Exploring Iconic Places

Singapore is truly a shopping paradise, brimming with iconic commercial districts that offer unique experiences at every turn. Leading the list is the iconic Orchard Road, a bustling thoroughfare lined with world-renowned shopping malls, designer boutiques, and luxury brands. Students seeking a moment of relaxation can stroll amidst the latest fashion stores, discover the latest trends, and perhaps even indulge in a coffee at one of the many trendy cafes scattered along the street.

For those craving a more bohemian and eclectic atmosphere, Haji Lane is the place to be. Nestled in the heart of the Arab quarter of Kampong Glam, Haji Lane boasts an eclectic selection of independent shops, colorful street art, and quaint cafes. It’s the perfect spot to uncover unique pieces, original souvenirs, and immerse oneself in Singapore’s alternative culture.

And what about the iconic Marina Bay Sands? This architectural marvel dominating Singapore’s skyline is more than just its impressive silhouette. Beneath its roof, you’ll find not only luxury boutiques offering an unparalleled shopping experience but also breathtaking views of the city and bay. A stroll along the Marina Bay Sands promenade offers a unique perspective on the blend of modernity and tradition that characterizes Singapore, a visual inspiration for any student in search of new ideas.

By exploring these iconic neighborhoods, you can not only satisfy your shopping cravings but also soak in Singapore’s unique atmosphere. Every street corner, every shop, and every encounter can become a valuable source of inspiration for your academic work, enriching your student experience with a touch of creativity and cultural diversity.

Tips for Effective Time Management

Balancing academic requirements with the desire to shop may seem like a daunting task, but with proper planning, it’s entirely possible to reconcile both aspects of your student life. Before succumbing to the temptation of Singapore’s boutiques, take a moment to consider your real needs and shopping goals. Establish a clear list of items you truly need and the shops you absolutely want to visit. This preliminary step will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases that could waste both time and money.

Nowadays, technology can be your best ally in planning your shopping sessions. Before stepping foot into Singapore’s malls, take the time to browse through shopping-dedicated mobile applications. These apps can help you spot the best deals, locate shops selling sought-after items, and even book appointments for fittings or consultations with stylists. By using these digital tools wisely, you can maximize your time on-site and enhance your shopping experience in Singapore.

Finally, the key to reconciling shopping with your studies lies in strategic time management. Instead of dedicating an entire day to shopping, consider alternating shopping sessions with periods of dedicated study work. For example, you could reserve mornings for boutique visits and afternoons for focusing on your academic assignments. This approach will allow you to fully enjoy your time in Singapore while maintaining a healthy balance between leisure activities and academic responsibilities.

By following these practical tips, you can be confident that your time in Singapore will be both productive and rewarding. You’ll be able to fully savor every moment of your student experience, making the most of both your shopping time and academic studies.

Utilizing Shopping as an Academic Inspiration

One of the most exciting and creative ways to incorporate your shopping experience in Singapore into your academic work is to consider every neighborhood in the city as a true source of inspiration. Every street corner, every shop, and every encounter can offer you unique perspectives that will enrich your thoughts and stimulate your creativity.

Take Chinatown, for example, one of Singapore’s most iconic neighborhoods. As you wander through its bustling streets, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere rich in history, tradition, and culture. The ancestral temples, colorful markets, and traditional craft shops provide a plethora of opportunities to explore exciting topics in anthropology, sociology, or even history. You could delve into the rituals and customs of the various communities present in Singapore or study the impact of globalization on the city’s historic neighborhoods.

Similarly, the ultra-modern shopping malls of Marina Bay are an endless source of inspiration for students in science and technology. Admiring the latest technological innovations showcased in these temples of consumption, you could be inspired for research in engineering, information technology, or even industrial design. You could study advancements in environmental sustainability in building design or explore the social and ethical implications of new retail technologies.

By carefully observing your surroundings and keeping an open mind, you may discover new and stimulating ideas for your academic work. Whether you’re interested in the humanities, social sciences, exact sciences, or applied sciences, Singapore offers a fertile ground to nurture your intellectual curiosity and stimulate your creativity. By tapping into the city’s cultural, historical, and technological wealth, you can transform your shopping experience into a true academic adventure, enriching your academic journey with a unique and exciting dimension.

Conclusion :

Ultimately, reconciling shopping in Singapore with academic productivity is not only possible but also beneficial. By exploring the city’s shopping districts, effectively managing your time, and drawing inspiration from your surroundings, you can turn your leisure moments into opportunities for personal and academic enrichment. So, the next time you find yourself in Singapore, don’t forget to bring along your shopping list and your notebook – you might be surprised at how shopping can nourish both your style and your substance.

The post The secrets of shopping in Singapore: How to balance pleasure and academic productivity appeared first on SingaporeGardenFestival.

Singapore, this dynamic and cosmopolitan city-state, is recognized as one of the most sought-after educational destinations in the world. With its unique blend of cultures and commitment to academic excellence, Singapore attracts students from around the globe in search of a quality education. However, to succeed in their studies, French-speaking students need the right academic writing supplies. In this article, we will explore the best places to buy these supplies in Singapore.

Specialty Bookstores: An Oasis for Budding Writers

In Singapore, bookstores are much more than mere establishments selling books. They are veritable havens where students can find an impressive variety of high-quality academic writing supplies. Among these literary gems, two names stand out: “Books Kinokuniya” and “Popular Bookstore.”

