Sunday, June 8, 2008
Please Help!
This is Shari - Debbie's daughter. It seems that Debbie has taken a bit of a vacation from blogging and I, for one, am very against it. After talking to a few others, I learned that I am not alone. I'm starting a campaign to encourage her to keep writing and sharing her insight and adventures with all of us! To help me, please email her - in the subject line, write BLOG and in the body of the text, write BLOG! You can use whatever email address you have for her - or use the email or contact button on the blog page! Please do this as often as you can - once a day, twice a day - the more the better. A few people have already started sending BLOG emails - and she thinks its funny - imagine her surprise when she starts getting EVEN MORE!!! So start emailing, tell your friends, and together we will all make a difference in the world of blogging!!! :)
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Singapore Info - as Requested
I was sitting at an outside table at my favorite Moroccan restaurant on Arab St the other day. An American couple walked past several times, glancing my way each time. They finally approached my table, said they didn't want to disturb me, but was I an American? They sat down and had lunch with me. Said they just wanted to hear another American voice! They were absolutely thrilled to find out I was actually living here and asked a ton of questions. Turns out they were on a whirlwind tour of their own making - Bali in Indonesia, Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket, Hanoi and somewhere in India are the ones I can remember. Doing it all in 3 weeks. I gave them one of my personal cards so we could keep in touch. This blog site address is one of the things on the card. They emailed last nigh tfrom an Internet cafe and ask if I could post some info on Singapore. They want to pass the blog site on to several friends back in the states. So I am honoring that request. Something akin to a school lesson follows! Cheers Bob and Cheryl from Montana!!!!
Also a couple of you - and again, I am not naming names, you know who you are - you seem to be having a great deal of trouble actually understanding where Singapore is. No, I promise we are NOT part of China!!!! Said they could not read the map I posted a few entries back, so I am including some more maps. Hopefully, these will meet with your approval and fill the need! I am taking it you did not do well in geography classes! Here we go – more maps at the end, too!
This is info culled from a tourist guide book.
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an island nation located at the southern tip of the Malaysian Peninsula. It is 85 miles N of the equator, S of Malaysia and N of the Indonesian Islands. At 272 sq. miles, it is one of the few city-states in the world & the smallest country in SE Asia. The Indonesian Islands form a bowl-shape around Singapore thus providing protection from tsumanis and the major force of typhoons.
On 29 January 1819, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles landed on the main island. He signed a treaty on behalf of the British East India Company to develop Singapore as a trading post, which was then used it as a strategic outpost along the spice route. It was made a British crown colony in 1867, becoming one of Britain's most important commercial & military centers.
During World War II, the Japanese Army invaded Singapore. The ill-prepared British were defeated in 6 days, surrendering Singapore on 15 February 1942, in what is known as the British Empire's greatest military defeat. The Japanese established several POW camps across the island. The island remained under Japanese authority until the British retook the island on 12 September 1945, a month after the Japanese surrender.
After 144 years under Britain, Singapore became part of Malaysia in 1963. Two years later it left Malaysia to become an independent republic on August 9, 1965.
Foreign investment and island-wide industrialization led by the government have created an economy based on electronics, manufacturing, and financial trade. In terms of GDP per capita, Singapore is the 18th wealthiest country in the world.
At that time, they had to face problems such as mass unemployment, housing shortages, and crime. The government since has curbed widespread unemployment, raised the standard of living, and implemented a large-scale public housing program. The crime rate is one of the lowest in the world. No guns are allowed except for police & the military. Knives longer than 4 inches found on a person are against the law. They are extremely strict here & punishments harsh.
The Housing Development Board was established to implement a housing program. 80% of the population lives in HDB housing. These apartments are bought from the government & can only be sold back to the government. Fair market value is used. The transactions follow the same real estate rules as the rest of Singapore. Only 1 apartment per family can be owned at a time. The number of persons allowed in each dwelling is strictly controlled. They are located throughout the island and range in price. They are not rented out by the government, only sold. HDB housing sits atop some of Singapore’s most valuable real estate. The housing units are in large complexes. Once a complex is 20 yrs old, the government buys back each apartment at fair market price, then tears the complex completely down & rebuilds another in the same spot. It has been heralded as some of the best housing and one of the best programs in the world.
There is a compulsory national service commitment of 2 years for all males, required immediately after completion of high school. There are extremely few waivers or exemptions given. National service can be done in the military, police or fire departments.
The average age of marriage is 30 years old. The majority of people live with their parents until marriage. More than half continue to live with one’s parents for several years after marriage. Parents usually pay for housing and meals. But children are expected to take care of their parents later in life and can be sued by their parents if they fail to do so. The courts usually rule in favor of the parent.
This is a tropical rainforest climate with no distinctive seasons. The average temperature is 85 degrees, humidity ranges from 70 to 100 %. Average annual rainfall is 93 inches. June, July & Aug are the driest months. Nov, Dec & Jan are monsoon season. No daylight saving time or summer time zone. The length of the day is nearly constant year round due to the location near the equator.
Singapore does not sit on a fault line, the closest one being 300 miles away in Indonesia. **Maps of fault lines at the end.** Because of the fault lines, number of volcanoes and geographical position, Indonesia is known as the “Ring of Fire”. But Singapore only experiences some tremors when Indonesia has a major earthquake, which is defined as 6.0 or higher on the Richter scale. Since the mid 1980’s, new structures in Singapore must adhere to earthquake building standards.
In Dec 2004, parts of Asia were struck by a 9.4 earthquake & a devastating tsunami. Singapore was protected by the Indonesian Islands, many of which bore the brunt of the tsunami.
Industry is well-diversified into electronics, petroleum refining, chemicals, mechanical engineering and biomedical sciences manufacturing.
Singapore is one of the busiest ports in the world, both in terms of actual tonnage processed through, number of ships received and number of ships refueled. It is also an aviation center, both for commercial air travel and air cargo, acting as a hub and stopover point for the 'Kangaroo route' between Australasia and Europe. There is a network of 81 airlines connecting Singapore to 185 cities in 58 countries.
Singapore is the world's 4th largest foreign exchange trading center after London, NY and Tokyo.
It has been consistently rated as the most business-friendly economy in the world.
As of September 2007, the total population is 4.68 million.
It is the 2nd most densely populated independent country in the world after Monaco - excluding Macao and Hong Kong, which are regions of China and not considered independent countries.
Religious affiliations are: 51 % Buddhist , then 17% Muslim, then 14 % no religious affiliation and known as “Free Thinkers” followed by 11% Hindu and 7% Christian.
Official languages are English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil. English use became widespread after it was implemented as the language used in education and government. British English is primarily used, with some American influence.A majority of the population, however, speaks a form of English known as “Sing-lish”. It is a mixture of English, several Chinese dialects, Malay and Indian. The government has consistently tried to discourage the use of Sing-lish with "Speak Good English" campaigns.
The literacy rate is one of the highest, at 95 percent.
The population is primarily from China, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Cambodia, Philippines and several Arabic countries. Intermarriages are allowed here. Holidays of most cultures are recognized and celebrated, but government offices are closed only for National Day and Chinese New Year. There are no problems or tensions among the different ethnic and religious groups.
Babies born in Singapore are not automatically granted Singaporean citizenship. One parent must be Singaporean and hold a Singapore passport. Otherwise the child must be registered in one of the parent's country for which they hold a passport. Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. A person can apply to become a "permanent resident" which still does not entitle them to citizenship or a passport. Young men whose parents are permanent residents must do National service.
Every person working in any capacity in Singapore, regardless of citizenship status or country of residence, must pay Singapore taxes.
This is a map showing the seismic activity around us. It's like a doppler color radar - every dot is a "ground movement". This is over a 2-yr period. These movements register from 1.5 to 9.4 on the Richter scale. As with a doppler radar, different colors represent varying degrees of severity. Looks like someone just threw confetti on the map, doesn't it? Note the tiny dot that represents Singapore - not big! Here's a web site that lists "ground movements for all around the world. Wonder if we've ever gone a 24 hr period without a ground movement? http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/quakes_all.php
This is a map showing the fault lines in the world. The area in the circle is most of the Middle East and comprises the earthquake area where the most damage and greatest number of deaths occur. You can see where Singapore sits in relation to the fault lines.
Love to you, Shari!
Abby - don't open the boxes - they're surprises!
Sam - did you get it yet? Probably needs a name!
