It's the last Friday for 2011 so I kicked it appropriately off with a nice little breakfast for one. The wife got fresh muffins and I made one of my favourites. 2 slices Toast topped with crispy fried back bacon, creamy scrambled eggs finished with grated Monterey Jack Cheddar Cheese and a splash of Heinz Chilly Sauce accompanied by a hearty cup of coffee. Yummy.
It's that time of the year when we reflect back and get ready for the next year. 2011 has certainly been a huge year for us from a personal perspective with major decisions and the big move to Singapore and our new home at least for the next 5 years. I am not one for re-inventing the wheel so here is a video that cover some of the major events of the year according to Goggle Zeitgeist.
Watching AM live this morning, they featured the Top 10 topics searched on the Net in 2011 by Singaporeans and number 5 is Planking. What the hell is that so I did some research and here it is. Planking is a game played worldwide where a person basically takes a picture lying face down in various locations, name it and post it on Face book. It's also become very popular in Singapore now with its own Facebook Page . They claim they have more than 112,000 members and growing. What people will do for some attention.
Check it out here Official Web page
I want to finish the posting with a special mention on a very worthy programme in Singapore featured in the Voices magazine. It's called Pass It On organised by the Central Singapore Community Development Council (CDC) and has been running for the past ten years. Excellent idea!!!!!!
Finish the year in fine style, enjoy and whatever you do.
DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE
Thanks for all your support.
Singapore in 10 Days
Our best friends came for a 10 day visit the previous two weeks which proved to be a real challenge. Here is the thing. There is just too much to cover and although it sounds like loads of time the reality turned out to be quite different. As Expat's and very proud of our new home, we wanted to show of the best and awesome sights Singapore has to offer and share the awesome food we have experienced so far which did not turn out to be quite the expectations our friends had. Don't get me wrong, the trip was awesome.
Prior to their visit I had done extensive homework and worked out a budget that would be sufficient to cover the trip from their perspective. Some of the things that you have to consider is the weather, the amount of walking involved and its effects, and what your visitors actually want to see and do which is not the same as what you may have planned. If shopping for specific items is involved it will take up more time than planned which leaves less time for the other planned excursions.
Hit the weather depending sites as soon as possible and incorporate things like Chilly Crab, Singapore Sling etc into other excursions which we did not do and ended up not getting to do it as the weather ruined the last planned evening trip. Allow time to take a break in the planned schedule when the feet need a rest and mix trips with lots of walking with some less walking ones.
I guess the biggest lesson I learnt was to not Plan the trip and allow your visitors to decide what they would like to see and do based on their personal preferences to avoid disappointment. The bottom line, you can not cover it all in 10 days.
December is definitely not the best time for a visit as it is very busy and most attractions also more expensive due to peak time rates. Universal Studios turned out to be a real challenge as a result with long ques and unless you pay for an additional VIP Pass (pricey) you end up not doing half of the available rides due to long waiting times. Between us we took 812 photos, obviously too many to post
The things we managed to do include East Coast Lagoon, Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands and the Skypark, Orchard Road (some of it), Universal Studios, Funan Digital Mall, China Town, The Singapore Zoo, Dempsey Hill and some local shopping centres. The highlight of the trip, Universal Studios and my personal favourite ride, Battle Star Galactica. We did both the Red Human and Blue Cylon rides and without a doubt the Blue ride the most Thrilling and outrages. Did it 3 times in a row just for good measure.
Grab a mouthwatering Burger at Mel's Drive Inn in the Hollywood Boulevard and a must see the Mel's Dinettes show outside the diner. Great Music!!
And so another memorable trip came to an end with 2012 around the corner.
I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year.
Prior to their visit I had done extensive homework and worked out a budget that would be sufficient to cover the trip from their perspective. Some of the things that you have to consider is the weather, the amount of walking involved and its effects, and what your visitors actually want to see and do which is not the same as what you may have planned. If shopping for specific items is involved it will take up more time than planned which leaves less time for the other planned excursions.
Hit the weather depending sites as soon as possible and incorporate things like Chilly Crab, Singapore Sling etc into other excursions which we did not do and ended up not getting to do it as the weather ruined the last planned evening trip. Allow time to take a break in the planned schedule when the feet need a rest and mix trips with lots of walking with some less walking ones.
I guess the biggest lesson I learnt was to not Plan the trip and allow your visitors to decide what they would like to see and do based on their personal preferences to avoid disappointment. The bottom line, you can not cover it all in 10 days.
December is definitely not the best time for a visit as it is very busy and most attractions also more expensive due to peak time rates. Universal Studios turned out to be a real challenge as a result with long ques and unless you pay for an additional VIP Pass (pricey) you end up not doing half of the available rides due to long waiting times. Between us we took 812 photos, obviously too many to post
The things we managed to do include East Coast Lagoon, Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands and the Skypark, Orchard Road (some of it), Universal Studios, Funan Digital Mall, China Town, The Singapore Zoo, Dempsey Hill and some local shopping centres. The highlight of the trip, Universal Studios and my personal favourite ride, Battle Star Galactica. We did both the Red Human and Blue Cylon rides and without a doubt the Blue ride the most Thrilling and outrages. Did it 3 times in a row just for good measure.
Grab a mouthwatering Burger at Mel's Drive Inn in the Hollywood Boulevard and a must see the Mel's Dinettes show outside the diner. Great Music!!
And so another memorable trip came to an end with 2012 around the corner.
I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year.
NotaTourist & The Brave Monkey
Some two weeks ago I met with Daphne from the Notatourist Editorial Team to join the team as a writer. We actually did make contact when I first started my Blog but somehow I got confused and ended up doing articles for another Expat site thinking it was for this project.
The website was officially launched on 29 November 2011and will feature articles by locals and expats on life in Singapore. I have submitted my first article and is very proud to be part of the team. The site already contains various articles posted by the team of writers.
There is a badge on my Blog where you can follow me.
Here is one naughty Monkey who is going to see his ass soon.
Check it out.
The website was officially launched on 29 November 2011and will feature articles by locals and expats on life in Singapore. I have submitted my first article and is very proud to be part of the team. The site already contains various articles posted by the team of writers.
