flashman181

As USA continues under the Orange Junta any plans to visit USA this year , or indeed next 3 years, were shelved for time being. With my tatts and Trump with a magic marker I could end up in El Salvador as an MS13 member. I certainly wouldnt give them access to my social media – not that I could stop them of course. How will my fans cope let alone moi. ?

So while enjoying recent trips to Brisvegas with CLP always still the lure of a solo trips to big cities in cool weather. Melboring in June seemed like a sensible start. Of course prices in Aussie major cities are quite close to USA really especially for accommodation. That is before you factor in the exchange rate of course. Mind you , could stay in Las Vegas in a great room for same AUD as Sydney or Melbourne. Just have that pesky 14 hr flight and US customs and Showgirls knocking on my door at 3 am to deal with 🕺🏻.You could even argue crime is certainly on the rise in Melboring but as with USA some common sense usually is all you really need. You cant even grow sugar cane in the suburbs anymore due to the draconian machete ban @betootaadvocate

Part of logic also is to try and maintain Qantas FF Silver status although with limited future travel plans not sure why . So a return trip to Melboring in June in BC and another to Sydney in September will achieve that. If I get to keep my business fares of course. 🤞

Staying at usual go to in Melboring – The Langham at Southbank. Weather forecast for first few days is not great but you know what they say about Melbourne weather. Its crap. Got a good deal with Qantas Hotels with daily breakfast and a bottle of champers on arrival – at hotel not airport I assume 🤓 Of course will see what actually is the deal when arrive. At this stage just hope still have my BC seat on way down as have been shafted before and not in the good way. Will wear long sleeves so dont look like a gang member. Last gang I belonged to was the Pathology We Aint Working at Hervey Bay Pal back in the late 90s. No tatts just attitude….

Of course as I decide to head south for the winter Maryhole starts to turn on QLD winter days at last . Single digit overnight, clear blue skies and 22 max daytime. Next week it will likely be cooler overnight in Maryhole than Melboring !

Down to Flashman Inc on Friday to grab some clothes and tell CLP the bad news – I am only gone for a week. The Ponderosa is having some internal woody type stuff done for next 3 weeks or so and she will need to be out of house during week so she is heading to Coolum for first week. Think she is just trying to be a little closer to me really . Lovely weather so let’s crank up the first fire of the season

Good run down and easy park had me at airport in plenty of time. Some renovations at Brisbane Domestic but Qantas still has premium entry bag drop and screening so in Business Lounge with just over 3 hrs to fill in and bar is closed 🕺🏻 Must be breakfast time then

Clearly 3 hrs is too long to spend in a lounge with a closed bar. Time for a slow walk. Plane boarded on time and am at the pointiest end of a pointy plane. Group 1 boarding…. But still 17 people lined up as soon as boarding soon sign went up 🤦🏻‍♂️. Have one of those chatty Cathy type flight attendants so even though in first row still waited 20 mins after trolley came out for service. Could fly a man to drink.

So I did. Only did 2 of the trifecta – beer and spirits no wine -because as you age you get wiser. Not sure why mind you with a car booked when I arrive in Melboring

in the category of let’s complain because I can – seems odd on a 2.5 hr flight with lunch no tea or coffee served 😏 Landed on time and good run into city had me decamped on the 19 th floor by 3 pm. Thought I would at least get a room. Boom Boom. Room is fine , just suspect could be a rowdy night, already seen one wedding party on my floor and the hotel is buzzing. Will be glad when weekend is over.

I went for a walk to get some supplies like milk. It is great area but just starting to sprinkle. It is great to be back in an old style hotel with drawers and bedside clock ! Might settle in now with my Champers and a take away easy dinner. Plenty of good channels on the TV. Wonder where that Sheila went to though 🤓

Off to Kyneton tomorrow by train for lunch with John and Lorraine. Guess it can’t hurt to check weather although much the same as Melbourne I guess …….

Help …..👀

Bunsen Burner, Beaker , Alcohol. Check

Let the experiment begin 🕺🏻

Weather seems quite changeable. Certainly fooled the forecasters. Shocked I tell ya. Morning looks ok for now and maybe worst weather now tomorrow afternoon. Time then for morning walk and coffee. Excellent choice of El Cafe off Commercial Road.