Bob and Cheryl - nice meeting you! Keep in touch!
Heather - still, still
Also a couple of you - and again, I am not naming names, you know who you are - you seem to be having a great deal of trouble actually understanding where Singapore is. No, I promise we are NOT part of China!!!! Said they could not read the map I posted a few entries back, so I am including some more maps. Hopefully, these will meet with your approval and fill the need! I am taking it you did not do well in geography classes! Here we go – more maps at the end, too!
This is info culled from a tourist guide book.
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an island nation located at the southern tip of the Malaysian Peninsula. It is 85 miles N of the equator, S of Malaysia and N of the Indonesian Islands. At 272 sq. miles, it is one of the few city-states in the world & the smallest country in SE Asia. The Indonesian Islands form a bowl-shape around Singapore thus providing protection from tsumanis and the major force of typhoons.
On 29 January 1819, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles landed on the main island. He signed a treaty on behalf of the British East India Company to develop Singapore as a trading post, which was then used it as a strategic outpost along the spice route. It was made a British crown colony in 1867, becoming one of Britain's most important commercial & military centers.
During World War II, the Japanese Army invaded Singapore. The ill-prepared British were defeated in 6 days, surrendering Singapore on 15 February 1942, in what is known as the British Empire's greatest military defeat. The Japanese established several POW camps across the island. The island remained under Japanese authority until the British retook the island on 12 September 1945, a month after the Japanese surrender.
After 144 years under Britain, Singapore became part of Malaysia in 1963. Two years later it left Malaysia to become an independent republic on August 9, 1965.
Foreign investment and island-wide industrialization led by the government have created an economy based on electronics, manufacturing, and financial trade. In terms of GDP per capita, Singapore is the 18th wealthiest country in the world.
At that time, they had to face problems such as mass unemployment, housing shortages, and crime. The government since has curbed widespread unemployment, raised the standard of living, and implemented a large-scale public housing program. The crime rate is one of the lowest in the world. No guns are allowed except for police & the military. Knives longer than 4 inches found on a person are against the law. They are extremely strict here & punishments harsh.
The Housing Development Board was established to implement a housing program. 80% of the population lives in HDB housing. These apartments are bought from the government & can only be sold back to the government. Fair market value is used. The transactions follow the same real estate rules as the rest of Singapore. Only 1 apartment per family can be owned at a time. The number of persons allowed in each dwelling is strictly controlled. They are located throughout the island and range in price. They are not rented out by the government, only sold. HDB housing sits atop some of Singapore’s most valuable real estate. The housing units are in large complexes. Once a complex is 20 yrs old, the government buys back each apartment at fair market price, then tears the complex completely down & rebuilds another in the same spot. It has been heralded as some of the best housing and one of the best programs in the world.
There is a compulsory national service commitment of 2 years for all males, required immediately after completion of high school. There are extremely few waivers or exemptions given. National service can be done in the military, police or fire departments.
The average age of marriage is 30 years old. The majority of people live with their parents until marriage. More than half continue to live with one’s parents for several years after marriage. Parents usually pay for housing and meals. But children are expected to take care of their parents later in life and can be sued by their parents if they fail to do so. The courts usually rule in favor of the parent.
This is a tropical rainforest climate with no distinctive seasons. The average temperature is 85 degrees, humidity ranges from 70 to 100 %. Average annual rainfall is 93 inches. June, July & Aug are the driest months. Nov, Dec & Jan are monsoon season. No daylight saving time or summer time zone. The length of the day is nearly constant year round due to the location near the equator.
Singapore does not sit on a fault line, the closest one being 300 miles away in Indonesia. **Maps of fault lines at the end.** Because of the fault lines, number of volcanoes and geographical position, Indonesia is known as the “Ring of Fire”. But Singapore only experiences some tremors when Indonesia has a major earthquake, which is defined as 6.0 or higher on the Richter scale. Since the mid 1980’s, new structures in Singapore must adhere to earthquake building standards.
In Dec 2004, parts of Asia were struck by a 9.4 earthquake & a devastating tsunami. Singapore was protected by the Indonesian Islands, many of which bore the brunt of the tsunami.
Industry is well-diversified into electronics, petroleum refining, chemicals, mechanical engineering and biomedical sciences manufacturing.
Singapore is one of the busiest ports in the world, both in terms of actual tonnage processed through, number of ships received and number of ships refueled. It is also an aviation center, both for commercial air travel and air cargo, acting as a hub and stopover point for the 'Kangaroo route' between Australasia and Europe. There is a network of 81 airlines connecting Singapore to 185 cities in 58 countries.
Singapore is the world's 4th largest foreign exchange trading center after London, NY and Tokyo.
It has been consistently rated as the most business-friendly economy in the world.
As of September 2007, the total population is 4.68 million.
It is the 2nd most densely populated independent country in the world after Monaco - excluding Macao and Hong Kong, which are regions of China and not considered independent countries.
Religious affiliations are: 51 % Buddhist , then 17% Muslim, then 14 % no religious affiliation and known as “Free Thinkers” followed by 11% Hindu and 7% Christian.
Official languages are English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil. English use became widespread after it was implemented as the language used in education and government. British English is primarily used, with some American influence.A majority of the population, however, speaks a form of English known as “Sing-lish”. It is a mixture of English, several Chinese dialects, Malay and Indian. The government has consistently tried to discourage the use of Sing-lish with "Speak Good English" campaigns.
The literacy rate is one of the highest, at 95 percent.
The population is primarily from China, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Cambodia, Philippines and several Arabic countries. Intermarriages are allowed here. Holidays of most cultures are recognized and celebrated, but government offices are closed only for National Day and Chinese New Year. There are no problems or tensions among the different ethnic and religious groups.
Babies born in Singapore are not automatically granted Singaporean citizenship. One parent must be Singaporean and hold a Singapore passport. Otherwise the child must be registered in one of the parent's country for which they hold a passport. Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. A person can apply to become a "permanent resident" which still does not entitle them to citizenship or a passport. Young men whose parents are permanent residents must do National service.
Every person working in any capacity in Singapore, regardless of citizenship status or country of residence, must pay Singapore taxes.
This is a map showing the seismic activity around us. It's like a doppler color radar - every dot is a "ground movement". This is over a 2-yr period. These movements register from 1.5 to 9.4 on the Richter scale. As with a doppler radar, different colors represent varying degrees of severity. Looks like someone just threw confetti on the map, doesn't it? Note the tiny dot that represents Singapore - not big! Here's a web site that lists "ground movements for all around the world. Wonder if we've ever gone a 24 hr period without a ground movement? http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/quakes_all.php
This is a map showing the fault lines in the world. The area in the circle is most of the Middle East and comprises the earthquake area where the most damage and greatest number of deaths occur. You can see where Singapore sits in relation to the fault lines.
Love to you, Shari!
Abby - don't open the boxes - they're surprises!
Sam - did you get it yet? Probably needs a name!
Bob and Cheryl - nice meeting you! Keep in touch!
Heather - still, still
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Thoughts and Insights?
Thought I'd share a few little tidbits with you - just miscellanous stuff of absolutely no importance or redeeming value at all!
They have McDonald's all over the place here - they are overtaken in number only by 7-11 stores. Where as there's a McDonald's every third corner, there's a 7-11 on every corner, it seems. And while they do offer a variety of very different sauces on their burgers, you can get a Big Mac that looks and tastes the same as in the states. A little bite of home right here! I've had two since I've been here. The building and the sign for it looks the same, too. There's one notable exception that we don't have anywhere in the states though. Attached to almost every McDonald's here is an open air area with a coffee bar. Kind of like Starbucks in the open. They sell all the coffees, lattes, etc along with hot tea and cold tea. They also have a great dessert selection - trust me, I've made it my job to taste each one! They also offer "gourmet sandwiches" such as Pesto Chicken on Italian bread or Three Cheeses Grilled which comes on a variety of breads complete with tomatoes grilled on it, too. These are called McCafes and they are absolutely great! You'd never , ever know it was associated with McD's!!
They have lots of different soft drinks here. Not just ones we get back home, but also ones from China, Thailand, Indonesia, India - from all over. Same with beers -I have never seen so many different kinds from so many different places. They do not understand though when you ask for a Diet Coke or a Diet Pepsi. They are only referred to as Coke Light and Pepsi Light. That's what the can says even. They are not big on dieting here at all, so marketing-wise it works better.