There is a badge on my Blog where you can follow me.
Here is one naughty Monkey who is going to see his ass soon.
Check it out.
Eviltwin & The Tiger Moth
In December 1999, a fellow Harley Rider invited the Club to join his Flying Club for a Christmas celebration party day at their local airfield just outside Durban. He (also a pilot), and for the life of me I can not remember his name, was also the proud owner of a very rare De Havilland Tiger Moth, a 1930's biplane used for aerobatics and training.
De Havilland Tiger Moth
Being in a Harley Club does come with some nice perks as we constantly got invitations to various functions and events to join and make it more spectacular. I digress. I am a lifetime fan of flying and aircraft hence I was not going to miss that one. A day at a airfield surrounded by old planes. Heaven.
I did just over a 1000 hours flying in and even flying a range of aircraft while in the South African Air Force doing my National Service back in the day. My travels thru the years also allowed me to fly in various types of jetliners and even smaller aircraft. Separate postings on those.
The day started with the group putting together a nice BBQ while the bikes and planes were on display for all the visitors to photograph and enjoy and around lunchtime the pilot announced that he was going to take his Tiger Moth for a spin and if anyone was keen to go along. Well, there is not a big enough man to have kept me from that invitation and so it came that I totally unexpectedly realised a lifelong dream flying in a "proper" plane from the heydays. A Yellow Tiger Moth.
We taxied down the grass runway (in itself a very different experience), took off, did a few laps flying over the airfield and then I got the full treatment, Loops, rolls and some out of this world flying. Its unlike anything I have ever experienced. The wind in your face, the noise of the engine and the smell of the fuel fumes. Primitive but absolutely exhilarating and a once in a lifetime experience with fond memories. It's the kind of thing you wish will not come to an end but it does.
Sadly, he was killed a few years later flying a restored World War 2 plane in Germany but I have no doubt that is the way he would have preferred to go. Thanks for the memory.
There were no digital cameras so I had to scan the photos.
De Havilland Tiger Moth
Being in a Harley Club does come with some nice perks as we constantly got invitations to various functions and events to join and make it more spectacular. I digress. I am a lifetime fan of flying and aircraft hence I was not going to miss that one. A day at a airfield surrounded by old planes. Heaven.
I did just over a 1000 hours flying in and even flying a range of aircraft while in the South African Air Force doing my National Service back in the day. My travels thru the years also allowed me to fly in various types of jetliners and even smaller aircraft. Separate postings on those.
The day started with the group putting together a nice BBQ while the bikes and planes were on display for all the visitors to photograph and enjoy and around lunchtime the pilot announced that he was going to take his Tiger Moth for a spin and if anyone was keen to go along. Well, there is not a big enough man to have kept me from that invitation and so it came that I totally unexpectedly realised a lifelong dream flying in a "proper" plane from the heydays. A Yellow Tiger Moth.
We taxied down the grass runway (in itself a very different experience), took off, did a few laps flying over the airfield and then I got the full treatment, Loops, rolls and some out of this world flying. Its unlike anything I have ever experienced. The wind in your face, the noise of the engine and the smell of the fuel fumes. Primitive but absolutely exhilarating and a once in a lifetime experience with fond memories. It's the kind of thing you wish will not come to an end but it does.
Sadly, he was killed a few years later flying a restored World War 2 plane in Germany but I have no doubt that is the way he would have preferred to go. Thanks for the memory.
There were no digital cameras so I had to scan the photos.
Nottingham Road & The Balloon Ride
Not the one in the UK. Nottingham Road is the heart of the Midland Meander in Kwa Zulu Natal. A 80 km stretch of winding road with awe-inspiring beauty between Pietermaritzburg and Mooi River about 120 km from Durban. It boasts restaurants, coffee spots, roadside shops and accommodation.
It was a favourite Harley Club destination either for breakfast or lunch depending on how far you actually travel down the road. A must stop is the Bierfassl Restaurant where you can enjoy some wonderful Austrian food like eisbein, Austrian sausages, soups and probably some of the best pork ribs in the world. And off course their home brewed beer like, Tiddly Toad Lager and Whistling Weasel Pale Ale.
It's in Nottingham road that we took our second hot air balloon ride, first one some years back in Magalliesberg in Gauteng. This trip was indeed the best and if you have not done a Hot Air Balloon Ride it is highly recommended. Not cheap but an intoxicating and exhilarating experience not to be missed. It's important to pick the flight area carefully to maximised the experience and make it special.
We took off round 05h30 in the morning just as the sun was rising with champagne on board and one guy actually proposing during the flight. Beautiful 1 hour flight over some awesome terrain landing on a local school field. The experience typically include inflating the balloon, flight, packing up and then a hearty breakfast to share the excitement. Part of the fun is the fact that there is no guarantee on where the actual landing will be as this depends in the wind and how good the pilot is. Make sure you check the pilots credentials as our first trip ended in a crash landing in a ditch. No one hurt but still a bit traumatic.
The second one was awesome with some low level flying over a dam with the balloon close to the water and then up into the clouds with the eventual perfect landing coming in high over the trees and landing on the school field. The kids went mad and I am sure they still talk about it today as this was not a planned event. Obviously also a magic photography opportunity for any enthusiast.
Drifting just above the water!
I always look for that magic photo and here it is. A perfect shadow of the balloon in the clouds with a rainbow circle.
Flying over the fields, back up in the clouds and the perfect landing.
One of the most memorable things apart from the view is the sound of the burner and the absolute silence when it is turned off. Mind blowing.
Here is the rest of the photos.
It was a favourite Harley Club destination either for breakfast or lunch depending on how far you actually travel down the road. A must stop is the Bierfassl Restaurant where you can enjoy some wonderful Austrian food like eisbein, Austrian sausages, soups and probably some of the best pork ribs in the world. And off course their home brewed beer like, Tiddly Toad Lager and Whistling Weasel Pale Ale.
