Traditional Culture Encyclopedia - Traditional stories - Can anyone tell me specifically what Singapore is like?

Can anyone tell me specifically what Singapore is like?

Singaporeans don't only speak Chinese, there are many languages spoken in Singapore, English, Chinese, Malay, Temasek, and it's only because there are so many Chinese that there are so many Chinese speakers

Singapore is a very small country, and it's not a threat to the rest of the world. It has very few resources and is limited by other countries, so there are few disputes

Singapore is not a closed country, on the contrary, it is a very open country, the people live in harmony, and get along well with the surrounding countries, and the relationship with Australia and America is very good, and the port of Singapore is still one of the most prosperous ports in the world

The following is some information

- Geography-

Singapore is a tropical island nation located 136.8 kilometers north of the equator. It consists of one main island and 63 smaller islands with a total area of 682 square kilometers. The main island of Singapore is about 42 kilometers from east to west and 23 kilometers from south to north and the rest of the islands outside the main island, the larger ones are Teck Kwong, U Min and Sentosa.

Singapore's geographical location is one of the crossroads of the world. Its geographical location has enabled it to develop into a major center of commerce, communication and tourism.

-Population-

Singapore currently has a population of about 4 million people, of which 77% are Chinese, 14% Malay, 8% Indian, 1% mixed Eurasian and other ethnic groups. Each race has maintained its own culture while integrating into Singapore as a whole.

- Language-

Singapore has four official languages: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil and English. English is the business and official language and is the most widely spoken. Most Singaporeans speak both their mother tongue and English.

-Climate-

Singapore's temperature is not very variable, rainfall is abundant, air humidity is high, and the climate is warm and humid, with an average annual temperature between 23 and 31 degrees Celsius, with very little difference in temperature, making it a good place to visit all year round.

Singapore is a paradise for those who love sunbathing, swimming, sailing and all kinds of water sports. Those who hate the heat of the sun won't suffer as almost all stores, hotels, offices and restaurants in Singapore are air-conditioned.

-Dress-

Traveling in Singapore is generally best done in relaxed, casual summer attire. For business, shirts, pants and ties are generally worn, and suits are largely unnecessary.

-Currency-

The Singapore Dollar, commonly referred to as S$, has a ratio of S$1:4.9 RMB.

Foreign currencies can be exchanged locally with banks or authorized money changers.

Check the exchange rate ( / )

-Time difference-

Singapore has no time difference with China.

-Drinking water-

Raw water from all water pipes in Singapore can be consumed directly. Of course, it is generally best to drink mineral water as people have different sensitivities to raw water.

-Voltage-

The voltage in Singapore is 230V, 50Hz. Transformers are available for rent at almost all hotel outlets.

-Tipping-

In principle, tipping is not practiced in Singapore. However, in some areas of service, a tip is usually given as an encouragement if the customer feels that the service was good.

-Other Precautions-

1. Visitors must maintain good hygiene at all times in Singapore and may be fined up to S$1,000 for spitting and littering.

2. Singapore advocates a ban on smoking and a fine of $500 will be imposed for smoking in non-smoking areas such as buses, theaters, cinemas, restaurants and air-conditioned stores, and government offices.

3. In Singapore, pedestrians are required to walk on sidewalks and crosswalks, and are fined $50 for going over railings, and if there is no crosswalk within 50 meters, they are required to cross the road from the traffic light.

4. Take the initiative to pump and flush after using a public toilet, otherwise it is considered an offense and will be fined up to $500 if convicted.

5. Gambling Prohibition: According to the Singapore government regulations, any form of gambling is prohibited, except for charity lotteries, TOTO, Singapore SWEEP tickets and horse race betting through the Bukit Bay Club. Chinese citizens holding private passports in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Xiamen, Fuzhou, Chengdu, Kunming, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Suzhou, Shenyang and Dalian can try to apply for individual visas at the Singapore Embassy or Consulate in China).

