For luxury goods, Singapore offers nothing you can’t get elsewhere at similar (or better) pricing. For fruit items, there’s little you can’t get in other tropical countries (and you can’t carry fresh fruit into the US anyway). For Chinese style dried meats, dried seafood, dried fruits, etc., most are also available in Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, and even in some US Chinatowns (and again, some might not be allowed by US Customs). My recommendation, if looking for gifts, save yourself shopping and US Customs hassles and just buy “I ❤️ Singapore” T-shirts (or similar) for everyone. :-)
For luxury goods, Singapore offers nothing you can’t get elsewhere at similar (or better) pricing. For fruit items, there’s little you can’t get in other tropical countries (and you can’t carry fresh fruit into the US anyway). For Chinese style dried meats, dried seafood, dried fruits, etc., most are also available in Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, and even in some US Chinatowns (and again, some might not be allowed by US Customs). My recommendation, if looking for gifts, save yourself shopping and US Customs hassles and just buy “I ❤️ Singapore” T-shirts (or similar) for everyone. :-)
Where do I start?
I’m a huge financial nerd, and have spent an embarrassing amount of time talking to people about their money habits.
Here are the biggest mistakes people are making and how to fix them:
Not having a separate high interest savings account
Having a separate account allows you to see the results of all your hard work and keep your money separate so you're less tempted to spend it.
Plus with rates above 5.00%, the interest you can earn compared to most banks really adds up.
Here is a list of the top savings accounts available today. Deposit $5 before moving on because this is one of th
Where do I start?
I’m a huge financial nerd, and have spent an embarrassing amount of time talking to people about their money habits.
Here are the biggest mistakes people are making and how to fix them:
Not having a separate high interest savings account
Having a separate account allows you to see the results of all your hard work and keep your money separate so you're less tempted to spend it.
Plus with rates above 5.00%, the interest you can earn compared to most banks really adds up.
Here is a list of the top savings accounts available today. Deposit $5 before moving on because this is one of the biggest mistakes and easiest ones to fix.
Overpaying on car insurance
You’ve heard it a million times before, but the average American family still overspends by $417/year on car insurance.
If you’ve been with the same insurer for years, chances are you are one of them.
Pull up Coverage.com, a free site that will compare prices for you, answer the questions on the page, and it will show you how much you could be saving.
That’s it. You’ll likely be saving a bunch of money. Here’s a link to give it a try.
Consistently being in debt
If you’ve got $10K+ in debt (credit cards…medical bills…anything really) you could use a debt relief program and potentially reduce by over 20%.
Here’s how to see if you qualify:
Head over to this Debt Relief comparison website here, then simply answer the questions to see if you qualify.
It’s as simple as that. You’ll likely end up paying less than you owed before and you could be debt free in as little as 2 years.
Missing out on free money to invest
It’s no secret that millionaires love investing, but for the rest of us, it can seem out of reach.
Times have changed. There are a number of investing platforms that will give you a bonus to open an account and get started. All you have to do is open the account and invest at least $25, and you could get up to $1000 in bonus.
Pretty sweet deal right? Here is a link to some of the best options.
Having bad credit
A low credit score can come back to bite you in so many ways in the future.
From that next rental application to getting approved for any type of loan or credit card, if you have a bad history with credit, the good news is you can fix it.
Head over to BankRate.com and answer a few questions to see if you qualify. It only takes a few minutes and could save you from a major upset down the line.
How to get started
Hope this helps! Here are the links to get started:
Have a separate savings account
Stop overpaying for car insurance
Finally get out of debt
Start investing with a free bonus
Fix your credit
the pandan chiffon cake from bengawan solo, is touted best in the world.
the bee ching hiang pork jerky is touted 1 of the best in the region
there’s been recent craze for salted egg yolk fish skin snack
the pandan chiffon cake from bengawan solo, is touted best in the world.
the bee ching hiang pork jerky is touted 1 of the best in the region
there’s been recent craze for salted egg yolk fish skin snack
An Amercian friend who visited Singapore took back salted egg chips, the Singapore Airline uniform print as scarves and a coconut jam called kaya. He loved all these tastes! There are good touristy items in Chinatown. Arrive early at the Airport Terminal and every one has a good shop of local items. With food items its best to check them in the lugguage and be aware what you can bring into USA. If you are in SH right now, the Ramadan Fair at Geyland Serai is a great place to buy ethnic things. For exotic merchandise I would also drop by Lims Art and Crafts in Holland Village Shopping Centre. T
An Amercian friend who visited Singapore took back salted egg chips, the Singapore Airline uniform print as scarves and a coconut jam called kaya. He loved all these tastes! There are good touristy items in Chinatown. Arrive early at the Airport Terminal and every one has a good shop of local items. With food items its best to check them in the lugguage and be aware what you can bring into USA. If you are in SH right now, the Ramadan Fair at Geyland Serai is a great place to buy ethnic things. For exotic merchandise I would also drop by Lims Art and Crafts in Holland Village Shopping Centre. That mall has a great selection of Asian products that look modern and cool at the sane time. All the best! And safe travels!
This!
Grilled honey pork slices. Singapore original. Brands: BEE HENG CHIANG, FRAGRANCE, LIM HOCK GUAN
This!
Grilled honey pork slices. Singapore original. Brands: BEE HENG CHIANG, FRAGRANCE, LIM HOCK GUAN
I love all the answers, and thought to add in one or two more items that you may want to consider.