It's in Nottingham road that we took our second hot air balloon ride, first one some years back in Magalliesberg in Gauteng. This trip was indeed the best and if you have not done a Hot Air Balloon Ride it is highly recommended. Not cheap but an intoxicating and exhilarating experience not to be missed. It's important to pick the flight area carefully to maximised the experience and make it special.
We took off round 05h30 in the morning just as the sun was rising with champagne on board and one guy actually proposing during the flight. Beautiful 1 hour flight over some awesome terrain landing on a local school field. The experience typically include inflating the balloon, flight, packing up and then a hearty breakfast to share the excitement. Part of the fun is the fact that there is no guarantee on where the actual landing will be as this depends in the wind and how good the pilot is. Make sure you check the pilots credentials as our first trip ended in a crash landing in a ditch. No one hurt but still a bit traumatic.
The second one was awesome with some low level flying over a dam with the balloon close to the water and then up into the clouds with the eventual perfect landing coming in high over the trees and landing on the school field. The kids went mad and I am sure they still talk about it today as this was not a planned event. Obviously also a magic photography opportunity for any enthusiast.
Drifting just above the water!
I always look for that magic photo and here it is. A perfect shadow of the balloon in the clouds with a rainbow circle.
Flying over the fields, back up in the clouds and the perfect landing.
One of the most memorable things apart from the view is the sound of the burner and the absolute silence when it is turned off. Mind blowing.
Here is the rest of the photos.
The Smoke That Thunders & Flight of Angels
We had been to Zimbabwe some 15 years earlier on a road trip with work friends and visited Harare, Lake Kyle and the most northern point of Zim, Mano Pools. In April 2010 we decided to visit the one place we did not, Victoria Falls , one of the "Old" Seven Natural Wonders of the World. We took a four day fly in trip with our best friends, Gatoe and Tammy arriving at Livingstone Airport in Zambia with a shuttle transfer across the Victoria Falls Bridge into Zimbabwe and stayed at the A Zambezi River Lodge on the river.
The one noticeable thing was how the country had "aged" and it felt like we were in some 4th world country walking around in the street of Victoria Falls Town. The town is in ruins with children begging and selling their local currency as souvenirs as it was worth absolutely nothing and poverty was at the order of the day. No Shop or even street vendors would accept local currency and you could even get a 100 Million Dollar note.
Very sad and tragic as many years back this was a beautiful and prosperous place. My new pair of red sneakers were very popular and it got to the point of feeling harassed as they would bargain with me to get my shoes. Even got offered a "Marble Handcrafted Chess Set" as a swop, and although tempted it really was my only pair of shoes I had for the trip. Dilemma, but I still have them and no chess set.
The trip was awesome and the Victoria Falls did not disappoint. We took a Sunset River Boat Cruise, walked the falls getting drenched and saw some nice wildlife around the hotel as the fences are not maintained resulting in animals even strolling around in town. Puts a new dimension on "Keep a Lookout", not knowing what you will come across. The hotel was great with a short walk down to the Zambezi River and excellent food resulting in guilty feelings as just around the corner children were begging in the street.
The highlight of the trip must be the "Flight of Angels" helicopter flight over the falls. Walking up to the chopper I noticed the pilot was a black man, a first for me and no racism intended. Honestly, for a split second I wondered, "How good can the training be in this place? " and then we were in the air and here I am telling the story. He was a excellent pilot by the way.
Flight of Angels
Check out the photos.
And so another of our trips ended with lifetime memories. A truly magnificent experience.
The one noticeable thing was how the country had "aged" and it felt like we were in some 4th world country walking around in the street of Victoria Falls Town. The town is in ruins with children begging and selling their local currency as souvenirs as it was worth absolutely nothing and poverty was at the order of the day. No Shop or even street vendors would accept local currency and you could even get a 100 Million Dollar note.
Very sad and tragic as many years back this was a beautiful and prosperous place. My new pair of red sneakers were very popular and it got to the point of feeling harassed as they would bargain with me to get my shoes. Even got offered a "Marble Handcrafted Chess Set" as a swop, and although tempted it really was my only pair of shoes I had for the trip. Dilemma, but I still have them and no chess set.
The trip was awesome and the Victoria Falls did not disappoint. We took a Sunset River Boat Cruise, walked the falls getting drenched and saw some nice wildlife around the hotel as the fences are not maintained resulting in animals even strolling around in town. Puts a new dimension on "Keep a Lookout", not knowing what you will come across. The hotel was great with a short walk down to the Zambezi River and excellent food resulting in guilty feelings as just around the corner children were begging in the street.
The highlight of the trip must be the "Flight of Angels" helicopter flight over the falls. Walking up to the chopper I noticed the pilot was a black man, a first for me and no racism intended. Honestly, for a split second I wondered, "How good can the training be in this place? " and then we were in the air and here I am telling the story. He was a excellent pilot by the way.
Flight of Angels
And so another of our trips ended with lifetime memories. A truly magnificent experience.
Indecent Proposal, Backfire & "Police Brutality"
It's Friday and the weekend has arrived. Our friends from South Africa arrive on Monday for a 10 day visit so look out for some nice postings in the next few weeks. Enough writing for now and time for some light hearted fun and cheeky videos I have collected over the years.
Here is an interesting fact. For the past week the amount of Blog readers in Russia were more than Singapore and South Africa. Wonder who they are?? Overall, since I started the Blog, Singapore readers is now in the lead. Thanks for all the support boys and girls.
No not the movie Indecent Proposal, but probably the best add I ever saw. MasterCard - Indecent Proposal. (Do not watch in open plan areas)
The Secretaries Ass
A Bird for Christmas
Romantic (be careful what you serenade)
The best Nando's add
How Call Centers really work
And finally, one of my favourites. How not to get you Ass Kicked by the Police (Chris Rock)
Enjoy the weekend.
Here is an interesting fact. For the past week the amount of Blog readers in Russia were more than Singapore and South Africa. Wonder who they are?? Overall, since I started the Blog, Singapore readers is now in the lead. Thanks for all the support boys and girls.