(Visa /abroad/note/jmb.htm )

-Customs-

1. Currency: Singapore Customs does not have a maximum amount of foreign currency that can be brought into the country.

2. DUTIABLE GOODS: Tobacco, alcohol, clothing and apparel, purses and wallets, artificial jewelry, chocolates and confectionery, pastries, cookies and cakes. 3. Duty-free goods: electrical and electronic appliances, cosmetics, cameras, clocks and watches, jewelry, precious jewelry, footwear, arts and crafts, and toys. 4. Sightseers are not required to pay duty on the following items brought into the country: personal effects; foodstuffs such as chocolates, cookies, cakes, etc. not exceeding a value of S$50. Persons aged 18 years and above and not entering from Malaysia are exempted from duty on the following items: 1 liter of spirits; 1 liter of wine; 1 liter of beer, ale or stout. The above duty-free items are for personal consumption only and are not allowed to be resold or given away. In addition, the labels of alcohol and cigarettes brought in by travelers must not bear the words "Singapore Duty Free"; cigarette packs bearing the "E" mark are also not allowed to be brought in, and any cigarettes in packs must be taxed if they are brought in by air, land or sea, and duty-free cigarettes are only sold to outbound travelers. Duty-free cigarettes are only sold to outbound travelers.

5. Contraband: Chewing gum, firecrackers, pornography, endangered species of plants and animals, controlled substances, narcotics, and firearms are not allowed to be brought into the country. The maximum penalty for arrest for bringing drugs or arms into the country is death.

-Shopping-

Singapore can be considered a "shopper's paradise", with a wide range of items available. Surveys show that the following items are the most popular among tourists from all over the world in Singapore: souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, electronics, cosmetics, perfumes, and more.

If you're a keen shopper, you won't want to miss Singapore's annual Islandwide Sale in June and July, as well as the annual end-of-year and Chinese New Year Festive Sales, when retailers across the island join forces to organize a variety of hot sales to get the best prices on a wide range of items. prices on many items.

Singapore's shopping is characterized by variety, quality, value for money and excellent service. As long as you have the money, time and energy, you will not have to worry about not being able to buy your favorite items here!

-Souvenirs-

Fish Tail Lions:

The Fish Tail Lion is one of Singapore's iconic symbols, and there are a wide range of Fish Tail Lion souvenirs, such as keychains, small ornaments, and lighters. One of the more special ones is the lead-tin fishtail lion. Lead-tin alloy is a specialty of Southeast Asia, characterized by its unique gray-silver color and heavy products. Because tin is a non-ferrous metal, it can be relatively expensive.

Hojicha:

Hojicha ( orchid ) is the national flower of Singapore, and various kinds of jewelry made with her appearance are very popular. In addition, the fresh flower can be kept in a vase for up to two weeks or so.

-Most popular items-

Electrical appliances:

Singapore is an international duty-free port, and electrical appliances are as inexpensive as in Hong Kong, with some models even cheaper than in Hong Kong.

Jewelry:

Singapore is a real fashion capital, jewelry show is the latest trend of the western style. At the same time, Singapore's jewelry industry are strictly in accordance with international standards of import and export trade and processing production, superior quality, good reputation, fine craftsmanship, enjoy a high reputation in the international arena.

Clothing:

Because there is only one season in Singapore, it is difficult to find clothing here outside of the summer months. However, the quality and price of clothing here is very favorable, and many name brand clothing can be a fraction of the price in Hong Kong or China when they come across discount periods.

Perfumes and cosmetics:

You can get great value perfumes and cosmetics in Singapore, not only because of the local duty-free status, but also because many of the world's leading cosmetic manufacturers have their main distributors in Asia.

Pharmaceuticals and health food:

Singaporeans are very health-conscious, which has resulted in a large and robust market for pharmaceuticals and health food.

Famous Attractions:

-MERLION PARK-

Singapore's famous Merlion statue is situated on the banks of the Singapore River and is the icon and symbol of Singapore. The statue, which is 8 meters high and weighs 40 tons, with a stream of water coming out of the lion's mouth, was sculpted by the sculptor Mr. Lim Nam and his two children in 1972***.

The design concept of the fish-tailed lion, which sits on a wave of water with a fish's body on its head, is a combination of fact and legend: the lion's head represents the legendary "Lion City" of Singapore. The fish tail symbolizes the ancient city of Temasek, representing the development of Singapore from a small fishing village.

According to ancient books, Singapore was called Temasek in ancient times, in the Javanese language for the meaning of the sea city. Park In the 14th century, legend has it that an ancient Indonesian prince discovered the island, where he saw a magical beast, later learned to be a lion. The prince named the island "Singapura" - meaning "Singa" (lion) city (pura) in Sanskrit.