“Books Kinokuniya” is an institution in Singapore’s literary landscape. Located in the heart of the city, this bookstore offers an eclectic selection of pens, notebooks, and other essential accessories for any budding writer. Whether you’re in need of a smooth-flowing ink pen for crafting your essays or a sturdy-bound notebook for taking class notes, “Books Kinokuniya” has everything you need. Additionally, its knowledgeable staff is always ready to guide you in your choices and recommend the best products based on your specific needs.

Similarly, the “Popular Bookstore” is a favored destination for students seeking quality academic writing supplies. With multiple branches across Singapore, this bookstore chain offers a comprehensive range of products, from pens to highlighters to notebooks. French-speaking students will also find products specially tailored to their language requirements, such as notebooks with fine lines for practicing precise French writing.

In summary, Singapore’s specialty bookstores are more than just book retail outlets. They are places where students can nourish their passion for writing and find the tools necessary to excel in their studies. Whether you’re in search of an elegant fountain pen or a high-quality notebook, “Books Kinokuniya” and “Popular Bookstore” are there to meet all your academic writing supplies needs.

Online Stores: Explore a World of Possibilities from Home

For students who prefer the comfort of their own home for shopping, online stores are an indispensable option. In Singapore, platforms such as “Amazon.sg” and “Lazada” offer unparalleled online shopping experiences, with a vast selection of academic writing supplies just a click away.

On “Amazon.sg,” students can browse through an impressive variety of products, ranging from pens to calculators to specialized notebooks. Whether you’re looking for a fine-point pen for annotating your texts or a graphing calculator for your advanced math classes, “Amazon.sg” has everything you need. Additionally, the platform often features special deals and exclusive discounts, making it an economical option for budget-conscious students.

Similarly, “Lazada” is a preferred destination for online shopping in Singapore. With its user-friendly interface and easy navigation, this platform allows students to quickly and easily find the academic writing supplies they need. Whether you’re in search of spiral notebooks for taking class notes or colorful highlighters for organizing your ideas, “Lazada” offers a multitude of options to meet all students’ needs.

Furthermore, online shopping offers the advantage of fast delivery, allowing students to receive their academic writing supplies directly to their doorstep without having to venture out. This convenience is particularly appreciated by busy students juggling between their classes and extracurricular commitments.

In conclusion, online stores such as “Amazon.sg” and “Lazada” provide students in Singapore with easy and convenient access to a wide range of academic writing supplies. Whether you prefer shopping from home or are looking for special deals, these platforms are here to offer you an unparalleled online shopping experience.

Art Supplies Stores: A Paradise for Creatives and Writers

In Singapore, art supplies stores are not limited to brushes and canvases. While their primary focus is on art, these establishments also offer an impressive range of products suitable for academic writing. Among them, “Art Friend” and “Overjoyed” stand out for their diverse selection and commitment to quality.

“Art Friend” is a true paradise for creatives and budding writers. With its shelves filled with high-quality pencils, markers, and papers, this store provides everything students need to express their creativity and write their essays with style. Whether you prefer writing with a smooth-flowing gel ink pen or drawing diagrams with fine-tip markers, “Art Friend” offers a multitude of options to meet all students’ needs.

Similarly, “Overjoyed” is a favorite destination for art enthusiasts and passionate writers. This store offers a carefully curated selection of pens, markers, and premium papers, specially tailored for academic writing. French-speaking students will also find products designed specifically for their language needs, such as notebooks with fine lines for practicing precise French writing.

Furthermore, these stores often provide personalized advice from their knowledgeable staff, who are always ready to assist students in finding the products that best suit them. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a passionate writer, “Art Friend” and “Overjoyed” are there to support you on your creative and academic journey.

In conclusion, art supplies stores in Singapore are more than just outlets for art materials. They are places where students can find inspiration and the tools necessary to express their creativity and excel in their studies. Whether you’re in search of an elegant fountain pen or premium paper for writing your essays, “Art Friend” and “Overjoyed” are here to help you achieve your academic goals with excellence.

Tips for Choosing the Best Supplies: Opt for Quality, Balance, and Sustainability

When selecting your academic writing supplies, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure an optimal writing experience. Here are some tips to help you choose the best supplies:

Quality above all: Make sure to choose high-quality products that will withstand intensive use throughout the school year. Opt for pens with smooth ink and durable tips, notebooks with thick and sturdy pages, and sturdy accessories that can withstand daily use.

Balance between quality and price: While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest products, it’s important to seek a good balance between quality and price. Sometimes, investing a little more in higher-quality supplies can save you in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements and frustrations associated with lower-quality products.

Environmental responsibility: Whenever possible, prioritize environmentally friendly products to contribute to sustainability. Choose supplies made from recycled materials or from sustainable sources. Additionally, select products with minimal or recyclable packaging to reduce your environmental impact.

By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the best academic writing supplies that meet your needs while contributing to your academic success and environmental preservation. Whether you prefer shopping in person at Singapore’s specialty bookstores or online on platforms such as “Amazon.sg” and “Lazada,” keep these tips in mind to make informed and wise choices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you prefer shopping in person or online, Singapore offers a multitude of options to find the best academic writing supplies. By following the advice provided in this article, French-speaking students can ensure they are well-equipped to succeed in their studies in Singapore.