No not the movie Indecent Proposal, but probably the best add I ever saw. MasterCard - Indecent Proposal. (Do not watch in open plan areas)
The Secretaries Ass
A Bird for Christmas
Romantic (be careful what you serenade)
The best Nando's add
Beauty & Brains
How Call Centers really work
And finally, one of my favourites. How not to get you Ass Kicked by the Police (Chris Rock)
Enjoy the weekend.
The Amazing Journey & Verlorenkloof
Since starting the Blog I have been wanting to share the beautiful sights and places from my home country, South Africa. Who knows, you might go there on holiday or even work and hopefully this will be interesting. I lived most of my life in Johannesburg, Gauteng and eight years in Durban, Kwa Zulu Natal.
http://www.places.co.za/html/popular_dest.html
We are avid travellers and have been to all 9 provinces on holiday trips as well as neighbouring countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Namibia and Lesotho. South Africa is certainly one of the most beautiful and cost effective countries to have a holiday with a diverse geography ranging from the desert, mountains, magnificent coast line and awesome wildlife.
I will start the journey with the one thing we held on to, coming to Singapore. Our holiday home (syndicate owners) in the Verlorenkloof Estate. A 280 km drive on the N4 towards Nelspuit in Mpumulanga to the 1600 hectare Estate with only 26 houses and a small Lodge in the heart of the trout fishing triangle.
http://verlorenkloof.co.za/
The Estate is surrounded by towering mountains with a 6 km crystal clear river (full of trout) flowing down the middle of the valley. It's the kind of place where you can find yourself again, tranquil and unspoilt. Activities include horse riding, fishing, picnics along the river, amazing walking trails or just lazing around in your secluded house. Houses are fully equipped except for televisions to keep noise reduction down in the estate. Our place is on the northern side of the mountains some 900 meters up from the river. There is only four houses on the southern slope.
A view from the patio.
We have spent time there with family and friends and without a doubt one of my favourite places to unwind and relax. It will also be our base for any future trips back to South Africa as it is conveniently located with exciting day trips to many surrounding places like The Kruger National Park, Dullstroom and the Mpumulanga Province with all it's attractions.
The Lodge has a Deli, called Foodspace run by a Jozy foodie and cook, Faith Ruben where you can eat and buy farm fresh bread, milk, vegetables and other locally produced delectable goods. Verlorenkloof is also a Gold Crown RCI Resort so you can stay there even if you are not part of the share block scheme. Accommodation range from 6 sleeper to 10 sleeper Crofts (Thatch Style Houses) and you can get there by car although a lot more fun if you have a 4 wheel drive set of wheels. In addition to the river the farm also has 6 fully stocked trout fishing dams. No motorised sport like quads etc allowed as this will interfere with the the estate's ambiance of tranquillity.
Some more pics.
http://www.places.co.za/html/popular_dest.html
We are avid travellers and have been to all 9 provinces on holiday trips as well as neighbouring countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Namibia and Lesotho. South Africa is certainly one of the most beautiful and cost effective countries to have a holiday with a diverse geography ranging from the desert, mountains, magnificent coast line and awesome wildlife.
I will start the journey with the one thing we held on to, coming to Singapore. Our holiday home (syndicate owners) in the Verlorenkloof Estate. A 280 km drive on the N4 towards Nelspuit in Mpumulanga to the 1600 hectare Estate with only 26 houses and a small Lodge in the heart of the trout fishing triangle.
http://verlorenkloof.co.za/
The Estate is surrounded by towering mountains with a 6 km crystal clear river (full of trout) flowing down the middle of the valley. It's the kind of place where you can find yourself again, tranquil and unspoilt. Activities include horse riding, fishing, picnics along the river, amazing walking trails or just lazing around in your secluded house. Houses are fully equipped except for televisions to keep noise reduction down in the estate. Our place is on the northern side of the mountains some 900 meters up from the river. There is only four houses on the southern slope.
A view from the patio.
We have spent time there with family and friends and without a doubt one of my favourite places to unwind and relax. It will also be our base for any future trips back to South Africa as it is conveniently located with exciting day trips to many surrounding places like The Kruger National Park, Dullstroom and the Mpumulanga Province with all it's attractions.
The Lodge has a Deli, called Foodspace run by a Jozy foodie and cook, Faith Ruben where you can eat and buy farm fresh bread, milk, vegetables and other locally produced delectable goods. Verlorenkloof is also a Gold Crown RCI Resort so you can stay there even if you are not part of the share block scheme. Accommodation range from 6 sleeper to 10 sleeper Crofts (Thatch Style Houses) and you can get there by car although a lot more fun if you have a 4 wheel drive set of wheels. In addition to the river the farm also has 6 fully stocked trout fishing dams. No motorised sport like quads etc allowed as this will interfere with the the estate's ambiance of tranquillity.
Some more pics.
Expats Have Their Say & Boat Quay Initiatives
The 2011 annual ECA International Cost of Living Index findings were released yesterday with Singapore now ranking the 6th most expensive location in Asia, ahead of it's rival business Hub, Hong Kong. This is a result of the stronger Singapore Dollar which has impacted on the cost of living expenses. This will have a negative impact on the benefits that Singapore had over Hong Kong regarding employment of expatriates.
On the positive side many expatriates who's contracts are expiring are actually tying to localise their employment and stay in Singapore as a result of the financial turmoil in Europe, America and other Western Countries. Singapore is now ranked the 31st most expensive country in the world to live in.
An on line survey conducted by HSBC who canvassed 3500 expatriates in 31 countries still ranks Singapore as the top overall destination, at least for people without children. Factors that were sighted include, increase in disposable income, efficient transport network and quality of education. Their are 4 Asian countries in the Top 10 of the survey.
Read the full details here: http://www.expatexplorer.hsbc.com/
We have been to Boat Quay before for lunch and to be honest it was not a nice experience. Beautiful stretch to walk until you get to the restaurant "Ally". The staff standing outside hassled us to the point of harassment and halfway down the ally we decided to turn around , look straight ahead and made our way back to the first restaurant and quickly entered to get away from it all. Had lunch and left walking away from the restaurants. Sad, because surely it must have an impact on the restaurants income as they basically scare away any potential patrons. We agreed not to go there again and rather take visitors to Clarke Quay.
