Singapore

We had planned to repeat last year’s visit to Singapore and ride the hop-on/hop-off bus because it was so enjoyable. But, we decided to change the plan and have a different experience.

The ship this year docked right in town beside a large shopping mall. We walked from the ship directly into the Mall, changed currency and bought a phone card. But it was already late in the Eastern US, so we couldn’t call most of our family. We did talk to some of our children and siblings who we knew would be up late. That finished, we headed off to the train station also right at the Mall. We boarded a very modern, spotless and fast subway to Little India.

On the recommendation of Prat from Cruise Critic roll call, we went right to Komala Restaurant, only to find that it was closed for renovations. Luckily, there was a sign telling us of a temporary location a couple of blocks away and around the corner. We climbed to the second floor of a building and bravely ordered the Indian meal we had been craving. We shared a plate of assorted dishes and each had a masala dosai. Anything we told them we liked, they rushed to kitchen to bring seconds. We rolled out of there stuffed!

Back on the subway, we went to Chinatown, where we had eaten last year and missed a famous Buddhist temple, which is one of the highlights of Singapore and not meant to be missed. We quickly found the Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple and then a couple of blocks away, the Buddhist temple we missed last year. The Buddhist Temple was large and wonderful.

We walked around the shops and stalls, checking out statues, fabrics, jewelry and clothing, but bought nothing. Back to the subway station and the train returning to the ship. Another good day ashore.