Is this really Asia?
Wednesday, July 11, 2012 at 6:51PM
Melinda Murphy Hiemstra

Our first day here we immediately ventured out just to get the lay of the land - and to get out in the sunlight which is the best way to adjust to the time difference. By the way, we are twelve hours ahead of New York. So Monday noon there is Monday midnight here. 

Singapore is an amazingly clean city. It ought to be because there is a giant fine for just about everything. In fact, it's nickname is "Fine City." As I learn them, I'll share. It is immaculate - and also very Western feeling. I kind of wanted it to feel more - I dunno - different.

English is the primary language so all the signs are in English. There is a HUGE variety of cultures and peoples here so you hear English with a zillion different accents which is pretty damn cool.

The city is quite modern and there is construction EVERYWHERE. The architecture rivals anything in the US or Europe. 

We spent out first day getting phones and picking up supplies. Our helper had already bought a lot of groceries for our arrival. Yes, I said helper. More about Cheryl later. She also went with us on our first venture out which was amazingly helpful.

We live pretty close to the Prime Minister's residence which is hidden behind a heck of a gate and hedge. It's open on a big holiday coming up - can't wait to see inside!

These pix were taken on Orchard, not far from our apartment. I hear this area is the Times Square of Singapore.

 

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