Rambling Chronicles: Day 70 – Sail the Java Sea

Thursday, February 27, 2025

Day 70 – Sail the Java Sea

I know I may sound like a broken record, but I really do need sea days, especially after days with long excursions and extreme heat and humidity. Today was another one of those welcome days.

Tim and I were up early to listen to Dr. Babcock’s lecture on “Singapore: A City Within a Garden.” I always enjoy his lectures, but this one was particularly interesting for me as he delved into the difference a vision and leadership can make in building a city and country.

Singapore: A City Within a Garden

He compared Singapore with Jakarta and explained way in which Singapore was able to become such a highly developed and modern country known for its clean streets, efficient transportation system, and thriving economy. I’ll recount much of what we learned when I write about our time in Singapore.

When I was at the Hotel Indonesia yesterday, the friendly staff introduced me to tropical fruits that I had never previously encountered. I brought two of them back to the ship, and today, I asked one of the chefs to prepare them for me. I really enjoyed the mangosteen, but the salak, or snake fruit, was just okay. I do like trying new things, even if I end up not liking them.

Two Interesting Looking Fruits - Mangosteen (left) and Salak (right)

Chef Alastair and his culinary team once again tempted us at lunch with a Baklava Station. I never knew there were so many ways to prepare this delicious dessert.

Baklava Station

Tim wore a new shirt today that he had bought while in Jakarta. It was so different for him, and I loved the new look.

Tim Is Stylin'

Tonight, we attended the Viking Farewell Reception as we approach the end of another segment of the World Cruise. We also said farewell to Captain Markus and General Manager Ronald, who will be leaving us in Singapore. Watching the wonderful crew parade down the aisles to a standing ovation is always a special moment, and tonight’s was no exception.