SIngapore Sling

Arrived lunchtime admid a tropical downpour - not that we were complaining as it seemed to take the edge off the stickiness. Managed to navigate our way to the hostel at Mt Emily (yes a mountain - at least 200 steps up to the hostel, not good for the mood).

Dropped the bags into our room, showered and decided to brave Orchard Road for a little retail therapy. It was more like we needed therapy after about half an hour - talk about overwhelming! Couldn't believe our eyes at the number of shops and people and that even in the underground walkways there are more shops just in case you have withdrawals between malls! Wandered about a little wide eyed and not really indulging in all that much purchasing - well and truly thrown in the deep end back in the western world. Had a nostalgic wander through little india and suprisingy enough we were both ready to sample some more curry delights!

Headed off to Mt Faber for a wander and panoramic views of the city. Had to laugh at the fact that we were part of such a minority actually walking anywhere - a local laughed at us later in the day saying 'Singaporeans don't walk'.he mercury was definately rising and the feet suffering a little in their first outing in shoes for three months - the resulting blisters were hideous and are still on my feet now (almost three weeks later). High rises as far as you could see but nice to be out in the fresh air, doing something active (albeit very sweaty). Wandered back into town and through Chinatown before heading to Clarke Quay area to meet old school friend of Colin's. Spent nice afternoon with Paul, Katherine and Freya suppping reasonably priced continental lager (7 pound a pint!!!)and chatting. Walked to the waterfront area before the feet completely gave out and i had to hobble back to the hostel.

Started early with a visit to the Botanic Gardens - Colin was especially loving the Ginger Garden!!! Laksa lunch and then chill out in the afternoon in an attempt to regulate the body temperature. Adventure tot he Night Safari that evening saw us both very excited. Scored a quiet audience with one of the tigers which was pretty special. Freaked out a little in the bat cage and were in total awe of the flying squirrel. Had some laughs in the gift shop - all in all a fun night!

Last day we missioned to the burbs for the science museum and exhibition on 20yrs of pixar animations. Saw Toy Story in 3D (anna's first time viewing) and were blown away by the creativity of the team involved in putting together each film. Such full on process and was really cool to see all the various stages of the process and the associated art work.

Back to pack our bags and headed to have dinner with Paul and Katherine before our late night plane to Australia.