If you haven’t already tried it, go take a look at the Cookie Museum. Among other things, they sell Singapore food-inspired cookies such as chilli crab or chicken rice cookies.
Alternatively, try Ette Tea, a local tea company that sells “normal” tea along with other Singaporean-inspired tea like pineapple tart tea, nasi lemak tea and kebaya blue.
If you prefer the more robust flavours of coffee, then check out the traditional coffee roasters such as Lam Yeo in Balestier Road. They still have what th
I love all the answers, and thought to add in one or two more items that you may want to consider.
If you haven’t already tried it, go take a look at the Cookie Museum. Among other things, they sell Singapore food-inspired cookies such as chilli crab or chicken rice cookies.
Alternatively, try Ette Tea, a local tea company that sells “normal” tea along with other Singaporean-inspired tea like pineapple tart tea, nasi lemak tea and kebaya blue.
If you prefer the more robust flavours of coffee, then check out the traditional coffee roasters such as Lam Yeo in Balestier Road. They still have what they call legacy blends comprising beans from around the region, roasted with the original recipe which our early customers came to know and love. They are typically roasted well with margarine and sugar, and are best consumed either black or with condensed milk.
Check out the Prima premix packs in the supermarket if you would like to show off your cooking skills (you can get cheaper premixes from Tungsan, which is where the hawkers go for their stash).
If you don’t mind hand carrying goodies, then you might want to look at the nonya kueh kuehs, available everywhere including Bangawan Solo outlets. Be aware a number of these do require refrigeration. We could “discuss” where to find the best kueh (at my grandma’s house, of course!) but let’s not. :)
Hope that helps, and enjoy the shopping!
1. Overpaying on Auto Insurance
Believe it or not, the average American family still overspends by $461/year¹ on car insurance.
Sometimes it’s even worse: I switched carriers last year and saved literally $1,300/year.
Here’s how to quickly see how much you’re being overcharged (takes maybe a couple of minutes):
- Pull up Coverage.com – it’s a free site that will compare offers for you
- Answer the questions on the page
- It’ll spit out a bunch of insurance offers for you.
That’s literally it. You’ll likely save yourself a bunch of money.
2. Overlook how much you can save when shopping online
Many people over
1. Overpaying on Auto Insurance
Believe it or not, the average American family still overspends by $461/year¹ on car insurance.
Sometimes it’s even worse: I switched carriers last year and saved literally $1,300/year.
Here’s how to quickly see how much you’re being overcharged (takes maybe a couple of minutes):
- Pull up Coverage.com – it’s a free site that will compare offers for you
- Answer the questions on the page
- It’ll spit out a bunch of insurance offers for you.
That’s literally it. You’ll likely save yourself a bunch of money.
2. Overlook how much you can save when shopping online
Many people overpay when shopping online simply because price-checking across sites is time-consuming. Here is a free browser extension that can help you save money by automatically finding the better deals.
- Auto-apply coupon codes – This friendly browser add-on instantly applies any available valid coupon codes at checkout, helping you find better discounts without searching for codes.
- Compare prices across stores – If a better deal is found, it alerts you before you spend more than necessary.
Capital One Shopping users saved over $800 million in the past year, check out here if you are interested.
Disclosure: Capital One Shopping compensates us when you get the browser extension through our links.
3. Not Investing in Real Estate (Starting at Just $20)
Real estate has long been a favorite investment of the wealthy, but owning property has often felt out of reach for many—until now.
With platforms like Ark7, you can start investing in rental properties with as little as $20 per share.
- Hands-off management – Ark7 takes care of everything, from property upkeep to rent collection.
- Seamless experience – Their award-winning app makes investing easy and efficient.
- Consistent passive income – Rental profits are automatically deposited into your account every month.
Now, you can build your own real estate portfolio without needing a fortune. Ready to get started? Explore Ark7’s properties today.
4. Wasting Time on Unproductive Habits
As a rule of thumb, I’d ignore most sites that claim to pay for surveys, but a few legitimate ones actually offer decent payouts.
I usually use Survey Junkie. You basically just get paid to give your opinions on different products/services, etc. Perfect for multitasking while watching TV!
- Earn $100+ monthly – Complete just three surveys a day to reach $100 per month, or four or more to boost your earnings to $130.
- Millions Paid Out – Survey Junkie members earn over $55,000 daily, with total payouts exceeding $76 million.
- Join 20M+ Members – Be part of a thriving community of over 20 million people earning extra cash through surveys.
With over $1.6 million paid out monthly, Survey Junkie lets you turn spare time into extra cash. Sign up today and start earning from your opinions!
5. Paying off credit card debt on your own
If you have over $10,000 in credit cards - a debt relief program could help you lower your total debt by an average of 23%.
- Lower your total debt – National Debt Relief works with creditors to negotiate and settle your debt for less than you owe.
- One affordable monthly payment – Instead of managing multiple bills, consolidate your payments into one simple, structured plan.
- No upfront fees – You only pay once your debt is successfully reduced and settled, ensuring a risk-free way to tackle financial burdens.
Simple as that. You’ll likely end up paying less than you owed and could be debt free in 12-24 months. Here’s a link to National Debt Relief.
6. Overspending on Mortgages
Overpaying on your mortgage can cost you, but securing the best rate is easy with Bankrate’s Mortgage Comparison Tool.
- Compare Competitive Rates – Access top mortgage offers from trusted lenders.
- Personalized results – Get tailored recommendations based on your financial profile.
- Expert resources – Use calculators to estimate monthly payments and long-term savings.
