In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount the final leg of my road trip down the West Coast of the United States, from San Francisco to San Diego, Tijuana, and back up to LA, ending in Death Valley. Our journey begins with a car swap fiasco at the LA Airport, where we end up with a convertible Chevy, perfect for cruising the Californian highways. San Diego offers us a culinary delight at Tacos El Gordo and a vibrant night at the Gaslamp District, while our brief Tijuana adventure is marked by a border-crossing mishap and a memorable breakfast at Georgina Restaurante. Back in LA, we explore iconic spots like Griffith Observatory, Venice Beach, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, indulging in local flavors at Petit Trois and a Korean BBQ in Koreatown. Our drive through Death Valley is a scorching experience, with temperatures soaring to 49.2 degrees Celsius. The trip concludes with a Cirque du Soleil show in Vegas and a return to Philadelphia for the 4th of July celebrations, before I finally head back home to Singapore.Links:Tacos El Gordo — A popular taco chain known for its authentic Mexican tacos, particularly the Taco al Pastor.Cali Cream — An ice cream shop in San Diego offering a variety of homemade ice cream flavors and cookies.Morning Glory Breakfast — A trendy breakfast spot in Little Italy, San Diego, known for its diverse and delicious breakfast options.USS Midway Aircraft Carrier — A historic naval aircraft carrier museum located in downtown San Diego at Navy Pier.Old Town San Diego State Historic Park — A state-protected historical park in San Diego that commemorates the early days of the town of San Diego.Casa Guadalajara — A vibrant Mexican restaurant in Old Town San Diego known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and festive atmosphere.Griffith Observatory — An iconic observatory in Los Angeles offering public telescopes, exhibits, and stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.Neptune's Net — A famous seafood restaurant located along the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, known for its casual atmosphere and fresh seafood.Santa Monica Pier — A large double-jointed pier located at the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, California, offering various attractions and restaurants.The Beatles LOVE — A Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas that celebrates the music of The Beatles with a mix of acrobatics, theater, and dance.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount the second half of my US road trip with Markus, from Nampa to the Mexican border. After a hearty dinner in Nampa, we set off early for Portland, capturing the beauty of the Blue Mountains and Mount Hood along the way. Portland welcomed us with its vibrant food scene, from marrow bones at LeChon to a memorable breakfast at Proud Mary Cafe. We explored Powell's Books, indulged in local delicacies, and even braved the cold on scooters to pick up my driver's license, much to Marcus's relief. Continuing our journey, we marveled at the giant trees in Redwood National and State Parks, enjoyed a cozy barbecue in Eureka, and admired the picturesque views of Mendocino. Napa Valley's rolling hills and wineries offered a taste of luxury before we crossed the iconic Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco. The city's rich culinary landscape, from In-N-Out Burger to Burma Superstar, and the haunting history of Alcatraz left a lasting impression. Despite the challenges of homelessness and the pervasive smell of marijuana, the trip was a tapestry of unforgettable experiences, scenic drives, and culinary delights.Links:LeChon — A downtown Portland restaurant offering South American-inspired dishes with a focus on shared plates.Mount Hood — Beautiful mountain in Oregon.Proud Mary Cafe — An Australian-style cafe known for its specialty coffee and hearty breakfast options.TokyoSando — A food truck in Portland specializing in Japanese Katsu Sando sandwiches.Powell’s Books — One of the largest independent bookstores in the world, located in Portland.Departure Portland — A modern Asian restaurant with a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of Portland.QuarterWorld — A classic arcade hall in Portland featuring a variety of vintage and modern games.Redwood National Park — A series of parks along the coast of Northern California known for their giant redwood trees.Flow Restaurant — A restaurant in Mendocino offering ocean views and a menu featuring local ingredients.RamenGaijin — A Japanese restaurant in Sebastopol, known for its ramen and other traditional dishes.Screamin' Mimi's — An award-winning ice