One of the things they are big on here is caffeine. They have some drinks that have more caffeine in them than you could ever even believe! Makes Mountain Dew and Red Bull look like nothing! Most of the coffees that you get here are very strong, too. Basil says some of the coffee he has had just about gets up and dances around in the cup for you!
They will serve you tea anytime, anywhere. They would prefer you take it hot. Now, I like hot tea, but being a true daughter of the South, I'd rather have it ice cold. A few times I have had to play "The Game". You know the one - they tell you they don't have ice tea. Instead of arguing, I just smile sweetly, tell them yes I would love a pot of tea. Oh, and by the way, could I also have two very large glasses of just ice. They fall for it everytime! The pot comes, I mix sugar in it while it's still steaming, then with several watching me - I just very politely pour the pot of tea into my two glasses of ice. One waiter comes over very quickly and asks what I'm doing. Cooling the tea, I tell him. Oh, he says and walks away. It works and it's less hassle than trying to explain that if you have hot tea and some ice - then you can certainly have ice tea!
Asking for a glass of water can be a bit tricky, too. After the first few times, I learned. If you ask only for a water or a glass of water, many times they will bring you a glass or cup of hot water. I mean really hot water. Evidently, many Chinese people drink their water this way, it supposedly aids digestion. Okay. After ordering water a few times, then taking a big gulp only to discover it is very hot, I've learned my lesson! You must specifically tell them you want water with ice. Again, they look at me like I'm asking for something very strange!
When you encounter someone younger than you here from little kids to people in their late 20's, as a show of respect they will address you as "Auntie" or for Basil, "Uncle". And every male - except the ones from India - will address me as "m'am" or "madame". I'm waiting for it to be "Auntie Madame"! Also, they never use your last name. I am Mrs. Debbie. Even with Singapore Cargo, Basil is addressed as "Captain Charles". Very few nicknames used here.
And, for my final one today - we have a new little restaurant in the main building here at the apartment complex. They have fresh baked cookies and brownies - yes, I had to buy some and make sure they were good! They were! They have ice cream, cold drinks along with hot tea and a few sandwiches. I stopped in there this evening, thought I'd get a little something and eat light since Basil is gone and it's only me. On the menu is a hot dog. That's it, I think - haven't had a hot dog in a good long while, I'll get one to go. He made it, put it in a bag and off I went upstairs. I open it up and here's my hot dog. It's a regular size hot dog. Good start. Regular bun - okay good. Mustard - ok. No cheese. No chili - I don't think they know what chili is here. No onions. But it does have a very nice, big helping of lettuce and two slices of tomato on it! Don't believe I've ever had a hot dog with lettuce and tomato!
It's a whole new world out there! Who knew? More tomorrow!
Shari - thanks for the heads up about the insurance.
Abby- can't wait to see you ice skate!
Patsy - thanks so much for the insurance help.
Helene- so good to talk to you!
Lynn - read any good books lately?
Joyce - Happy Birthday!
Pam - Happy Birthday!
Sam - did it come yet?
Heather - still the future, still there!
They have McDonald's all over the place here - they are overtaken in number only by 7-11 stores. Where as there's a McDonald's every third corner, there's a 7-11 on every corner, it seems. And while they do offer a variety of very different sauces on their burgers, you can get a Big Mac that looks and tastes the same as in the states. A little bite of home right here! I've had two since I've been here. The building and the sign for it looks the same, too. There's one notable exception that we don't have anywhere in the states though. Attached to almost every McDonald's here is an open air area with a coffee bar. Kind of like Starbucks in the open. They sell all the coffees, lattes, etc along with hot tea and cold tea. They also have a great dessert selection - trust me, I've made it my job to taste each one! They also offer "gourmet sandwiches" such as Pesto Chicken on Italian bread or Three Cheeses Grilled which comes on a variety of breads complete with tomatoes grilled on it, too. These are called McCafes and they are absolutely great! You'd never , ever know it was associated with McD's!!
They have lots of different soft drinks here. Not just ones we get back home, but also ones from China, Thailand, Indonesia, India - from all over. Same with beers -I have never seen so many different kinds from so many different places. They do not understand though when you ask for a Diet Coke or a Diet Pepsi. They are only referred to as Coke Light and Pepsi Light. That's what the can says even. They are not big on dieting here at all, so marketing-wise it works better.
One of the things they are big on here is caffeine. They have some drinks that have more caffeine in them than you could ever even believe! Makes Mountain Dew and Red Bull look like nothing! Most of the coffees that you get here are very strong, too. Basil says some of the coffee he has had just about gets up and dances around in the cup for you!
They will serve you tea anytime, anywhere. They would prefer you take it hot. Now, I like hot tea, but being a true daughter of the South, I'd rather have it ice cold. A few times I have had to play "The Game". You know the one - they tell you they don't have ice tea. Instead of arguing, I just smile sweetly, tell them yes I would love a pot of tea. Oh, and by the way, could I also have two very large glasses of just ice. They fall for it everytime! The pot comes, I mix sugar in it while it's still steaming, then with several watching me - I just very politely pour the pot of tea into my two glasses of ice. One waiter comes over very quickly and asks what I'm doing. Cooling the tea, I tell him. Oh, he says and walks away. It works and it's less hassle than trying to explain that if you have hot tea and some ice - then you can certainly have ice tea!
Asking for a glass of water can be a bit tricky, too. After the first few times, I learned. If you ask only for a water or a glass of water, many times they will bring you a glass or cup of hot water. I mean really hot water. Evidently, many Chinese people drink their water this way, it supposedly aids digestion. Okay. After ordering water a few times, then taking a big gulp only to discover it is very hot, I've learned my lesson! You must specifically tell them you want water with ice. Again, they look at me like I'm asking for something very strange!
When you encounter someone younger than you here from little kids to people in their late 20's, as a show of respect they will address you as "Auntie" or for Basil, "Uncle". And every male - except the ones from India - will address me as "m'am" or "madame". I'm waiting for it to be "Auntie Madame"! Also, they never use your last name. I am Mrs. Debbie. Even with Singapore Cargo, Basil is addressed as "Captain Charles". Very few nicknames used here.
And, for my final one today - we have a new little restaurant in the main building here at the apartment complex. They have fresh baked cookies and brownies - yes, I had to buy some and make sure they were good! They were! They have ice cream, cold drinks along with hot tea and a few sandwiches. I stopped in there this evening, thought I'd get a little something and eat light since Basil is gone and it's only me. On the menu is a hot dog. That's it, I think - haven't had a hot dog in a good long while, I'll get one to go. He made it, put it in a bag and off I went upstairs. I open it up and here's my hot dog. It's a regular size hot dog. Good start. Regular bun - okay good. Mustard - ok. No cheese. No chili - I don't think they know what chili is here. No onions. But it does have a very nice, big helping of lettuce and two slices of tomato on it! Don't believe I've ever had a hot dog with lettuce and tomato!
It's a whole new world out there! Who knew? More tomorrow!
Shari - thanks for the heads up about the insurance.
Abby- can't wait to see you ice skate!
Patsy - thanks so much for the insurance help.
Helene- so good to talk to you!
Lynn - read any good books lately?
Joyce - Happy Birthday!
Pam - Happy Birthday!
Sam - did it come yet?
Heather - still the future, still there!
Monday, October 1, 2007
All Things Hindu
I recently had the opportunity to tour - inside and out - a prominent Hindu temple. I hired a taxi driver to take me around the island for several hours in order to see the things I wanted to see and to have the freedom to stop whenever I wanted and take pictures.
We stopped in front of this one Hindu temple - very large and beautiful. The gates were closed and locked, so the driver just pulled off the road, kind of sideways into the little bit of driveway available to us - just to get us out of traffic. I proceeded to get out and started taking pictures through the iron fence. Then this big car pulls up behind us. It's half in the road and half in the driveway with us. Then the horn starts honking! I'm trying to get back in the taxi so we can get out of the way. That horn just keeps honking at us. Ok - you know me - I get out of the taxi and walk back to him, intending to tell him ever so politely in my best Southern manner to knock it off - we're moving out of his way - give us a second and lay off that damn horn.