Don’t let high rates limit your financial flexibility. Explore Bankrate’s Mortgage Comparison Tool today and find the right mortgage for your dream home!
7. Ignoring Home Equity
Your home can be one of your most valuable financial assets, yet many homeowners miss out on opportunities to leverage its equity. Bankrate’s Best Home Equity Options helps you find the right loan for renovations, debt consolidation, or unexpected expenses.
- Discover top home equity loans and HELOCs – Access competitive rates and terms tailored to your needs.
- Expert tools – Use calculators to estimate equity and project monthly payments.
- Guided decision-making – Get insights to maximize your home’s value while maintaining financial stability.
Don’t let your home’s value go untapped. Explore Bankrate’s Best Home Equity Options today and make your equity work for you!
8. Missing Out on Smart Investing
With countless options available, navigating investments can feel overwhelming. Bankrate’s Best Investing Options curates top-rated opportunities to help you grow your wealth with confidence.
- Compare investments – Explore stocks, ETFs, bonds, and more to build a diversified portfolio.
- Tailored insights – Get tailored advice to match your financial goals and risk tolerance.
- Maximize returns – Learn strategies to optimize investments and minimize risks.
Take control of your financial future. Explore Bankrate’s Best Investing Options today and start building a stronger portfolio today!
Disclaimer:
Found is a financial technology company, not a bank. Business banking services are provided by Piermont Bank, Member FDIC. The funds in your account are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor for each account ownership category. Advanced, optional add-on bookkeeping software available with a Found Plus subscription. There are no monthly account maintenance fees, but transactional fees for wires, instant transfers, and ATM apply. Read more here: Fee Schedule
Check the US Customs Rules for bringing fresh fruit into the country - but the fruit in Singapore would be a lot fresher than you can get back home - and different - try some Dragon Fruit and Mangos - also Mangosteen and Lychee
In China Town you can buy many Chinese table mats, table linen and other souvenirs at a very low price - but none are made in Singapore
Raffles Hotel has a nice souvenir shop where you can buy mementos of your visit
There are not many indigenous products here but I usually get Nonya confectionary and barbecued pork slices for my friends overseas. You may want to check customs import of these products but as Long as they are properly shrink wrapped it should be ok.
I once met a man who drove a modest Toyota Corolla, wore beat-up sneakers, and looked like he’d lived the same way for decades. But what really caught my attention was when he casually mentioned he was retired at 45 with more money than he could ever spend. I couldn’t help but ask, “How did you do it?”
He smiled and said, “The secret to saving money is knowing where to look for the waste—and car insurance is one of the easiest places to start.”
He then walked me through a few strategies that I’d never thought of before. Here’s what I learned:
1. Make insurance companies fight for your business
Mos
I once met a man who drove a modest Toyota Corolla, wore beat-up sneakers, and looked like he’d lived the same way for decades. But what really caught my attention was when he casually mentioned he was retired at 45 with more money than he could ever spend. I couldn’t help but ask, “How did you do it?”
He smiled and said, “The secret to saving money is knowing where to look for the waste—and car insurance is one of the easiest places to start.”
He then walked me through a few strategies that I’d never thought of before. Here’s what I learned:
1. Make insurance companies fight for your business
Most people just stick with the same insurer year after year, but that’s what the companies are counting on. This guy used tools like Coverage.com to compare rates every time his policy came up for renewal. It only took him a few minutes, and he said he’d saved hundreds each year by letting insurers compete for his business.
Click here to try Coverage.com and see how much you could save today.
2. Take advantage of safe driver programs
He mentioned that some companies reward good drivers with significant discounts. By signing up for a program that tracked his driving habits for just a month, he qualified for a lower rate. “It’s like a test where you already know the answers,” he joked.
You can find a list of insurance companies offering safe driver discounts here and start saving on your next policy.
3. Bundle your policies
He bundled his auto insurance with his home insurance and saved big. “Most companies will give you a discount if you combine your policies with them. It’s easy money,” he explained. If you haven’t bundled yet, ask your insurer what discounts they offer—or look for new ones that do.
4. Drop coverage you don’t need
He also emphasized reassessing coverage every year. If your car isn’t worth much anymore, it might be time to drop collision or comprehensive coverage. “You shouldn’t be paying more to insure the car than it’s worth,” he said.
5. Look for hidden fees or overpriced add-ons
One of his final tips was to avoid extras like roadside assistance, which can often be purchased elsewhere for less. “It’s those little fees you don’t think about that add up,” he warned.
The Secret? Stop Overpaying
The real “secret” isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about being proactive. Car insurance companies are counting on you to stay complacent, but with tools like Coverage.com and a little effort, you can make sure you’re only paying for what you need—and saving hundreds in the process.
If you’re ready to start saving, take a moment to:
- Compare rates now on Coverage.com
- Check if you qualify for safe driver discounts
- Reevaluate your coverage today
Saving money on auto insurance doesn’t have to be complicated—you just have to know where to look. If you'd like to support my work, feel free to use the links in this post—they help me continue creating valuable content.
Clothing and electronics are considerably cheaper in continental Europe or USA. Offers, sales and discounts are more realistic and genuine in Europe or USA.
Yes, the ‘Parking coupons’, is unique and the best souvenir, it’s an ingenious invention, easy to use, foolproof, and will soon go down in Singapore National Museum… Mark my words for it.
Only in Singapore.
