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Travel Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia in 10 Days

So you want to know how to travel to Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia in just 10 days!

I always believe if you can you can, kill 2 birds with one stone – you should. I personally don’t like birds; in fact, I am terrified of them, I run the other way when I see them. Literally!

For the purpose of this blog, I am sure you already know by the title that I am not talking about birds.    

To ensure this works well you need to do the following:
  • You need to plan well ahead  – like 3 months before
  • Make good use of public transport   
  • Be prepared to fly with Air Asia
  • Be sure to have three different currencies   
  • Only stay short periods of a time
  • Lots of Sleep

Earlier last year, I travelled over to the sunny side of Singapore for a close friend’s wedding in Malaysia, Johor Bahru. While I was planning my trip to Malaysia, I decided that it would be good to ‘kill 2 birds with one stone’ and fly out to Bali for a few days. Want to know how? Read on!

How to travel to Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia in just 10 days

Day 1: Arrival in Singapore

I arrived in Singapore late afternoon, without my luggage! Upset was an understatement! I mean my eyelashes and all my hair products were in that suitcase! So I couldn’t slay on my first day, but I did take the pictures above!

It was agreed that my suitcase would arrive in Malaysia, which is where I was heading that very night! I was given S$70 so despite the delay, happy to use the money for my taxi journey to my friend’s house. We had dinner and got ready to head over to Malaysia.

Day 2: Malaysia

The journey from Singapore to Malaysia was horrendous! We were in traffic for at least 3-5 hours. This worried me slightly because I had agreed to meet the cargo driver for my suitcase and I thought I might miss it. At around 4 am we arrived at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru with just enough time for my suitcase to arrive! Yeah me!

A few hours later…

The morning was the henna party! This is a Malaysian party before the wedding ceremony. There are lots of food, henna designs, talking and laughing. The night ended with a rehearsal and an early night for the big wedding day!

Day 3: Malaysian Wedding

Dulang girls - Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia in just 10 days

The wedding day was an early start with hair and makeup. I was asked to carry a stand into the room which you can watch on my Instagram highlights. The day went along with wedding ceremonials, music and food!

Day 4: Last day in Malaysia

On my last day, I was invited to my friends family home to indulge in some rich Malaysian food! The night ended with us celebrating the new couple with the new family.

Malaysia
Malaysian Home

At around 11 pm I decided that it was time to head back to Singapore. I will be writing a piece on how to cross the border so subscribe and stay up to date.

Day 5: Back in Singapore

Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia in just 10 days
Singapore

I headed back to Singapore on my ones and decide to go and do more tourists things. It was good for me to experience the Singaporean tourist sites I missed as a student. Also read – 11 Things To Do In Singapore.

Day 6: Catch a flight to Bali

I headed back to Singapore airport for my solo adventure of the year – Bali! My arrival was quite overwhelming if I am honest with you – looking for my taxi driver was hectic with no wifi! Anyways I arrived in the afternoon using AirAsia and caught a Gojeck to my hotel! There were lots and lot of traffic so I wasn’t able to get to my hotel until the early evening. My first night was spent with a massage, facial and dinner.

Day 7: Touring Ubud

Woke up very early at 5 am to get my HudaBeauty Eyelashes on! To head out and see the most Instgrammable places in Bali which were booked with FoverVacation for just £70!! Here is a list of things I got up to while on the tour – Bali, Indonesia: My Experience, an Itinerary of What I did Part 2

Day 8: A trip to Semiyank

Woke up early to have breakfast by the pool and get another massage! I had made a friend the day before on my tour who had invited me to meet her at Potatoe Head Beach Club. We ended the day in both KYND and Bali Bola! I was so full up in the evening that I was glad to head home and have a nap!

Day 9: Goodbye Bali & Hello Singapore

Malaysia Singapore Indonesia 10 Days

It was my last day in Bali so I headed out to the Monkey Forest and Ubud Palace. By mid-afternoon, it was time for me to head home so-called on my taxi friend and caught a short flight back to Singapore.

