We arrived into the cruise terminal around 7.30am after slowly moving through the bay as the sun came up over the top of a bank of cloud. Ships everywhere waiting to unload or take on cargoes, quite a maze!

We had decided to do our own thing here in Singapore. Just wander around for the day and take in some of the local vibe. Allthego had been here twenty years or so ago on a business trip, but otherwise we have only passed through on the way in a plane going somewhere else.

After getting ashore at about 10.30 am it was into the subway for a ride up to Orchard Rd, shopping heart of the city. At least the up market end. Very busy place among the modern buildings and traffic. Some great street art along the footpaths and building forecourts.

Managed to find the local Spotlight outlet. Not necessary to do any shopping for supples as half a suitcase of wools etc had been brought along by the crafter. Still an exciting experience for Slobro both here, and with the Jelly Babies.

The weather was hot and humid and one became thirsty quite quickly. We grabbed some coke and sat down in a hawker centre, Indonesian. Quickly moved on by an austere official, eaters only area. Not unlike our Aussie food courts!

A little further along it was a surprise to glance up a side street and see some of the old shophouses leading up to Emerald Hill. Very colourful, mostly bars and the like now.

Lunch called and we jumped onto the subway for Chinatown, a couple of stops away. Found an interesting little establishment in a backstreet mall. Enjoyed some chicken stir fry, cucumber and spring onion wraps. Also a fried pork and vegetables with rice. Washed down with some Tiger Lager.

After lunch it was back onto the subway for Raffles and a wander around the old colonial area. Finally, lobbed into the entrance to the Long Bar only to find a lengthy queue. It was around 3.40 and we needed to back on board by 5.30. Got to our seats eventually and enjoyed a Singapore Sling and the free peanuts. Scattered our share of shells on the floor in accordance with tradition.

Raffles has recently undergone renovation and the Bar has been relocated from somewhere else. Allthego remembers it being a larger space and far more rustic.

Time caught up with us and it was back to the subway and the ship. Slobro had been a bit anxious about the time. The three of us were a little weary after 12 km of walking around.