Today, more than a million tourists from all over the world visit the park every year to take pictures with the world-famous fish-tailed lions.

The park is surrounded by Singapore's famous landmarks: Esplanade, Government House, High Court, Victoria Theatre, Raffles Bronze Statue and many more, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.

- MOUNT FABER -

Mount Faber is the high point of Singapore's city center area. Climbing to the top of the hill, looking around, the panoramic view of Singapore and the beautiful scenery of the harbor can be seen at the end of the day. Cedar Top is the highest point in the park, where you can get a bird's eye view of the harbor, Sentosa and other southern islands, as well as a small fish-tailed lion that you can kiss. As night falls, you can also enjoy the city lights from here. Along the top flower bed is a rain tree, planted on November 7, 1971, the first Arbor Day, and along the tree is a multi-tiered terrace surrounded by flowers and trees, with specially designed arrows pointing in different directions to show visitors where to go and what to see. The 16 murals underneath the observation deck also give visitors an overview of Singapore's history and development.

-SENTOSA -

Website: .sg

This tropical island of 390 hectares, just half a kilometer south of the main island of Singapore, is connected to the main island by a land bridge; it was formerly used as a fort and base for the British army, but has since developed into a famous resort island. "Sentosa, which means "peace and tranquility" in Malay, has been recognized as the best vacation destination by tourists from all over the world for many years.

The island's rich and varied programs, combining nature, history and entertainment, are sure to keep you coming back for more! Not only can you enjoy the beautiful scenery of the southernmost tip of the Asian continent as you ride the island's monorail between the beaches and coconut groves, but you can also catch a glimpse of long-tailed macaques picking coconuts through the winding subtropical rainforest area. The Butterfly Garden is home to some 2,500 butterflies of more than 50 species, and the World Insectarium is home to millipedes, hairy venomous spiders, unicorns and many other insects. The Underwater World is also home to Asia's most exciting tropical fish aquarium. And at night, a musical fountain that combines high technology and art, blending lights, lasers, colors and music, is sure to be memorable for a long time!

- BOAT QUAY / CLARKE QUAY -

Once a place where traders unloaded their goods in small boats, the boats now carry tourists. Similarly, the warehouses, godowns and stores along the banks of the Singapore River have been transformed and refurbished into restaurants, bars and entertainment centers.

Barge Quay and Clarke Quay are now one of the liveliest entertainment destinations in downtown Singapore. With at least 35 bars and restaurants, Barge Quay is one of the most attractive alfresco dining spots along the river.

Upstream, Clarke Quay is a shopping, dining and entertainment paradise, where what was once 60 warehouses and stores has grown into 200 stores, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues, all in a festive atmosphere that is sure to keep you coming back for more.

-Chinatown-

Chinatown is Singapore's "Chinatown". But here you will find modern shopping centers, hawkers and century-old stores in close proximity. Stroll through the many alleys full of character and you will see a variety of antique handicrafts made by craftsmen and learn about the traditional art of the Chinese. Meanwhile, the numerous restaurants, bars, art galleries and souvenir stores, which are filled with a wide range of merchandise, from old-fashioned clogs to modern-day CD-ROM Walkmans, are worth a visit.

Smith Street in Chinatown is also a famous alfresco food court, where you can find the most delicious local snacks. Try the fried kuey teow, turnip cake, rojak (sand dipped in sweet syrup and crushed peanuts) and other local snacks.

-KAMPONG GLAM-

There is a different flavor here. Arab Street is filled with Arab traders selling exquisite silks, velvets and traditional Arabian Muslim food. And the old Sultan's Palace and Sultan's Mosque are the remnants of the old Sultan's rule.

The 100-year-old Sultan's Chapel, with its golden dome and huge prayer hall, is undoubtedly one of Singapore's architectural icons. This national monument, with its stately appearance, is a blend of Persian, Turkish and classical Malay architectural styles. The congregation prays five times a day from sunrise to sunset. When you visit, make sure you wear long pants or you will be turned away!

-LITTLE INDIA-

Little India is the home of Singapore's Indian community and is the epitome of India. As soon as you enter Little India, a strong odor of chili pepper will hit you. Stores display silverware, brassware, ethnic jewelry, jasmine garlands and silk saris ... with a very ethnic flavor.