cream parlor in Sebastopol, known for its unique flavors.Voodoo Doughnut — The magic is in the hole!COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount an adventurous road trip along the West Coast of the United States with my friend Markus. Landing in Las Vegas, I am immediately struck by the ubiquitous gambling machines at the airport. Markus and I reunite at the Luxor Hotel, and after a brief delay due to my flight, we embark on our journey in a less-than-ideal Dodge Challenger. Our first stop is a hearty breakfast at The Egg and I, followed by a visit to the impressive Hoover Dam, capturing the essence of American engineering and natural beauty. Our travels then take us through the picturesque landscapes of Arizona, where we marvel at the Horseshoe Bend and explore the Navajo Arts and Crafts at the Cameron Trading Post. The vast red rock formations of Monument Valley leave a lasting impression, and we savor the tranquility of our remote Airbnb stays. As we journey through Utah, the green scenery of Monticello and the unique rock formations captivate us. In Salt Lake City, we are pleasantly surprised by the vibrant, inclusive atmosphere, visiting charming bookshops and enjoying local delicacies. The Bonneville Salt Flats and the quirky Shoshone Falls in Idaho add a sense of wonder to our trip, culminating in a memorable dining experience in Nampa.Links:Hotel in Las Vegas | Luxor Hotel & Casino | Las Vegas Hotel — Luxor Hotel & Casino is a pyramid-shaped resort located on the Las Vegas Strip, offering a variety of entertainment, dining, and accommodation options.Home - Eggworks and Egg & I Las Vegas Family Restaurants — The Egg & I is a popular breakfast and brunch spot known for its extensive menu featuring waffles, eggs, skillets, and more.Hoover Dam - Wikipedia — An iconic American landmark, the Hoover Dam spans the Colorado River between Nevada and Arizona, providing hydroelectric power and attracting millions of tourists annually.Cameron Trading Post — A historic trading post offering Navajo arts and crafts, a restaurant, and lodging, located in Cameron, Arizona.Monument Valley — Monument Valley is a scenic region known for its towering sandstone formations and cultural significance to the Navajo Nation.Spitfire Smokehouse BBQ — A barbecue restaurant in Moab, Utah, offering a variety of smoked meats and traditional BBQ sides.Jailhouse Cafe — A local favorite for breakfast in Moab, Utah, known for its unique takes on classic breakfast dishes.The King's English Bookshop — A beloved independent bookstore in Salt Lake City, offering a wide selection of books and a unique "Blind Date with a Book" program.RubySnap — A bakery in Salt Lake City known for its gourmet cookies with a variety of unique flavors.Bonneville Salt Flats — A vast, flat expanse of salt crust in Utah, famous for land speed records and its stark, otherworldly landscape.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I take you on a journey to South Africa with my adventurous friend Hatim. Our escapade begins in Cape Town, where we accidentally dine and dash on our first night, only to return and pay, much to the relief of the waitstaff. The next day, we explore the stunning Cape Point, marvel at the powerful ocean, and visit an ostrich farm (sadly without Marty), where we feed the birds and take countless photos. Our adventure continues with a visit to the South African Penguins, an evening at a sushi bar, and a trip to the vibrant Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. The following days are a whirlwind of experiences: from an insightful slum tour to the breathtaking Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where we admire unique African flora. We indulge in ice cream at Tapi Tapi, enjoy a dramatic drive through the mountains to a secluded Airbnb, and savor a traditional braai under a starlit sky. Our journey wraps up with a visit to Stellenbosch's wineries, a Segway tour, and a final night of local food and dance in Cape Town.Links:Hussar Grill - Best Steak Restaurant | Home — A renowned steakhouse in South Africa, known for its quality steaks and extensive wine list.@jarryds_eatery — A popular breakfast and brunch spot in Sea Point, Cape Town, frequented by locals and celebrities.Cape Point Ostrich Farm — A farm near Cape Point where visitors can interact with ostriches and learn about their farming.Boulders Penguin Colony — Home to a colony of African penguins, located near Simon's Town in Cape Town.Table Mountain — A national park encompassing Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.The Old Biscuit Mill — A vibrant market in Cape Town offering a range of artisanal foods, crafts, and design shops.Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden — One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, located at the eastern foot of Table Mountain.Tapi Tapi — A famous ice cream shop in Cape Town known for its unique and delicious flavors.Waterford Estate — A beautiful winery in Stellenbosch offering wine tastings and tours.De Vrije Burger — A popular burger joint in Stellenbosch known for its gourmet burgers.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount the third and potentially final part of a road trip with my friend Marcus along the US East Coast. We begin in Jacksonville, where we miss meeting an old friend but enjoy a Brazilian barbecue at Terra Gaucha. Our journey continues with a hearty breakfast at Cracker Barrel in Kingsland, Georgia, a delightful city tour in Savannah, and a restful night at a golf club in Litchfield Beach. We explore Wilmington and the Outer Banks, taking a ferry from Cedar Island to Ocracoke, marveling at the remote beauty. Reaching Kitty Hawk, we stay in a charming Airbnb and experience local culture, including a memorable evening meeting a NASCAR driver. The trip concludes with a brisket feast in King of Prussia, a visit to Gettysburg National Military Park, and a glimpse into Amish life, before I finally return to Singapore.Links:Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse — A Brazilian steakhouse in Jacksonville, offering a traditional rodizio dining experience with a variety of meats served on skewers.Cracker Barrel — A chain of combined restaurant and gift stores with a Southern country theme, known for its comfort food and unique shopping experience.Old Town Trolley Tours Savannah — Provides guided tours of Savannah, showcasing the city's historic landmarks and offering insights into its rich history.Perrone's Restaurant — A restaurant in Litchfield Beach known for its steaks, seafood, and a variety of other dishes in a casual setting.Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge — A protected area in North Carolina that provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife and offers opportunities for outdoor activities.Ocracoke, NC — A remote island in North Carolina's Outer Banks, known for its unspoiled beaches, small village, and historical significance.Avalon Pier — A popular fishing pier in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, also featuring an arcade and other recreational activities.Gettysburg National Military Park — A national park and museum in Pennsylvania, preserving the site of the Battle of Gettysburg and offering extensive historical tours.The Amish Village — A tourist attraction in Pennsylvania that provides insights into Amish culture and lifestyle, featuring authentic Amish homes and farms.King of Prussia Shopping Center — One of the largest shopping malls in the United States, located in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, offering a wide range of shops and dining options.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I take you along the second leg of my US road trip with Markus, starting with a visit to the Mammoth Cave system in Kentucky. Despite its fame as the world's longest cave system, the accessible parts left us slightly underwhelmed. Yet, the experience was unique, especially with the measures to protect the bats, like the special shoe-cleaning stations. Our journey continued with a memorable lunch at Ski Daddy's and concluded the day in the vibrant nightlife of Nashville, Tennessee, where we immersed ourselves in the local honky-tonk culture and danced the night away. The adventure didn't stop there. We made our way to Memphis, exploring Elvis Presley's Graceland from the outside and indulging in a classic American barbecue. Our stay in a former recording studio-turned-Airbnb added a quirky twist to our trip. The journey took us further south to New Orleans, where we reveled in the French Quarter's charm and embarked on a thrilling swamp tour, encountering massive alligators up close. The culinary delights continued with alligator bites and a taste of the local nightlife, capping off an unforgettable segment of our road trip.Links:Mammoth Cave National Park — Mammoth Cave National Park is a national park in south-central Kentucky, US. It encompasses portions of Mammoth Cave, the longest known cave system in the world.Ski Daddy's — Family-owned restaurant in Kentucky known for its American comfort food, including deep-fried dishes like fish and mozzarella sticks.Honky-tonk — Information about honky-tonks, a special kind of bar in the South of the US.Honky Tonk Central — A popular bar in Nashville, Tennessee, known for its live