Read in the news this morning headlined " Bid to Flush out touting, Overcharging in Boat Quay" that a group of restaurant owners has now introduced guidelines in an effort to get rid of the negative image of touting and overcharging at Boat Quay. This does sound like a step in the right direction which I will go and test out for myself to see if things have changed.
The committee has launched a campaign called "A Better Singapore River" which will address things like clearly indicating prices on menus and not soliciting customers for business. Currently about 70% of the restaurants are on board so lets hope it makes the difference. Well done to those who spearheaded this much needed initiative.
I will report back after my next visit on the "change" at Boat Quay and hopefully positive.
If you do have complaints you can lodge them with Singapore's watchdog, Consumers Association Of Singapore and the Singapore Tourism Board.
Tourism Board link
On the positive side many expatriates who's contracts are expiring are actually tying to localise their employment and stay in Singapore as a result of the financial turmoil in Europe, America and other Western Countries. Singapore is now ranked the 31st most expensive country in the world to live in.
An on line survey conducted by HSBC who canvassed 3500 expatriates in 31 countries still ranks Singapore as the top overall destination, at least for people without children. Factors that were sighted include, increase in disposable income, efficient transport network and quality of education. Their are 4 Asian countries in the Top 10 of the survey.
Read the full details here: http://www.expatexplorer.hsbc.com/
We have been to Boat Quay before for lunch and to be honest it was not a nice experience. Beautiful stretch to walk until you get to the restaurant "Ally". The staff standing outside hassled us to the point of harassment and halfway down the ally we decided to turn around , look straight ahead and made our way back to the first restaurant and quickly entered to get away from it all. Had lunch and left walking away from the restaurants. Sad, because surely it must have an impact on the restaurants income as they basically scare away any potential patrons. We agreed not to go there again and rather take visitors to Clarke Quay.
Read in the news this morning headlined " Bid to Flush out touting, Overcharging in Boat Quay" that a group of restaurant owners has now introduced guidelines in an effort to get rid of the negative image of touting and overcharging at Boat Quay. This does sound like a step in the right direction which I will go and test out for myself to see if things have changed.
The committee has launched a campaign called "A Better Singapore River" which will address things like clearly indicating prices on menus and not soliciting customers for business. Currently about 70% of the restaurants are on board so lets hope it makes the difference. Well done to those who spearheaded this much needed initiative.
I will report back after my next visit on the "change" at Boat Quay and hopefully positive.
If you do have complaints you can lodge them with Singapore's watchdog, Consumers Association Of Singapore and the Singapore Tourism Board.
Tourism Board link
A Double Whammy New Year
During Jen's (our Singapore Friend) visit the other weekend we ended up talking about the difference between our New Year and The Chinese New Year. Jen has kindly given me a background which I want to share with all of you.
This year we will have the pleasure of celebrating New Year twice as it is customary in Singapore. The Chinese Lunar New Year will be the 23rd of January when it is customary for Chinese families to celebrate the season and with some pre-festive preparations. The major difference here from the way it is celebrated in China is a more simplified celebration.
Obviously no firecracker here (It's Illegal here) apart from the festivities on the eve of New Year in Chinatown. Chinatown will be decorated in similar fashion to what Orhard Road is done now. Next year is the Year of the Dragon.
A typical reunion dinner with all members of the family is held on the eve of New Year, either "steamboat" or in a restaurant. A special dish called "Yu Sheng" comprising of different vegetables and raw fish are made. The dish signify prosperity, wealth and good fortune. Ingredients are suppose to be mixed together by the family members lifting the ingredients as high as possible mumbling words of blessing with good health and wealth. Jen is going to come and give us a personal demo. I really look forward to that.
It's also the practise that children sleep as late as possible on the eve which will increase the lifespan of your parents and elders. On the first day of the New Year there are a few things forbidden when visiting relatives. No wearing black as this is associated with death and bad luck. No sweeping or cleaning as this is deemed sweeping away all your fortune. No breaking of bowls etc as this will lead to 7 years of bad luck. Worse if it is a mirror. No mentioning of the word death or bad luck. Talk about auspicious things.
The two must haves if you go visiting will be a pair of mandarin oranges and the red packets for young ones. Newly married couples (less than a year) do not have to give red packets to children and the elders.
Chinese New Year is supposed to be 15 days but in Singapore it is only 3 days. People visit relatives, and play "mahjong" or card games. The ambiance and festive mood has been dampened over the years especially for the youngsters with more emphasis on Christmas instead.
Very interesting. Thanks Jen.
Year of the Dragon
This year we will have the pleasure of celebrating New Year twice as it is customary in Singapore. The Chinese Lunar New Year will be the 23rd of January when it is customary for Chinese families to celebrate the season and with some pre-festive preparations. The major difference here from the way it is celebrated in China is a more simplified celebration.
Obviously no firecracker here (It's Illegal here) apart from the festivities on the eve of New Year in Chinatown. Chinatown will be decorated in similar fashion to what Orhard Road is done now. Next year is the Year of the Dragon.
A typical reunion dinner with all members of the family is held on the eve of New Year, either "steamboat" or in a restaurant. A special dish called "Yu Sheng" comprising of different vegetables and raw fish are made. The dish signify prosperity, wealth and good fortune. Ingredients are suppose to be mixed together by the family members lifting the ingredients as high as possible mumbling words of blessing with good health and wealth. Jen is going to come and give us a personal demo. I really look forward to that.
It's also the practise that children sleep as late as possible on the eve which will increase the lifespan of your parents and elders. On the first day of the New Year there are a few things forbidden when visiting relatives. No wearing black as this is associated with death and bad luck. No sweeping or cleaning as this is deemed sweeping away all your fortune. No breaking of bowls etc as this will lead to 7 years of bad luck. Worse if it is a mirror. No mentioning of the word death or bad luck. Talk about auspicious things.
The two must haves if you go visiting will be a pair of mandarin oranges and the red packets for young ones. Newly married couples (less than a year) do not have to give red packets to children and the elders.
Chinese New Year is supposed to be 15 days but in Singapore it is only 3 days. People visit relatives, and play "mahjong" or card games. The ambiance and festive mood has been dampened over the years especially for the youngsters with more emphasis on Christmas instead.