Before I can say anything , this man sticks his head out the window, tells me he is the director for the temple, he'll unlock the gates and I can come inside. I thanked him and we drove in through the gate which he has opened with the remote control. I get out of the taxi and start taking pictures again of the outside of the temple. He comes over and tells me that if I will take off my shoes, I can come inside and take all the pictures I want. I was the only person there and just got to wander around for about an hour asking him all sorts of questions. It was so unbelievably beautiful - very bright colored and so incredibly detailed oriented. The taxi driver told me quietly to be sure and leave a monetary donation as we had not brought any fruit or red flowers to show honor and respect. I did and was very thankful the taxi driver reminded me. I haven't gotten an explanation on the importance and symbolism of the fruit and red flowers.
At the very end of this entry, there is some interesting information and explanations that he gave me about the Hindu religion. If that doesn't interest you, then enjoy the pictures and skip that part!
This is the outside of the temple. It was at the far end of northwestern part of the island. As with all of the temples, it is covered, but open air. The details are incredible. There is a front door, but the sides and back are all open air.
Here's where you leave your shoes - in the parking lot in front of the temple.
These lockers just sit out there all the time.
Inside the big temple, they have all these smaller temples for more individual gods that the participants of this particular temple deem to be important. Some of the other ones get a little niche in the wall. Note the stained glass windows and the medallions on the ceiling and the floor.
There is a clock on one of these buildings. I didn't notice it when I was there or I would have asked why it was there - just saw it in the pictures later - looks very out of place, doesn't it?
You can see where the open areas are with no windows or doors.
Check out some of the names of our local Hindu temples!
Dhandayudhapani Temple
Sri Balasubramaniam Temple
Arulmigu Velmurugan Gnana Muneeswaran Temple
Sri Vairavimada Kaliamman Temple
There were stained glass windows high up encircling the whole temple.
Officially, there are 26 Hindu temples in Singapore, but you see small makeshift alters and mini-temples everywhere. All along the streets, in homes, in businesses, on the sidewalks - you see these with offerings and incense burning. Stores that sell small portable mini-temples do a huge business.
I found this one as I was walking along the beach. It's in the area where the fishermen pull their boats up out of the water. They were kind enough to let me take a picture of it, but they didn't want to be in the picture. Just sitting there among the trees about 12 feet from the water's edge.
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Hinduism is a religious tradition that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is a diverse system of thought sometimes referred to as henotheistic - devotion to a single "God" of one’s own interpretation, while accepting and acknowledging the existence of other gods.
We stopped in front of this one Hindu temple - very large and beautiful. The gates were closed and locked, so the driver just pulled off the road, kind of sideways into the little bit of driveway available to us - just to get us out of traffic. I proceeded to get out and started taking pictures through the iron fence. Then this big car pulls up behind us. It's half in the road and half in the driveway with us. Then the horn starts honking! I'm trying to get back in the taxi so we can get out of the way. That horn just keeps honking at us. Ok - you know me - I get out of the taxi and walk back to him, intending to tell him ever so politely in my best Southern manner to knock it off - we're moving out of his way - give us a second and lay off that damn horn.
Before I can say anything , this man sticks his head out the window, tells me he is the director for the temple, he'll unlock the gates and I can come inside. I thanked him and we drove in through the gate which he has opened with the remote control. I get out of the taxi and start taking pictures again of the outside of the temple. He comes over and tells me that if I will take off my shoes, I can come inside and take all the pictures I want. I was the only person there and just got to wander around for about an hour asking him all sorts of questions. It was so unbelievably beautiful - very bright colored and so incredibly detailed oriented. The taxi driver told me quietly to be sure and leave a monetary donation as we had not brought any fruit or red flowers to show honor and respect. I did and was very thankful the taxi driver reminded me. I haven't gotten an explanation on the importance and symbolism of the fruit and red flowers.
At the very end of this entry, there is some interesting information and explanations that he gave me about the Hindu religion. If that doesn't interest you, then enjoy the pictures and skip that part!
This is the outside of the temple. It was at the far end of northwestern part of the island. As with all of the temples, it is covered, but open air. The details are incredible. There is a front door, but the sides and back are all open air.
Here's where you leave your shoes - in the parking lot in front of the temple.
These lockers just sit out there all the time.
Inside the big temple, they have all these smaller temples for more individual gods that the participants of this particular temple deem to be important. Some of the other ones get a little niche in the wall. Note the stained glass windows and the medallions on the ceiling and the floor.
There is a clock on one of these buildings. I didn't notice it when I was there or I would have asked why it was there - just saw it in the pictures later - looks very out of place, doesn't it?
You can see where the open areas are with no windows or doors.
Check out some of the names of our local Hindu temples!
Dhandayudhapani Temple
Sri Balasubramaniam Temple
Arulmigu Velmurugan Gnana Muneeswaran Temple
Sri Vairavimada Kaliamman Temple
There were stained glass windows high up encircling the whole temple.
Officially, there are 26 Hindu temples in Singapore, but you see small makeshift alters and mini-temples everywhere. All along the streets, in homes, in businesses, on the sidewalks - you see these with offerings and incense burning. Stores that sell small portable mini-temples do a huge business.
I found this one as I was walking along the beach. It's in the area where the fishermen pull their boats up out of the water. They were kind enough to let me take a picture of it, but they didn't want to be in the picture. Just sitting there among the trees about 12 feet from the water's edge.
One of the Indian women I have gotten to know invited me to the “children’s hour” at their local neighborhood Hindu temple. I call it Hindu Saturday School. It was, of course, on Saturday! The kids were very sweet and well-behaved. The lesson for that day was all about tolerating and respecting others, along with accepting responsibility for your own actions and how those actions affect others. All the kids listened, then actively participated in the discussion. These are a few of the kids - they ranged in age from 6 to 12 yrs old.
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Shari - love you! Thanks for all your help!
Abby – are you planning how you will surprise us at the airport this time?
Doug - hope you're feeling better!
Patsy - I hear you have the best brownies in town - Abby says so!
Christy & Beth - how's Ani? Smell gone? Pats and scratches from me!
Karen - Going crazy with those houses? Are we having fun yet?
Nancy - good to hear from you!
Jo – How's everything in Baton Rouge these days?
Jo – How's everything in Baton Rouge these days?
Cathy - everything going ok?
Heather - still, still
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For those of you interested, here's the other info! This was taken from a book the temple director gave me explaining some of the things I was asking about. Very interesting!
Hinduism is a religious tradition that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is a diverse system of thought sometimes referred to as henotheistic - devotion to a single "God" of one’s own interpretation, while accepting and acknowledging the existence of other gods.
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It is known as a conglomerate of beliefs and traditions. It has no single founder.
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It is the world's third largest religion following that of Islam and Christianity, with approximately one billion followers, of whom about 905 million live in India and Nepal. Other countries with large Hindu populations include Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius, Fiji, Suriname, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.
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Hinduism contains a vast body of scriptures that are divided as to revealed and remembered. These scriptures include theology, philosophy and mythology, providing spiritual insights and guidance in the practice of everyday living.
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It is an extremely diverse religion. Basic beliefs overlap, but there are also many different practices and traditions overall. Each person must decide things for themselves and act upon them accordingly.
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Prominent themes in Hindu beliefs include *Dharma (ethics/duties); *Samsāra (the continuing cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth); *Karma (action and subsequent reaction), *Moksha (liberation from the cycle of samsara - rebirth), and the *various yogas (paths or practices to enlightment).
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Hindus believe that the spirit or soul—the true "self" of every person, is eternal.
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The Hindu scriptures refer to celestial entities, called Devas, "the shining ones", which translates into English as "gods" or "heavenly beings”. The devas are an integral part of Hindu culture and are depicted in art, architecture and through icons, and mythological stories. Many Hindus worship a particular form or devas as their chosen ideal; the choice being based upon their individual preference, regional and family traditions. These devas can be men, women or an animal; real or mythical. These choices are reflected in their temple decorations also.
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Karma translates literally as action, work or deed and can be described as the "moral law of cause and effect". The concept of never-failing karma relates to one's personality, characteristics and actions. It is said that karma binds together the interlockiing ideas and beliefs of free will and destiny.
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The notion of reincarnation and karma is a strong premise in Hindu thought. It is explained: Just as a person puts on new clothes and discards the old ones, similarly a soul enters a new material body, leaving and discarding the old body.
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This provides ephemeral pleasures, which leads people to desire rebirth in order to enjoy the pleasures of a perishable body. However, escaping the cycle of rebirth is believed to ensure everlasting eternal happiness and peace. It is thought that after several reincarnations, one eventually seeks unity with the cosmic spirit.
