Posts Tagged ‘singapore’

Singapore Hiphop Buskers

Arts & Culture, Restaurant, Travel | Posted by admin
Oct 05 2009

It’s always interesting to come to know a place through its food, and in Singapore the cuisine can tell many stories from its many histories.  As a major port for centuries, there have been many cultural influences here that have worked their way in through the food.  In Singapore, restaurant living is an illustration of its enormously cosmopolitan tastes, which are a reflection of its fascinating history.  You might forget about history altogether, however, when you taste the splendid offerings from our fine selection of restaurants, which contain a fabulous array of tastes and culinary traditions that you can only find in Singapore.

The selections can be very specific to a certain kind of food, such as Italian, or very eclectic, offering local traditions served with a contemporary flair.  Our chefs are some of the finest in the world, and are studied in both classical and state of the art cooking techniques, all designed to dazzle and enchant your taste buds, and offering a culinary glimpse into what Singapore is all about.  And after a splendid meal, you’ll have more opportunities to enjoy the cultural life in Singapore.  There are many exceptional venues to see live performance, such as dance, theatre, and opera, and loads of galleries and museums to keep your hunger for local culture satiated.  There is also a fairly impressive tradition for street performance, or busking, here, and you may find yourself watching b-boys like Amsyar Bin Ramlee.

The 18-year old breakdancer is working currently with Styles from Beyond, and his work is really something to behold.  He was a second runner up at the Pulse Hip Hop Knockout, and his stylings on dance floors and sidewalks are worth watching, as his career is starting to make some spectacular moves.  He performed with his group at the Singapore Street Festival, an event which showcases some of the hottest urban talents in Singapore.  The tradition of street performance in the world is fascinating, and its engagement with the locals and international visitors makes visible another kind of art that happens every day, and in unexpected places.

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Singapore trip

Travel | Posted by admin
Sep 10 2009

This was the trip I had been hoping for fun, relaxing, informative and educational. When I booked my stay at this boutique hotel in Singapore and my attendance at the conference I has no idea what a great time I was in for. A gathering of energy workers from across the world and from man y different traditions and modalities were there. Arriving in Singapore in a sunny and clear day it was very welcoming and made me feel even better about the events coming this week. A good sign I thought. Checking in to the hotel went smoothly the staff was gracious and very welcoming. I was located near the waterfront where taking morning walks was very lovely. I like to get up early and walk around at sunrise it was a very nice time to be out and walking. Not too hot and the sun low on the horizon makes for very pretty sights. The city is quietest at this time of day, I enjoyed that too. The conferences and workshops were very informative. demonstrations and technique tuning were big items. Meeting people with the same interest and focus was a good thing too. Understanding the different traditions behind the work people from various parts of the world do. Many shanen and women of various indigenous traditions gave a series of talks on the work they do and the similarities in the different practices from all around the world. The evening were full of meeting new people and processing the information I had taken in. Still going over it all in my head and absorbing it all as I finish packing up and getting to bed before I fly out in the morning. Looking forward to getting home, sorry to be leaving Singapore.

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Singapore Night Market

Travel | Posted by admin
Aug 18 2009

The night market of Singapore is world famous. Everything is available there house wares and house hold goods, shoes, hand bags, belts, hair adornments, meats, fruits, vegetables, pets and more. The market is sectioned off into areas with foods in one sections, cloths in another and so on. The heat of this tropical environment has fostered the evolution of a night market. Singapore was first records of settlement is from the second century ACE. The Island an outpost of the Sumatran Srivijaya empire and was first named Temasek, sea town, a Javanese word. Temasek was a significant trading post, however declined in its power in the 14th century. Very little of the old city exists but archaeologists in Singapore have discovered artifacts of the old settlement. Between the 16th and the 19th centuries  Singapore was a part of the Sultanate of Johor. In 613 the Malay-Portugal wars burned the settlement to the ground. The Portuguese held control over the island until the 18th century when the Dutch gained control over the area. In 1819 Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles landed on Singapore and saw the potential of this island and its positioning as a key trading post in south east Asia. The British East India Trading company was established and trade flourished in the area. The European influence continued over the island until World War II when the Japanese gained control of the island. In 1942 the British surrendered the island to the Japanese where they remained until the end of the war. After the war general elections were held in 1955 laying the ground work for modern day Singapore. The pro-Independence candidate Minister David Marshall won the election to be replaces shortly thereafter by Lim Yew Hock whose policies convinced the British to finally leave Singapore for good. Today modern Singapore is a fusion of all of these influences that have governed and effected this island since the 2nd century Ad. Today luxury hotels Singapore abound and welcome the traveler wanting to explore this island.