Very interesting. Thanks Jen.
Year of the Dragon
PS. I am a Tiger and Zelma a Rooster according to the Chines Lunar Year.
I live in Singapura
I have always had a great interest in the history of countries and nations especially my own, South Africa. There, I was part of the changes and the turmoil and what the county has become today. Since coming to Singapore I have not had the chance to really delve into the past but one questions has been with me all along. How did a small island nation become the economic powerhouse it is today and what made a country with a diverse population and background so patriotic.
I found the book I was looking for on Saturday called, "The History of Singapore" and did further research on Internet watching some historical videos to get my answers. The Discovery Channel did a program called "The History of Singapore" which is a short version of the book but a more interesting video called "The Accidental Nation" certainly answered my questions.
In the 14th century, The Island called "Temasek" was part of the Malay Kingdom. An island with no natural resources and infertile land and hardly any inhabitants. One man and his vision changed all that in 1819, when a maverick British pioneer, Sir Thomas Stanford Raffles established a small trading post on the island. He called it his "Little Child" and he wanted the change the world for the better. The problem he faced was how to attract people to his brainchild and the answer lies in two words, FREE TRADE. That is the founding principle that made Singapore what it is today.
The Island was part of the British Empire until 1963 when it merged with Malaya and became independent and part of Malaysia. It was annexed by the Japanese in 1941 till 1945 during the Second World War with a very dark few years. In 1965 the Malaysian Prime Minister broke the ties and Singapore became and independent country and nation. It would be led by a great leader, Lee Kuan Yew as the Prime Minister for the next 25 years to shape it to what it is today. A Testament to visionary and great leadership.
The country has seen it's fair share of turmoil, political change and struggling to find a identity but has emerged victoriously, forged by it's Part and Present existing together, with religious and cultural tolerance with massive economical success. Reminds me of the time in my own country when Nelson Mandela took the helm and an era of hope and prosperity looked like it would be the future.
I leave you with a light hearted video that summaries the Singapore Story.
PS. If you are interested in an unbiased and true account of South Africa's history you can read the book called "The Afrikaners - Biography of a People, by Herman Giliomee and off course, The Long Walk to Freedom - Nelson Mandela's Autobiography.
I found the book I was looking for on Saturday called, "The History of Singapore" and did further research on Internet watching some historical videos to get my answers. The Discovery Channel did a program called "The History of Singapore" which is a short version of the book but a more interesting video called "The Accidental Nation" certainly answered my questions.
In the 14th century, The Island called "Temasek" was part of the Malay Kingdom. An island with no natural resources and infertile land and hardly any inhabitants. One man and his vision changed all that in 1819, when a maverick British pioneer, Sir Thomas Stanford Raffles established a small trading post on the island. He called it his "Little Child" and he wanted the change the world for the better. The problem he faced was how to attract people to his brainchild and the answer lies in two words, FREE TRADE. That is the founding principle that made Singapore what it is today.
The Island was part of the British Empire until 1963 when it merged with Malaya and became independent and part of Malaysia. It was annexed by the Japanese in 1941 till 1945 during the Second World War with a very dark few years. In 1965 the Malaysian Prime Minister broke the ties and Singapore became and independent country and nation. It would be led by a great leader, Lee Kuan Yew as the Prime Minister for the next 25 years to shape it to what it is today. A Testament to visionary and great leadership.
The country has seen it's fair share of turmoil, political change and struggling to find a identity but has emerged victoriously, forged by it's Part and Present existing together, with religious and cultural tolerance with massive economical success. Reminds me of the time in my own country when Nelson Mandela took the helm and an era of hope and prosperity looked like it would be the future.
I leave you with a light hearted video that summaries the Singapore Story.
PS. If you are interested in an unbiased and true account of South Africa's history you can read the book called "The Afrikaners - Biography of a People, by Herman Giliomee and off course, The Long Walk to Freedom - Nelson Mandela's Autobiography.
Friday Blues, "Making out on Stage" & Did you Know?
Woke up this morning with a soft drizzle and honestly believing it is Saturday. Made myself some coffee, back to bed watching some recorded TV Shows, not waking up Zelma as usual round 05h30 with coffee and thought about the nice day ahead. Then she surfaced at about 06h40, glanced at the clock and uttered the following words, "Hey!!, dis Vrydag en ek moet werk toe gaan". In English, "Hey!!, it's Friday and I must go to work".
Shit, bummer and there goes that nice feeling down the drain. Immediately got up and start a normal but now very rushed day. Dammit, how do I change my mindset now and face the day alone. Weather projections is a surge in the Monsoon with heavy downpours the next two to five days and possible flash floods. That means I am boxed in for the day unless I get a taxi.
There is only one thing that can help me face this day. Music! and talking to "My friends in the Computer", alla my Facebook. There, problem solved. So here goes.
First, the provocative and sexy video clip by Korean duo 4Minute’s HyunA and Beast’s Hyun Seung of their performance at the http://mama.mnet.com/en/winner2011_main.asp MAMA (MNET ASIAN MUSIC AWARDS Show that was held In Singapore on wednesday. They created quite a stir kissing on stage and basically "Making Out"
The full video was released yesterday and the song is catchy and the video still sexy.
Check it out here http://www.soompi.com/news/hyuna-and-hyun-seung-reveal-full-mv-for-trouble-maker.
British artist, James Morrison also released his new album "The Awakening" earlier this week. I like his voice although not all his songs are nice. Probably his most famous song is "Broken Strings" with Nelly Furtado. Here is a song from his new album. Nice video as well.
Going thru my music video clip collection trying to find a nice inspirational song for the day, I found this old one, "Pepper & Piano". Not sure what happened to them but their debut performance at the "Must be the Music Show" was awesome. A piano and a beautiful voice. Great.
I can do this all day but then the posting would be to long so here is the final song and a very old favourite, I'd Rather Go Blind. The song was originally sung by the amazing Etta James and performed by many artists over the years including Mick Jagger and Beyonce. The best performance must be by Chicken Shack in the 60's. Ah, the day is starting to look better.