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The ultimate goals of life for a Hindu are:
1.the realization of a union with one’s own interpretation of God;
2.the realization of an eternal relationship with one’s own interpretation of God;
3.the realization of the unity of all existence;
4.perfect unselfishness;
5.knowledge of self;
6.liberation from ignorance;
7.attainment of perfect mental peace;
8.detachment from worldly desires.
To reach these goals one would then be liberated and end the cycle of rebirth, thus insuring everlasting eternal peace and happiness.
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It is a religion with a framework and guidance, but no universal scripture, not one supreme god or being and a wide latitude for personal thought, action and belief. Respect, responsibility and self discipline in all areas of life is what one aspires to. You are free to worship whatever form you deem to be supreme in your life, while acknowledging that there are always others.
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There is no belief in hell as in the Christian religion, nor the belief in any type of punishment, just striving towards achieving eternal peace and happiness.
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Many, but not all, Hindus are vegetarians. Some allow alcohol, many do not.
**As was explained to me, this is just a few pieces of information given as a very brief overall snapshot of Hinduism.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Signs of the Times
I have started collecting pictures of signs, sayings and advertisements. These are a few of my favorites! I found this one on the outskirts of Chinatown. Anything to do with fish heads is considered a great thing here! I'm not sure exactly what fish head noodles are, but will probably not be finding out anytime soon! Also many times in the older districts, instead of calling them cafes or restaurants, they are called houses or eating houses.
We have Internet Cafes here all over the place. The government is trying to get the whole island with no cost Internet service in public places. You will still have to pay for it at your residence. You can go a lot of places - cafes, parks, etc - and just sit and use your laptop for free. So this would be for those that don't have it yet in their area. $2 Sing for an hour comes out to approximately $1.32 American. Cheap at any rate!
Islamic Montessori? I am looking now for the Buddhist and Hindu Montessori schools - I am sure they must have them! Maybe I can find one for Chinese Montessori - but would I be able to read it? Guess not! Actually, Montessori schools are very popular here - in our end of the island alone, there are 7 or 8!
This sign is next door to my favorite Mexican food place in an area called Holland Village. Strip is the name of the establishment and between the Ministry of Waxing notation and the hairy gorilla, I guess you can figure out what this place is all about. I think it's absolutely hilarious advertising!
This one isn't a sign, but I just love it! We were exploring one day and were out back of a Chinese temple when we encountered this tree. We were trying hard to guess the significance of all these newspapers hanging in the trees. You wouldn't believe all the possible explanations we came up with. One of the temple workers came out to chat with us and we asked about the newspapers. He said they tape newspaper around the budding fruits to keep the birds away while the fruit is growing and ripening. None of our guesses even came close! Imagine that! That's my friend Patsy in the picture. Her husband was also a Delta Captain and now works for Singapore Cargo, too. We do a lot of exploring and sightseeing together.
This one cracks me up everytime I see one. Yes, it's exactly as the picture depicts. Many of their crosswalks are like a giant speed bump with stripes on it. They are never called crosswalks - whether they are raised or not - just zebra crossings - many of which just happen to be raised. The first time I asked about it, the taxi driver was very specific - they have white stripes on black pavement, so they are called zebra crossings, he tells me. I wasn't about to argue with him, but for the record, most of the stripes are yellow on black pavement. But I guess that wouldn't be as much fun, would it?
These are equivalent to our No trespassing signs. Just like the picture says - they will shoot you! It's written in 6 languages just to be sure you get it!
In the US we have industrial parks - here they have estates! Doesn't matter what size it is - it's an estate. Must be a British thing!
I
This is the sidewalk sign for my favorite Mexican restaurant. The restaurant is called El Patio. They have inside and outside tables covered in serapes with white table cloths on them. The food is excellent and the margaritas great. But why this cactus has a pacifier in it's mouth beats anything I've ever seen for advertising or a logo for any kind of restaurant! I'm only from Texas - what would I know about advertising for a Mexican restaurant?
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Shari - not long now!
Abby - Mei Mei will be there soon with lots of presents!
Lynn - still hot there?
Deb Mac - read about you in the paper!
Matt - kiss Jellybean for me!
Sam - package coming!
Dinosaur - good to talk to you
Heather - still the future, still there!
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Lights, Lanterns and Mooncakes!
It's another festival time! Because they have so many different cultures here - they celebrate them all! It seems like it is time to celebrate one thing or another every week or two. I'll try to sort out and explain the different stories and legends that go with this one.This is a Chinese festival in origin. It's called by several different names and celebrates a couple of things, but they all seem to overlap. One name is the Lantern Festival. Another is the Moon or Mooncake Festival and, lastly, the Mid-Autumn Festival. What it's called just depends on what area of town you are in, who you are talking to and what part of China you are talking about. But they are all tied together through these traditions and legends. All of China celebrates mostly the same festivals and holidays, but because it is such a vast country, things tend to differ from one part of that country to another. Basically it's all the same celebration with regional traditions and explanations handed down over centuries.
These festivals are going on all over town. These pictures were taken down at the Clarke Quay area. It is a hugely popular area in one part of downtown where a river inlet comes into town from the sea. To me, it seems like the Riverwalk area in San Antonio, except it's larger and the river in this area is wider. Boats up and down the river, shops and restaurants lining each side, people strolling up and down the sidewalks along the river front. They set up a lot of festivals and celebrations along here. One night this coming week, we are headed across town to the Chinese Gardens, a long green area along a large lake. The lanterns there are supposed to be beautiful and plentiful.
Here's some of the info I have found:
The date of Mid-autumn Festival also known as Chinese Moon Festival is on the 15th moon day of 8th Chinese lunar month (Chicken month). The new moon day is the first day of a Chinese Lunar Month. The first day of 8th lunar month is 11th September 2007, the Moon Festival is on 25 September 2007. The time period always includes the Autumnal Equinox, the first day of fall.
This is a day to worship the moon god. According to folk legend, this day is also the birthday of the earth god (T'u-ti Kung). This festival signals that the year's hard work in the fields will soon come to an end, with only the harvest left to attend to. People use this opportunity to express their gratitude to heaven (represented by the moon) and earth (symbolized by the earth god) for the blessings they have enjoyed over the past year.The Chinese believe in praying to the moon god for protection, family unity, and good fortune. The round "moon cakes" eaten on this festival are symbolic of family unity and closeness. Pomelos are also eaten on this day. The Chinese associate these with protection and in eating them are expressing the hope that the moon god will give them protection. This is also known as a time for lovers to tryst and pray for togetherness, symbolized by the roundness of the moon. This is a lantern depicting the moon god and the lovers that are hoping he will bless them.
Moon cakes - these are "cakes" range from small to large, one layer, with a filling inside. The cakes themselves are extremely dense, very heavy. Cake in our culture generally indicates something sweet - these are most definitely not. They have lotus paste and/or sesame paste for their basis, which are not sweet in the least. The small amount of filling might sometimes be a little sweeter, but not much. The best I can describe it to you is it's like old fruitcake without the fruit. I was given some with about 7 people watching my reaction. Of course, I was shocked because i was expecting something sweet like the word suggests to me. I didn't show my distaste, but did request a glass of water as soon as it was polite enough to do so. These cakes are very popular here. Like King cakes for Mardi Gras - they are only available during this festival. Actually , as with a King cake - you can special order one at other times, but not everywhere will make one on demand. Best advice here is to steer clear of mooncakes.
Here is one of the legend that goes with them: Once, according to Chinese legend, mooncakes helped bring about a revolution. The time was the Yuan dynasty (AD 1280-1368), established by the invading Mongolians from the north. The Mongolians subjugated the Han Chinese. According to one Chinese folk tale, a Han Chinese rebel leader named Liu Fu Tong devised a scheme to arouse the Han Chinese to rise up against the ruling Mongols to end the oppressive Yuan dynasty. He sought permission from Mongolian leaders to give gifts to friends as a symbolic gesture to honor the longevity of the Mongolian emperor. These gifts were round mooncakes. Inside, Liu had his followers place pieces of paper with the date the Han Chinese were to strike out in rebellion -- on the fifteenth night of the eighth month. Thus Liu got word to his people, who when they cut open the mooncakes found the revolutionary message and set out to overthrow the Mongols, thus ending the Yuan dynasty. The dates for this legend tie in with the dates for the mid-autumn stuff.