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The Chinese Garden of Singapore

Arts & Culture, Entertainment, Travel | Posted by admin
Jul 14 2009

Located close to many of the downtown Singapore hotels is the Chinese Garden.  This garden has been open to the public since 1975, and along with the plants, and the beautiful array of colors, there are many monuments and works of architectural and sculptural art, a common thread in traditional gardens of China.  From the archways to the fish ponds, to the tea house this garden is meant to provide solace and serenity from the chaos of city life, and is a great way to experience the culture of Singapore that has been so influenced by her Chinese immigrants.  While walking through the garden one may learn a bit of the history of the eras of the Chinese civilization, just by simply crossing the bridges, as the design for each one was taken from those different eras.  Or perhaps one may learn the art of trimming the Bonsai tree, as the gardens have a section dedicated to just those trees, of which contains more than one thousand of the little trees, and offer classes in that art, taught by experts in the field and the practice.

There is the Pagoda, artistry at work in architecture, and the Garden of Abundance.  In this area grows a pomegranate tree, more the one hundred years old that was originally imported from the city of Shantung in China.  And of course, a sculpture garden is located here as well, of the twelve signs in the Chinese zodiac calender.  According to the tradition of gardening in China, to plant seeds and to care for the plants that grew connects to the ideas of abundance, fulfilment and longevity of life.  And as the earth is tended, so the sky is watched.  In 2003, an observatory was built in the garden upon request of Au Man Choo.  He is an architect, who has a passion for the scientific nature of astronomy and wanted to expose the citizens of Singapore to that passion.  His outlook is not only concerned with educational purposes, but of the therapeutic value one gains from simply looking at the stars and the planets of this night sky.  In all, the Chinese Garden in Singapore is a wonderful place, for the mind and for the body.

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Outdoor Cinema at Singapore’s Fort Canning Green

Arts & Culture, Entertainment | Posted by admin
Apr 20 2009

Starlight Cinema is Singapore’s only outdoor cinema festival. It is held at the Fort Canning Green and is more than an experience in movie watching. The festival offers the opportunity to see new cinema, and it allows the audience to experience the beauty of the diverse weather evenings of Singapore. Because it is outdoors, it is exposed to environmental noise and aerial activity, such as the passing street traffic just outside. The theatre sound system works well, and the film is presented in surround sound. Adding the miscellaneous traffic noise from outside gives a new perspective to the concept of surround sound. This presents something of a sensational juxtaposition perspective, and combines the immediate environment with the viewing of the film.

Because there is no formal seating at the Starlight, patrons are encouraged to bring their own blankets and or pillows to settle into for the evening. This promotes an almost picnic like experience and the audience is invited to bring their own food and drinks. There are concessions available, though they are limited and primarily composed of hot dogs and popcorn. Many people come in groups of friends, and bring entire meals for the occasion. This can make watching the film a fun project by having each person bring their favorite food from one of the best Singapore restaurants. And every responsible audience member knows to bring an umbrella in the event of rain. All of these ingredients combine to provide more than just a film watching experience, the evening can become quite a unique adventure.

Fort Canning is a beautiful though not very large park near the central business district of Singapore. Other attractions the in the park include the Spice Garden. It was designed after a model of an experimental botanical garden. Sir Stamford Raffles created the garden and had spices like nutmeg and cloves shipped in to be planted there. Gothic Gates is another notable element, greeting visitors as they arrive at the park. These somewhat imposing Gates were built 1846 and mark the location of what was once a Christian Cemetery. Across the world, Fort Canning might be compared to Central Park in New York City.

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The Tolerance of Singapore

Society, Travel | Posted by admin
Apr 17 2009

There are many different cultures and people of various ethnic backgrounds living within the city-state of Singapore. The tolerance of religious belief is a necessary characteristic of the citizens and something that is second nature to all those living together. Many times the religions of the world cross any boundaries concerning race and belief systems, and merge in unexpected ways. This is true of so many aspects of the various cultures that have immigrated over the years and continue to do so, from the arts, to the cooking…this is a region of Asia that is not only becoming accustomed to the melting pot, but embracing the diversity of all people.

Many younger generations still follow the traditions and respect the mysteries of the ancient ways, but also combine those traditions with the way of the world today. Again, the modern relies on the ancient and the ancient supports and validates the modern, even in architecture as it is commonplace to pass on any give street, modern and smooth lines on five star hotels, Singapore traditional temples, or exotic and elaborately constructed mosques. In fact most of the most innovative and/or interesting architecture of the city is in the buildings that are the religious houses of worship, of all faiths. It is one of the many ways Singapore celebrates artistic creations and endeavors.

Chinese temples are quite numerous, and varied. The Taoists, and Buddhists make up a large percentage of the population as well as those practicing Confucianism. These religions are focused on the balance of nature, the balance of light and dark. Many of the temples are constructed with the idea of Feng Shui , wherein the environment or space that one occupies is also focused on balance of one’s surroundings and the flow of energy. Worship of the ancestors is an essential aspect and many of the ceremonies and rituals are tributes to the dead, wherein in living make offerings to the dead. These particular religions have doctrines and beliefs that inter-mix with each other.

