, sitting with tigers, riding an elephant, cooking class and my trip to Maya.

Next stop: Kuala Lumpa, Malaysia 

Koh Phi Phi - island hopping, snorkelling and finally my trip to "The Beach"

9 September

It's time to move to my next island, Koh Phi Phi, an island thats been described as sun, sea, glorious beaches and lots of partying.  I took the ferry from Ao Nang which took approximately 45 mins.  As soon as I arrived, I knew partying was definitely on the agenda!  I'd decided not to book a hostel as I'd been told it was pretty easy to find one upon arrival and they were not wrong.  At the port there were stalls everywhere advertising places to stay.  I opted for the cheapest one on the island- Phi Phi Backpackers.  They even provided me with a taxi (a cart like you use on the pontoon at the Marina) so that I didn't have to carry my bag.  The accommodation was basic with bunk beds.  This being said I was one girl in a room full of guys.  Luckily for me, they are probably the nicest group of lads I've met - Angel from Spain, Cristian from Columbia and a guy from Germany.

Angel and I decided to make the most of our first night and walked up to the viewpoint to watch the sunset.  It was magical!  In the evening, we wandered down to the beach to watch the fire-throwing before heading off for an early night.

10 September

The day didn't start well, the lads woke up late meaning that we arrived on the boat...late!  The other passengers were pretty peeved to say the least.  Once we set sail, we motored to our first island- Bamboo island.  As this was a snorkelling trip, one would assume that the organisers would provide the necessary equipment, no such luck; this is Asia, nothing runs smoothly.  Between the group, we each managed to get a swim and see the coral reef.  The water was freezing and it wasn't the warmest of days.  Still we persevered on.  Our tour guide was extrovert to say the least.  As it approached lunch time, we moored on the island known as the National park, where we we told we needed to pay extra.  It was pouring it down with rain, so as a group we made the decision to eat our lunch and therefore not go on the island.  This made our guide furious as obviously he was not going to make any additional money.

The weather got progressively worse and at one point I almost asked him to take us back, particularly when we spotted an over-turned long-tail boat, no bigger than ours.  Thankfully the storm passed and we stopped in a beautiful cove, just shy of the famous Maya beach.  The guide suddenly cut the engine and refused to the us any further without his money. Most if not all of us had only done the trip to see Maya.  As a group we made the decision to pay him.  Obviously I disagreed with paying extra, but sometimes you need to look at the bigger picture; we were stranded on a boat in the middle of no where, what's an extra tenner!

We moored in a another cove just around the corner and were told we had to swim to the shore.  The water was still pretty rough so Hayley and I decided to opt for life-jackets.  I'm not sure if that made it easier or harder to swim.  We scrambled the rocks and walked the 5 or so mins to the opposite side of the island.  As we turned the corner, all I remember thinking is Wow!  This is paradise.  The water was crystal clear, the beach was covered in soft, golden sand and the view was just spectacular.  Some people had told me it was dirty and a waste of time.  I'm glad I opted to go and see it for myself.  

On the way home, we stopped at Monkey beach, which unsurprisingly was a beach full of monkeys.  Although, it wasn't as impressive as some of the other beaches I'd visited, it was a great opportunity to get up close to the monkeys, even if they were a little greedy!

Railay - My first taste of paradise

7 September

I woke up earlier than everyone else and decided to head into Ao Nang.  After finding the bus port and buying my ticket, I jumped aboard my first long-tail boat.  What an awesome experience!  It was still early so the sun wasn't too hot, perfect weather for me!  I took Raj's advice and wore my sandals as the skipper made us jump into the sea and walk to the shore.  First impressions of the island?  Wow wow wow!

I sat in a cafe on the beach and admired the view.  A German lady spotted that I was on my own and asked if she could join me for a coffee.  It was quite nice to have some female company.  After finishing the necessary introductory chit chat, we planned our afternoon.  Not long after, I spotted the guys and gals from my hostel and they joined us.  The water was perfect, the sun was out and I even played a few games of football with the lads.

In the afternoon, we took the kayaks out around the island.  This is definitely the best way to see it.  At about 5ish, we all agreed to head back.  What we didn't realise was that a storm was on its way.  Well, it was too late to come back, we were already on the boat.  The sea was rough, the rain was pelting it down and as a result, we were all drenched.  My only concern was my ipad which was in my liner, luckily.  One of the lads put all the electrics together in the liner and put the bag under his jumper.  Thankfully this worked and all was ok.  We arrived at the shore, freezing cold and soaked through.  The only thought on my mind now was a long hot shower.  

As evening approached, we headed down the road for some dinner before grabbing some beers.  We'd promised the manager of our hostel that we'd attend his gig that evening.  Good job we did too as we were the only ones there!  After a few rounding of drinking games (Thai ones that is) it was time to head back.  We made it as far as the next group of bars, where the boys played pool and the girls danced.  I even met a lad from Wrexham, very random! 

The photo above is the Thai drinking game.  You use a cigarette to make a hole in the cloth.  Whoever is the one to let the coin drop, drinks a shot or drink of the groups choice.