The Lantern Festival is a festival known to be for families and children. Lantern festivals traditionally date back to 230 B.C., when Chinese began to decorate and display lanterns on streets to pray for peace and to celebrate the harvest. Such festivals can range from a few lantern-covered streets to entire cities strung with lanterns. Chinese lanterns are also specialities for this festival. The most common are the paper folding type. However, there are many varieties of lanterns made of different shapes and materials. You will see the smaller ones that are lit from inside with a candle and children carry them around extended on a stick. Many times people will attach a wish or a hope to the lantern hoping that the moon god will grant these. The lanterns range from the very small to huge things lit from within that top out at over 20 feet high. On this family occasion, parents allow children to stay up late, and take them to high vantage points to light their lanterns and watch the moon rise before eating their moon cakes. While walking along the quay where these lanterns were, you could see parents pointing out the moon to the little ones and the little ones with their stick holding their lantern. It was very sweet to watch. All the pictures you see here are of the lanterns on display. They look to me a lot like giant balloons. But they are not. Many are made with paper and coated with wax in case it rains. Others are made from a stiff plastic and can stand alone.
The moon has long been an object of curiosity and worship in many Asian cultures. To the most ancient ancestors of the Chinese, the sun and the moon were considered the "chief objects of veneration. In ancient Asian mythology, there is a strong relationship between the moon and water. The moon is said to regulate reservoirs and supplies of water. There is a suggestion that the moon produces fertility and freshness in the soil. The moon's role in bountiful harvests is widely recognized during autumns around the world. This lantern depicts the sea and our famed "pink dolphins".In Chinese celestial cosmology
, the moon represents the female principle, or yin. During ancient autumn Moon Festivals, women took center stage because the moon is considered feminine. Only women took part in Moon Festival rituals on the night of the full moon. Altars would be set up in households, and when the full moon appeared, women would make offerings of incense, candles, fruit, flowers, and mooncakes.
The legend of the Moon Goddess, Chang O (Chang-E in other translation), reflects the feminine principle of yin, as opposed to the masculine principle of yang, which is symbolized by the sun.
The legend of the moon goddess is that she was a beautiful woman held prisoner by a king who wanted no one else to view her beauty. She was very unhappy and prayed to the moon god to help her. Miraclously, one night right in front of the king's eyes, she floated up to the moon and lives there shining the moon's glow on things to highlight their beauty because of her beauty. Girls are taught from an early age to pray first to the moon goddess that they will be beautiful, then next they pray to her to find them an attractive mate and lastly, that they may have beautiful children. This is the Moon Goddess depicted on top of this lantern.
Absolutely nothing Chinese would be true or complete without the dragon or dragons to guard and protect everything. They and the color red are predominate in this culture, though the color red also extends into and plays a huge role in Indian culture also.So there you have it! And I always thought it was only the man in the moon up there! You know they say - behind every good man is a woman - so true in all legends and cultures!
Love to you Shari and Doug!
Abby - I bought you some lanterns!
Kelly - hope you have enjoyed reading this!
Doreen - quite the adventure, huh?
Patsy - won't be long now!
Lynn - can't wait
Heather - still the future, still there
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
A Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On!!!
Last Wednesday, Septmeber 12th at approximately 7:10 pm Singapore time they had a major earthquake in Indonesia. It was centered about 265 miles from us off the coast of the Indonesian Islands.
At 7:50 am the next morning Singapore time , here it went again. That one was a 7.9 on the scale. Chairs and chandelier went crazy again. Now, if I think we're experiencing tremors, I just glance into the dining room and see if the chandelier is dancing. It's a pretty good indicator. I keep reciting my mantra that our neighbor Bob told me before - Just remember, Debbie - a swaying building is a good building. Well, I am here to tell you that may well be - but it sure is a very weird feeling to feel this and see it.
If this is only a tremor - I would hate to actually be in an earthquake!
Singapore does not sit on any fault lines. We just feel the tremors from the ones in Indonesia. The fault line runs through the Indonesian Islands, then turns and goes up towards Japan and another part of it runs out into the Pacific Ocean. The Indonesian Islands are known as "The Ring of Fire" because of their volcanic and earthquake prone activity in that area. Sometimes, these quakes will cause tsunamis as this first one created about a 9 foot wave that struck about 20 minutes afterwards. The next one caused a tsunami, but fortunately that one headed out to sea. We are not in a tsunami prone area either due to the way Sinagpore sits in relation to the islands surrounding us. I guess it's possible, but they say the likelihood of that is very, very small. Never say never, I suppose.
If you glance at the map below you can tell where we are in relation to the earthquake area. If you find Singapore at the base of Malaysia, then follow a line straight down to the tiny islands that are on the left side of Indonesia. These quakes have generally been centered in the area between those islands and the Indonesian coast. Look close on the map below to see where Sinagpore actually is. I'm not naming any names, but some of you seem to think we're in China!
Love to you Shari!
Having been through any number of hurricanes and tropical storms, several very close calls and brushes with tornadoes - I can tell you I was not excited at all about adding earthquake tremors to that list.
Picture this: It's evening. 24th floor. I'm sitting on the front balcony with our very good friend, Wayne, drinking iced tea and watching dusk settling in. Nice breeze, very pleasnt, casual conversation. All of a sudden, I'm in the middle of a sentence and I get the strangest sensation. It's like you are very off-balance, even though I was sitting. You feel almost weightless and slightly nauseous. Very strange feeling. Then it dawns on me - the building is moving! Wayne says not to worry - it's only a tremor, it will last about 15-20 seconds. Well, a minute and a half later, it finally stopped. We stayed on the balcony the whole time. We turned on our chairs at one point to look inside the apartment. The two rocker/recliners are going back and forth like crazy all by themselves. The chandelier over the dining room table is rocking back and forth in an arc, the globes on the lights are touching the ceiling, then it swings the other direction and touches the ceiling that way. Things were really moving. Wayne said to check the computer in about 15 minutes and he bet there would be news of a major earthquake in Indonesia. Sure enough - 10 minutes later it's on the news and the Internet.
At 7:50 am the next morning Singapore time , here it went again. That one was a 7.9 on the scale. Chairs and chandelier went crazy again. Now, if I think we're experiencing tremors, I just glance into the dining room and see if the chandelier is dancing. It's a pretty good indicator. I keep reciting my mantra that our neighbor Bob told me before - Just remember, Debbie - a swaying building is a good building. Well, I am here to tell you that may well be - but it sure is a very weird feeling to feel this and see it.
If this is only a tremor - I would hate to actually be in an earthquake!
Here's a bit of a lesson -
That earthquake registered 8.4 - considered to be a major one. During the next 48 hours they had 5 major earthquakes - 6.0 and higher - in the same area of Indonesia. Anything above 6.0 is considered major. In the week since that first big one, Indonesia has ad in addition to the 5 large ones, they have also experienced 61 smaller eathquakes that measured from 4.8 to 5.9 and they have experienced approximately 300 "ground movements" that register below 4.8, smaller ones and aftershocks. You couldn't pay me enough money to live in Indonesia!!!
Singapore does not sit on any fault lines. We just feel the tremors from the ones in Indonesia. The fault line runs through the Indonesian Islands, then turns and goes up towards Japan and another part of it runs out into the Pacific Ocean. The Indonesian Islands are known as "The Ring of Fire" because of their volcanic and earthquake prone activity in that area. Sometimes, these quakes will cause tsunamis as this first one created about a 9 foot wave that struck about 20 minutes afterwards. The next one caused a tsunami, but fortunately that one headed out to sea. We are not in a tsunami prone area either due to the way Sinagpore sits in relation to the islands surrounding us. I guess it's possible, but they say the likelihood of that is very, very small. Never say never, I suppose.
If you glance at the map below you can tell where we are in relation to the earthquake area. If you find Singapore at the base of Malaysia, then follow a line straight down to the tiny islands that are on the left side of Indonesia. These quakes have generally been centered in the area between those islands and the Indonesian coast. Look close on the map below to see where Sinagpore actually is. I'm not naming any names, but some of you seem to think we're in China!
Love to you Shari!
Abby - hope you're having fun with the packages!
Rusty - I don't think you are ever at home! Sorry I missed you!
Millie - good to talk to you!
Marilyn - sorry about the echo - weird, isn't it?
Heather - Yes, yes!
Saturday, September 8, 2007
More on our day trip with pictures
Here's a little more info on our day trip to Sentosa island, along with some pictures. Sentosa Island is considered a resort and recreation area, but it's also considered to be part of Singapore. A ship channel lies between the two islands. It is accessible by a bridge that goes across, there is a cable car and a mono-rail over.