There is also a relatively large population of Muslims in the city, with homelands such as India, China and Malaysia. Hindus fleeing India make up a percentage. And now, various denominations of the Christian faith are becoming more popular. In fact recently it has been noted that the Christian faith is among the four most practiced on the island. And in keeping with the tenants of each religion, as stated before, the people combine aspects and respect those of different ideas and beliefs. Religion is part of the every day modern world for those living in Singapore.

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The Alliance of Southeast Asian Countries

Business, Health | Posted by admin
Apr 10 2009

The relationship between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China is creating incredible bonds and a symbiotic understanding that will further promote solutions regarding the international economic crisis. It also serves to to maintain stability in all Asian countries, something that current Prime Minister of Singapore, LeeHsien Loong stated at a conference a couple of days ago. This is no doubt a reflection of his mentor and predecessor to his title, who also happens to be his father, Lee Kuan Yew. The former Prime Minister has stated on many occasions the inter-relation between a countries survival in the international climate, and the allies and ‘friends’ the country has made along the way. These shared concerns between administrations serve to not only bring the various leaders together but, businesses such as the luxury Singapore travel and tourism industry, and the people living in those countries as well. And not only ideological ties are created but financial ones too.

One major ideological tie is that of Trades in Goods Agreement, the terms of this agreement and those of other agreements made during the new millennium, ensure not only continued cooperation between the countries of Southeast Asia, but in communication on a regular basis between the countries and their leaders. Lee states that this is a condition that must endure for future economic stability and progress, and is quite responsible for the maintenance of peace as well. China has also entered into a treaty that commits all involved to promoting cooperation, peace and friendship between the regions, ensuring resolutions to conflicts in peaceful and responsible ways. What is starting amongst the Asian communities is growing strong and Prime Minister Lee hopes that in the future, other countries will become involved. South Korea and Japan have joined Singapore and China in this mission.

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Chinese Lantern Festival

Arts & Culture | Posted by admin
Apr 06 2009

A grand occasion every year for the community of Chinese living in Singapore is the Lantern Festival, the traditional fall festival that runs from the beginning of September through the beginning of October. Many travel to the region each season for a taste and the experience of five star Singapore at its best. It is a mix of rich cultural heritage combined with the modern world. During the celebration, activities and events take place throughout Chinatown, the Chinese garden and along the river of Singapore. Draped along the river is a dragon shaped lantern stretching more than 3,500 feet. Art installations are displayed at the museums, narrating the legends and myths of China. Lanterns from other countries such as Nepal and Vietnam are included in the festivals as well. Lights and lanterns from around the world are the focus of the festival. The director for the Tourism Board of Singapore states that this is a great time for those visiting to experience the rich cultural and traditional aspects of the Asian culture.

Not all is traditional as the modern world collides with the traditional, as many of the exhibits are attempting to attract the younger visitors as well. Disney characters are lit lanterns adorning the streets and bazaars. With something for all to enjoy, contemporary interpretations are becoming fast, a draw for a wider audience. The streets of Chinatown as well as the walkways of the Chinese garden are lit with ceremony and celebration. The tourism offices of Singapore regularly promote the festival in Taiwan, Indonesian and Australia, and the past few years have been offering discounts and rebates to those still wishing to travel in the economical challenging times. Aside from the main venues and festivities, various fringe sites have begun to pop up around the area, at various parks and malls, offering more of an off the beaten track, and off beat experience that still remains traditionally Chinese. Many corporate sponsors and private donors have dedicated their energy, their time and their financial support to ensure that the festival continues year after year.

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Singapore Artist, Cheong Soo Pieng

Arts & Culture, Travel | Posted by admin
Mar 30 2009

Cheong Soo Pieng was another Singaporean artist that had been born in China. He was born, the last of seven children, in 1917 and began his study at the Xiamen Academy when he was only sixteen. His family was not against his pursuit of art, though they also did not encourage it. However, he was extremely self-determined and finished his studies at the Academy in three years. He continued his education in Shanghai, though his study there ended during the Sino-Japanese war, during which the Academy had been destroyed. Pieng returned home and began teaching at the same school he had attended in his youth. He was also focused on his own work. He quickly gained a reputation as an inspirational instructor and it was his own passion for his work that drove him. He presented his first individual show at the school in 1942 with his work in watercolor. Oil paints were a luxury and difficult to acquire in China during this time.

