Monday, August 1, 2011

Singapore

I am lucky, I am in many ways. I even think I am blessed. Not blessed in a religious way, even though religions make way in every way. I am blessed because I get to see many places overseas. Some of those places are hot and sunny, even exotic, while other places are outright paradisaical. Modern technology makes it possible to explore the dimensions of various cultures all around the world. What's even better is the fact that my mother works for the Royal Dutch Airlines, which allows me to travel on discount. By now, I've crossed the ocean countless of times and the end is far from near. 

When I was a kid I traveled a lot with my parents and my two brothers. Not to generate feelings of jealousy -such a thing is never needed nor constructive- but I've been to Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Little-Curaçao, Saint-Martin, Ibiza, Mallorca, Egypt, Gran Canaria, Shanghai, Beijing, Xi'an, Bangkok, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Tioman, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Kusadasi, Warsaw, Miami, New York, Orlando, Lima, São Paolo, Rio, Fortaleza, Canoa Quebrada and Cumbuco –among others. I didn't even include the “standard” places like England, France, Germany and Belgium, which only indicates how much I've been spoiled. Not that it's necessary a bad thing to be spoiled; it gets bad when you don't appreciate all that's been given to you. 

Last week I was in Singapore with my mother. It was totally unplanned. Matter of fact, I didn't even know I would go to Singapore until the night before the actual flight. I still remember the interaction. My mother was in the living room, packing her KLM suitcase for work. I was drinking a protein shake when I asked her “So where are you going to?” “To Singapore” she said. “How long will you stay?” “8 days” she responded. In Asian culture, the number 8 stands for prosperity. It's a lucky number with an auspicious meaning. In that moment I got a vision, a vision of myself in Singapore. It makes sense. “Can I come?” I asked without thinking. I was surprised how casually the words left my mouth. “Sure” she said even more casual than I did. Next thing I know I'm in the plane for 12 hours on my way to the Republic of Singapore. 

It's good to be in Asia again.

Singapore is known for its shopping malls. Closets full of brand new clothes and handbags, Alexander McQueen, Prada, Gucci, Chanel, D&G, BCBG, Versace, Louis and BeBe. It's all there and it hurts your wallet.
The devil wears Priba


The food in Singapore is delicious. From roasted ducks and fried frogs to mangosteens and dragon fruits.

As day turns into night, people change into their alter ego's. They become themselves even more. Some say it's because of the alcohol and the fun, others say it wouldn't matter. I say the events lead to a certain outcome which makes it all meant to be. Let's see what the night brings.