You can try to look for it from the North Pole to the South Pole, to no avail, you can ONLY buy in SINGAPORE, at 7-Eleven stores, any gas stations, and the shops that have the words “authorized coupon” signboard.
It’s super unique
Unique #1 Even though Singapore has progressed to be the first world country with all world-class modernity with state-of-the-art the users are still going back to a
Yes, the ‘Parking coupons’, is unique and the best souvenir, it’s an ingenious invention, easy to use, foolproof, and will soon go down in Singapore National Museum… Mark my words for it.
Only in Singapore.
You can try to look for it from the North Pole to the South Pole, to no avail, you can ONLY buy in SINGAPORE, at 7-Eleven stores, any gas stations, and the shops that have the words “authorized coupon” signboard.
It’s super unique
Unique #1 Even though Singapore has progressed to be the first world country with all world-class modernity with state-of-the-art the users are still going back to a basic such as—
Unique #2 to manually PUNCH 5 HOLES correctly. No more or no less! corresponding to the date, month, year, and time you start hour, and minute. Just put as many as you need on the dashboard.
Your brain is trained to run like a slot machine each time you do that.
This is the time when a 6-year-old kid is doing better than you.
Unique #3 This is where there is no discrimination whether you are a professor, a Ph.D. holder, or a good-for-nothing man.
Unique #4 This allows you to park your vehicle. Can you Imagine without that?
- It’s super duper unique -A life savior, No display of parking coupon- A fine of $40, punch the wrong holes?- $8 fine, try to cheat whatever technique you can come up with- $400 fine.
Why do I like it so much?
The person/persons who make any motorists poorer is an ordinary man and woman in uniform who has the heart of steel, withstand all abuses, spit at, curse at, and sometimes, punch at by the errant driver…
Best of all, the ‘Parking Warden’, a walking lifeless have been programmed not to respond, robotic but human-like, and all he/ she does is punching the fines and just walk away.
42 years is a long time for such an impeccable invention that made a US-made, the century-old coin machine a joke.
Would it go on to eternity? Why not!
1. Pack important clothes and documents into check-in luggage. Make sure you get extra kg check-in luggage when you purchase the ticket. You will need them.
2. Expect 10% to 20% of your goods to arrive in bad shape, if at all. It is easier to deal with the heartache when you are mentally prepared.
3. As much as possible, try to have a job first before coming back. It makes the transition much, much easier. For the family, try to arrange for all the schools first, before coming back. They will feel stressed too, not only you.
Forget the typical souvenir list of kaya (coconut jam) and bak kwa (dried meat). This is what you should get from Singapore, every time.
Source: Malaysian thus know what good food is, and has crowned this invention the best thing from Singapore.
Forget the typical souvenir list of kaya (coconut jam) and bak kwa (dried meat). This is what you should get from Singapore, every time.
Source: Malaysian thus know what good food is, and has crowned this invention the best thing from Singapore.
I grew up in Bangkok when the Vietnam War started, and the GIs made a few streets in Bangkok look more like a scene from the "Sodom and Gomorrah" movie. I saw some Thai youths shouting "Yankee Go Home" upon seeing them kissing Thai women in broad daylight, while others threw stones at them.
- I often read news from 'Bangkok post' about Singapore like; the Beatles refused to get off from the B.O.A.C airplane to the transit lounge at the Singapore airport, guys with long hair are the last to be served inline, S$5,000 fine for littering. It amused me to know more about this fierce-looking man "Lee K
I grew up in Bangkok when the Vietnam War started, and the GIs made a few streets in Bangkok look more like a scene from the "Sodom and Gomorrah" movie. I saw some Thai youths shouting "Yankee Go Home" upon seeing them kissing Thai women in broad daylight, while others threw stones at them.
- I often read news from 'Bangkok post' about Singapore like; the Beatles refused to get off from the B.O.A.C airplane to the transit lounge at the Singapore airport, guys with long hair are the last to be served inline, S$5,000 fine for littering. It amused me to know more about this fierce-looking man "Lee Kuan Yew."
After half a century, Singapore has progressed to overcome the most basic issues that many countries are struggling with, let alone the USA-Superpower.
- I am not interested in gun laws, mass shootings, or illegal immigration issues but am more concerned about basic issues, like housing and homeownership, jobs for seniors and family nucleus, including children born out of wedlock.
Homeownership: An American psychiatrist,60, who met me in Chiangmai told me about living in the US, he said he lived in a caravan (mobile home), although he could afford to own a home, it worked out to be cheaper to rent. I saw the news that Seattle and Los Angeles are turning into 'Tent Cities' in no time.
In Singapore: Public housing was a well-planned policy. Singapore PM, once said, ” Every working Singaporean can buy HDB flat.” Working couples could use a provident fund (CPF) to pay the installment of the flats (apartment) or a single adult could also own a flat after turning 35 years old, thus enabling over 80% of the citizens living in the HDB flat.
Jobs for seniors: The saying, “You give a poor man a fish and you feed him for a day, you teach him to fish, a job to last his lifetime?” Singapore has done what many countries, including the US, can never succeed in, which is to get senior citizens back into the workforce.
I can remember the sight of a long line of over 100 people at a homeless shelter for the jobless in Columbus, Ohio.
In Singapore, the moment you are out of the airplane at the airport, you will be greeted by the seniors pushing trolleys on carts or in the restrooms as attendants. Orchard Road's food courts, including Hawker Centers all over the island, in which at least 50% of the workforce are manned by seniors, while the seniors in my country are doing nothing at home.