The post The best places to buy academic writing supplies in Singapore appeared first on SingaporeGardenFestival.

Tourists enjoy historical sites, admire flamingos in Jurong Bird Park, and meet river inhabitants on a water safari. But not everyone knows that this country offers many opportunities for gamblers. The Singapore casino will give you many unforgettable emotions and an adrenaline rush.

A Little About Casinos in Singapore

Several laws govern casinos in Singapore. On August 1, 2022, the Gambling Authority was created. This department regulates the activities of all gaming halls in the country.

In Singapore, there are casinos integrated into hotels. These are entire complexes where visitors can enjoy playing slot machines, sitting at a poker table, enjoying delicious cocktails, and the pleasant company of the croupier. Entertainment shows are regularly held in the shallows, and casino fans can shop in the luxury boutiques located in the hotel’s infrastructure.

Regulation of casino activities at a legal level allows tourists to enjoy the sophisticated world of gambling. Let’s talk about the most popular casinos in Singapore and their features.

Popular Casinos in Singapore

Marina Bay Sands Casino is an establishment many have heard about. It is the largest entertainment destination in Asia and is located in the heart of Singapore. Marina Bay Sands is a considerable location with hotel rooms, entertainment centers, restaurants, luxury stores, and a casino. Exhibitions and performances are constantly held on the territory, and the observation deck offers incredible city views.

Marina Bay Sands Casino is divided into sections with different gambling entertainment. Here you will find:

• slots;
• card games;
• roulette;
• sic bo.

You will find classic entertainment and modern models in the slot machine room. Many slots have a progressive jackpot, so you can win big. Card game tables feature both traditional options and Singaporean variations.

It is also worth noting that at Marina Bay Sands Casino, you can enjoy not only the games but also the pleasant company of the dealer. Professional dealers maintain the atmosphere at the gaming table and are happy to engage in dialogue with visitors.

Resorts World Sentosa Casino is another place worth visiting for gambling fans. It is a recreational location where you will find an amusement park, a museum, gourmet restaurants, and a casino. The gaming room has classic games and modern slots. Resorts World Sentosa Casino has more than 1,000 gaming tables, so every visitor can find an option to suit their taste. It is worth noting that the gaming room offers classic entertainment and traditional gambling.

Resorts World Sentosa Casino has VIP zones: Maxims and Maxims Platinum. In the second option, private rooms are available to visitors, where guests can enjoy gambling and refreshing drinks.

The floating casino Lido Casino on MV Leisure World differs from land-based establishments. First, it is on a liner that sails across the ocean. The gaming room offers more than 200 slot machines and card entertainment. It is worth noting that Lido Casino on MV Leisure World has three card poker and many card game options.

A distinctive feature of this casino is its low rates. Visitors do not need to spend huge sums of money to win. Playing at low stakes often brings good winnings and a lot of fun. The ship also has a fitness center, solarium, souvenir shops, and a restaurant. At Lido Casino on MV Leisure World, you can play your favorite gambling games and have fun.

Rules for visiting casinos in Singapore

The main requirement for casino visitors in Singapore is age. Only adult players can go inside. The second point worth knowing is that you will not be allowed into the casino while intoxicated.

There are no strict requirements for the dress code. You don’t have to dress up in a tailcoat or evening dress to visit Marina Bay Sands Casino or Resorts World Sentosa Casino. But they will hardly let you in flip-flops and shorts. Attire for visiting a casino should be comfortable and clean. It is better not to wear hats with large brims, sunglasses, or caps. Security will ask you to remove them, as the faces of casino visitors must be uncovered.

To visit the casino, you will need to present your passport. Be prepared to have to show documents several times.

Casinos in Singapore are a great way to unwind. Game rooms offer a tremendous amount of entertainment for every taste. Don’t give in to the excitement; enjoy the casino’s atmosphere, and your vacation will be unforgettable.

The post Rolling the Dice in the Lion City — Casino gambling in Singapore’s urban jungle appeared first on SingaporeGardenFestival.

Gambling in Singapore

Compared to the best chile casinos, there aren’t many of the most excellent casinos in Singapore. However, the casino attracts visitors from all over the nation because of its glitter and glam and its full range of regular casino games. Compared to Las Vegas or Macau, Singapore’s casino sector is still in its infancy, with the first facility opening in 2006. However, because Singapore is recognized as the world’s finance hub and draws many high rollers, you can bet that significant money is being wagered every night of the week. In addition to land-based casinos, Singapore is experiencing a surge in casino ships leaving the country’s ports and entering foreign waters to avoid inconvenient restrictions. Keep in mind that many Singaporean casinos need smart-casual attire. They make no mention of wearing shorts or flip-flops.

Top things to know about Resorts World Sentosa Casino

It is the place to be on Singapore’s gorgeous Sentosa Island. It provides an amazing gaming experience as well as a wealth of other attractions that will leave you wanting more. It is a large entertainment complex with hotels and world-class amusement parks. Great restaurants and a spa are available here.

The casino is the main draw at Resorts World Sentosa. It’s a gambler’s paradise, with over 2,400 slot machines and 500 table games. There are various games to choose from, regardless of your level of experience. At the casino, you may play baccarat, blackjack, and roulette.

