S.T.E.W.A.R.D of Singapore

Here's my speech no. 9 for Toastmasters.

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Steward of Singapore

Before you raise your eyebrows and think that I am about to change my career and become a flight attendant to Singapore, hold your horses and listen to my speech.

I am definitely not qualified to become a stewardess for obvious reasons but not to disappoint you further; I am still here to talk about Singapore.

Singapore can be found in Southeast Asia and is regarded as one of the world's richest countries. Most travelers simply pass through, or only allocate three days, all of which are spent complaining on how expensive things are in Singapore. Unfortunately the little city-country has garnered a reputation over the years as being a budget smasher and even Singaboring. While there is no denying that Singapore certainly is more expensive than the other countries in Southeast Asia, you actually can enjoy this pleasant city.

Fortunately, I have found a wealth of interesting -- and enjoyable -- things to do and see in Singapore.

But wait, you might still be wondering on the connection of the steward to Singapore. S.T.E.W.A.R.D is actually an acronym I have made to discuss my 7 reasons on why I keep on coming back.

I believe it is much fitting to discuss about Singapore since our company is setting up an office there. Some of you may be given the opportunity to go there. Or perhaps after this speech, you might find yourselves packing immediately and flying off to Singapore.

1. Safety and Security - Singapore is a very, very safe country to travel in. It is highly unlikely that you will be assaulted, robbed or ripped off. However, it should also be noted that Singapore is indeed a “fine” city. Visitors should be aware of Singapore's fineable offences -- the police won't necessarily let you off the hook just because you're a tourist. Eating on public transportation, littering, and jay-walking all carry a fine of up to $1000 SGD! So be careful and be responsible for all your actions.

2. Transportation – Getting around Singapore is quite easy because this country has a fabulous public transportation system and cabs on every corner. The MRT is the quickest way to get across the island. The city bus system is equally efficient and even more affordable than the MRT. The bus system is especially useful for short trips. Taxis are abundant and always use the meter. They're relatively affordable, but surcharges can add up quickly.

3. Electronics - Tokyo may have the latest in electronic gadgets, but Singapore has the widest range, and luckily for the time-pressed shopper, they're all clustered in two massive multistory emporia. Handicams, portable DVD players, mobile phones, hi-tech cameras, MP3 players and laptops in just about every imaginable configuration are up for grabs at Funan Digitalife Mall and Sim Lim Square.

4. Weather - Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate with no distinctive seasons, uniform temperature and pressure, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. They do not experience storms or typhoon. On my several visits there, it usually rains in the afternoon but it does not last long. However, as mentioned, Singapore as high humidity so sometimes it tends to get really hot and humid. So as a tip, pack light fabric clothing when you go there.

5. Attractions - Singaporeans moan that besides shopping, dining and the movies, there's not a lot you can do there. Ignore them. The must-see list for the one-day visitor to Singapore, especially the first-timer, is absorbingly long. There is very little chance you'll get bored.

Singapore has really a lot to offer and exciting attractions to go to.

From the famous landmarks such as the Merlion Statue, Esplanade, Marina Bay Sands etc.

They also have places for nature lovers such as Singapore’s Botanical Garden.

If you want to experience the wealth of wildlife, you can go to Singapore Zoo or you can learn how to be a falconer and handle birds of prey at the Jurong BirdPark.

If you are into extreme adventure, you can try the reverse bungy jumping or extreme swing at Clark Quay. You also should not miss Universal Studios Singapore - The incredible theme park is home to wonderful attractions like Shrek 4-D Adventure, Madagascar- A Crate Adventure, Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, Revenge of the Mummy, duelling roller coasters and many more.

If you get tired, you can rest and stroll at the beach, still at the Sentosa Island or go to Singapore’s largest park – East Coast Park where you can watch people wakeboard on the lagoon at Ski 360° or go rollerblading or biking. If you are with your special someone, I suggest you try tandem biking.

I told you there are a lot of attractions and I might not finish this speech if I will enumerate everything.

6. Retail Therapy or Shopping - Personally, I have my favorite malls and brands in Singapore. When it comes to outlet stores, I go to Anchorpoint in Alexandra where you can shop in Charles and Keith, Cotton On, Billabong etc. I also go to Somerset to shop in Forever 21 and Uniqlo. If you are also fond of chocolates, Singapore has Candy Empire located in Vivo City and also Somerset. If you are into DIY furniture and household stuff, IKEA is the place to be. They have stores in Alexandra and Tampines.

Another good thing about shopping in Singapore is that you get 7% GST (goods and services tax) refund with purchases of 100SGD or more, when you leave the country.

7. Dining or Food – Dining out is said to be the country’s national past time. The diversity of food is touted as a reason to visit Singapore and the variety of food representing different ethnicities is seen by their government as a symbol of its multiculturalism. Actually, laksa, chili crabs, roti prata, chicken rice, and other Singaporean, Malaysian, Indian signature dishes can be found in hawkers and massive food courts.

So what are you waiting for?

Don’t forget S.T.E.W.A.R.D – safety, transportation, electronics, weather, attractions, retail therapy and dining.

These are just a few amazing reasons on why you should go there. Book now a flight!

Go, explore and enjoy Singapore!

Have fun lah! :)

You can read more about Singapore from below references:
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