Stronger families build stronger societies:
The Singapore PM is quoted saying: Singapore depends on the strength and influence of the family... and respect for elders, etc. Single parents and illegitimate children are excluded from housing benefits, while it encourages marriages, making some think that the policy is too harsh, a human rights group hates it. The family nucleus is more important for Singapore to progress further.
Whereas in the U.S. marriages have become less necessary for American women’s financial survival in society, and as a result, out of 140 million births in 2016, about 15% or 21 million were born out of wedlock.
(Photos) Out-of-Wedlock V.S Family nucleus/-YaleGlobal Online
- How does Singapore fare today compared to the USA?
Singapore's homeownership rate is 91%
Singapore's unemployment rate is 3.91%
- Centralized linkage of personal information, between all Government departments.
2. Sanitation of public areas.
3. Public transport.
4. Public safety.
5. Water treatment & recycling.
6. Public housing.
7. Subsidized healthcare.
8. Speedy airport clearance.
9. President is not orange.
Here are some of the famous snacks that are popular in Singapore that you can buy back as souvenirs:
Bakkwa : Chinese salty-sweet dried meat product similar to jerky
Salted Egg Fish Skin/ Salted Egg Potato Chips
Pork floss: Dried meat product with a light and fluffy texture similar to coarse cotton normally eaten with rice or porridge
Kaya: Jam made with coconut, eggs and caramel are normally eaten with toast
Prima Taste laksa noodles: Singaporean Brand instant noodles, the closest taste of Singaporean laksa you can find in an instant noodles pack.
Here are some of the famous snacks that are popular in Singapore that you can buy back as souvenirs:
Bakkwa : Chinese salty-sweet dried meat product similar to jerky
Salted Egg Fish Skin/ Salted Egg Potato Chips
Pork floss: Dried meat product with a light and fluffy texture similar to coarse cotton normally eaten with rice or porridge
Kaya: Jam made with coconut, eggs and caramel are normally eaten with toast
Prima Taste laksa noodles: Singaporean Brand instant noodles, the closest taste of Singaporean laksa you can find in an instant noodles pack.
There are many species of plants and animals you can find both in Malaysia and Singapore, with Malaysia having the lion share ( not literally a lion here) of plant and animal species which can rival the best in the world. Ever heard of Borneo? The great primate of orang utan and many other animal species are only native to that area …. and highly endangered.
To a lesser extent, Singapore would have some of these species, if it wasn’t a densely populated, highly urbanized landscape in which a lot of flora and fauna have been lost.
Similarly you can find the brown bear, bison, cougar in the US but
There are many species of plants and animals you can find both in Malaysia and Singapore, with Malaysia having the lion share ( not literally a lion here) of plant and animal species which can rival the best in the world. Ever heard of Borneo? The great primate of orang utan and many other animal species are only native to that area …. and highly endangered.
To a lesser extent, Singapore would have some of these species, if it wasn’t a densely populated, highly urbanized landscape in which a lot of flora and fauna have been lost.
Similarly you can find the brown bear, bison, cougar in the US but not in tropical Malaysia/Singapore.
As they say, it is a wide, wonderful, weird world.
If you are talking just on food alone, things like the simple pork/chicken floss bun, fish head curry and all manners of cuisine native to Malaysia/Singapore would be hard to find in America…. just like a delicious deep-dish Chicago pizza, or a beignet or a grilled cheese would be harder to get here.
Which is why there is such a thing as…. travel. If all the world is all the same thing, people wouldn’t bother leaving their corner cul-de-sac to explore.
Probably two things - fish head curry and Hainan chicken rice. Both classic Singaporean dishes. The cooking pot for the fish heads is often huge and you can go and look over the edge to see all the heads swimming in the curry. The cooking breaks down the gelatinous parts of the fish head and this is surprisingly delicious. Locals will not eat this in an airconditioned place so they get the full effect-- spicy, hot, sweaty.
Hainan chicken rice came with the Hainanese in the 19th C. It was in fact a local creation probably based on the only ingredients they could get. It never actually existed in
Probably two things - fish head curry and Hainan chicken rice. Both classic Singaporean dishes. The cooking pot for the fish heads is often huge and you can go and look over the edge to see all the heads swimming in the curry. The cooking breaks down the gelatinous parts of the fish head and this is surprisingly delicious. Locals will not eat this in an airconditioned place so they get the full effect-- spicy, hot, sweaty.
Hainan chicken rice came with the Hainanese in the 19th C. It was in fact a local creation probably based on the only ingredients they could get. It never actually existed in Hainan before the 80s. The key is the rice is cooked with chicken oil, the accompanying soup is made from the spare parts and the chicken is either roasted or steamed. The accompaniments include the sauces - ginger mash, fresh sambal, thick DIY sauce.
You cannot believe how this combo is a knock out. I am salivating describing these dishes. I must check the next flights to Singapore!!!
I buy different things in different countries that I bring back to USA.
For example from Italy 🇮🇹 I like to bring back
💯 % real olive oil that I buy directly from the place where they squeeze it out of fresh 🫒 olives. Quality footwear and clothing sometimes.
From Turkey 🇹🇷 (Istanbul) I brought back silk rug,
traditional tea set and AMAZING fresh spices.
From Ukraine 🇺🇦 I brought back sweets and pastries that I did not eat from the time I was a child and other snacks that reminded me of my childhood.
#LanaCole #realtor with #CRR #Naperville ILL
I buy different things in different countries that I bring back to USA.