The casino includes a high roller-focused VIP gaming room for visitors searching for a more exclusive experience. This is an experience you probably won’t forget, thanks to the tailored rooms and attentive service.

The gaming tables aren’t the only venues to have a good time. Make your stay even more interesting by taking advantage of year-round live performances, concerts, and special events.

Casino Experience

There are around 13 types of table games to choose from at the Resorts World Sentosa Casino, with betting levels starting at around SGD 10. There are an endless amount of game types available at RWS Casino. Here are a few examples:

• Blackjack;
• Casino Stud Poker;
• Pai Gow, Pontoon;
• Progressive Texas Hold ’em Poker;
• RWS Baccarat;
• Si Ki Pi;
• Tai Sai;
• Electronic Sic Bo;
• Electronic Baccarat;
• Slot Games.

The Resorts World Sentosa Casino offers an astonishing scope of games and entertainment options.

Resorts World Sentosa Casino, Dress Code, Entry & Hours, Singapore

According to Singaporean law, locals must get a Casino Entry Levy to use the facilities. Nonetheless, guests and foreigners are welcome to enter the casino for free. Simply show identification, such as a passport, a long-term visiting ticket, a diplomat identity card issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or other acceptable papers. Visitors must be at least 21 years old and appropriately dressed.

All major jackpot and slot machine games are available at the casino. It also includes over 500 gaming tables and slot machines, including titles like Indiana Jones, Alien vs. Predator, Back to the Future, and Star Wars.

People worldwide who appreciate gaming come here to take advantage of the very modern facilities and services. Dine and drink at one of the casino’s many restaurants or bars, such as Wing Choi, Prosperity Court, Crockfords Club, Full House, or Casino Royal Bar.

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By 2040, 9 out of 10 people in rush hour should be moving around the city not in a personal car. That means on foot, by bicycle, by bus, subway, cab or balloon, but not by their car. The time of any trip within the city should be no more than 45 minutes. To achieve these goals, they build compact neighborhoods, bicycle lanes, subways, make dedicated parking lots, and so on.

The whole world has played with cars since the last century: cities have moved away from trying to keep up with the increase in the number of cars to control the use of the car. While one hand makes public transport and sidewalks convenient, the other hand imposes prices for parking and car travel. In Singapore, similar systems have been in place since the 1970s, when traffic jams got to everyone.

Today in Singapore there are three tools to control your desire to buy or drive a car:

1) ERP – the toll road system;

2) COE – license to buy a car;

3) GLIDE – intelligent flow management systems.

ERP

This is a toll road system. The system has been in place since the 1970s, and has gone from paper passes with manual checks at checkpoints to digital remote reading. The price of the toll varies depending on the load on the streets in a particular area and the type of vehicle. There are three price ratios: personal cars, cabs and light trucks – 1 PCU, motorcycles and mopeds – 0.5 PCU, heavy trucks 1.5 PCU and buses 2 PCU. In other words, if at a certain point the ERP zone entrance fee is $1, motorcyclists pay $0.5 and bus companies pay $2. Also, the price changes during school vacations. Also read about 4.7 Dodge engine problems here.         

The maximum and minimum price in each zone is reviewed every three months based on street utilization: if the average speed is consistently high, the price goes down, if it is low, the price goes up. This is done to redistribute traffic on the streets: you can take a short small road at a higher price and save time, or take a detour and a little cheaper.                                                                                                             

COE

You can’t just pick up and buy a car in Singapore. The license to buy a car was introduced by the local Deptrans (Land Transportation Authority) in 1990 in response to a surge in the number of cars. Licenses are auctioned off and the document itself is issued for a specific car for 10 years. It is forbidden to resell the license, as well as forbidden to re-register the car to another owner who does not have his own license.

In addition, a car in Singapore is much more expensive than in New York: sales tax, registration fee, regular and progressive customs duty are added to the price. Added to this is the road tax for different engine displacements, parking, license plate issuance price, annual insurance, store commission and various special taxes. The only exceptions are for special services and military vehicles.

GLIDE

It’s complicated and simple: it is an intelligent transportation system. The computer analyzes data from the streets and decides on the optimal phasing at the level of the intersection, the district and the entire city. To do this, it uses embedded sensors. The system takes into account pedestrians, there are intersections with priority passage of buses.

The system is self-contained, but allows operators to manually adjust the green wave remotely, and emergency services also have access. For example, near fire stations, traffic lights can be configured to allow special vehicles to pass. The city also has a warning screen system for various incidents and a free evacuation service.

Street Design

This is what streets in historic districts of Singapore usually look like: a cute development with active first floors, narrow sidewalks, porches and parking. Here, they decided to remove the parking. For starters, they use tactical urbanism to make different public spaces in place of car spaces. Through each pole hangs a notice of the work and an apology for the inconvenience.

The solutions are quick, simple and inexpensive. But these incomprehensible constructions will help to understand if the conceived things work – it is necessary to avoid mistakes in the major reconstruction of the street.

As a rule, before such projects, they collect data on street users and their number, involve businesses and test the theory. If after temporary changes no significant improvements happened, then everything is removed and tried elsewhere, and if everything worked and everyone is happy – begin to do a major project. Swing in front of the bar, why not? Too bad I didn’t make it here in the evening.

The unloading places are marked separately. Such a story! And guess what? There’s almost no traffic here! Singapore has pleasantly surprised with its mature transportation policy! Others should follow its example!

