the easiest adjustment in asia...

...I was talking with Mrs. Winnie about Singapore and adjusting to life here. She has been here for almost 2 months with her husband, Doug. We both came to the conclusion that out of all the Asian countries, Singapore is definitely the way to ease into this side of the world. I can only imagine the culture shock from someone who moves from the suburbs of Atlanta to the slums of Cambodia--who knows if anyone could survive that! But Singapore is another story.

Located right smack dab in the middle of Southern Asia, you might miss Singapore unless you make a point to both see it on a map or stop over when hopping around the islands. With a prime central location and a drive for economy, Singapore has become the hub of Asian businessmen..and international businessmen as well. Beyond its location, Singapore provides a gentle transition from western to easter cultures. Being a British colony, it resembles a European city much more than I thought it would (and that's probably why i'm adjusting more easily).

Here are some ways it marries the two cultures:
~Mostly asian foods but with enough European and American restaurants to escape to as well.
~Clothing looks more European than anything (with my favorite stores: Celio, Zara, Bata,etc) but with the Asian touch (shoes are a bit wider and clothes sized for super petite!)
~Signs in both English and Mandarin Chinese
~At least a 90% asian population all driving on the left-hand side of the road! (those brits!!!)
~Bathrooms! - in almost all places you are given the choice of a "squatty potty" or a reg. seat toilet :)

So, if you are willing to take a long flight over to Asia, I reccomend stopping in Singapore first, adjusting a bit to the easter culture and then making your way to Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and many more amazing countries!! Singapore is definitely the place to visit!!