Singaporean currency is dull but practical
by Skylink
All the banknotes have the same guy, the first president of Singapore on the front. On the back of the banknotes are civic virtues. The coins are similar to each other. The front has a coat of arms and the back have flowers.
The smaller denominations coins such as the one cent and 5 cent pieces are rarely seen. Stores round up or adjust down to the nearest 10 cents (which is worth about 5 Euro cents or 6 US cents)
There are some new banknotes that almost look like the old ones. The main difference is that they are made of thin plastic, not paper. They have a transparent window in 2 corners. They feel like Australian currency.
Population & Languages
by imstress
In Singapore, you will find Chinese, Indian, Malay and Eurasian Communities living harmoniously together, their long established cultures forming a unique backdrop to a clean and modern garden city.
Singapore's multicultural society of just over four million is reflected in its major ethnic groups: the Chinese (76.8%), Malays (13.9%), Indians (7.9%), and Eurasians and smaller minority groups (1.4%). Despite rapid industrialisation, the majority of Singaporeans celebrate the major festivals associated with their respective religions.
The variety of religions is a direct reflection of the diversity of races living here. Singapore's principal religions are Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity. The majority of Chinese Singaporeans follow Buddhism, although Daoism (Taoism), and more recently Christianity, are also popular. Malay Singaporeans are predominantly Muslim, while more than half the Indian Singaporeans profess Hinduism.
There are four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil. English is spoken everywhere and it is the common business language of all.
Cleanliness
by universalgypsy
As most might have heard, chewing gum is not welcomed into this country. As I am not a gum chewer this was not an issue. However, in little India there are even "no spitting" signs!! This did not stop my shoes from getting pelted with this forbidden bodily excrete. I did though, get a huge kick out of the sign! Have a laugh yourself....
Watch what you bring
by arampan
There are taxes for bringing tobacco and alcohol into Singapore. You have to declare what you bring in and be taxed accordingly. If you try to hide it to avoid the tax and get caught, there is a hefty fine.
Customs information can be found here:
http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Importation+of+Intoxicating+Liquors+and+Tobacco+Products.htm
Dirt biking in Pengerang - Tristan Park
by manja13
Just one hour bumboat ride away from Singapore, in Malaysia, a place called Pengerang. For about SGD$70-90, you can learn to ride a motorbike and go on guided trails for 7hrs. Tristan Park is a dirt-bike training school for off-road motorcycle riders age eight 8 yrs old rider to adult. Pure off-road riding requires no riding/driving license.
You start off with a pit bike if you don't have licence. Only riders are advised to ride the bigger CC bikes.
The Park provide most of the equipment – helmat, elbow and knee protection.
It's fun and i would highly recommend it if you are into outdoor sports.
Stay tune for my adventure at Tristan Park!
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Old and new at boat quai Singapore
My wife, Khushboo at Merlion Walk, Sentosa, SG
My Wife at Elizabeth Walk, Near Pedang, SG
Botanic Gardens