The post Singapore’s Battle of the Car appeared first on SingaporeGardenFestival.

Yes, some might say that Singapore is one of the smallest countries in the world and is easier to manage or they had a decent leader. There may be many reasons for this success story, but the main thing is the result, and it is impressive.

Here are a few facts about Singapore at the time:

– In the first half of the 20th century, Singapore was a small village and a colonial appendage of Britain, without its own economy, politics or anything else.

– In 1965, Singapore gained its independence.

– In 1965 it was a third world country, complicated by the fact that Singapore had not a gram of coal, not a drop of oil, not a bubble of gas or other minerals.

– The country as in 1965 and today imports absolutely everything: fresh water, sand, clothing, all food. There isn’t even land to develop agriculture or industry.

If you look at all of these facts above, it is not clear how Singapore did it.

Singapore’s Success Story

On August 9, 1965 Singapore gained full independence and at the head of what was then a third world country, stood a man who played a key role in the success of this country: Lee Kuan Yew. There were many conflicts in the region at the time, and the strong neighbors of Malaysia and Indonesia, with their armies, were clearly not in favor of friendly and neighborly relations. At the time, Singapore was nothing to them and, at best, of absolutely no interest.

The country’s new leader was faced with a number of issues that needed to be addressed. People personally acquainted with Lee Kuan Yew say that he ran Singapore like an owner runs his own small company. Absolutely nothing happened in the country without his knowledge, he was aware of all decisions and kept his hand on the pulse all the time.

How Lee Kuan Yew tackled the pressing social issues that eventually propelled Singapore into a world leader and a country with one of the highest standards of living in the world, the answer is below.

The story of creating a successful financial system

This was one of the most difficult problems to solve immediately. A rapid and global financing began, both at the state level and the search for outside large investors to develop strategic industries. As written above, Singapore had nothing but a favorable geographical location, and this was the bet. The lion’s share of all investments was directed to:

– Building a port and developing shipping. Since there was no land, but there was the sea.

– Creating its own state-owned airline and building an airport.

– Telecommunications.

– Since in 1965 Singapore was a slum, much of the investment was in civil engineering.

Lee Kuan Yew guaranteed all investors respect for the rule of law, a stable and independent judiciary, an anti-corrupt and competent government and the stability of the entire government vertical in their decisions.

The result has not been long in coming. Today in Singapore:

– The port and cargo terminal is one of the largest and busiest cargo ports in the world.

– The airport is the largest in terms of passenger traffic in the world. Just Changi Airport in Singapore – for seven consecutive years, recognized as the best airport in the world. And the state airline company Singapore Airlines, is one of the top airlines in the world and is one of the few five-star carriers.

– For 10 years, all the slums in Singapore were demolished and in their place have grown modern residential neighborhoods with skyscrapers, which resettled the local residents.

– The country’s GDP per capita in 1965 was $ 560, and in 2020 already 85 000 $.

History of Medical Modernization in Singapore

In 1965, Singapore’s healthcare system was entirely state-run with all its attendant consequences: free medicines, low doctors’ salaries and consequently low qualifications. Because of all this, all medicine was gradually switched from free to fee-for-service, with no subsidies from the state. And the most interesting thing was that the first thing that was created in state clinics were paid services, which were of better quality and service than the free ones, and most residents used them.

Life without pensions

The main ideological tenet of the new pension reform in Singapore was the following: you can not shift the entire burden of pensions of the current generation to the future. All conditions must be created for each generation to pay for itself and save for its own retirement. Today we managed to create a unique system of personalized pension accounts, where every citizen contributes money to his/her bank account every month in any currency and in any amount he/she wishes, and all sums in these accounts are insured by the state.

History of Singapore’s anti-corruption efforts

Corruption in Singapore in 1965 was the scourge of the whole country. It could only be eradicated by radical methods. And these methods were found.

The first thing Lee Kuan Yew did was to imprison three of his best friends for bribery. Later, the death penalty was introduced for corruption at the top levels of government, a step on par with the anti-corruption judicial system that helped eradicate bribery at the top of government. And on the middle and lower levels of government and executive branches of power all procedures where any decision-making was required were very much abolished. And where there is no decision-making, there is no corruption.

The history of democracy in Singapore

Democracy in Singapore is very complicated. The locals were happy with their leader and did not say anything bad about him, and most importantly, they thought they lived in a democratic country, although Western countries scoffed at it. Consider this:

– The opposition was banned in this country.

– The multiparty system was banned.

– Rallies and meetings of any kind were banned.

– The mass media banned criticism of the government. Lee Kuan Yew always said that the people elected the current government, while newspaper editors were not elected by the people and they have no right to criticize the government and destabilize the situation in the country.

– If there was any problem in Singapore, it was dealt with very radically, so a huge number of bans appeared in the country. One striking example is the fight against chewing gum, which was inserted into locks, mailboxes, elevator buttons, subway train doors and many other places. Chewing gum thrown on the floor increased time and cost of cleaning, as well as damaged cleaning equipment. The problem was solved simply: the penalty for throwing gum in a trash can is $500 and the fine for importing gum into the country – $72,000. And you know, it worked.

In conclusion 

Singapore’s success story in world politics is unique, all the more valuable. Whoever gave Lee Kuan Yew’s role in this success, one thing is clear, he was the key figure and took a poor country with not a single state effective institution and 30 years later handed over a first world country with the highest number of dollar millionaires per thousand inhabitants.