Day 10: Last day in Singapore

My last day in Singapore was a chilled one heading out to the local restaurants and buying souvenirs.

Travel Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia in 10 Day

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6 Traditions You Need to Know About Singapore

Singapore is known to be a fine city, so when I knew I would be moving to there, I made sure that I learn all its laws and traditions. 

I have already shared the laws but today, I wanted to go into a little more detail and share a few more traditions and cultures I learnt when living in Singapore. I have already shared similar cultures and traditions over at ElleMacUK’s website. Be sure to check it out – Customs And Traditions I Learnt In – Singapore

6 Traditions You Need to Know About Singapore

1. It’s Tradition in Singapore to leave your shoes at the DOOR! 

While staying in my halls, I learnt that keeping my shoes on when entering someone home was a big NO-NO! I recall being screamed at when I walked into my friend’s dorm with my flip flops on! I assure you that I never made such a mistake to wear shoes in someone’s room again!  

They don’t wear shoes in their rooms or houses. So please take off your footwear before going into anyone’s place, it’s an absolute MUST!

Also, take off your shoes before entering any temple or mosque too! 

ME AT NUS IN SINGAPORE

2. Give your elders respect  

It was interesting to see how my customs and traditions of living in a Nigerian household would apply so well when I was living in Singapore. You don’t have to be related to everyone, but you can show some politeness. Calling an older “aunty” and “uncle” is a sign of respect for Singaporeans.  

This took me a long way when living in Singapore calling the staff aunty got me lots of goodies like free food etc. 

3. Keep to the left of the escalator  

I’m sure standing on the left is not unusually expected for everyone. Well, except for those that live in the UK like me – yes this is a thing!

When you’re on the escalator, follow this rule religiously.

Rule: The right side of an escalator is for people walking up the steps. The left is for people content with standing and waiting.

If you’re slow, keep to the left. Singaporeans are notoriously known for walking at the speed of lightning. Trust me on this one! 

4. Make sure you Q (wait inline) 

Singaporean queue for everything! Literally everything!! It can be for any of the following:

  • Trains
  • Bus
  • McDonald’s 
  • Hello Kitty toys, 
  • iPhone 11s, 
  • Favourite hawker food
QUEUES IN SINAGPORE

The queue is done in a very orderly fashion simply because they can get quite long. Soo there’s one thing you shouldn’t ever do – and I’m sure I don’t have to tell you?

Don’t

Cut any queues!!!

I mean I think that is pretty standard, but trust me when I say some people don’t get the memo!

If you see a really long queue and you’re not sure why people are queuing. Just join the line. Chances are, there’s something worth queuing for. 

5. Give up your seat 

Anyone sitting in reserved seats should be aware of elderly, disabled, pregnant women or young children who may need the seat. Failure to give up your place to those who need it more than you is another big NO-NO. 

GIVE UP YOUR SEAT IN SINGAPORE

6. Beware of Acronyms  

Sir, go by BKE or PIE?… Got ERP along CTE now, can ah?” – Every taxi driver. 

It’s undeniable that Singapore is a land of acronyms and abbreviations. 

From 4D to URA, these acronyms are incomprehensible to most foreigners. But with time and practice, you’ll be using acronyms and abbreviations like a local. Honestly, I was surprised by how much I picked up living there. If you don’t know what something means, it’s always a good idea to ask. 

6 Traditions You Need to Know About Singapore

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11 Things To Do In Singapore

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There are so many things you can do when in Singapore. As a student living in Singapore. I never felt that I was able to cover everything. However, in my time living there, I can honestly say that I learnt that there are a few things you must do when in Singapore.

11 Things You Must Do When In Singapore 

The Singapore Flyer 

The Singapore Flyer is the world’s most giant observation wheel. A one-of-a-kind experience. It was built over a 3-story terminal building, and is 150 metres in diameter, 165 metres high, and travels at 0.21m per second (it is some 30 metres taller than the famous London Eye!). 

I went on this in my first month of living in there (the picture below). You get to see such beautiful city sights like the river, Raffles Place, Marina Bay, Empress Place and the Padang. 