Fairly loose plans today and will head over to Gasworks – and hope it does 😏 – for a more substantial breakfast before heading back into CBD for more relaxed wander. A light lunch today and then a quiet afternoon before heading off for our dinner tonight. There could be some laundry involved but don’t want to get my hopes up early.

Oddly enough a suitable breakfast place was difficult to find but ended up down near Teneriffe at Caffeine Espresso. Very tasty Turkish breakfast treats and a couple of refreshing smoothies. We refused caffeine or espresso just to be contrary. Living life on the edge baby

We then caught Glider into town for a moderately successful shopping trip but by now ankle was giving grief and no tattoo parlours were open. Headed home for a relaxing afternoon with some sushi for lunch. Public transport in Brisvegas is excellent . Weather was excellent rest of day so pleasant walk up to Ros Marino after our last free drink at Kaz Bar of course 🕺🏻

We were having Degustation and it was excellent . Didn’t go with matching wines but we didn’t miss out . Service superb too of course . Thanks Rick and Jess, it only took 18 months but we got there.

Once again supposed to be raining again today but morning looks ok. A tad seedy so quite morning before heading over to Munchkin Town after checkout at 11. One last continental breakfast then. With any luck will be served by 11 am 😏. One last walk and coffee around Teneriffe while weather holds and then time to hit the road . Hopefully pick girls up from school if not raining

Smooth checkout and overall a highly recommended hotel. Quick trip to RJER to decamp for night and then head out for lunch nearby. A relaxing couple of hours then before up to school to collect girls. Then a lovely few hours with girls to tire them out so we can get them to bed early 🙌🏻 Well that was the plan. I know I was tired 👨🏻‍🦳

That reminds me, must be time to get Rubes down off roof. No wonder she has been quiet. Once again not a drop of rain.

Early start on road to Woomby on Saturday to spend relaxing day with family. First up was to watch Ryan go through some basketball drills . I wore thongs to give him a chance . Organised chaos maybe best explains young kids all shooting at same time.

We then travelled 100 m down road for a late breakfast and coffee at Urban Grounds and Tony joined so good chance to have a chat . Then we walked across road to some more beautiful gardens as weather had cleared nicely. Toowoomba has always been a beautiful city.

Unfortunately kids soccer was off due to overnight rain so we all headed over to Tonys for lunch. But first was the Pictionary Playoff to decide washing up duties . Great fun. Plates go in which cupboard then ?

Rest of family then arrived for a lovely BBQ lunch and some more hoops . The food may have slowed me down . For letting them win they had to pose for a photo so were thrilled of course.

Time then to check into our hotel for a relaxing few hours before dinner on site in restaurant. It’s a great room but as feared does seem a bit close to range Highway. Hopefully noise settles a bit at night. To be fair it is all double glazed but am sensitive to noise. No I’m not .

Perfectly acceptable meal at hotel restaurant and a short walk home. Basic Counter Meal fare even if they think they are a bit fancy

Sleep was ok, enough that not a zombie today but wouldn’t really recommend this particular room noise wise. Off for breakfast then with a 15 min stroll to Cafe 63 and then one last quick visit with Tony and family before heading down the range to Burbank, not California , for lunch. Coolish morning of course with once again threat of rain later . Filling breakfast and then headed over to Tony’s for one last visit . Good run down had us ready to hook in. So we did

Good run home to Flashman Inc as the sun sets on a great week. Just leaves drill baby drill tomorrow to look forward to and then straight home to Maryhole.

Autumn is a pleasant time in Qld as temps start to drop but not very quickly! Of course constant rain on and off doesnt help. Big birthday coming up for Claude (95) this year so thought we would spend a few days in Brisvegas around a couple of birthday events and also squeeze in a day trip and overnight stay in Toowoomba to catch up with some of six pack. Seems like about 17 birthdays in Ferguson family in May so great to catch up. General plan than is down to Brisvegas on Tuesday and stay at Ovolo in The Valley for 3 nights . Have lunch with birthday boy on Wednesday and then some Munchkin Minding on Friday night before out to Toowoomba for Saturday. Then it’s back to Burbank, not California, for family lunch on Sunday. Icing on the cake then will be Dental visit on Monday:)

Down mid morning on Tuesday and room ready at Ovolo in The Valley. Knobber Knobber. Trying something a bit different this time to usual CBD. First impressions are good. Quiet in a good location. Simple but spacious room. Again no drawers for clothes !