Whether in the sprawling Bamboo Foot Center or in the small grocery stores, all kinds of interesting things are waiting to be explored. During several of India's major festivals, Little India is even decked up in a mythical world of gold and glitter, filled with people who come to shop and see what you can see.

-SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS-

Website: .sg

Jurong Bird Park is one of the world's largest bird zoos, with more than 600 species and 8,000 birds of prey of all colors, making it an educational and entertaining place to visit. Visitors can get a close-up look at the lives of the birds and watch exciting bird shows that are sure to make you laugh.

The penguin house in the park simulates the environment of Antarctica and is home to more than 200 penguins of five major species and more than 50 other seabirds, making it one of the few polar bird breeding areas in the world.

There is also the world's largest Southeast Asian aviary, which is divided into 24 small aviaries and a walk-in aviary with more than 100 species of rainforest Southeast Asian birds. At noon every day, the aviary mimics a tropical rainstorm, creating a natural equatorial habitat for the birds.

Featured New Year's Traditions

● Standing on a stool to fish for sashimi

Singaporeans must eat a dish called sashimi on New Year's Eve, which is all about how you eat it, and everyone has to fish for slices of fish and side dishes. The main point of this dish is how it is eaten, everyone has to fish up the fish slices and side dishes and eat them, so that everything will go well and rise high in the coming year. If you are in a restaurant in Singapore during Chinese New Year, don't be surprised if you see a group of people standing on chairs with their chopsticks up in the air.

● Two oranges to pay homage to the New Year

The fact that oranges are given as a New Year's gift is probably a unique Chinese New Year feature in Singapore. Whether the person they are visiting is a junior, an elder or a superior, the gift that people bring to the door is two tangerines. Because the simplified Chinese character for "tangerine" has the character for "good fortune" in it, sending two tangerines means sending "good luck" and "good fortune". "The first one is the one that you have to do the work for.

● Adults give red packets to children

In Singapore, there is an unwritten rule that married people should give red packets to those who are not married (those who are not married are considered children no matter how old they are). This makes it very interesting that those who have never been married, no matter how old they are, can still graciously ask for red packets from those who are younger than them, but already married.

● Flowers in the home

Chinese Singaporeans love to put potted flowers in their homes during Chinese New Year, adding to the festive atmosphere. Shortly before the Chinese New Year, pedestrians can be seen everywhere holding a variety of flowers, carried home with joy. There are some artificial potted flowers, clever businessmen directly on the flowers and plants hanging on the big red hot gold banner, write the auspicious words.

● Renovating Homes and Updating Furniture

Many families in Singapore choose to renovate their homes and furnishings as the New Year approaches. While they are cleaning or tidying up their homes for the new year, they also like to replace old furniture to give their homes a bit of a fresh look. More families are also renovating their homes to welcome the new year, replacing floor tiles, painting walls, putting in brand new stainless steel gates, and buying or replacing electrical appliances in their homes.

Tourist Attractions

●Parks: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Jurong Park, Sungei Buloh Natural Park

●Animal Kingdom: Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, Jurong Bird Park, Singapore Underwater World

●Suburban Recreation: Changi Village, Holland Village

●Ethnic and Cultural Districts: Chintzai ● Religious Architecture: St. Andrew's Church, Sultan's Back Church, Bright Hill Puja Temple, Mariamman Hindu Temple, Thian Hock Keng Palace

● Singapore Outlying Islands: Turtle Island, St. John's Island, Sentosa Island

● Museums: Singapore History Museum, Singapore Art Museum, Vientiane Gallery, Maritime Museum

Shopper's Paradise

● DFS Duty Free

● Centro Place Mall

● Orchard Duffy

● Far East Plaza

● Far East Mall

● Fortune Plaza

● International House

● Orchard Centre Place

● Ngee Ann City

● Auchi Building

● Orchard Jade

●Orchard Business Center

●Orchard Place

●Orchid Mansion

Most Popular Local Food

●Hainan Chicken Rice

●Laksa

●Wok-fried Sticks

●Fujian Prawn Noodles

●Indian Tarts

●Fish Head Curry

● Satay

● Lo Mein

● Nyonya Cake

● Chilli Crab