This is a picture of the "Merlion". Pronounced Mer - like the first part of the word mermaid and lion just like the animal. Way back when Singapore was being discovered and explored, one explorer said he came upon a creature unknown to him. It was very big, very ferocious and had a roar that shook the trees. From his description to others, it was decided he'd seen a lion. Back then there were quite a number of different species of animals all the way through Malaysia down to here, so it's possible it actually was a lion. Years later another explorer told stories of having seen mermaids in this area, but that they were an animal mermaid. More than likely he saw dolphins. But having seen dolphins during his travels, he insisted those are not what he saw. He said it was bigger and more ferious. So it became legend that Singapore and the surrounding islands were protected by a "merlion", a mythical creature that was half lion and half mermaid. He is said to swim the waters all around Singapore protecting it. There are several statues of merlions scattered throughout the islands, but this is the largest.
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This is a view from one of the walkways through the upper part of the island. There are beautiful views everywhere you turn!
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A old colonial house that was built in the early 1900's. It's perched up high on almost solid rock. They use it now for a restauarant. The British built these at the turn of the century. Almost every building they built here in the islands was built along these lines. They were always white, red tile roof and black trim. The black trim almost isn't visible - it's usually just under the eaves. Most are one story, some two story. For many years there was no building on any of these islands taller than 3 stories. They are referred to as "the black and whites". There are a surprising number of these that are still around. Now days they are all owned by the government and are protected as a historical property. They can be rented to live in and in some cases to have a business in. There are very strict guidelines as to how they can be altered to accomodate a family or a business - which means they almost cannot be changed in anyway! I have gotten to go inside one - the lady living there said they are a maintenance nightmare! But they are very pretty and old-worldly. These are the types of houses the British built to live in - the barracks they built for their troops were almost like these, except inside was always open air with the ceiling being up two stories for ventilation with a tin roof. There are still a good many of these buidings left to, but they are not as protected from change.
This is a picture of the "Merlion". Pronounced Mer - like the first part of the word mermaid and lion just like the animal. Way back when Singapore was being discovered and explored, one explorer said he came upon a creature unknown to him. It was very big, very ferocious and had a roar that shook the trees. From his description to others, it was decided he'd seen a lion. Back then there were quite a number of different species of animals all the way through Malaysia down to here, so it's possible it actually was a lion. Years later another explorer told stories of having seen mermaids in this area, but that they were an animal mermaid. More than likely he saw dolphins. But having seen dolphins during his travels, he insisted those are not what he saw. He said it was bigger and more ferious. So it became legend that Singapore and the surrounding islands were protected by a "merlion", a mythical creature that was half lion and half mermaid. He is said to swim the waters all around Singapore protecting it. There are several statues of merlions scattered throughout the islands, but this is the largest.
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This is the "Dragon Fountain". It is a long, low and almost like a mini-river. It starts at the base of the Merlion - you can see him in the distance. It has water running through it, but not deep. It goes on for about 100 yards. It is made entirely of small mosiac tiles. It represents a dragon and has other animals such as frogs, lizards and fish incorporated into the design also. The colors are very vivid. Very pretty walk alongside it.
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I tried to capture the tangle of tropical vines and brush - it is so thick in some areas you can't possibly walk through it. This is an area alongside one of the walkways. It's very green and there are thousands of different trees and plants. I don't know how anyone could ever hack through some of the growth to explore, much less clear out enough to build housing. The British who settled these islands really had their work cut out for them! Malaria is not a problem here, but the mosquitoes are known to be the type that carry "dengue fever"- pronounced ding - ee - just ask me about the case I had!
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++This is a view from one of the walkways through the upper part of the island. There are beautiful views everywhere you turn!
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A old colonial house that was built in the early 1900's. It's perched up high on almost solid rock. They use it now for a restauarant. The British built these at the turn of the century. Almost every building they built here in the islands was built along these lines. They were always white, red tile roof and black trim. The black trim almost isn't visible - it's usually just under the eaves. Most are one story, some two story. For many years there was no building on any of these islands taller than 3 stories. They are referred to as "the black and whites". There are a surprising number of these that are still around. Now days they are all owned by the government and are protected as a historical property. They can be rented to live in and in some cases to have a business in. There are very strict guidelines as to how they can be altered to accomodate a family or a business - which means they almost cannot be changed in anyway! I have gotten to go inside one - the lady living there said they are a maintenance nightmare! But they are very pretty and old-worldly. These are the types of houses the British built to live in - the barracks they built for their troops were almost like these, except inside was always open air with the ceiling being up two stories for ventilation with a tin roof. There are still a good many of these buidings left to, but they are not as protected from change.
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This is where one of the local herb farmers has his place. You can go here to drink tea he has brewed from the herbs he grows. Or you can buy the herbs to take home with you. There are some that are familiar, but many more that are not familiar at all. And they can use almost anything to make tea out of! Spices and herbs we would usually use to flavor food with, they will also use it to make tea! This guy has this place with a little open air living quarters under this canopy, along with his tiny little kitchen area where he brews his teas. A leaf cover overhead and everyting else just open.
This is where one of the local herb farmers has his place. You can go here to drink tea he has brewed from the herbs he grows. Or you can buy the herbs to take home with you. There are some that are familiar, but many more that are not familiar at all. And they can use almost anything to make tea out of! Spices and herbs we would usually use to flavor food with, they will also use it to make tea! This guy has this place with a little open air living quarters under this canopy, along with his tiny little kitchen area where he brews his teas. A leaf cover overhead and everyting else just open.+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
This is what nutmeg looks like before it's ground up! And yes, they also make tea out of it! He had trays of different spices sitting all through the garden grounds drying.
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This is the Chinese man who lives here and grows all the herbs and spices. In the background is a laminated sheet with pictures on it describing what some of the plants are and what ailments they cure. There is an herb or spice to cure anything and everything - or so they claim!
This is what nutmeg looks like before it's ground up! And yes, they also make tea out of it! He had trays of different spices sitting all through the garden grounds drying.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++This is the Chinese man who lives here and grows all the herbs and spices. In the background is a laminated sheet with pictures on it describing what some of the plants are and what ailments they cure. There is an herb or spice to cure anything and everything - or so they claim!
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He is very serious! Can you tell?
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This is an area that has been recreated to show the houses the native peoples lived in from way back when up through World War 2. Because of the way the islands are situated, a tsunami would affect the areas in Indonesia and Malaysia, but Singapore very little. Same with a major typhoon. The surrounding areas take the brunt of it. By the time the storms cross over those land masses, it weakens them considerably, then there's not a large enough area for them to build up again before they cross over land again. There are storms here, particularly during the monsoon season, but nothing as bad as Malaysia and Indonesia get.
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This is one of the beaches. They have trucked in white sand from Indonesia. People come down and have picnics. They play sand volleyball and sand football - which we know as scoccer. They build sand castles and sit looking at the water. Very few people swim because the ships, which you can see iin the background, keep the waters too stirred up. Also, we are told there are sharks between us and the Indonesian Islands. Would not doubt it in the least! I think there's a good reason you don't hear about someone trying to set records swimming between all these islands! I guess if a ship didn't get you, a shark would! There are some small islands outside the shipping channels that have pretty beaches where you can swim - about a 45 minute ferry ride across to. They also run several flights a day - 737's, A320's and 777 - almost always full to Bali where, of course, the beaches and scenery are just beautiful. I've seen pictures others have taken and I cannot wait to go there!
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Shari - love ya and hope Abby is feeling better!
He is very serious! Can you tell?
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++This is an area that has been recreated to show the houses the native peoples lived in from way back when up through World War 2. Because of the way the islands are situated, a tsunami would affect the areas in Indonesia and Malaysia, but Singapore very little. Same with a major typhoon. The surrounding areas take the brunt of it. By the time the storms cross over those land masses, it weakens them considerably, then there's not a large enough area for them to build up again before they cross over land again. There are storms here, particularly during the monsoon season, but nothing as bad as Malaysia and Indonesia get.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++This is one of the beaches. They have trucked in white sand from Indonesia. People come down and have picnics. They play sand volleyball and sand football - which we know as scoccer. They build sand castles and sit looking at the water. Very few people swim because the ships, which you can see iin the background, keep the waters too stirred up. Also, we are told there are sharks between us and the Indonesian Islands. Would not doubt it in the least! I think there's a good reason you don't hear about someone trying to set records swimming between all these islands! I guess if a ship didn't get you, a shark would! There are some small islands outside the shipping channels that have pretty beaches where you can swim - about a 45 minute ferry ride across to. They also run several flights a day - 737's, A320's and 777 - almost always full to Bali where, of course, the beaches and scenery are just beautiful. I've seen pictures others have taken and I cannot wait to go there!