Weather still holding so out for a reconnoiter and some lunch. Plenty of options close by but opted for Sushi and Technology. Love the little robot servers and no tariffs yet.

We also receive a couple of free drinks each night in bar so this afternoon plan will revolve around that. Just have to shake CLP so I can have both – ooh look honey, a scrapbook emporium 🤓. Much like free “continental” breakfast each day – give it a go eh. Plenty of coffee places nearby of course as well.

Good walk around Teneriffe this afternoon before hooking into our free drinks at Kaz Bar adjacent. Then we started the Italian theme this week at Tartufu next door and it was excellent. Figs in Prosciutto, Pizza and Tearifimissu. Separate plates for each would have been smart in hindsight. A couple of Italian reds to wash it down of course.

Good effort for first day . Time for some sleep before a full day tomorrow with La Famiglia. See, Italian theme.

Not great nights sleep but certainly a quiet room at this stage. As weather still holding off time for morning constitutional. Nah, nothing….ok let’s go for a walk 😏Its a great area to walk around and plenty of coffee shops to choose from so after walking for 30 mins we settled on the one next to our hotel serving Campos coffee.🕺🏻 Tasted more like Compost, a different option tomorrow looms. More of a walk and then into our free continental breakfast. When we walked into Tartufu last night we knew service would be excellent and we were correctum. Walking into on site breakfast room just knew exact opposite and were right again. Our clown waiter seems to struggle with concept of our included breakfast deal . Eventually it clicked in and then we waited at least 20 mins for chef to open packet. There were only 8 people in the restaurant and 4 of them were staff. I did see our breakfast ready to be delivered for at least 5 mins but again nothing. Eventually came out and it was fine for the deal. We probably won’t come back. As about to leave two more diners came in , keeping total number at 8 😏 Waitress arrived with menus and said there was “a 20 min wait on food “ 🤦🏻‍♂️

The deal here is great though through Qantas Hotels. It was $330 pn – cheap for Brisvegas trust me – and included daily breakfast and two drinks free, roughly $70 per day free.

Head into town then around 9 am for a little light shopping and then onto Claude’s for lunch. Expecting Italian people and food this time. Forgot how long the river cat takes to get to North Quay so by time we got there basically walked down town to Central and on train to Claude’s. Did pass under the new Kangaroo Point Green Bridge while looking at Bluey on a Gray day. Spooky .

Lovely lunch at Claude’s with some Italian food , a few beers and some red stuff. Must be time for a lie down but probably should go back to hotel first.

Still no rain to speak of so a couple of quite hours before heading out to Wild Legs and back on Wobbly Legs. It’s a local new wine bar which tickled our fancy on our wander yesterday . But was closed Tuesdays…

Bit of a disappointment to be fair. Tables are small and “ wine by the glass “ options – its main advertised feature – limited. The Chacuterie board was fine but small. We only had one glass and then headed back to Kaz Bar for our freebie. Light rain had started and so we danced home under our twirling umbrellas.

And so the first two jam packed days conclude. Main highlight tomorrow is a fancy schmancy dinner at Ros Marino Ristorante courtesy of RJER. Don’t mean they are cooking it but we are using their gift voucher at last !

Well it’s Easter time again which means Fergella 25 is about to kick off at Flashman Inc, Plenty Sunshine Coast. Think pushing Easter back a couple of weeks has confused Old Whiskers as looking like a ball tearer weather wise this weekend. I took the deluxe 4 night package with undercover parking , box of tissues and pool view. I came down a day early to help with all the work and preparation. Here I am testing pool temperature for the girls and of course will have to test throughout day for subtle variations. It’s the little things that count

CLP of course was whipping up a storm in the kitchen but first time to prepare the old Pass the Parcel not forgetting the old trick of wrapping the best present in alfoil so the girls pick it.

Not suggesting they will be happy when find out it is a beetroot but they will certainly be surprised 🤓This year the theme is Halloween. Apparently

Ruby’s favourite colour is orange so I suggested we cut up pieces of pumpkin and leave them out on Sunday rather than Easter Eggs. Talk about a laugh. At this stage CLP needs a bit more convincing.
And so, on Friday most of the gang arrive for the 48 hrs of festivities. Main event is lunch on Saturday where we will be joined by Claude and Michael to bring grand tally to 10 adults and two munchkins.

