Singapore

Singapore - Reunion with friends on the Formula 1 weekend

Arrived in the Asian megacity, the metropolis at the tip of the Malaysian peninsula. With 6 million inhabitants, one of the larger city-states. Since Singapore is considered one of the most expensive countries in the world, we decided to stay in a capsule hotel here, as it was very affordable at €20 per person. The hotel did not disappoint, it was very solid for the price. As the Formula 1 was taking place this weekend, the prices for hotels were absurdly high.

Since the race track went through the city, we were able to see parts of the track. We first explored the financial district of the city on foot and walked to the hawker center in Chinatown, where affordable Michelin food was available. Of course, it was chicken with rice. The hawker center offered us a different experience. The animals were freshly butchered here, there was a strong smell of blood everywhere, it was simply uncomfortable. It wasn't pleasant to stay here for long.

We then walked along the Marina Bay to the Merlion, Singapore's mascot. A fish with a lion head. The Formula 1 track passed directly by it, and across from it was the Marina Bay Sands Hotel with its beautiful gardens, which we later visited with Mona.

Mona picked us up and we walked together through Singapore. The light show at Gardens by the Bay was definitely a highlight. We had a snack at a smaller hawker center and then walked to the race track.

Mona's friend had already spotted several drivers at one place, so we wanted to go there as well.

What can I say, it was an absolute stroke of luck. All the drivers passed by us. George Russell. Mick Schumacher. Kevin Magnussen. Alex Albon. Günther Steiner. But we missed the truly top-class racers, and the security wanted to chase us away from this location. So, together with other fans from around the world, we came up with the idea of searching for Charles Leclerc's hotel. It may sound like a crazy idea, but apparently someone knew which hotel he was staying at. Through several coincidences and twists of fate, we found ourselves in the hotel lobby of a luxury hotel about 1.5 hours later. It can't be that simple, we thought. But it was. Suddenly there was noise in front of us, and then he really approached us. Accompanied by three security men, he calmly signed autographs and quickly took photos. Unfortunately, I had forgotten my cap at home, so I had no choice but to ask him to sign my arm. What can I say, he did it!

Absolute highlight and a successful end to the day.

The next day, we were invited to a Formula 1 party in the evening. We still needed a suitable outfit, so we used the day to search and stroll around the city. Armed with the autograph, we decided to go for Ferrari, so nothing could stand in the way of the party.

That evening, I got totally wasted at the party, mind you, I had to fly a total of 20 hours the next day. But there was no way around it. I met really cool people, especially Mona's friend Lilly, who studies in Copenhagen and comes from Stuttgart. Already quite drunk, we made our way to a club. I couldn't believe that anyone would let me into a club here, as I was only wearing Birkenstocks. I was so paranoid on the bus that I wore my mask and didn't drink a drop of alcohol. The party was over at around 3 o'clock, very drunk, we made our way home. Since, as I said, half of the city was blocked, the taxis didn't drive as they should. We plopped down at a hotel entrance and one by one, we all fell asleep. Just before I dozed off, my phone vibrated. A taxi driver accepted our request, so we made it home.

The hangover the next morning was really bad, but the hearty meal made it easier for me. What a conclusion to this trip.

Conclusion: The first time in Asia was very interesting. Getting to know this new culture, the people, the food, the nature, the animals, and everything else. It was very special because it was different. But personally, I found it to be an awesome experience. This kind of traveling is what I really enjoy. Malaysia is a beautiful country that impresses more with its culture than its nature. Next time I want to dive into an even more remote, untouched nature in Asia. Preferably in Borneo!

Nevertheless, these were 2 weeks that left a lasting impression on me. Especially the fiery hot food!