Singapore, Feb. 9

Today was the first of 2 days in Singapore. Rick Walesko (son of Flo and brother of Trish Garland) met me when the ship docked. I have met Rick when he visits family in Edgewater. When he learned of my trip, he volunteered to show me around. Since he has lived here for 4 years I couldn’t have asked for a better guide.

We traveled from the dock to his condo in one of the neighborhoods not on the normal tours. It was nice to get a sense of “real” life in Singapore. We then traveled to the center of town for lunch. Attached is a picture of the little “lunch counter”. This country is FILLED with small eating establishments (mostly small). Food is not expensive, so most people eat out daily. I had to chose a soup, main dish, 2 sides and drink. Don’t ask me what I was eating, all I can say it was DELICIOUS!! The man in the picture was the owner and main cook and couldn’t have been kinder or more appreciative when I asked to take his picture.

After lunch we went to Chinatown, visited a couple temples and the History Museum. The hour-long tour of the museum was worth every minute. I returned to the ship with much greater appreciation for the life and culture that makes up Singapore.

Thank you, Rick!!!