
Student in Singapore: My Asia Reflection Series
Hello and welcome to my Asian Reflection Series
Back in 2013, I studied abroad in Singapore. That year changed my life. Not only did I experience living in another country for the first time in my life, but I also travelled across Asia as a student on a budget, visiting places I never imagined I’d see at just 20 years old.
From taking night buses across Vietnam to hiking in Cambodia, dancing at the Thailand Full Moon Party, and even staying with family in Terengganu, Malaysia, taking trips in Asia shaped who I am today as a traveller. And I really want to share them with you.
This series is my way of looking back: sharing the stories, lessons, and honest reflections from those adventures. They aren’t polished guides for travelling today, but I’ll share little gems that can still help you on your own journeys.








Why Singapore? Why Asia?
When I had the choice of Hong Kong, France (with French language requirements), Washington DC, or Singapore, I originally chose Hong Kong. But something about Singapore pulled me in. I wanted a challenge, something different. How many Black British women do you know who packed up and moved to Singapore in 2013? Not many, I’m sure. I needed to get out of my comfort zone, and Singapore was it.
Sharing my stories from this time hasn’t been easy. It was one of the most vulnerable chapters of my life. But I want to remind you that travel is not linear. It doesn’t require wealth or perfection. You don’t need to have it all figured out. If you really want to travel, you’ll find a way.
Someday, I’ll return to all of these Asian countries (maybe with a few brands or two) and experience them again in the present day. But for now, these memories are my real, raw and honest truth from when and where I was just starting out. I’ll also be sharing what I’d do differently if I went back today.
The Posts in This Series
- Arriving in Japan Alone: What It Taught Me About Travel Confidence
- Travelling to the Philippines: Puerto Princesa, El Nido and Manila
- Thailand Travel Guide: What I Noticed That Would Help Solo Female Travellers
- Thailand Full Moon Party: Would I Still Recommend It in 2023?
- My Honest Experience Visiting Terengganu, Malaysia (2013)
- A Weekend in Bintan Island (Indonesia)
- A Weekend in Tioman Island (Malaysia)
- Hong Kong in 72 Hours: Things to Do on a Short Trip
- My Short But Memorable Experience in Laos









Why This Series Matters
These posts are for anyone who:
- Wants a real, honest take on travelling Asia as a student on a budget or a first-time traveller.
- Loves nostalgic, reflective stories (not just the typical polished “10 things to do” lists that we see everywhere today *eyerolls).
- Is curious about what travel looked like back in 2013, compared to now, for a Black woman navigating it too.
Explore More
Welcome to the Student in Singapore: My Asia Reflection Series. This series is just one tiny part of my wider platform – MyBreakingViews. Alongside these reflections, you’ll also find detailed travel guides, cultural tips, and inspiration for your next solo adventure. You can either visit the website or subscribe for more.
Thank you for joining me in my reflections. I can’t wait to share all my memories and experiences with you.
As always, speak soon,
Adebola MBV x