For example from Italy 🇮🇹 I like to bring back
💯 % real olive oil that I buy directly from the place where they squeeze it out of fresh 🫒 olives. Quality footwear and clothing sometimes.
From Turkey 🇹🇷 (Istanbul) I brought back silk rug,
traditional tea set and AMAZING fresh spices.
From Ukraine 🇺🇦 I brought back sweets and pastries that I did not eat from the time I was a child and other snacks that reminded me of my childhood.
#LanaCole #realtor with #CRR #Naperville ILL
A government that focuses on it's citizens, the country and nation. Very tough laws on crimes, and drugs. Prohibitive gun laws, no mass shootings, barely any homeless sleeping and messing up public areas, clean and safe secured environment. Tough laws against corruptions at all levels of society. Nevertheless, low crimes does not mean no crimes. Still, Singapore is a good place to live, though costs of living is running amok as it were.
Pretty special-issue stamps from the country you’re in. Ask at the Post Office. You can’t post letters with them in the USA but they can be used decoratively. Some countries have really nice stamps.
Many European countries have excellent chocolate, and not only Switzerland and Belgium. If you are in Austria, look for Mozart Kugeln, but get quality ones and not the cheap knockoffs, which are OK if you don’t know what a good Mozart Kugel tastes like. If you are in Salzburg, go to Fürst; they are absolutely the best Mozart Kugel but they are hard to find outside of Salzburg.
And there are always fr
Pretty special-issue stamps from the country you’re in. Ask at the Post Office. You can’t post letters with them in the USA but they can be used decoratively. Some countries have really nice stamps.
Many European countries have excellent chocolate, and not only Switzerland and Belgium. If you are in Austria, look for Mozart Kugeln, but get quality ones and not the cheap knockoffs, which are OK if you don’t know what a good Mozart Kugel tastes like. If you are in Salzburg, go to Fürst; they are absolutely the best Mozart Kugel but they are hard to find outside of Salzburg.
And there are always fridge magnets for every city and attraction you go to.
You won’t believe how much i want to say bring your own apartment / Living space with you.. hahaha ! If you have that… you are pretty much settled
I remember when i was living in Singapore i use to bring some candies which i won’t find in Singapore, Chewing gum as it’s impossible to find but you can chew it in private, in your home.
There are no bio security laws so any food items that are uncommon
You won’t believe how much i want to say bring your own apartment / Living space with you.. hahaha ! If you have that… you are pretty much settled
I remember when i was living in Singapore i use to bring some candies which i won’t find in Singapore, Chewing gum as it’s impossible to find but you can chew it in private, in your home.
There are no bio security laws so any food items that are uncommon in South East Asia would be good choice.
I found Pressure Cooker very expensive in Singapore, so if you want to make some pressure cooked stew or soup or something it’s better to bring it with you. Food is cheap in Food courts and that is the culture here. People eat out in food courts and may be that is the reason i found some cooking utensils expensive, even Iron plate and rolling...
public transport from airport to seaport to trains to buses to taxis, public medical care, public housing, safety, cleanliness
Cheapest things to buy in Singapore
Singapore can be an expensive city to visit, but there are still some affordable options for those on a budget. Here are some of the cheapest things you can buy in Singapore:
- Hawker Centre Food: Singapore is famous for its hawker centres, which offer a wide range of affordable and delicious food options. You can find dishes starting from SGD 2.
- Souvenirs: You can find some great souvenirs at affordable prices in Singapore. Some options include keychains, magnets, and postcards.
- Public Transportation: Singapore has a reliable and affordable public transportation
Cheapest things to buy in Singapore
Singapore can be an expensive city to visit, but there are still some affordable options for those on a budget. Here are some of the cheapest things you can buy in Singapore:
- Hawker Centre Food: Singapore is famous for its hawker centres, which offer a wide range of affordable and delicious food options. You can find dishes starting from SGD 2.
- Souvenirs: You can find some great souvenirs at affordable prices in Singapore. Some options include keychains, magnets, and postcards.
- Public Transportation: Singapore has a reliable and affordable public transportation system, which includes buses and trains. You can purchase an EZ-Link card to make your travels easier.
- Street food: Singapore is known for its street food scene, which offers a variety of delicious dishes at affordable prices. Some popular options include satay, curry puffs, and kaya toast.
- Personal care items: You can find affordable personal care items like shampoo, soap, and toothpaste at stores like Watsons or Guardian.
- Clothing and accessories: You can find some affordable clothing and accessories at places like Bugis Street or Lucky Plaza.
- Electronics: Singapore is a hub for electronics, and you can find some great deals on items like smartphones, laptops, and cameras.
Overall, there are plenty of affordable options in Singapore, you just have to know where to look!
- Place the souvenir into a Ziploc bag to protect from moisture and dust during the way.
- Bubble wrap the souvenir and fix with tape.
- If you are shipping several souvenirs in the same box, bubble wrap them separately.
- Nest the items in the shipping box.
- Add cushioning materials such as packaging peanuts, paper etc.
- Close and seal the box.
You don’t say where you’re coming from so it’s hard to answer. However, clothing and shoes are no longer inexpensive in Singapore.
Cell phones and computers etc are reasonably priced here. A lot of electricals are actually about the same price as everywhere else once you’ve taken away the GST and sales taxes.
You can buy just about anything here. Cars are super expensive. The only people who get to
You don’t say where you’re coming from so it’s hard to answer. However, clothing and shoes are no longer inexpensive in Singapore.