Fair to say not top of my game but slowly improving each day. It will be fist bumps all round am afraid ladies. Been sick since two days after Singapore so basically two weeks now. Of most concern is a lack of taste ! Friday has dawned booteeful again as predicted so out to pool soon to soak up some rays which does help. Then there is only job left – get to the good chair before that darn dog goes 😏

Gang started arriving mid morning and TB are past masters at van set up . RJER spent morning at beach but all arrived by lunchtime to start festivities with a lovely relaxing lunch and a couple of cold ones. Well can’t hurt eh

CLP wanted to get a jumping castle for the girls but I suggested a cheaper alternative that served two purposes – free rides and pick some fruit. Tomorrow we turn on the blades as well 👀

By now it was getting a bit chilly so of course Rubes wanted to go for a swim and Old Muggins lined up again 😏

First night drinkies of course are Aperol Spritzers for starters

Being Good Friday it was seafood night. I saw food so I ate it . Yummy prawns and Parrot fish. The feathers were interesting must say. Ricky Boy supplied the Tear a Missyou for dessert which was also yummo. I could see a pattern developing here . Late onset Diabetes.

And then they bought out the Rum liqueurs. Not sure how many I had but an Angel appeared by the pool 👀

Think there may have been an overflow effect as well as sure I saw an Easter Bunny in my room next morning and it’s only Saturday ! And she didn’t bring any chocolate! Just what the world needs, a health conscious Easter Bunny

Another glorious morning saw some more pool time while some guests were more adventurous and went to gym or for a run. Out last guests arrived by 11 am for midday lunch but a couple of cold ones first before usual wonderful spread

Some new entertainment this year with egg and spoon race of the seated variety. Well some of us are 94! It was the younguns that took out the prize – their very own plastic spoon.

A leisurely afternoon then before we settle in for a drink and left overs later . Hopefully an early night as big morning tomorrow.

Woke up early next morning and back in Africa it seems as there was a herd of elephants in room above. The stampeding herd ran down the steps and the hunt was on as first light was detected . My ankle held me back but did alright.

Pretty good haul for elephants in pink pyjamas. Just leaves a leisurely breakfast and then a pack up and decamp. Now some merch to shift. Sadly as they are painted by penguins on Heard Island there will be a 10% tariff this year. $33.75 signed and delivered.

Another wonderful Della event done and dusted.

Did someone say Xmas in July 👀

Actually it wasnt a wrap but a very tasty breakfast pastry at 5 am over Birdsville but I digress.

When last we left our hero he had the Wobbly Boot adjacent and nearly as full as a State School hat rack. Then some sanity kicked in. Well I felt a shoe on my ass from somewhere 🤷🏻‍♂️

Was a bit concerned about the security screening at gate and possible boarding group 6 as in last with no group listed on our pass . Fell for that trick before and didnt mean they bought you out a wheelchair for early entry 😏 Instead we arrived at 7:45 pm boarding time, screened in 10 mins, boarded by row so actually seated at 8 pm. Flight backed out around 840 pm and then longest taxi to our runway I have ever experienced had us being whacked in the back about 9:03 pm. The service and food on flight over was excellent but this was a different story and mostly due to time of flight I suspect. You get a bottle of water after 15 mins and then they start dinner 15 mins later with no round of drinks first which of course makes sense. We were in economy exit row so leg room was great but tray table unstable. I called it my Trump Tray and wish he could be folded away so easily. On trip over beef was tender and moist, this time we got the shoe leather . The dessert was rubbish and altogether a tasteless dinner was a difficult eating proposition. And no ice cream 20 mins later . Next thing was the breakfast pastry about 6 hrs later. Of course all this makes sense in a way but does remind me dont fly economy at night over >3 hrs and maybe just dont fly at night if possible. Not possible of course with long flights eg USA and Orange Dipstick just added a 20% tariff on our flights so will take 2 hrs longer now anyway 🤔. Of course no trip to USA planned anytime soon. So in summary todays decree is never going to NYC again and never flying in USA in Economy ever. So next trip will probably be to NYC in Economy in 2026 🤓

Rough flight where you doze off for 10 mins fully seated and wake up with a start. Leads to a very sore neck for this LBD. Arrived on time in Brisvegas under leaden skies and immigration easy. Do like the digital declaration Qantas and Brisvegas are trialling. Car was still there so home to Flashman Inc for a break and unpack and make sure CLP knows which clothes need starch etc. Am thoughtful like that. Plan was to have a rest or even a daytime sleep as quite fuzzy headed by now with headaches but that never works so back on road about 930 am for drive home to Maryhole in persistent light rain. Of course when i say road…..

