Welcome to the '07 Asia excursion to Singapore and Thailand!

This archive isn't going to be quite like the others. Japan and China were a lot about seeing historical landmarks and learning about the history of the respective lands. Historically, Singapore is kindof boring, and Thailand is really known for what we were there for... the awesome nightlife. So, there aren't many pictures of old temples or pagodas on these pages. They're mostly cityscape and modern culture... and some beach. You'll probably learn a thing or two if you take the time to read... up to you.

The view from the 16th floor of the Golden Landmark Hotel, Singapore

The 5th floor pool and sundeck.

These were some small hi-rises near the hotel. Despite having a lot of green space and spacious roads, all homes in Singapore are built straight up. You don't really see houses in the traditional sense.

This small grave-yard wasn't supposed to be on our walk to the Bugis subway terminal... Lost 5 minutes into the trip. Oops.

We eventually found the subway and made our way to Chinatown. This was the first thing we saw after coming up out of the Subway. Now, it's not at all uncommon to see McDonald's in Asia, but Singapore is without a doubt the most westernized Asian nation. It was founded as a nation by the British, whose East India Trading Co. established it as a tax-free trading post for the spice trade. Before that, it was just another island under Malay rule. There are 4 national languages, but English is the one that's used for all signage. The language you hear most locals speaking is Mandarin.

This high-rise was built right on top of one of Chinatown's larger indoor shopping centers.

Looking down a Chinatown street market.

The shop houses are the only 'houses' you really find in Singapore. Businesses downstairs, residences upstairs.

The Chinese are far and away Singapore's largest ethnic group, and it's pretty obvious in a lot of their architecture, old and new. This building was cool. Too bad it was being refurbished while we were there.

Break time!