Cell phones and computers etc are reasonably priced here. A lot of electricals are actually about the same price as everywhere else once you’ve taken away the GST and sales taxes.
You can buy just about anything here. Cars are super expensive. The only people who get to avoid the very heavy taxes on vehicles are diplomats. So importing a car you already own here would be almost impossible and probably not worth the hassle and expense.
However, there are a few bizarrely expensive things ...
Tipping is Not expected.
Places that do charge for service are force by law to indicate the service charge in the final bill. (its actually a rip off as most staff get less than half of the service charge or even none)
Addressing our Asian elderly as Uncle or Auntie (sorry to sjw, as there are no confuse genders elders here)
PDA are usually frown apond, but a basic peck on the cheeks, holding hands (heterosexual) short hugs are still OK. (go crazy all you want in your hotel room, please remember to tip the room maids for your disgusting mess)
Assulting a cop in public means you get paybacks with i
Tipping is Not expected.
Places that do charge for service are force by law to indicate the service charge in the final bill. (its actually a rip off as most staff get less than half of the service charge or even none)
Addressing our Asian elderly as Uncle or Auntie (sorry to sjw, as there are no confuse genders elders here)
PDA are usually frown apond, but a basic peck on the cheeks, holding hands (heterosexual) short hugs are still OK. (go crazy all you want in your hotel room, please remember to tip the room maids for your disgusting mess)
Assulting a cop in public means you get paybacks with interest in private.
Under drugs or too many drinks actions cut no tolerance with the law.
Rape accusement is easy to be abuse by any female, so do agree on the price in advance , Or DIY. (under 16yrs of age sex equals by default a rape crime)
Most locals are tolerant of visitors as long as they respect locals and our ways. Beware the local lynch mob attitudes should bring your shit with you.
Come with an open mind if you really want to explore, experience and learn. If you are expecting your home town usuals, then please just send Us a cheque and stay at home.
If you really are in danger (super rare but possible) call the cops and/or ask the public for help, most locals will at least call the cops or help you until the cops arrive (average response times on scene is under 15 minutes for serious crimes )
Avoid our jails as much as possible, you will regret it, if your dumb enough to check-in. (ours vs Western jails, well let's just say western ones are holiday camps)
Avoid debating any religious subject, We have religious and racial tolerance laws for lots of reasons(it works OK, else the extremists/fanatics would have had the end of days here long ago)
Among all the South East Asian countries, SG. is the most modern and selectively Westernized. If you are desperate for those wefies that show water buffaloes, big breem hats, paddy fields and the great illiterate umwash, try the history channel plus photoshop.
If you prefer best of East and West in coexistence, Welcome to My Home.
Look up our crime rates, our international racking in corruption, our health care standards, our Defence standards and of course our complaints culture 😊
We have never been or will be perfect in our part of the world, but surely We are ahead in the neighborhood.
Have a nice visit.
The short answer is "Almost Everything".
I travel to the US often and almost every time I go with 1 bag and return with 4 (thanks to airline status).
You could start by buying the extra suitcases in the US. Find the outlet mall in or near the city you are visiting and just walk around. Or order online and have items delivered to your office, hotel or friend.
Things I have bought in the past:
1. Clothes, shoes, accessories. For me, my wife (she orders online herself), my kids. Buy online or at outlet malls.
2. Personal grooming. Shampoos, conditioners, soaps, deos, razors, face wash etc. Buy onli
The short answer is "Almost Everything".
I travel to the US often and almost every time I go with 1 bag and return with 4 (thanks to airline status).
You could start by buying the extra suitcases in the US. Find the outlet mall in or near the city you are visiting and just walk around. Or order online and have items delivered to your office, hotel or friend.
Things I have bought in the past:
1. Clothes, shoes, accessories. For me, my wife (she orders online herself), my kids. Buy online or at outlet malls.
2. Personal grooming. Shampoos, conditioners, soaps, deos, razors, face wash etc. Buy online or at target / Walmart.
3. Sporting goods. Sports apparel, sports equipment, inline skates, rock climbing gear, bicycling accessories, hiking stuff. Buy online or at outlet malls or shops like REI, Sports Basement, or other local popular shops.
4. Over the counter medicines and supplements. Paracetamol and other pain killers (buy the house brands of target or walmart), multivitamins, first aid stuff like bandaids, sprays, bandages etc. Buy at target or Walmart.
5. Chocolates, nuts etc. Buy at target, Walmart, trader joe's, whole foods etc.
6. Kids toys, games etc. Buy online or at toys 'r' us.
Almost every thing I have mentioned above will be between 30 and 70-80% cheaper than in Singapore.
Tips:
1. If buying online, before paying, do a Google search for promo codes. You may get an additional 5-20% off if you find one on sites that share coupon codes.
2. Buy a travel weighing machine. It's small and convenient and accurate. Will help you avoid airline excess baggage.
3. Know your airline allowances, for checked in and for cabin baggage. Maximise everything.
Singapore has a lot of branded goods. So if you are here to shop for those, head over to Marina Bay Sands or Orchard Road. But seriously, if you are here in Singapore, go shop for food instead. Try the local food. I'm not talking about food that are sold in hotels. I'm talking about Hawkers, Coffeeshops and etc. Food, which heartlanders will queue up for. That's the kind of experience that you will want to get. The branded goods are not a representation of Singapore, it's the food. Do your homework and figure where the gems are.
What can you find in the country where you live right now, that you can't find in your home country?
That's what you should buy.