Rest of day spent mostly in lounge chair where probably caught 75% of shows in between drifting in and out of sleep. Finally in bed by 6:15 pm and slept pretty well until 430 am so got up and went to gym and then a good coffee at last. I have my routine that I like . Will be another 24 hrs before my full routine will be back if ya get my drift and then I wont feel so full hopefully. Still raining on and off here for another day I imagine.

So, wont bother with Flashies on such a short trip but just general comments and heaps of photos 🙂

Singapore is an impressive city – very clean and safe. Weather is a shocker but you know that going in

Hotel was great location and impressive structure . Rooms quite basic for the price but functional. Pool was great and breakfast buffet superb as was service there and maid service. All other service poor

Singapore Flyer worth the money for the views alone. The area by the Esplanade is a beautiful place to spend some time and do a few laps in the bay

The walk around Marina gave some magnificent vistas that will never tire off and a few quirks which will never forget

Of course the trip was planned around surprise birthday for brother Freddo turning 70. It was a massive achievement by his better half Lorraine to organise all this and look of surprise on his face was priceless. He couldnt believe I was only 3 years younger! Then we made him wear the shirt . We had 90 mins at Portmans bar which allowed for one drink but nothing else and then walked around for some dinner before returning to their room for some Scotch as you do

As is always the case by the time you leave the place you have all the transport, eating and shopping down pat and have to say the below grounds malls and walkways were great especially in this weather. Luckily always plan the drinking before arriving. An unexpected highlight unfolded on Saturday as we looked to have a drink anywhere but on site. I proposed Excise Man Whiskey and Wine Bar across the road near the esplanade and the rest is history. Legend Status granted. Simply wonderful couple of hours in relaxed comfort and luxurious surroundings. Service was superb

We had a couple of trips to Bay of Gardens during stay and certainly an impressive place up close. The double ticket for Flower Dome and Cloud Forest was especially good value. Easy access by MRT although did walk first day mostly under a trance as approached the amazing Marina Bay Sands.

Of course the main event was Sunday Brunch at The Fullerton , about a 15 min walk from our hotel on a warm day. Its a great spread and always enjoyable spending time with family and friends around a lunch table with endless alcohol . The dessert bar in particular impressed

We did a van tour on the last full day there and saw some interesting cultural areas of town you probably would normally miss as well as the always excellent Botannical Gardens. Informative driver in a comfortable van made for a pleasant and relaxing day . Visited some great and varied temples – Indian, Arab and Chinatown. The trifecta of fascinating cultures from countries have no interest in visiting. Spooky

The final highlight was somewhat unexpected as we headed off in general direction of Esplanade for dinner on Monday and someone suggested Gluttons Bay on Pissed Promenade so thought why not. Basically upmarket Street Food stalls in clean and comfortable surroundings . The Tower (s)of Beer was a particular highlight and a perfect ending to our time together as a group

In classic holiday style you feel ready to come home after a busy 5 days and as soon as you arrive home you miss the place and the company. Would I go back ? No. Am I glad I went? OATH .

I’ll drink to that

Oops wrong photo

Oops wrong photo

Ahh…..

CLP is taking me to NYC for my 70th (in business class) but I don’t really expect anyone more distant than 3rd cousin to attend 🕺🏻

And so we come to the long last day that always happens on holidays . A night time flight home may be not best idea but only option with Qantas. Looks like a usual day weather wise so will spend morning casually around neighbourhood as check out is 2 pm and leave hotel at 4 pm for airport and 830 pm flight. Changi airport itself is well worth an hour checking it out

First up though one last superb breakfast . Bid farewell to most of gang but will see JL this afternoon before going to airport. When they are 70 you never know if you will see them again 🤓

Headed out for a walk around neighbourhood with a slight plan of checking out possible short river cruises . That plan fell over quickly when dockside and nothing open but certainly a lot of folk around. Very pleasant walk around but already sweating so back to the pool by 0930 . There was a GQ photo shoot on the bridge apparently.