country music, vibrant nightlife, and bustling atmosphere.The Home of Elvis Presley | Graceland — The official website for Graceland, Elvis Presley's famous home in Memphis, now a museum showcasing his life and legacy.Sonic Drive-In — Official site of Sonic Drive-In, a fast-food chain where customers order and eat in their cars, offering a variety of burgers, fries, and shakes.National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel — Part of the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee, the Lorraine Motel is the historic site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.Central BBQ — Renowned barbecue restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee, famous for its smoked meats, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork.Bass Pro Shop — The world's largest Bass Pro Shop located in a massive pyramid in Memphis, offering a wide range of outdoor gear and attractions.Vicksburg National Military Park — National park in Mississippi preserving the site of the Civil War Battle of Vicksburg, featuring a driving tour and historical exhibits.Ragin Cajun Airboat Tours — Offers airboat tours through the swamps of Louisiana, providing close encounters with alligators and other wildlife.Restaurant Iron — A highly-rated restaurant in Pensacola, Florida, known for its gourmet dishes, including foie gras and steaks.French Quarter - Wikipedia — The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré, is the oldest neighborhood in the city of New Orleans.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount the first epic road trip through the United States with my friend Markus in 2022. Our journey began in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, where Markus lives, and we mapped out an ambitious route that took us from Philadelphia down to New Orleans, then along the southern and eastern coast and back up to Pennsylvania. The adventure kicked off with the longest flight in the world from Singapore to New York, followed by a quick train ride to Philadelphia. With Markus's 470-horsepower Mustang, we set out on our American odyssey, starting with a hearty diner breakfast and a visit to George Washington's Mount Vernon. Driving along the scenic Blue Ridge Mountain Parkway, we soaked in the breathtaking views, stayed in rustic cabins, and indulged in local delicacies like Philadelphia cheesesteak and grits with butter. The journey was a blend of serene landscapes and quintessential American experiences, from flying drones in the park to navigating through small towns with sketchy motels. Each day was a new chapter, filled with exploration, and the simple joy of the open road. As we ventured through Tennessee, Alabama, and beyond, the road trip became a tapestry of unforgettable moments that captured the essence of a true American adventure.Links:Singapore Airlines SQ23 — Information about Singapore Airlines' longest flight from Singapore to New York City. Also a great blog for travelers.Moynihan Train Hall (NYP) — Information about services and amenities at Penn Station, New York, including train schedules and facilities.King of Prussia — Official tourism website for King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, featuring local attractions, dining, and accommodation options.Minella's Diner — A classic American diner located in Wayne, Pennsylvania, offering a variety of breakfast and diner-style meals.Homepage | George Washington's Mount Vernon — Official website of George Washington's Mount Vernon, featuring visitor information, history, and educational resources.Blue Ridge Parkway — Official site for the Blue Ridge Parkway, providing maps, travel tips, and information on attractions along the route.The Greenbrier Restaurant — Fine dining restaurant in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, known for its steaks, grits, and a cozy mountain ambiance.Mount Mitchell State Park: Home | NC State Parks — Official website for Mount Mitchell State Park, offering visitor information, hiking trails, and park amenities.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I take you through the last stretch of my journey that began in April 2017. From the stark American feel of Guam, complete with fast food chains and wide roads, to the culturally rich experiences in Korea and Japan, my travels have been a whirlwind. In Seoul, my friend Yijoo introduced me to the unique Korean sauna culture and local delicacies, while in Japan, I explored hidden gems with a native friend, indulging in everything from bamboo forests to raw chicken dishes. Returning to Singapore for a brief yet memorable evening with friends, I reflect on the transformative nature of this trip. The journey's end is bittersweet, filled with gratitude for the people I've met and the experiences I've had. As I prepare to share future adventures, including a US road trip with my friend Markus, I cherish these moments that have profoundly shaped me.Links:Guam — Comprehensive information about Guam.Bukchon Hanok Village — A Korean traditional village in Seoul with a long history, composed of many hanoks (traditional Korean houses).Arashiyama Bamboo Forest — A natural forest of bamboo in the Arashiyama district in western Kyoto, Japan, known for its scenic beauty.