Location: 30 Raffles Ave, 039803 / Open: Daily from 8.30 am to 10.30 pm 

Raffles Hotel

This luxurious colonial-style hotel has a long history dating back to 1887 and has become one of the most famous landmarks in Singapore. Stay here or go with a group or by yourself for the Raffles Bar experience and order yourself a Singapore Sling. 

Location: 1 Beach Rd, 189673

Head over to China Town  

I truly love exploring a Chinatown when in a new country! It has my favourite thing in the world – food! China Town has the most authentic Chinese food you will taste! There are countless restaurants and hawker food vendors to choose from. 

It’s also great for shopping – many swear you’ll find the cheapest souvenirs here. 

Marina Bay Sands AKA MBS 

The S$5.5 billion Marina Bay Sands complex is the focal point of the bay. Many of the great things to do and see in the area revolve around this monumental building and resort, such as the Science Museum, Casino and various shopping, dining and nightlife options. 

You must head over to Marina Bay around 8 pm to catch the spectacular light show, which illuminates the water as well as several iconic landmarks in the city centre. 

Visit Ce LA VI 

When I lived in the Lion City, this club was actually called Ku De Ta. It is a club on the 57th floor and has to be the most amazing views! This place is excellent for a night out with some crazy music! 

Ce LA VI
Location: 1 Bayfront Avenue Hotel Tower 3, Level 57 Marina Bay Sands, SkyPark 018971/ Open: Daily from 12 pm to 4 pm 

Gardens by the bay  

The famous Supertree structures offer an impressive skywalk over the gardens. Go here for an Instagram photo and more beautiful sites of the city. 

Location: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, 018953 / Open: Daily from 5am to 2 am 

Singaporean Zoo  

I did the Singapore Zoo, with my family when I was living in Singapore and loved every single minute of it. It was first called the Singapore Zoological Gardens or Mandai Zoo but is now known as the Singapore Zoo. 

Location: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826/ Opens: 8.30 am to 6.30 pm 

Botanic Gardens 

I first visited the famous Singapore Botanic Gardens as a student. I loved it so much that I had to go back last year. It is a 160-year-old tropical garden located at the fringe of Singapore’s Orchard Road shopping district and is a must-visit. 

botanic gardens Singapore
Location: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569/ Open: Daily from 5am to 12 pm 

Sentosa

Sentosa isn’t my favourite place in Singapore, and I would say it is mainly for tourist, clubbing, shopping and food. It has a very man-made vibe going on but is good again for some fun times. You can easily access all the attractions via MRT in 15 minutes from downtown Singapore. 

Jewel Changi Airport

The Jewel Changi Airport was not built when I lived in Singapore. It opened in April 2019 and has been a huge attraction ever since! It is a nature-themed entertainment and retail complex on the landside of Changi Airport, Singapore.

Location: Airport Boulevard Terminal 2, Level 3 Departure Transit Lounge/ Open: 24 hours
A few other things to also check out:
  • Head over to the museums.
  • Universal Studios

Thank you for taking the time to have a read. Is there anything I missed that should be included – let me know in the comments below. 

Read more:
11 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN

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7 Things To Consider Before Moving Abroad

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Now I know I haven’t moved abroad for work or anything, so I do feel slightly cheeky writing a post on things you should know before moving abroad.

But. And there is always a but!

I still believe my points are worth considering from my experience as a study exchange student. Plus, I do plan to move abroad again, one day. And I think it’s always wise to have some tools before you consider moving abroad.

As you’ve heard me say a million times before ‘moving abroad was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made’. I feel like it was a period of my life that I learnt so much about myself. It’s when I felt like I became whole and really believed I was capable of doing absolutely anything.  

7 Things to think about before moving abroad  

THERE WILL BE A LOT OF SELF DOUBT  

Unfortunately, this is inevitable. When I moved abroad, I always doubted myself, mainly as a young black female. And (at the time) had never even lived out of her family’s home before. I was first worried about how I would be taken in Singapore. Everything I did caused doubt.