I went to the Casino at Marina Bay Sands earlier this year when here for a visit and had to hand in my passport and backpack upon entry. Did not understand why and here is the reason. Singaporean Citizens and Permanent Residents must pay a $100 entrance fee visiting any of the two Casino's here. Pretty stiff I think but it is meant to discourage locals from Gambling. The biggest current problem though is the foreign gamblers who loose all their money with no means to go home ending up in the streets.
Since coming to Singapore I have wondered where all the rubbish goes to. It's a "Small" Island so surely there is not much space for landfills and I certainly have not seen any to date in my travels. Found the answer watching my favourite photography show, Scene-City Singapore on Channel News Asia. It is shipped from the incineration plants on the mainland to an Island in the South, Pulau Semakau since 1999 when the last mainland landfill was exhausted. It will cater for Singapore's rubbish disposal needs until 2040. A visit to the Island is recommended and on my list.
http://www.wildsingapore.com/places/semakau.htm
If you are into photography watch the Scene-City Singapore show or get one of Tom Ang's books. He hosts the show and is a expert photographer. http://www.tomang.com/
The Japanese is in the forefront of technology innovation and they are developing the next generation Ultra High Definition Television (UHDTV). It will have 16 times more pixels than the current HDTV and close to what the IMAX format has. I still revel in the HDTV quality so imagine what that is going to be like. Awesome!!! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultra_High_Definition_Television
One final song to mellow us into the weekend. Enjoy
Shit, bummer and there goes that nice feeling down the drain. Immediately got up and start a normal but now very rushed day. Dammit, how do I change my mindset now and face the day alone. Weather projections is a surge in the Monsoon with heavy downpours the next two to five days and possible flash floods. That means I am boxed in for the day unless I get a taxi.
There is only one thing that can help me face this day. Music! and talking to "My friends in the Computer", alla my Facebook. There, problem solved. So here goes.
First, the provocative and sexy video clip by Korean duo 4Minute’s HyunA and Beast’s Hyun Seung of their performance at the http://mama.mnet.com/en/winner2011_main.asp MAMA (MNET ASIAN MUSIC AWARDS Show that was held In Singapore on wednesday. They created quite a stir kissing on stage and basically "Making Out"
The full video was released yesterday and the song is catchy and the video still sexy.
Check it out here http://www.soompi.com/news/hyuna-and-hyun-seung-reveal-full-mv-for-trouble-maker.
British artist, James Morrison also released his new album "The Awakening" earlier this week. I like his voice although not all his songs are nice. Probably his most famous song is "Broken Strings" with Nelly Furtado. Here is a song from his new album. Nice video as well.
Going thru my music video clip collection trying to find a nice inspirational song for the day, I found this old one, "Pepper & Piano". Not sure what happened to them but their debut performance at the "Must be the Music Show" was awesome. A piano and a beautiful voice. Great.
I can do this all day but then the posting would be to long so here is the final song and a very old favourite, I'd Rather Go Blind. The song was originally sung by the amazing Etta James and performed by many artists over the years including Mick Jagger and Beyonce. The best performance must be by Chicken Shack in the 60's. Ah, the day is starting to look better.
I went to the Casino at Marina Bay Sands earlier this year when here for a visit and had to hand in my passport and backpack upon entry. Did not understand why and here is the reason. Singaporean Citizens and Permanent Residents must pay a $100 entrance fee visiting any of the two Casino's here. Pretty stiff I think but it is meant to discourage locals from Gambling. The biggest current problem though is the foreign gamblers who loose all their money with no means to go home ending up in the streets.
Since coming to Singapore I have wondered where all the rubbish goes to. It's a "Small" Island so surely there is not much space for landfills and I certainly have not seen any to date in my travels. Found the answer watching my favourite photography show, Scene-City Singapore on Channel News Asia. It is shipped from the incineration plants on the mainland to an Island in the South, Pulau Semakau since 1999 when the last mainland landfill was exhausted. It will cater for Singapore's rubbish disposal needs until 2040. A visit to the Island is recommended and on my list.
http://www.wildsingapore.com/places/semakau.htm
If you are into photography watch the Scene-City Singapore show or get one of Tom Ang's books. He hosts the show and is a expert photographer. http://www.tomang.com/
The Japanese is in the forefront of technology innovation and they are developing the next generation Ultra High Definition Television (UHDTV). It will have 16 times more pixels than the current HDTV and close to what the IMAX format has. I still revel in the HDTV quality so imagine what that is going to be like. Awesome!!! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultra_High_Definition_Television
One final song to mellow us into the weekend. Enjoy
Eviltwin & Harley Davidson
I have ridden Super Bikes all my life and by 2001 living in Durban, Kwa Zulu Natal, I was ready to full fill one of my dreams, owning a Harley Davidson. By that time I had taught my wife to ride her own bike and after visiting a bike show where we both saw the bikes we wanted and could afford it, we purchased our Harley's. Mine, a Dyna Wide Glide Custom and Zelma's a Sportster 883 done in a one of a kind Denim paint job. If I had one dollar for everybody who touched the bike to "feel" if the Denim was real I would be a millionaire today.
We became official members of the Durban Chapter and spend every weekend riding and attended the official rally once a year. South Africa and Kwa Zulu Natal in specific has some of the most awesome roads if this is your passion. In the process we went to many destinations, to many to mention and then came the chance of a lifetime. Harley Davidson was turning 100 years old with a special anniversary rally in Cape Town for three days. The club decided to put together a group and ship the bikes down by truck with us flying down the next day. And then the ride back home. A seven day, 1800 kilometre ride, of the beaten track, from Cape Town back to Durban. We were definitely not going to miss it.
We met the truck in Cape Town, offloaded the bikes (26 in total) and spent the next 3 days taking part in all the festivities and rides in Cape Town. Mixed weather with loads of parties and mass rides with the biggest group of Harleys ever gathered in South Africa. A awesome sight and sound thru the streets of Cape Town.