Start packing your suitcase to Singapore, this trip will be remembered for a long time!

The post Singapore’s Success Story appeared first on SingaporeGardenFestival.

Peranakan painting

A peranakan porcelain or sarong, decorated with traditional Indian or Peranakan handicrafts, is a distinctly Singaporean souvenir. You can buy them at the True Blue Shoppe in the Peranakan Museum, for example.

Mooncake

Mooncake is a traditional Chinese dessert with different fillings. They are usually eaten and given to each other with good wishes during the Mid-Autumn Festival. But you can also just give them as gifts to friends. They are sold year-round in all supermarkets.

TWG Tea

Singapore’s national tea brand has about 1,000 varieties of the drink. And no wonder – the English tradition of afternoon tea is firmly rooted in the country, and it’s loved and understood here. There are beautiful gift sets, and for an expensive gift, the famous “golden” tea, precious in every way: the rare variety, the particles of gold inside and, of course, the price… There are several TWG tea boutiques, one located inside the Marina Bay Sands resort.

Singapore Sling Marmalade

Singapore Sling Marmelade will remind you of the taste of the famous cocktail, but won’t get you intoxicated.

Orchid Cookies

Check out The Cookie Museum. There are orchid cookies of the Miss Joakim’s Wanda variety, and even sweets flavored with Peranakan laksa noodles.

Kaya paste

The sweet green coconut paste is a must for the classic Singaporean breakfast. Spread it on toast and top it off with a soft-boiled egg and coffee and you’re transported back to Singapore morning or to your friends and family for a moment. Available in all supermarkets.

Orchids in gold RISIS

Fine gold jewelry that will leave a good memory of Singapore for years to come. The live flower is processed according to a special technique, creating a multi-layered coating that allows the jewelry to be sufficiently durable and yet exquisite. The last layers of 24-carat gold and rhodium, a platinum group metal, are applied. You can get a brooch or a necklace with such an orchid. A more budget option is earrings. However, they usually do not use fresh flowers, otherwise the jewelry will be too fragile. One of the most famous manufacturers of orchids in gold is called RISIS (www.risis.com), its stores can be found all over the city, as well as at the airport.

Singapore Sling Cocktail

This traditional cocktail was invented by a Chinese bartender in the early 20th century. The drink was conceived as a date drink to be served to beautiful ladies. The legendary cocktail consists of gin, cherry brandy, pineapple juice, lime juice, grenadine, liqueurs Benedictine and Quantro. Sling bottles are available, for example, at the Raffles Hotel or at the airport. It will be a delight to open such a bottle at home and treat your friends while you reminisce about your trip to Singapore.

Tax Free: Goods Tax Refund

In Singapore, all goods are subject to a 7% GST tax, which tourists can refund before departing from Changi International Airport. To get your tax refund, you must spend a minimum of S$100 in one store that has a “Tax Free Shopping”, “Premier Tax Free” or “Tax Refund” sign at the entrance.

The actual refund amount will be less than 7% because a service charge is deducted from that amount. You can find out the exact amount from your refund receipt, which you will receive in the store.

Use the eTRS self-service kiosk at the airport, which will automatically give you a complete list of all your purchases made in Singapore after scanning your receipts.

Until you have processed all your tax refund paperwork, do not check items in your luggage, as they may be required for physical inspection. The eTRS self-service machines located in the Departure Hall are available in several languages, including Russian.

The terminal will give you a receipt with a notice, on which you will find the status of your tax refund. If it says “Approved,” then you can check in for the flight, put the items in your luggage, and go through immigration control, after which you will receive the money. If the receipt says “Not approved,” it means that you need to have the goods inspected by an officer. If you are required to pay by mail, you may be asked to show the original receipts.

You can choose how you would like to receive your tax refund: directly to your bank card at an eTRS self-service terminal or in cash. If you choose to receive your refund in cash, you can go to the central tax refund counter in the departure lounge (after passing through immigration control – GST Refund) to receive your money.

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Singapore’s shopping malls

The big malls have not only stores, but also great restaurants and places for all sorts of entertainment. Here you can spend an interesting time, often even a whole day. The main shopping activity in the city is concentrated on Orchard Road. It is more than two kilometers of different stores and malls.

Here you’ll find boutiques of world-famous brands as well as stores of stylish Singaporean designers. Stores of Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, Dolce&Gabbana, Prada are concentrated in ION Orchard and Paragon Shopping Centre. TANGS Plaza and Robinsons department stores have both expensive and more democratic brands. TANGS Plaza has a huge selection of hipster things, Robinsons has a lot of cosmetics and a wide variety of clothing and footwear brands. At both centers, you can find items by Singaporean designers such as the stylish In Good Company and Womb. Read here how to access online to BioLife debit card.

Takashimaya or Ngee Ann City are worth a visit for the Japanese brands, especially the beauty brands. In the center there are mostly luxury brands like Hugo Boss, Juicy Couture, Fendi, Jo Malone, Christin Louboutin, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Versace. You’ll also find plenty of stores with home accessories, a bookstore with a Kinokunya playground for kids, and more. The floors smell of fragrance and downstairs don’t forget to check out the Laduree pastry shop for the freshest macaroons. There’s lots more cafés like PAUL where you can watch the lively, colorful but shady Orchard Street skyline over a steaming cup of coffee.

