We arrived in Singapore yesterday morning, bedraggled and dying to crawl into a soft bed after what seemed like days of travel. Anthony Bourdain had specifically mentioned a lack of an authoritarian presence so I was rather taken aback with three armed figures who appeared to be shadowing our every move. Well, one does lose perspective when tired and so it was. They were definitely not interested in me in spite of my best efforts to attract their attention by nervously talking and laughing loudly and obnoxiously!

We are staying with an old and dear friend from India who I have not seen in 18+years. I had heard she had a magnificent place and it is truly stunning. Wrap around terraces that let in the welcome breeze, asian antiques and silver that make your toes curl up and a welcome that enveloped us in warmth and comfort.

Eager to set out, we defaulted to our favorite means of getting to know the city, the HOHO. In spite of advance notice, I was unprepared for the sweltering, cloying heat and humidity. Though it felt awesome after 20 degrees and snow and made my skin glow like I was 20 again, it was an abrupt and hard transition. We slogged it out and enjoyed the quick overview of this tiny city/state including the iconic Marina Sands. A violent afternoon thunderstorm gave us the perfect excuse to scurry home for a welcome jet lagged siesta.

And a great day ended with the best seafood meal I have had in a long time. We had Singaporean delicacies such as Pepper crab, chili shrimp, fried squid and honestly the most mouthwatering fried rice on earth at Long Beach/East Coast seafood center. Sitting by the waterfront as the lights of the cargo ships serenaded us and warm breezes caressed us, I could not think of a better place I would rather be!!

Adios till next time.