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Shari - love ya and hope Abby is feeling better!
Lynn and Aunt Darlene - you would just go crazy with all the great things that grow here!
Marilyn - how are you feeling and thanks for the Alaska pictues!
Regina - how are you?
Heather - Still, still
Friday, September 7, 2007
Some things are not so different....... then again!
Life in Singapore and this part of the world goes on. Some things here in this part of the world are not so different from life at home in the states. Then again, some things are just so totally alien and different that words almost cannot convey it. Let me share two of them with you.
Nepal Airlines, which has two Boeing aircraft, has had to suspend some services in recent weeks due the problem.
The goats were sacrificed in front of the troublesome aircraft Sunday at Nepal's only international airport in Kathmandu in accordance with Hindu traditions, an official said.
"The snag in the plane has now been fixed and the aircraft has resumed its flights," said Raju K.C., a senior airline official, without explaining what the problem had been. Local media last week blamed the company's woes on an electrical fault. The carrier runs international flights to five cities in Asia.
It is common in Nepal to sacrifice animals like goats and buffaloes to appease different Hindu deities.
First is from the news - I'm not sure if it made the papers there or not, but here it is:
Airline sacrifices goats to appease sky god
KATHMANDU (Reuters) - Officials at Nepal's state-run airline have sacrificed two goats to appease Akash Bhairab, the Hindu sky god, following technical problems with one of its Boeing 757 aircraft, the carrier said Tuesday.
Nepal Airlines, which has two Boeing aircraft, has had to suspend some services in recent weeks due the problem.
The goats were sacrificed in front of the troublesome aircraft Sunday at Nepal's only international airport in Kathmandu in accordance with Hindu traditions, an official said.
"The snag in the plane has now been fixed and the aircraft has resumed its flights," said Raju K.C., a senior airline official, without explaining what the problem had been. Local media last week blamed the company's woes on an electrical fault. The carrier runs international flights to five cities in Asia.
It is common in Nepal to sacrifice animals like goats and buffaloes to appease different Hindu deities.
Another incident took place in December in which Turkish Airlines maintenance workers at Istanbul's airport were accused of sacrificing a camel to celebrate the successful accomplishment of a maintenance task.
Granted, we're not in Nepal, but does make one wonder in case you want to travel to some other country! If it's two goats for a B-757, wonder what gets sacrificed for a B747? It's 3 times the size of a 757 - hmmmmm.
The second one is a brochure we picked up. I heard others talking about this while we were on our day trip to Sentosa Island. They have a day spa that provides this treatment. I'm not sure whether it blows my mind, makes me laugh, or just creeps me out! Who's going to try this when they come over? I'll personally make the appointment for you and pay for it - it just comes with the understanding I also get to take pictues and video!
Just in case only the picture comes through and you can't read the words - yes, it's just like the pictue shows. You go to a spa for a foot treatment. They put your feet in this tank of water. These little fish from somewhere in Turkey nibble the dead skin away. ten they do a foot massage and a shoulder massage. That's it. No lotion, no pedicure, just fish nibbling on your dead skin. I think it just creeps me out!
Yes, class we are in a strange and foreign area of the world. And even though it seems almost like home at times always remember and keep in mind "Somethings are the same and ........... some things definitely are not."
More pictures tomorrow!
Shari - thanks for your help on my computer. And aren't you proud of the fact I got the video clip on there all by myself!
Lynn - Remember the old Laugh-In show with the line"Here comes da judge."
Patsy - I need a margarita and what happen with the dryer?
Patsy - I need a margarita and what happen with the dryer?
Stephanie - tried to get you at work, sorry I missed you.
Matt - kiss Jellybean.
Deb Mac - so glad to hear from you.
Heather - Still the future. Still there
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Day Trip with Pink Dolphin Pictures
There is an island just across from Singapore called Sentosa. It's a fairly small island, but they are building it up into a tourist resort and recreational area. We'd been wanting to see it, so we just took the day off and went. There is a huge mall called Vivo City. Not only is it a mall, but this is where you check-in and board if you are going on one of the huge cruise ships that come through here touring South East Asia. It is so funny to see people traisping through the mall to get upstairs to the second floor trailing their suitcases behind them! There is also a place from the mall to catch one of the various boats that offer a lunch, tea or dinner cruise around. There is also a mono-rail that runs across the channel to Sentosa Island. We took the mono-rail over.
You buy a one day ticket for $3 each. That's good for all day to gain access to the mono-rail, the Sentosa bus system and the tram system - this is how you get around the island - unless you care to walk alot and sweat alot. And we all know how Debbie feels about the sweating thing. There are beaches with pristine white sand - which they ship in from the other side of the Indonesian Islands, but people mostly still do not swim because the ships are just right out there and keep the water too churned up. Lots of little snack places, restaurants, several hotels, a big park, an aquarium and a dolphin lagoon.
We went first to the aquarium. It's a pretty good place with a bunch of different tanks to look at - beautiful coral and tropical fish - gorgeous colors. There is a tank where you can put your hand in and all these cute little fish will swim over and the kids can touch them. There's also a big tank where you can do the same thing with sting-rays. They felt kind of like velvet. Then you go downstairs and enter this plexiglass tunnel. You just stand on the people mover, it moves you through the tunnel - people don't bump into each other as much when they're watching. The aquarium is all around you - both sides and over head. It is so interesting. We saw some incredible fish - many of which come out of the waters of South east Asia. They will not let you use a flash inside, so most of those pictures do not come out. Next time I go, I'll try my tripod, although I'm not sure how that's going to work - fish are moving and the people mover is moving! Very cool place and we really enjoyed it!
Then on to the Dolphin Lagoon. Big place, chairs all around the lagoon, dolphin show. The differences in this one and others we have seen - these chairs are just plastic lawn chairs you pick up yourself and put them down anywhere you want. No bleacher type seats. You are actually walking and sitting on the sand. Very low maintenance. Awnings up almost down to the water for shade. They let you have drinks and ice cream and - Basil was so excited - beer. It was so different from anything we've ever been to like this. The "show arena" was actually an inlet from the sea, nothing finished like a pool, just sand - not the shipped in kind - and salt water. They have these barricades to keep the dolphins in, but they said even if they get a break in the net, the dolphins never leave the area.
Oh and did I happen to mention ---- the dolphins are PINK. That's right pink. I had never seen a pink dolphin. They start out as grey, then as they get older and mature, they turn pink. They are beautiful. They performed their tricks, then they will let people come in the water one or two at a time to pet them. Abby - you're going to get to do that! They also have a "get in the water and interact with them" program, but Abby - you have to be 6 yrs old to do that.
Here's some pictures of them and I'm going to attempt to also put a little video clip on here, too. We'll see how that little manuever turns out - Shari hasn't walked me through this part yet, so I'm winging it here!
This was after the program when you could purchase an extra ticket and stand in line to pet the dolphin. This one is a male about 7 years old they said. Notice the grey splotches on his head and from the middle of his fin back he is still alot grey. That's because he's still young. They are no longer considered "young" dolphins any more when they are around 14 yrs old. When they had him swim on his back and you could see his underside - it's almost all pink. They start turning pink at their snout and the color change works its way all the way to its tail.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
He's got his mouth open waiting for a treat from his trainer!+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 
This picture Basil could not resist snapping. We were watching this unfold. This woman was there in her burqa (pronounced burk - ah) with her six children. Beautiful, expensive - you can tell by the blue embroidery on it. When her youngest wanted to go in the water to pet the dolphin, but was afraid, this lady started to go in the water - burqa and all. One of the female trainers stopped her and helped the little girl. The male trainers were just going to let her go in! The lady would also only talk to the female trainers. The little girl finally did go in, with the trainer's help, and pet the dolphin. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Video of the pink dolphin - hope this works!
More tomorrow on the rest of the day trip with pictures.
Shari - I think I did it - maybe!
Abby - don't you just love the pink dolphins - you're going to get to see them and pet them!
Bobby - are you doing ok on the computer?
Heather - still the future, still there!
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