313@Somerset is worth checking out if you’re looking for unusual mid-priced items. There are boutiques by Singaporean designers like Love and Bonito, entire stores of sneakers, stylish caps and backpacks, and a huge Food Republic food court that takes up the entire fifth floor.

In Raffles City you can shop in the popular mid-priced stores, visit Robinson’s on the first floor and, as for cafes, go to Awfully Chocolate and forget about the word “diet”, it’s so good! Go to Din Tai Fung for Chinese dumplings and Tiong Bahru Bakery for coffee and the freshest croissants. Tiong Bahru Bakery is just across the street from the Raffles Hotel and centrally located by City Hall subway.

Marina Bay Sands has more than 170 boutiques under the roof of The Shoppes, where leading international brands such as Bottega Veneta, Chaumet, Roger Dubuis and Saint Laurent have created limited-edition collections that are sold only here. Not to forget Louis Vuitton’s famous boutique island. Marina Bay Sands is particularly notable for its luxury children’s clothing brands – Armani Junior, Bonpoint, Fendi Kids, Ralph Lauren Children and Dolce & Gabbana Junior. For instance, you can take a gondola ride through the mall itself as it winds its way along an artificial canal past the luxury boutiques.

Singapore’s largest mall, VivoCity, is perfect for families. It’s located in the southeast of the island and looks out over the scenic Sentosa Island of entertainment. Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste, Zara, Timberland, Bebe, Desigual – there are many family brands with a medium price tag. The veranda outside offers a delightful view of Sentosa, the colorful monorail cars and the cable car. The complex has many good restaurants and cafes, both Asian and European, as well as areas for children’s entertainment.

For technology, it is worth going to Sim Lim Square and Challenger Singapore, for example. Here you can buy the latest, highest quality electronics, computers, cameras, printers, and more at adequate prices. Challenger Singapore also has a repair service for phones, PCs and cameras. Apple fans will love the Apple Store – here you can not only buy a device, but also get advice from a specialist, as well as take part in a master class.

Interesting technology at good prices can be purchased during one of the major IT fairs regularly held in Singapore: IT Show, PC Show, COMEX and SITEX.

Discounts and Outlets

The Great Singapore Sale

Every year, the city transforms into a kind of madhouse for a few weeks during this sale. Supermarkets, boutiques and shopping malls all cut prices by up to 70%. During this period it is possible to buy really good things at a very favorable price.

It is important to add that a similar sale period begins at the end of the year, before Christmas. The New Year sale starts at the beginning of November and lasts until mid-January.

Mustafa Shopping Center

This huge store in Little India sells almost everything from carrots to gold and has an amazing selection of goods. The prices are the lowest in Singapore and the mall is open 24/7 all year round. Lovers of Indian food should pay special attention to the mall as it sells a great variety of original Indian products.

Bugis Street and Shopping Centre

This is a paradise for lovers of inexpensive designer clothes and gifts: more than 600 stores with prices starting from 10 dollars. And it’s also very atmospheric: brightly colored storefronts, the buzz of voices and the mind-boggling smells of street food will follow you around all the time.

SCAPE Underground

This on-budget style store right on Central Orchard Road is something out of the realm of fantasy. But it’s there! What’s more, it employs students and young people who are still living on their parents’ pocket money. Buying something at SCAPE Underground can support a working student who is not always easy to live in expensive Singapore.

Anchorpoint

This center has many outlets of well-known brands, such as Charles and Keith Outlet, Pedro Outlet, G2000 Outlet, Giordano Outlet, Cotton On Outlet, Billabong Outlet, FOX Outlet, Capitol Optical Outlet and TYPO Outlet. Discounts in them go up to 70 %, so you can not wait for the Great Sale. There are surprisingly few people here – mainly locals know about this center.

IMM Outlet Mall

The largest outlet mall in Singapore. Among the brands that are regularly represented there are Calvin Klein Jeans, BillBong, Club 21, Clarks, City Chain, Furla, Converse, Hush Puppies, Juicy Couture, New Balance, Nine West, Nike, Adidas, Puma, Winter Time, Timberland, Onitsuka Tiger, G2000. Discounts go up to 80%, all year round.

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One of the first things that struck me was the vast difference in the landscape. Arizona is very dry and desert-like, while Singapore is a lush, tropical paradise. It’s amazing to see such contrasting environments within such a short distance of each other.

Another big difference is the pace of life. In Arizona, everything seemed to move at a much slower pace than in Singapore. Maybe it’s just the heat or maybe it’s because there are so many people in such a small space, but everything in Singapore seemed to happen at a lightning-fast speed.

Of course, there are also many similarities between the two cultures. Both places are extremely diverse, with people from all over the world living in close proximity to each other. And both cultures place a high value on education.

The first thing that struck me was the heat. In Arizona, it gets hot, but in Singapore, it is oppressive. The humidity is so high that it feels like you can’t breathe. I was thankful for air conditioning everywhere I went.

The second thing that struck me was the food. In Arizona, we have good Mexican food and steakhouses. In Singapore, there is a diverse range of cuisine available, and I was able to try many new things. The chili crab was my favorite dish.