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount my whirlwind visit to Brunei, a spontaneous detour after returning from Bali and Timor-Leste. My stay at a hostel run by a former dentist named Bel set the stage for an immersive experience. Bel, a knowledgeable guide, took us on a boat tour down Brunei River, showcasing everything from the local fauna to the majestic Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque with its legendary golden rooftop. The adventure included a visit to a stilt village, a bustling wet market, and a memorable, budget-friendly haircut complete with an unexpected massage. From Brunei, I hopped over to Manila, where a rainy arrival led to a brief but enjoyable exploration with a newfound Polish friend. Soon after, I journeyed to the remote island of Palau, where I was embraced by a warm Chinese couple at a cozy hostel. Despite a mishap with my drone, the dive trips revealed breathtaking underwater landscapes and pristine beaches. The camaraderie and stunning natural beauty of Palau left an indelible mark, making it one of the most remarkable and cherished destinations of my travels.Links:Omar-‘Ali-Saifuddien-Mosque — A stunning mosque in Brunei with a golden dome, often mistaken for being made entirely of gold. It is one of the most impressive landmarks in the country.Royal Brunei Airlines — The national carrier of Brunei, offering flights to various destinations including Manila and other parts of Southeast Asia.Visit Palau — The official tourism website for Palau, providing information on attractions, activities, and travel tips for visitors.The tiny island with human-sized money — Information on the BBC about the unique stone currency of Yap, which is still used in traditional transactions and is an important part of the island's cultural heritage.Sam's Tours Palau — A diving center in Palau offering various dive trips and courses, known for its excellent service and beautiful dive sites.Brunei Tourism Official Site — Offers guided boat tours along the Brunei River, showcasing the local fauna, the king's palace, and water villages.COMMENTS

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount my second visit to Singapore, a stark contrast to my first underwhelming trip in 2012. Invited by my friend Hama, I dive into the vibrant nightlife, savoring steamboat dinners, partying at Clarke Quay, and enjoying shots at Chupitos. The whirlwind tour continues with visits to Gardens by the Bay and local hawker centers, where I indulge in Singaporean delicacies like laksa and chicken rice, creating a tapestry of newfound appreciation for the city. Our adventure doesn't end there; we spontaneously decide to explore Bali and Nusa Penida. Despite a brief setback with a friend's illness, we relish the island's beauty, riding scooters and enjoying the serene villa life. My journey then takes a solo turn to Timor-Leste, where I navigate the unfamiliar terrain and cultural quirks, culminating in a memorable, if slightly perilous, motorbike ride back to Dili.Links:Ah pang Steamboat — Ah pang Steamboat offers a delightful steamboat dining experience in Singapore with a variety of fresh ingredients and flavorful broths.Clarke Quay — Clarke Quay is a historical riverside quay in Singapore, known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment venues.Gardens by the Bay — Gardens by the Bay is a stunning nature park in Singapore, featuring the iconic Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest.1-Altitude — One Altitude was a renowned rooftop bar in Singapore, offering spectacular views of the city skyline from one of the highest points.Nusa Dua — Nusa Dua is a luxurious resort area in Bali, known for its pristine beaches, upscale hotels, and world-class amenities.Nusa Penida — Nusa Penida is an island southeast of Bali, famous for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and adventurous activities.Cristo Rei of Dili — The Cristo Rei of Dili is a 27-meter tall statue of Jesus located atop a globe in Dili, Timor-Leste, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.COMMENTS