Questions & Answers

Thank you for your questions. We will attempt to answer a few:

? Why is the city so clean?
A There are huge fines and even mandatory work calls for littering. Plus, we believe that when something is nice, perhaps folks work harder to keep it that way. There are also rubbish receptacles EVERYWHERE which makes it easier. Still, it is absolutely astounding for a city of around 4.5 million in approx 253 sq miles. People tend to be fastidious as well. Most take off their shoes before entering their homes. The couriers also leave their shoes downstairs when delivering items to upstairs apartments. The ubiquitous flip flop makes sense!

? What do folks give up to have such nice public transportation and schools?
A Well, we certainly do not know the ins and outs of taxes, percentages, laws, regulations, etc. However, there does seem to be a lot of fines and fees for licenses and such. The small fee for the subway and bus could not possibly cover the cost. However, they do make this a very livable place. The cost of owning or buying a car is much more than the US, especially the gas. We'd guess that a lot of taxes and fees go to pay for public transportation.

Singapore claims to have no natural resources, only a labor force. Singaporeans believe their survival is dependent upon great education, cooperation, and optimism. Every single person we've interviewed has referred tho these qualities. Additionally, Stephen's colleague reiterated these as well. When asked if there was any hidden racial or religious tension, he responded that there was definitely not. Perhaps they put their money into what makes that possible.

The quality of life may be seen as different by some Americans. A huge portion of Singaporeans live in subsidized housing (80%). These are like small cities, and in fact, are even named cities. They vary, but can have huge community centers, subway and bus stops, stores and restaurants, etc. They are like huge apartment or probably condominiums. The home ownership rate is among the highest in the world. As we understand it, a certain portion of your income must be saved for retirement, etc. However, you can use that money to invest in your home. Stephen's colleague, Nick, was telling us that most folks move some where else to retire because it is so expensive here.

There is also a huge push for being polite and respectful. There are signs everywhere encouraging folks to be courteous and ways of doing that: offering a seat to those in need, saying please and thank you, toilet etiquette, crossing the street, etc. Most folks are very friendly and helpful. We've just discovered their need for personal space is not as great as ours.

Other factors that contribute to livability include no zoning for schools. You may apply to any school you wish eliminating the need to move for educational purposes. The school system is very performance based. The best students go to the best schools and are in the best classes. If you don't make the grade, someone else will take your place.

Crime is also very low. Our cab driver was telling us there is crime here, but it is not like what we are used to. Folks carry their wallets in their hands on the subway, walk anywhere at any time of night, and school-age children are always going and coming on their own.

There is little freedom of speech or the press in Singapore. Actually, there is a free speech corner where a stage is set up. If you sign up, you may speak. However, it can not call other people to act against the government, but you can voice your opinion. Firearms, drugs, and chewing gum are also not allowed. There is a smaller police presence, but there are cameras everywhere. Many crimes, including drugs, will get you hung in a short time.

It is a fun place and very livable!

-Marie & Morgan