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In September 2006 my father passed away as a result of cancer. I remember reading all the places that my father had travelled to at his funeral and this had a powerful effect on my life.

A few days later, I resigned from my job, put my house on the market and started planning ‘Stuart’s Incredible Journey around the world’ and Singapore was my first stop. On Saturday 3rd February 2007 it was time to start my journey. As my girlfriend Sally drove me to Heathrow I was nervous but excited. I was about to leave all my family, pet dog (Monty) and friends at home, while I took ‘time out’ to see the world and evaluate my life.

I would be flying 41,590 air miles, on 21 flights, using 7 hire cars and 31 hotels, experience 2 major train rides, 2 white water rafting trips, 2 snowmobile adventures, whale watching and meet all those people involved in my journey over the next 3 months.

After my long flight, my first impressions of Singapore were excellent. My travelling had begun. Around 200 miles from the equator, it was hot but not unbearable. I remember the taxi driver giving me all the tips as we drove to my hotel. He warned me of the strict laws. The one I remember most is that you can be thrown in jail for dropping rubbish or spitting chewing gum on the pavement.

There is very little crime in Singapore and city was extremely botanical with lush bright plants everywhere I looked. I thought I had chosen well for my first destination.

I stayed in The Garden Hotel, around a mile from the popular shopping area of Orchard Road. I strolled for miles until I reached the famous Raffles Hotel, next to Raffles City shopping centre. I suppose I should have had a ‘Singapore Sling in Raffles, but I was dressed casual and thought it best to head back to my hotel for a swim on the roof.

My stay in Singapore was only 4 days on my way through to Thailand but I met lots of people and had a great time. I visited the largest fountain in the world! It’s called ‘The Fountain of Wealth’ and the signs say if you hold your right hand to catch the water, walk around the fountain 3 times and make a secret wish to do with wealth…it will come true. So a gullible Englishman went for it!

I remember walking through Chinatown and Temple Street people watching. Singapore people are proud of their city and are so friendly. It was a great start to my adventure.

Please feel free to call or email me if you would like to know more about Singapore.

Thank you for reading my Singapore Travel Journal, I hope you like my pictures.