China Town

Honestly, moving abroad was and is one of the most humbling experiences. I was forced to come out of my shell overnight with very little support (that’s my opinion – which I am happy to discuss at a later date).

But moving abroad is an experience to meet people and live after a while the self-doubt will literally disappear.

MAKING FRIENDS MAY BE DIFFICULT 

I personally didn’t have a massive issue with this because as you can imagine, everyone wanted to be my friend haha! I’m joking moving abroad can be quite daunting when you don’t know anyone on the other side.

As an adult or young person, should I say, making friends can be somewhat much more tricky, and if you are an introvert even harder – in my opinion? There can also be lots of misunderstandings, you know people learning about themselves. I had this trouble while living in Singapore, and it caused a bit of friction between a few friends and me. 

Tip: I would suggest starting with an interest, I was surprised how music was an icebreaker for me when making friends in Singapore. I seemed to find similar interest with people that loved Beyonce! If you can, I would also suggest using Instagram and Facebook.  

N.B don’t be afraid to ghost someone; people appear their best selves when you first meet them. If you don’t think you click with someone, do not hesitate to keep it moving! 

YOU’LL GET FRUSTRATED LIKE ALL THE TIME  

Anyone who tells you that moving abroad is easy is just lying! Moving abroad can be quite overwhelming, and if you lose your cool – it’s understandable. If you are moving over as a student, this can be reasonably straight forward, but if you’re doing this on your own – it can be quite frustrating!  

It doesn’t stop there you then have to think about getting a new sim-card (if you already have a phone) then signing up to a new bank, the money you need to spend. Not to mention time difference. This can really test you – honestly, there were times I’m sure people thought I was just a spoilt brat! Things didn’t seem to go my way when I moved to Singapore, and I just wanted to come home!  

However, despite the little hiccups, I learnt so many things. I reminded myself that it was all a learning process. As cheesy as it sounds, you really have to take a step back and just breath! All these annoying things definitely made me a more patient person. 

YOU WILL BE SPENDING MONEY LIKE YOU’RE BARCLAYS BANK  

Let me be real with you. Unless you have some fantastic benefits, you will be spending a lot of money. The first thing I did when I landed in Singapore was head out to IKEA. I wanted to feel like I was at home, and I couldn’t do that with no bedsheets.  

Singapore money

Get ready to save some money before you go and then spend it once you get there.  

YOUR STEREOTYPES WILL BE CHALLENGED  

THIS IS SOMETHING PEOPLE LIKE TO IGNORE. PLEASE DON’T!

Sometimes as human beings, we have preconceived notions of how people behave or how they will perceive us. You can even have presumptions of how a place might be and more. Moving abroad wholly change everything for me. Not only did I learn so much about the culture in Singapore, but I was continually learning about other cultures and countries. I met people from America, Malaysia, South Korea, Sweden, Denmark, New Zealand, Canada and more. At first, I can honestly say it was a huge learning curve, but an enjoyable one where I felt like I gained so much from people. 

IT’LL BE THE BEST DECISION YOU’VE EVER MADE  

As I will always say and continue to preach! Moving abroad has and will always be the best decision I ever made. The decision to get out of my shell and see the world really changed me for the better and I wouldn’t change it for the world.  

If you’ve ever had a thought that moving abroad is something you want to do, I’ve got one piece of advice for you – DO IT! If you are in uni/college, please consider. 

What about you have you ever thought about moving abroad? What’s holding you back?  

Also Read:

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Singapore: The Difference As A Student Vs Tourist

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I’m sure you are all tired of hearing me tell the story of how I lived in Singapore. The beautiful city-state haha! Well, today is your lucky day because we are going to talk about the difference with being a student vs a tourist in another country. If you are new to the blog you need to know that I lived in Singapore for seven months and studied at the National University of Singapore.

I’ve only ever been both a tourist and a student in Singapore. I guess some people can argue that I could be considered a tourist in the UK, as I’ve lived as a student and could be a tourist in the UK, but I think it’s more fun in Singapore. Don’t you?

