After 7 weeks in New Zealand and 2.5 months in Australia, it is about time I step foot in another country on this RTW trip of mine.

Singapore is the perfect place to get my feet wet in Asia before jumping into the deep end in Indonesia. I’m only here for three days but that’s just enough time to sample all that Singapore has to offer.

I know I’m in for a treat when I see that the airport toilets are back-lit. Fancy!

(That is such a Meyer thing to post about. I apologize. My grandfather is looking down proudly at any and all bathroom humor on his granddaughter’s blog.)

Upon arrival I drop my stuff off at the hostel and go for a walk.

First impressions: this city is colorful, clean, and HUMID. I’m drenched in sweat the moment I walk outside to explore Singapore’s impeccably cleaned streets.

The photogenic river snakes down to the main harbor; it’s lined with cafes, shops, and skyscrapers.

I’m in Singapore right around the time “the cronut” makes waves in New York City. According to this sign, here they call them “crodos”?

I don’t try one but I do duck into the cafe to enjoy a moment of air conditioning. Isn’t this wall of greenery pretty?

I push myself back outside and follow the river.

Hey look, it’s Merlion — Singapore’s mascot of a half-lion, half-mermaid spewing over a crowd of people.

(For the second time in this post I’ll apologize for being gross… but I can’t see Merlion without thinking of vomit.)

A shot of Merlion’s backside:

Belch.

Have I ever written about my deep affection for Asian toddlers? No? Then let me state it here for the record. They always seem to be having so much fun.

Me and the seasick Merlion.

The next day I take a boat cruise of the river and harbor. The sky is less hazy and better for photos.

That is Marina Bay Sands Resort on the left — I’ll be going there tomorrow for an official tour! I can’t wait to tell you about it.

There’s Merlion again. Must’ve had some bad fish for dinner last night.

I love this skyline:

That lotus flower-shaped building is the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands.

A few more shots from the river cruise:

Singapore, it’s been less than 24 hours and I’m already impressed. Can’t wait to explore Marina Bay Sands tomorrow!