He moved to Kong Kong in 1945 and spent time there before he moved on to Singapore. He was instrumental to the founding of the Nanyang Fine Art Academy and taught there. His teaching career spanned more than twenty years and he was highly esteemed for his inspiration to his students. Pieng loved teaching though his true passion lied in is own work. He retired in his late forties and devoted his time to his art. He remains one of Singapore’s most influential artists and educators and is known for his part in developing the Nan Yang style of painting. He continued to work in water color though he used oil paints once they became available to him. He also worked in sculpture. His works hang on the walls in businesses and some of the best Singapore hotels, offering beauty and inspiration to those who view him. He’s also strongly influential to young students of art. His life work was presented in a show by the National Museum in 1983, though unfortunately Pieng died four months before the exhibit opened. He remains respected today and proves to be an inspiration to young artists for generations to come.

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From the Perspective of Local Artists

Arts & Culture, Travel | Posted by admin
Mar 22 2009

The city-state of Singapore has long desired to been seen as a viable participate in the world of art. The organizers of various shows and festivals have looked towards other cities in hopes of discovering ‘the way’ they achieved such acclaim and the reputations that cities such as Manhattan, or Paris, or Florence. The government of Singapore has created objectives towards this goal, the goal of a more Renaissance, culturally and artistically, society. Artists that live in Singapore contend that what happens culturally and becomes phenomenons in those other cities is something that must be created from within the city itself, not created by copying what the others have done, but by the originality and quality existing already within Singapore’s artistic, and local, communities. One artist stated that it is necessary to consider that the artistic culture nurtures the city, and that that can not be forced. That it must happen naturally.

So much of Singapore’s ideas and society is fostered by the economic successes in the business world, the technological world. Tourism is a growing industry based on the achievements of the business world, and the best of Singapore’s hotels and restaurants and convention centers. Artists of Singapore fear that the driving force of business, of making money, is altering and diluting the purpose and the pure of the art world. Singapore has many art festivals throughout the year, the Biennale and the Showcase Singapore being two main, and very large exhibitions. But the local artists are quite happy when the festivals leave town, as the commercialism that has over-whelmed the shows in the last few years takes away from the beauty and the meaning, or rather, the meaning art has to the artist themselves. They view these festivals as spectacles, and the wish is to bring back the local artist, the creative soul.

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Outdoor Singapore

Travel | Posted by admin
Feb 22 2009

There are many charming aspects to the landscape and the outdoors in Singapore. Because of this Singapore has become a major hot spot for travelers looking for a bit peace and tropical island tranquility. And for many, the best way to escape the mundane and hectic world of their day to day life is to enjoy a bit of the great outdoors. One of the greatest attributes and accomplishments of Singapore is the fact that they’ve managed to expand the tourism without losing the quiet charm.

There are miles and miles of Singapore coastline which offers up a myriad of options when choosing beaches to visit. One interesting fact about the beaches of Singapore is that most of them are man made. Singapore only recently reclaimed the land that makes up the edges of the island. Regardless, the sand is white. The beaches are far from city intrusions, by noise, smell and or thoughts of hectic business or traffic jams. This makes for a gentle, otherworldly experience with the backdrops of natural landscapes and greenery as well as the local inhabitants from the animal kingdom.

Although some beaches do have some restrictions, it is always easy to find one that suits your needs and desires. If one wants to swim in the ocean, some beaches are deemed safe for swimming. On some locations a variety of classes and activities are offer such as wind surfing or sailing or scuba diving. On a few sites there are camp grounds, but there are some relatively close five star hotels Singapore offers for those who would prefer more creature comforts. Some of the beaches even have accommodations such as picnic sites and fire pits for those wanting to social with sunset parties or barbecues. Aside from just the coastline of the main island itself, there are the islands. The beauty of the natural world of Singapore is just a heavenly escape from real world pressures and tension and readily accessible from the best Singapore hotels. Some of the best spots in the world are located on the island as well as many to chose from that are not too far away for a quick afternoon adventure.

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Foreign Reserves Decrease in Singapore

Business | Posted by admin
Feb 09 2009

This week it was reported by the Monetary Authority of Singapore that the official foreign reserves of the country decreased to US$ 167 billion in January from US$ 174.2 billion in December.

This is important news as the official foreign currency reserves totaled SG$252.6 billion in January, up from SG$250.3 billion in December.

Also foreign exchange reserves and gold increased to SG$ 251.7 billion from SG$249.5 billion in December. This is in contrast to the reserve position in the IMF which decreased to SG$ 251.7 million from SG$255.8 million in the previous month. Also special drawing rights rose to SG$545.1 million from SG$544.1 million in December.

The countries infrastructure is still developing with growth in office buildings, commercial real estate and boutique hotels Singapore.

The south east Asian stock market has been badly hit recently. Singapore’s economy will be the worst-hit in the region, with the state’s government forecasting a contraction of up to 5 percent, which will be the highest on record.

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