Before we get into the differences. I thought it would be wise to define the two for ease:

Tourist

Visting Singapore Gardens by the Bay

Usually, explore the local landmarks, sometimes if they are in the country long enough tourist can learn some keywords or phrases. Tourists can go as far as having a chat with the locals take some photos of the sights, try some local cuisines and end the trip with a fun souvenir. 

Student

student at nus

Students, on the other hand, live abroad, which gives them the chance to truly know and embrace a city. There is more time to discover the charming little streets with the best cafés and the ideal spots for authentic cuisine. You can end the stay with a life-changing experience that no one can take from you. 

There are benefits to both studying abroad and visiting a destination as a tourist. If you want to really get to know a city, a country or place. I would always suggest that it’s best to live and take in the culture, food and in this case sun.

Going back to Singapore as a tourist last year was quite an overwhelming experience for me. I had left Singapore six years ago a place I called home and was now returning as a tourist. The many memories that popped up while I sat in a taxi to my friend’s house, left me feeling quite sad. Memories of pretending to be a tourist in the first month. Living in Singapore going to the Singapore Zoo, clubbing and the Singapore flyer.

Above I defined the difference, but what was the difference for me?

Tourist vs. Student in Singapore

Visa Process

Student – you get a visa – mine was for six months. And trust me when I say it is hella of a long process! I arrived later at my uni/college than the other students. This required me to figure out how to do the visa myself! I didn’t know where I had to go and what I needed to bring with me. The staff were kind enough to allow me as they could see how frustrated and flustered I was.

One thing I do remember is not being able to locate my identity box. In Singapore, you are either African or British. You can’t be both Black British, like the UK. This was something that I was naive to believe was universal around the world.

If you want to ever see my student visa it I’m happy to send a picture to you (I still kept it after all these years).

Tourist – You get a stamped visa after completing a form (ask for one on the plane and have a pen). You are then with this stamp, able to stay up to 90 days as a tourist, on business or on a social visit. 

Language

Student – you may think that I learnt to speak Singaporean, but I’m afraid Singaporeans don’t speak Singaporean either. The country has a mixture of languages – Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and English. As a student, I was able to speak English to all locals.

Tourist – As a tourist, I would even expect you to learn any of the languages. I was happy to of picked up on some words when I was a student (all of which I’ve forgotten).

Meeting People

Student – you will make lifelong friends. Honestly, I made such good friend that I’m still in contact with today. And get this. Last year I was fortunate enough to be at one of my international friend’s weddings and even better her bridesmaid. See the picture below – in due time I will be writing about my experience.

Dulang girls and Malaysian bridesmaid
friends in singapore

Tourist – I was able to meet up with friends, but with the length. Staying in Singapore as a tourist I knew I wasn’t about to make any life long friends.

Culture

Student – as a student, I was able to experience vast amounts of culture and more. I learnt about traditions, tasted the richness of food and more! My personal faves have to be chicken rice, chilli crab and stingray! My mouth waters as I write this!

chicken rice

Tourist – I guess I was at an advantage because I had already experienced living in Singapore as a student. However, as a tourist, there’s only so much you can try! I would suggest the meals I stated above – or you could subscribe and find out places to eat in Singapore.

Views of the World

Student – Looking back now, I felt like, I honestly was able to gain a new perspective of the world. I came home with fresh eyes to the world and was ready to explore more. I came back and felt out of places to my friends and family. Having experienced so much of a different life to them. Time had moved for me. I had seen and experienced a new and different world a new perspective and a new culture.

china town

Tourist – Hahaha! Of course, you can taste another side of the world as a tourist. However, I have to say that it’s never the same as living somewhere else!

Thank you for reading my experiences, I do hope you enjoyed them, and it encourages you to move abroad. Have you ever been both a tourist and student or lived in the same country. What was it like share your comments below.

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7 Laws You Should Know About Singapore

Happy New Year everyone! I would like to welcome you all to my first Singapore special. This month will be seven years since I moved to Singapore for my study abroad, so to mark this special moment we are going to be looking at seven Singaporean laws you should know before visiting.

