~2004~ Rome - May 2004 Naples - May 2004 Pompeii - May 2004 Capri - May 2004 Florence - May 2004 Singapore - August 2004 Makkah - September 2004 Madinah - September 2004 Dubai - September 2004 My Overseas Travel My Local Travel My Reflection |
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| Singapore is south-east Asia's hi-tech city-state which is famed for its obsession with cleanliness, the conservatism of its leaders and its rules covering activities from chewing gum to bungee-jumping. The country comprises the main island - linked by causeways to the southern tip of Malaysia - and around 50 smaller islands. Once a colonial outpost, Singapore has developed into one of the world's most prosperous places - with glittering skyscrapers and a thriving port. The vast majority of the island's population lives in public-housing tower blocks. |
| The citizens enjoy one of the world's highest standards of living, but also a system of punishments for acts such as busking without a licence or not flushing a public lavatory. Chinese make up more than 75% of the community, along with Malays and Indians. Singapore also has a large number of foreign workers. Although a multiparty nation, the People's Action Party (PAP) has been the dominant political force since independence. Singapore is often referred to a one of Asia's "economic tigers", although it slipped into recession after the 1998 Asian markets crisis. |
| Singapore City is by far the largest and most significant island alongside the many smaller ones that make up Singapore state. Here, especially at the mouth of the Singapore River, Asian tradition meets modern technology � gleaming skyscrapers tower over traditional architecture, while squat Chinese and Hindu temples stud the city. A curious blend of ancient and modern, the city is home to an ethnic mix of Chinese, Malaysians and Indians, as well as ex-pats from all over the world, in a predominantly English-speaking society. These different races live harmoniously thanks to religious tolerance, increased prosperity, stringent no-nonsense laws and a constant balmy equatorial heat. |
| Long and weary my road has been I was lost in the cities Alone in the hills No Sorrow or pity for leaving i feel Friends and liars don't wait for me I'll get on all by myself I put millions of miles Under my heels And still too close to you I feel |