From the serenity and simplicity of Bhutan, I arrived in the very global and on the surface, very consumer-driven city-state of Singapore. Initially, it is a bit of a shock to the senses coming from a landscape of rice fields, mountains and monasteries to a canyon of steel and glass towers, well manicured avenues and high end shopping malls. However, upon a closer look there is a cultural soul.

I stayed at the Fairmont Singapore at Raffles City. Location is execllent as it is above a shopping mall with a subway stop and close to the central business district. Service is very friendly and warm and the fitness centre is expansive and well-equipped.