The Route
The trip back started on a very wet, windy and cold Monday morning in Cape Town with the first stop Hermanus (125 km), the famous land based Whale Watching Town in the World and the shortest ride of the trip. Arrived in the wet and everybody had to buy new shoes as the old ones were soaked. Warmed up with some Jack Daniels and had a group supper. Sort of a quite evening drying clothes after spending the day drenched while riding. The first two days followed the famous South African Route 62. Route 62
Woke up the next morning with the sun showing some promise, dried the bikes and headed inland for Oudtshoorn (360 km), the ostrich capital of South Africa. Stopped for lunch at the famous Ronnies Sex Shop and cruised thru majestic mountains, towering cliffs and the wine country on the way to Outdshoorn . Had fabulous evening eating out as a group.
A casual ride and some beautiful mountain passes to the Oyster Capital of South Africa, Knysna (124 km), Pearl of the Garden Route. Walked the streets and visited the food markets and had a group supper. Got some much needed catch up sleep to be ready for the next few day's rides which was going to be a tough.
Had a nice breakfast and headed towards Cape St Francis (209 km). The team captain, John owned a house there and arranged for some additional houses to accommodate all. The place and the view is out of this world.
Day five and we were on our way to East London (408 km) with a lunch stopover at Port Alfred (255 km). Tired of eating out the group decided that the girls would shop and the boys would cook. Oh my Lord. The best food and a impromptu show put together by some of the boys that was absolutely hilarious. Never laughed so much in one evening.
Day six and the ass now beginning to show signs of wear and the trip to Port St Johns (323 km), the Gateway to the Wild coast. We stayed in bungalow style houses on the beach and spent the evening in the pub where we met a famous South African Actor, Ben Dekker (Die Wild Temmer) from the 80's. He was now a beach bum, living with three African wife's in a make shift bush house on the beach and a local "celebrity". Ben
Day seven, leaving the Eastern Cape and into Kwa Zulu Natal and the final leg of a fantastic but gruelling trip back to Durban (347 km), Kingdom of the Zulu and a awesome ride along the Wild Coast. Home Sweet Home. To many late nights and parties has taken its toll and the distance covered on the bike now seriously having its effects.
A trip of a lifetime with treasured memories and experiences never to be repeated. And for the people who believe the myth that Harley's are unreliable here is a fact to remember. Only one puncture and no breakdowns for the whole trip. In fact, I travelled a total of 16000 km with my bike without ever having any breakdowns. Sadly we had to sell the bikes when we came to Singapore which ended an era of fun and excitement.
This is obviously a condensed version of the story as all the details would be far too long to read as a posting.
Here is the photos if you are interested.
In true Harley Davidson spirit,
Ride to live, Live to Ride.
We became official members of the Durban Chapter and spend every weekend riding and attended the official rally once a year. South Africa and Kwa Zulu Natal in specific has some of the most awesome roads if this is your passion. In the process we went to many destinations, to many to mention and then came the chance of a lifetime. Harley Davidson was turning 100 years old with a special anniversary rally in Cape Town for three days. The club decided to put together a group and ship the bikes down by truck with us flying down the next day. And then the ride back home. A seven day, 1800 kilometre ride, of the beaten track, from Cape Town back to Durban. We were definitely not going to miss it.
We met the truck in Cape Town, offloaded the bikes (26 in total) and spent the next 3 days taking part in all the festivities and rides in Cape Town. Mixed weather with loads of parties and mass rides with the biggest group of Harleys ever gathered in South Africa. A awesome sight and sound thru the streets of Cape Town.
The Route
The trip back started on a very wet, windy and cold Monday morning in Cape Town with the first stop Hermanus (125 km), the famous land based Whale Watching Town in the World and the shortest ride of the trip. Arrived in the wet and everybody had to buy new shoes as the old ones were soaked. Warmed up with some Jack Daniels and had a group supper. Sort of a quite evening drying clothes after spending the day drenched while riding. The first two days followed the famous South African Route 62. Route 62
Woke up the next morning with the sun showing some promise, dried the bikes and headed inland for Oudtshoorn (360 km), the ostrich capital of South Africa. Stopped for lunch at the famous Ronnies Sex Shop and cruised thru majestic mountains, towering cliffs and the wine country on the way to Outdshoorn . Had fabulous evening eating out as a group.
A casual ride and some beautiful mountain passes to the Oyster Capital of South Africa, Knysna (124 km), Pearl of the Garden Route. Walked the streets and visited the food markets and had a group supper. Got some much needed catch up sleep to be ready for the next few day's rides which was going to be a tough.
Had a nice breakfast and headed towards Cape St Francis (209 km). The team captain, John owned a house there and arranged for some additional houses to accommodate all. The place and the view is out of this world.
Day five and we were on our way to East London (408 km) with a lunch stopover at Port Alfred (255 km). Tired of eating out the group decided that the girls would shop and the boys would cook. Oh my Lord. The best food and a impromptu show put together by some of the boys that was absolutely hilarious. Never laughed so much in one evening.
Day six and the ass now beginning to show signs of wear and the trip to Port St Johns (323 km), the Gateway to the Wild coast. We stayed in bungalow style houses on the beach and spent the evening in the pub where we met a famous South African Actor, Ben Dekker (Die Wild Temmer) from the 80's. He was now a beach bum, living with three African wife's in a make shift bush house on the beach and a local "celebrity". Ben
Day seven, leaving the Eastern Cape and into Kwa Zulu Natal and the final leg of a fantastic but gruelling trip back to Durban (347 km), Kingdom of the Zulu and a awesome ride along the Wild Coast. Home Sweet Home. To many late nights and parties has taken its toll and the distance covered on the bike now seriously having its effects.
A trip of a lifetime with treasured memories and experiences never to be repeated. And for the people who believe the myth that Harley's are unreliable here is a fact to remember. Only one puncture and no breakdowns for the whole trip. In fact, I travelled a total of 16000 km with my bike without ever having any breakdowns. Sadly we had to sell the bikes when we came to Singapore which ended an era of fun and excitement.
This is obviously a condensed version of the story as all the details would be far too long to read as a posting.
Here is the photos if you are interested.
In true Harley Davidson spirit,
Ride to live, Live to Ride.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)