If you're still in Singapore, you can consider getting some of Singapore's handcrafted candy such as LollyTalk. Some of these candy comes with very interesting graphics and messages such as "I Love Singapore" and even some of the icons of Singapore such as Singa, "Blur Sotong", "Complain King" etc. Very good gifting to bring back to your countries.
Visit LollyTalk at the prime shopping district of Singapore, 68 Orchard Road, Plaza Singapura B2-20 (the shopping mall is just next to Istana).
Over at the shop, you can even see live demonstration on how these lollies are being made right in front
If you're still in Singapore, you can consider getting some of Singapore's handcrafted candy such as LollyTalk. Some of these candy comes with very interesting graphics and messages such as "I Love Singapore" and even some of the icons of Singapore such as Singa, "Blur Sotong", "Complain King" etc. Very good gifting to bring back to your countries.
Visit LollyTalk at the prime shopping district of Singapore, 68 Orchard Road, Plaza Singapura B2-20 (the shopping mall is just next to Istana).
Over at the shop, you can even see live demonstration on how these lollies are being made right in front of you. . You can even take lots of nice photos with the brightly led shop as well as taking photos with the mascot ROCKY & Singa, which is one of the icons of Singapore.
Nothing really - unless perhaps it's jade,chinese- style gold ornaments & objects,you care about Chinese furniture & wish to have it shipped etc.
Everything else is available & cheaper in India and/ or many Singapore businesses home deliver to India.
Don't bother carting crap & burdening yourself on holiday/ unnecessary paying excess baggage.
Spices: No kidding, Singapore is in the heart of South East Asia and it's neighbours produce spices on the cheap. Quality sachets of Pork Rib Soup (ba ku teh in local lingo), pepper, Chili sauce, Spicy pre-mixed sauces and Chicken Rice paste is must have. They are both cheap and easily available in local supermarket chains.
Souvenirs: Get unique Asian style antiques, curios, figurines, wooden ornaments for under S$50. These things cost many many more times once exported to the west.
Medical care/ Medicines/ Milk Powder: Yes, medicine is not that cheap but buying it in Singapore means there are n
Spices: No kidding, Singapore is in the heart of South East Asia and it's neighbours produce spices on the cheap. Quality sachets of Pork Rib Soup (ba ku teh in local lingo), pepper, Chili sauce, Spicy pre-mixed sauces and Chicken Rice paste is must have. They are both cheap and easily available in local supermarket chains.
Souvenirs: Get unique Asian style antiques, curios, figurines, wooden ornaments for under S$50. These things cost many many more times once exported to the west.
Medical care/ Medicines/ Milk Powder: Yes, medicine is not that cheap but buying it in Singapore means there are no fakes and the quality is good.
My friends' idea as a gift to foreign exchange students to NUS is a bottle of Kaya, Pandan Chiffon and Milo powder. I think it sounds pretty unique as souvenirs from Singapore.
- Any food from the Newton Food Centre. It is overpriced. You would be better off going to a less known area in Singapore to get a taste of local food at an average of S$3-4 a plate of anything that is not seafood.
- Anything sold at major landmarks or attractions in Singapore, especially bottled drinks. Nobody is going to pay $3 for a bottle of water unless you are rich.
Thats all I can think of, sorry!
If you're looking for a good gift to bring back from Singapore, there are many options to choose from!
Singapore is known for its unique culture and modern lifestyle, so you can find both traditional and modern items that make great gifts. Some ideas include traditional Asian sweets, like layered cake called Kueh Lapis, handmade beaded slippers, or cloth hand-painted with wax-resist dyeing techniques known as Batik. You could also bring back a practical item, like a refillable water bottle from a local brand, or a stylish piece of modern design. No matter what you choose, a gift from Singapore
If you're looking for a good gift to bring back from Singapore, there are many options to choose from!
Singapore is known for its unique culture and modern lifestyle, so you can find both traditional and modern items that make great gifts. Some ideas include traditional Asian sweets, like layered cake called Kueh Lapis, handmade beaded slippers, or cloth hand-painted with wax-resist dyeing techniques known as Batik. You could also bring back a practical item, like a refillable water bottle from a local brand, or a stylish piece of modern design. No matter what you choose, a gift from Singapore is sure to be special and memorable!
I've been in Singapore for 7 years. When I came over from the US, based on numerous recommendations, I tried to bring as little as possible - my shipment was 1500 pounds. I discovered that if it had been less than 500 pounds, it would have been more than enough.
I don't know what your accommodations are now, unless you have a really rich housing package, your accommodation will be significantly smaller. Avoid any furniture. Cold weather clothing should be only what you need for the visits back home.
Its really hard to say what to bring. Most things that are expensive you can't take here anyway
I've been in Singapore for 7 years. When I came over from the US, based on numerous recommendations, I tried to bring as little as possible - my shipment was 1500 pounds. I discovered that if it had been less than 500 pounds, it would have been more than enough.
I don't know what your accommodations are now, unless you have a really rich housing package, your accommodation will be significantly smaller. Avoid any furniture. Cold weather clothing should be only what you need for the visits back home.
Its really hard to say what to bring. Most things that are expensive you can't take here anyway (cars, wine, apartments). If you are a large size, then make sure you take lots of clothes. Other than that, hard to think of anything that would be worth the effort to bring.
My favorite things to pick up from Singapore (that aren’t easily available in India) are mostly food:
* Vacuum pac...
My favorite things to pick up from Singapore (that aren’t easily available in India) are mostly food:
* Vacuum pac...