As we wind down our short trip a few observations. The city is very clean and very safe . Fantastic public transport . Service levels are poor in most cases although certainly maid service is excellent. Expensive although bargains can be had. Some sneaky taxes appear out of nowhere at times. The biggest takeaway though is going to sound racist but really the “Asians” ( Chinese, Malay ,Indian etc) are a rather arrogant and ignorant bunch in my limited experience. Have had a few experiences of them expecting special treatment in “their country” like pushing in front of you at a food line. Of course the constant posed photo taking is very annoying when in crowds and don’t get me started on the fucken umbrella brigade almost poking eyes out at will 😡 Of interest it is hard to get a glass of cold water as default is always served room temperature which seems odd in Sweatalot. Beer ain’t real cold either. The hotel itself has been great and in perfect location with easy access to underground malls and walkways. 5 days seems about ideal time although could have seen more like a river cruise I guess. At this stage ready to head home and also keen to check on both houses as been some bad weather for several days now. Plane on time at present so head out at 4 pm fingers crossed.

First up a last hour with JL and a sneaky G&T in the room as you do . Of course when you leave plenty of time everything happens quickly. Taxi waiting , no traffic, easy check in yada yada yada. And taxi was only $17 all up . Oddly we went through two passport stations but no security check? We went to Jewel first which is stunning to say the least

Before you could say “ I’ll have a Stone and Wood “ thanks son we were in business lounge at 435 pm for an 830 pm flight. Luckily I am a sensible drinker. As in get a beer and wine while CLP is out shopping so don’t leave seat . I should write a travel book eh

At this stage flight is on time and will have at least 8 hrs to sober up before a two stage road trip with me driving – weather permitting – from Brisvegas to Flashman Inc , NoSunshine Coast and then later onto Maryhole if roads are open . If not will stay with CLP a couple more nights

Wow first time she has cried this week….. later dudes, it’s been a blast and a very special occasion ❤️

Edit: Couple of interesting observations at Changi. They do the security screening at the boarding gate “ to allow more time to enjoy the shops “ and they are ok with female cleaners in male toilets . They do post signs at least 😂

Today we play Tourist on Tour as we Van up en masse to see some sights we haven’t seen and may be some we have glanced at with passing interest but vague commitment. Usual breakfast before 8 am kick off. Meanwhile I may have had too much to drink yesterday as appear to have woken up in the jungle

Being a morning person like to get up early and if not enthused for gym will go down to the Portmans Bar area and do iPad stuff until reasonable to engage with folk . Oddly , the level of service at Portmans is same even with no staff on, just quieter. Spooky. I did see a couple of staff getting ready to move

Last full day in Singapore although tomorrow is late flight . Am impressed with being able to fill in Passenger Declaration for arrival in Aussieland in Qantas app. Ain’t technology wonderful. Also our hotel gave us complimentary late checkout at 2 pm if we promised not to come back.

Our driver Justonce was ready and waiting and headed off in comfortable van under leaden skies. A fair bit of rumbling also but to be fair I did have a curry last night. First up then was an arrangement of colourful weeds strung up from trees aka Orchid Heaven at Botannnical Gardens. Excitement levels were reaching fever pitch folks

Always one to follow signs I duly sought shelter as skies darkened and was lucky to blend in with a grey statue

I asked our driver what happens if we are late coming back and he said I will wait first time but next time I am gone . Ah, I said that is how you got your name. He laughed and muttered “you Aussies”. I was lucky to find my favourite orchid as well, the Little Aussie Battler.

Then it was time for some kulcha and first up was Little India. Certainly different to the clean wide streets of Singapore. Very noisy too of course and the first of several impressive temples . I think there must be a cruise ship of Geriatrics landed as saw a group walking along street. The tour guide always has the umbrella so easy to pick.

Back in Van and onto the Muslim area near Arab Street just around corner from Camel Crescent. Today was a public holiday for Malay New Year and also end of Ramadan.

We were seeing more culture than a Penicillin factory by now and still had Chinatown to go. Also time for a drink and some food. But first I prayed to find a toilet and was truly blessed. The locals were a little ticked off when at first I sat on the wrong throne assuming it was modelled on Trumps toilet.

Graham decided to do some dental work so I decided to look around for a drink and was surprised to see all the Guinness signs so thought when in Rome. Think I got the translation wrong but it was cold at least . Then I thought Forget it Jake, it’s Chinatown.