We will be learning the difference between travelling to Singapore as a tourist and living there as a student, where to go and much more. You don’t want to miss out so be sure to follow me on Instagram and subscribe to the blog!

Singapore, to some degree, is seen as a city-state with culture, local and international cuisine and real iconic attractions. It is one of the cleanest countries I have ever lived and visited. But there’s more, the country is also famous for its strictness with laws and considering I was able to live there for over 6 months and not once get arrested, I think I did pretty well ( hey just saying).  

When I moved to Singapore in 2013, I knew I was going to need to learn about the laws of the country. Some of their laws include the ban of chewing gum, not being allowed to walk in your house naked, not flushing the toilet and more. If you will be heading to Singapore soon then here are a few laws that you need to be aware of.

7 Strict Laws you should be mindful of before travelling to Singapore  

Exchange Rate: 1 SGD (Singaporean Dollar) = £0.56 GBP (Pound Sterling) AND 1 SGD = $0.74 (American Dollar)- You may need to to convert the punishments. 

For other conversation rates I use XE:Covert.

1. Yes chewing gum is illegal in Singapore  

chewing gum is banned in singapore

I said it. Yes, I was more shocked than you when I read about this in 2013! Chewing gum is wholly forbidden, which explains how clean the streets are in Singapore.  

I wouldn’t want to be caught bringing chewing gum into the country so don’t even think about selling it and certainly don’t import it. 

Punishment: Selling chewing gum can result in fines of S$100,000 (Singapore dollars) and up to 2 years in prison.  

2. Feeding Pigeons in Singapore can get you into trouble 

I’m not a big fan of pigeons myself, so this law is music to my ears, but bird lovers, please take note. You could face a fine if you are caught sharing your food with a local pigeon.  

Punishment: S$500 fine 

3. Begging in the streets is illegal in Singapore  

singapore streets

I remember living in Singapore and not ever once seeing a beggar. You may on occasion find a beggar selling packets of tissues outside a food centre, but if I was you, I wouldn’t even entertain it. Begging is illegal and can lead to a hefty fine.  

Punishment: S$3,000 fine or imprisonment for up to 2 years in prison. 

4. Not flushing the toilet is illegal in Singapore  

This would seem a pretty obvious thing to do, but some people don’t have house training! Singapore has quite rightly made this illegal. Officials are known to conduct random checks in public toilets to make sure people flush after they go. So please flush after yourself. I would say to avoid a fine I would suggest flushing after you go.  

Punishment: S$150 – S$500 fine 

5. Walking naked in your house is illegal 

Walking around your house naked is considered a form of pornography. And while you’re here, you should also know that pornography is also prohibited in Singapore. Don’t walk around naked in your home.  

Why? Well because it may cause a disturbance to your neighbours and you might receive an unexpected fine.  

Punishment: S$2,000 fine or up to 3 months in prison 

6. Don’t do drugs especially in Singapore  

Many countries ban drugs, but Singapore has much stricter sentencing for those that are caught trafficking or in possession of drugs could receive a hefty fine and or death penalty.  

You may think you can’t get caught but think again. Singapore officials can conduct anonymous and random drug tests to anyone without a warrant, and if you’re caught with drugs in your system, then you could be looking at a penalty. These included drugs taking before you enter Singapore so be mindful when travelling other parts of Asia.

Punishment: S$20,000 fines, up to 10 years in prison or the death penalty 

7.No Eating and drinking on public transport  

Durian
Durian

And the final law that I have to offer you today. Please do not eat or drink on any form of public transport this includes the MRT the bus anything! I remember when my friend told me about being fined when she was caught eating ice cream on the MRT! There are lots of food centres eat there or within closed doors. Oh and Durian a special fruit is also banned on public transport – don’t do it!

Punishment: S$5,000 fine  

Despite all the laws that exist in Singapore, it is actually one of my favourite Asian countries to visit and live. I think if I can live in Singapore for 7 months and not face a fine then you will also be fine.

What about you do you know any of any fines that exist in Singapore or around the world? Share in the comments below!  

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