The third thing that struck me was the people. In Arizona, people are friendly but reserved. In Singapore, people are outgoing and very social. I enjoyed talking to the locals and learning about their culture.

When traveling to Singapore you should remember to bring your passport and any other necessary travel documents. You will also need a valid visa if you are coming from a country requiring one. Singapore is a relatively safe country to travel to, but it is always wise to take precautions against pickpockets and other petty crimes. Be sure to familiarise yourself with the local laws and customs before traveling, as breaking them can result in hefty fines or even jail time.

Some useful things to remember when traveling to Singapore include:

– Tipping is not customary in Singapore, so you don’t need to worry about leaving a gratuity for service staff.

– The legal drinking age in Singapore is 18, so if you’re planning on going out for drinks be sure to bring your ID.

– Singapore is a very diverse country, so be respectful of the different cultures and religions you’ll encounter.

– The weather in Singapore is tropical and humid, so pack light clothing to help you stay cool.

– Singapore is an expensive city, so be prepared to budget accordingly for your trip.

A few disadvantages of traveling to Singapore

may include the cost of living being relatively high and the crowdedness of the city-state, however, these are also some of its charms.

If you are looking for a fast-paced, cosmopolitan city with an endless array of things to do, then Singapore is the place for you.

Also, I visited Singapore garden and want to tell you about this garden.  This is one of the most beautiful gardens I have ever seen. The Singapore Garden was created in 1971 and it is located in the heart of the city. This garden is very well known for its stunning architecture, a vast array of plants and flowers, and tranquil atmosphere. The garden is open from 5 am to 12 am daily, so you can enjoy it at any time of the day.

One of the best things about the Singapore Garden is that it is free to enter. You can explore the different areas of the garden at your own pace, and there are plenty of benches and shady spots to take a rest. The garden also has a cafe, so you can grab a bite to eat or drink if you get peckish.

If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then the Singapore Garden is definitely worth a visit. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Overall, I had a great time traveling from Arizona to Singapore. I was able to experience many new things and meet interesting people. If you ever have the opportunity to travel to Singapore, I highly recommend it. Thanks for reading!

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Unsustainable Practices that Threaten Singapore’s Existence

Unsustainable practices are those that cannot be sustained indefinitely. The term can refer to environmental, economic, and social practices. We need to pay attention to our environment so it remains healthy for future generations and so we have a livable world in the future.

Singapore’s dependence on natural assets and the lack of sustainability in people’ practices threaten Singapore’s existence. For instance, squandering food and water is a frequent Singapore’s unsustainable practice. Citizens squander what we need to survive. The private sector has been committing this act by purchasing products that are not recyclable or only usable once before they break down. One-use plastics make up a significant portion of these items like straws, cups, packaging, utensils and bags. 

There are many to address at the private levels too. Depending on fossil fuels, overpopulating, contaminating assets. It’s a personal choice that many people make without considering the consequences. These all represent an imbalance in Singapore’s intake of natural assets that threatens citizens’ existence.

Go Green for Better Life

We all want to make a difference in the world, but how? It can be difficult to understand where we should start. The thought of cutting Singaporeans’ carbon footprint may be daunting – where do the citizens even begin? There’re multiple variants to go green and it can be difficult knowing where to start. I’ve compiled 10 different ideas that will make you think about your personal impact on the environment, without being overwhelming or too time consuming. Some suggestions may appear small but together they have an amazing effect! 

From recycling food waste and being conscious about the products Singaporeans get, there’re lots of things that the citizens may do to form a greener community with less pollution, less pressure on the environment, and even more interesting eco-tourism opportunities.

Singapore has established a reputation of being an eco-friendly city. Still, there’re other factors that facilitate making Singapore really green and sustainable: government policies, public awareness and participation like community initiatives. These efforts have led to the development of diverse eco-friendly strategies that are far more encompassing than people may realize.

Singapore has several assets that help make sustainable living simpler. Singaporeans have many initiatives held by the government and NGOs. For instance, the green metro campaign is a movement led by the government to encourage commuters to cut their carbon footprint in commuting and move towards greener solutions for their travel. The Edible Gardens and Vertical Garden in NUS provide opportunities for students to learn about sustainable living from hands-on experience. Many other reserves are at our disposal. We just have to use them!

Challenges

Singapore is a city with a strong and prosperous economy, offering plenty of opportunities to make a living. However, the city-state will continue to face challenges like an increase in population and congestion. In order to maintain the quality of life that everyone enjoys, the government needs to push hard for sustainable initiatives. The success of projects like these will determine whether Singapore can survive in the long term.

Final note

The intake of reserves at a rate that is too high and faster than the Earth can replace them. Many people may not realize they are engaging in unsustainable practices until it’s too late. One of these things is squandering food and water, which have been called the cornerstone of human survival. When we use non-renewable assets like fossil fuels to power our vehicles or make electricity, we risk exhausting natural sources. For instance, over a third of all produce in North America is thrown away each year due to improper storage or expiry date, costing consumers $1 billion annually on squandered groceries alone. Have you been considering making sustainable changes in your lifestyle and are confused as to how to do so? Don’t worry, because it is simpler than you think. There’re small changes that you can make on a daily basis that will help one live a more sustainable life. By following the tips below, you will be able to cut your carbon footprint on earth and enhance your health. And remember, making choices about which aspects of your life to focus on for sustainable living can have a dramatic impact on the future environment.

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