Our last stop then was Merlion district . Having already visited a few days ago when not 5000 Asians around I said I would just find a place to rest. I fell asleep and the bastards left without me ! Luckily it was close to our hotel

Back in room by 2 pm so time for some pool stuff. It had turned into another warm dry day so very pleasant in the water. Only issue is pool is only 1.2m deep so doesn’t even cover the Dicksonia really. I’m here all week try the chilli crab

Speaking of which after a few hours of relaxing the Gang will meet up again around 6 pm for a stroll and dinner and seafood is looking good. Will sign off now then for our last full day but not last day of being full….

Actually had to add some photos from a simply fantastic last dinner together

Well there has been a new highlight each day so far but now we come to the crème de la crème. It’s time for the snouts in trough extravaganza 3 hr buffet lunch eatndrinkathon (Patent Pending) at The Fullerton. Did I mention all alcohol is included. Did I mention it was 3 hrs …

This will take some planning. Off to gym at 530 am for starters. That’s the first 10 mins of indulgence countered. Then down for usual superb breakfast but need to be done by 8 am ( not an issue trust me ) to allow 4 hrs digestion before the feast. Once again the weather is hot and steamy but yet to be impacted by storms or rain despite the daily forecasts of same. Not a complaint, an observation. Would like any rain to hold off until 4 pm if possible. Must be time for some pool time then

Only issue see with Buffet Bonanza is dress code – no shorts ! What asshat came up with a no shorts policy on Sweatalot 🤦🏻‍♂️ . Be fine inside but is a 15-20 min walk first and 45 min crawl home 😏. Some great sights along the way

For such a well known buffet the organisation seemed typical Singaporeeee as now come to expect. Can’t get in until midday but really no organisation or line up so at midday just approached and we walked in behind all the fucken clowns in shorts ! FMS . Breathe Breathe. Duly sitted at our table with 8 water glasses and 4 with water in them. No other glasses in sight. Then someone offered us tea or coffee. Piss off son , Bring the Champers. Eventually someone came out with glasses and Veuve Cliquot so I settled down . The spread was magnificent of course.

The one thing to know is last drinks order is at 230 pm so load up Chauncey at 2:29 pm. Also always order Rum and coke separately. And then order another Rum🤓

Now this will sound like a complaint on what was a wonderful occasion but is more of an observation. Service in Singapore is crap. Apart from Excise Man. At every meal we have had or drink at a bar we are constantly getting wrong drinks delivered. Now I understand English is not their first language and that is cool but man it has been hard at times to get a simple answer. I tried to organise a round of Port at end. No one had a clue what Port was even when explained.

Weather was a bit hit and miss now but made it home ok . I went to pool to cool down and while thunder around still no storm. May get together later tonight but will be a quiet one. Have a tour organised tomorrow so better get some beauty sleep.

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Wonderful night last night with family , or what I remember of it …..🕺🏻Some shenanigans ensued back in the party room.

Time to be a tourist again today with a relaxed approach as have seen so much already. I can see breakfast starts getting a bit later each day and no gym today! Plenty of walking though will help. The breakfast buffet truly is amazeballs.

Lucky with weather so far really wrt storms and rainfall. In fact sounds like Maryhole is copping it for a change . Never get tired of this vista

After breakfast time then for gang to head over the Gardens by the Bay in hot and sweltering conditions. You know, Saturday😏

It’s a fair trek but finally snuck into Marina Sands looking for AC . Truly an architectural wonder

As body temp returned to 38 degrees we headed back out. You have heard of Gorillas in the Mist?

We headed down then and into expanse of the Gardens. If we can work it out may come back later in day for a light show up close but it is a long walk

We then decided to split up and go separate ways as we were keen to see Cloud Forest and Flower Dome in opposite direction. Both very impressive and quite crowded

It was still hot and steamy and a cool pool beckoned so we headed to MRT for home base . Really is a great system . Up to the pool then where JL already were . We swam around and then ordered some lunch as you do. A few spots of rain was enough to raise humidity another 10% . I’ll drink to that

A relaxing afternoon then as wait arrival of 4th couple to conclude the surprise. We have been using Signal Group chat so of course Pete Hegseth may turn up ! At least he drinks I hear

We all met up at Portmans Bar onsite which site which was convenient but not again. Woeful service and pricey . We had a round of drinks but then it was my turn to suggest a place for drinks and maybe dinner. I suggested the Excise Man Wine and Whiskey bar about a 10 min walk. Let’s just say I am now officially a legend. Stunning place with old world elegance and superb service

A truly wonderful night with a couple of extra highlights. An Aussie winemaker from Langmeil in Barossa was doing a tasting and came out for a chat. After dinner and drinks we were given a tour of the tasting rooms and the range of wines on show. I tell ya if Freddo wasn’t 70 he would have been barring up 🤓

We then went for a short walk along esplanade as a beautiful night and a slightly different aspect for us .

