For the past eight years, Bob and I have been long-term travelers, calling our sailboat, Rhapsody, home as we explored the world. But now, for the first time in nearly a decade, we’ve stepped away from the water for an extended land-based journey. And let me tell you—traveling on land as a long-term traveler feels very different from both life aboard and the short, whirlwind experiences of vacationers.
When you hear "slow boat down the Mekong," you might imagine a leisurely, tranquil journey, gently drifting along one of Southeast Asia's most famous rivers. "Slow Boat" is not just a descriptor, it is what these boats are called. And sure, it's all of that—unless you're comparing it to our sailboat, Rhapsody. Then it’s more of a brisk jog. For two days, Bob and I embraced the role of passengers, a rare treat for sailors, who are used to being the captains of our own chaos.
Art in Paradise in Chiang Mai isn’t your typical art museum. There are no security guards warning you to not step too close to the exhibits or rope barrier keeping you away from the art. Instead, this place invites you to throw yourself—sometimes literally—into the artwork. This unique 3D art museum blurs the line between reality and illusion, with its playful and interactive exhibits that transform flat, 2D surfaces into captivating 3D experiences. Each room offers a different theme, from the mysteries of ancient Egypt to the enchanting depths of the ocean, inviting visitors to become part of the art. For us, the real joy came from exploring these surreal spaces together, posing for countless photos, and marveling at the creativity behind the illusions.
Easy hikes,” they said. “It’ll be fun,” they said. And to be fair, they weren’t entirely wrong. But when you’re staring up a rocky trail that seems to climb straight into the clouds, “easy” feels like an inside joke you’re not quite in on.
 |
| First views of the wat at the top of the steps |
After a short but busy stay in Singapore, we arrived in Chiang Mai, Thailand, ready for the next phase of our travels. It was time to unwind, explore, and... cautiously rebuild our financial footing after the misadventures chronicled in our last post (RIP, Singapore ATM-eaten debit card). With one card left, we were in no mood to gamble with machines and sought reassurance at every step.
 |
| Elephant statue overlooking the Old Chiang Mai Moat |
Singapore—a city where everything gleams, everything works, and everything reminds you not to break the rules. It was our two-day stopover en route to Thailand, a chance to see a friend, stretch our legs, and apparently, lose a debit card to a hungry ATM.
It started at the airport. Bright, efficient, and humming with activity, where we foolishly assumed we'd withdraw some cash and be on our way with Singaporean dollars. Singapore, however, had other plans. The ATM promptly swallowed our card without so much as an apology. We were left standing there, cashless, in one of the world’s priciest cities.
Thus began a half day quest unsuccessfully trying to retrieve the card. On the bright side, Singapore loves credit cards almost as much as it loves issuing fines, so we managed to get by—and at least we got to see a bit of the city while walking to and from the bank!
 |
Our second day began at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The air was hot, the humidity high, and the scenery promising. With no paper maps available, we snapped a picture of the painted map on a signboard and looked it over, pretending this was as good as a GPS.
 |
A helpful gentleman approached us, clearly worried we were about to overestimate our capabilities. “There’s a nice, flat 2-kilometer route,” he assured us, glancing at us with the kindly skepticism reserved for the elderly or easily lost. “Plenty of benches to rest along the way.”
We thanked him for the advice while suppressing laughter. “Sure,” we thought, “2 kilometers, benches—perfect for us decrepit souls.” Armed with his encouragement and absolutely zero trail maps (because, as he reassured us, there were none), we set off.
 |
Nevertheless, his advice set the tone for the day. We embarked on what would eventually be a 6.5-mile exploration of the gardens, laughing each time we passed a bench or paused at yet another well-placed map.
 |
| Blossoms of a wild Banana |
Well-marked trails led us past lush greenery and stunning sculptures. and a canopy walk.
 |
| Sculpture of Swans and their reflection in Swan Lake |
A small waterfall tucked into the gardens also caught our attention, allowing us to walk behind its curtain of water for a refreshing pause.
The gardens were busy, with joggers, walkers, and fitness groups making their way along the paths. It was clear that this space was a haven for both nature lovers and city dwellers needing a break from the relentless urban energy. The atmosphere was peaceful, the flora stunning, and the experience a delightful reminder of how nature can coexist with city life.
 |
| Wonderfully large and luscious leaves |
As for the city itself, Singapore takes neatness and order to a whole new level. It’s as if Singapore lives by the motto: “New is always better,” with buildings torn down and replaced every 20 years and there are rules that tell you to replace your car every 10 years. Even the construction equipment looks brand new.
 |
It is full of reminders not to mess up. Fines for everything—from smoking to chewing gum—meant it felt incredibly safe but also mildly intimidating. Flying into Singapore was the first time that I heard the announcement threatening death for drug violations. Maybe a little more than mildly intimidating! It’s an odd juxtaposition: a city that feels perfectly safe but also oddly threatening in its enforcement of perfection.
In the end, our Singapore adventure was short and sweet (well, steamy and a little stressful). We reconnected with our friend David, walked far more than anticipated, and even managed a few laughs despite the ongoing ATM saga. As we left for Thailand, we couldn’t help but wonder: will our next ATM swallow our card too? Will the benches be as plentiful?
Stay tuned—our next stop promises adventure, a vacation from life aboard Rhapsody, and hopefully, access to actual cash.
Cyclone season is back, and cruisers everywhere in the South Pacific are scrambling to make their grand exit. Most pack up and head south to New Zealand, others west to Australia, and then there’s a small group of us who stay put in Fiji. Last year, we rolled the dice, kept Rhapsody close to a “hurricane hole” (or as close to one as you can get in the Pacific), and decided to try our luck. Cyclone Mal stopped by for a brief visit, (you can read about our experience here) but otherwise, we enjoyed quiet anchorages, empty marinas, and zero races to the best anchoring spots with other boats.
