For the past 6 weeks, I have been in China co-leading an immersion program for40 Singaporean students. I cannot belive it is almost time to go back (Sunday) – times really does fly. A lot of people have been asking me if I am excited to go back, so I decided to write a quick post about what I will miss/what I am looking forward to.
The Air/Weather
I have been trying to get in shape for a faculty race next month, and the weather has been fantastic. It has been a long time since I have enjoyed a long run in cool, crisp weather. I dread training in Singapore – way too hot!
That said, I am looking forward to the air quality. The air in Singapore is not nearly as polluted and the sky is always blue (well, when it is not raining).
- Singapore
Fines
At times, Singapore can feel a bit authoritarian. There are many things you can get fined for, and for a first-timer, it can seem like a bit much.
While I will miss my chewing gum, there are lots of things I have grown to appreciate about the local laws in Singapore:
- Smoking Bans – the smoking here in Shanghai is really annoying. People smoke everywhere, and it can be really frustrating if you are trying to enjoy a meal or a drink with a friend. In Singapore, smoking is banned in most public places, or there is a designated area for smoking.
- Spitting – ok, whatever. I am used to the spitting, but it can still be pretty gross. I remember last summer when I heard a loud, disgusting throat-clearing behind me. I thought it was an old man, but it turned out to be a beautiful, well-dressed woman.
- Jaywalking – I have to give China a point for this one. I like the fact that I can cross the street wherever, and whenever I want in China.
Food and Beverage
I will miss my favorite dishes from Shanghai and the cheap prices, but I am looking forward to Indian and Peranakan food in Singapore. I am not, however, excited about the price of alcohol in Singapore.
Other
- Water – I get to drink water from the tap when I go back! You get used to it, but when you wake up in the middle of the night and know that you have to go down 8 floors to buy water from Ai Yi (or drink the hot water which does not taste very good), it gets hold. In addition to drinking water, I am also looking forward to having hot water 24/7. Not that I take a lot of hot showers in Singapore, but it is still nice knowing it is available.
- Internet – speed and access. The internet is slow, and it is annoying that so many sites are blocked.
- Exercise – I will miss watching the locals over at the running track. I am always amused by the large groups of Aunties that walk backwards at a slow pace and think it is helping them stay in shape. I also find it entertaining that so many people workout in their work clothes, and how students play basketball at night.
I am sure I thought of more when I was walking around, so I might do an update later. For now, I need to get some sleep. Early morning tomorrow, and super early morning on Sunday (2am, if that even counts as morning).