Short walk home then and time for rest as another big day tomorrow

Why a media blackout the fans scream? Well, we arrived in Singapore on Thursday as part of a covert operation undertaken by 3 couples ( but only 5 folk in “the know”) to celebrate 70th birthday of brother John aka Freddo. Let me tell you da ladies love men in uniform.

Luckily in Singapore they like boys in sailor outfits. Go figure

Anyway Operation Seventy the New Sixty was organised by Lorraine and had the three couples arriving at different times in Singapore hereafter called Sweatalot. It’s March, it’s Storm season yada yada yada. We took the 5 night package arriving on Thursday, the day before guest of honour. We “surprised” him at the bar on Friday night as all staying at same hotel The Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay . I did warn Lorraine that big surprises at 70 could be dangerous but she just had a wistful look on her face.

So we began in Brisvegas on Wednesday. Qantas only have one flight from Brisvegas to Singapore a day and leaves mid morning so safest bet was to be down there night before and stayed at our usual goto airport hotel – the Novotel Airport Hotel:) Its nothing special but makes for a stress free start next day hopefully although plenty of plane issues around the world of late. There is a large DFO next door which I naturally assumed was a David Ferguson Outlet but sadly mistaken. Rainy day as predicted so was glad to arrive early afternoon and then found out we had a room upgrade , 2 free drinks a breakfast thrown in. Ok, cool. “ Well you are a Platinum member Sir” . Really? Can I see your card again please. Sure. Ok let me get back to you . Anyway we kept the nice room and we have our drink vouchers and no interest in breakfast anyway.

Wandered down at 5 pm for a brew at the hotel bar. Always a solid performer

Then back into the DFO complex for dinner at the Transit Tavern. Very passable indeed

Next morning it was an early trip out to airport as have long term parking booked and can have breakfast at Qantas Club. Luckily its the International terminal as Domestic a bit of a mess at present

Quite crowded but all moved along and still in Qantas Club with plenty of time to spare and plenty to eat and drink. At present all still seems on time, a relative term with airlines of course

Excellent service all round by Qantas with great food and drink on plane although of course it is still 8 hrs in Economy. Arrived 20 mins early and immigration was ok and then found out my honeybuns had paid for limo service 😘 It’s a very impressive hotel and rooms are fine with good views but for the price a bit simple like no drawers for clothes or hooks in bathrooms etc. It is basically a nice hotel room in a beautiful hotel

Time then to head out for a walk but man the heat and humidity is a killer even at 630 pm. Walked around to the Singapore Flyer and decided to wait a little until it got darker and the light show started at the Hanging Gardens or whatever they are called. It’s a stunning vista by day or night

Not a bad nights sleep in the sauna. Why do hotels in the jungle only have a doona and no sheets. FMS. Sweatalot is 2 hrs behind so my body clock said 4am was the new 6 am so we got up and went to gym. I was sweating on the elevator

When we get to 9 am it will be 35 degrees with feel like 40 ! There is an exercise outdoors warning in place ! Nice time of day and great gym

Back to room for 7 showers before heading down to breakfast and a catch up with Couple 1 to plan arrival surprise for Couple 3 this afternoon. Couple 1 were a non starter but will meet later so decided to head out for a walk around marina on cloudy but dry day . Turned into a wonderful morning with plenty of great sites , a couple of subway rides on an excellent system and even a cable car home from Sentosa Island

We were keen to try original Singapore Slings at Raffles in the Long Bar . The line up was ridiculous but luckily found another bar on site that also served them. The price was ridiculous but we knew that going in $41 ea. The $16 tax on top was the shocker .

We achieved heaps in the last 24 hrs so now time to relax in the pool and wait for the birthday boy to arrive

Then the fun starts. Here is one I prepared earlier

Now back to more normal ,less crowded posts as media blackout lifted. There was dancing in the streets folks. Well at least crowds gathered