To get the low-down on daily life in any country, and a snapshot of its culture, they always say to talk to the man on the street.
Well, in Singapore that might not get you very far. People going about their daily business are, in general, friendly but don’t linger to chew the fat. The roads and pavements positively radiate with tropical heat after about 9am, which probably has something to do with it. Although the bustle of the food market starts earlier, when it’s cooler, the truth is that people here just aren’t big on small talk.
Hop in to a taxi though and everything changes. The taxi ‘uncles’ as they are called (uncle being an affectionate and respectful term awarded to someone once they reach a certain age) will tell you all you need to know … and more.
The older drivers tend to be the most chatty, sometimes driving a taxi due to losing their job relatively late on in life. Others are retirees who want to do something to occupy their time.
Politics is one of their favourite topics to get started with. As a guest in a country I love living in, I am quite sure this is not a subject to be drawn on – and I never am. However, I find it fascinating to hear someone else’s, often passionate, opinion. I may have many local friends but no one I know discusses politics – at least not with me. Full story...
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Well, in Singapore that might not get you very far. People going about their daily business are, in general, friendly but don’t linger to chew the fat. The roads and pavements positively radiate with tropical heat after about 9am, which probably has something to do with it. Although the bustle of the food market starts earlier, when it’s cooler, the truth is that people here just aren’t big on small talk.
Hop in to a taxi though and everything changes. The taxi ‘uncles’ as they are called (uncle being an affectionate and respectful term awarded to someone once they reach a certain age) will tell you all you need to know … and more.
The older drivers tend to be the most chatty, sometimes driving a taxi due to losing their job relatively late on in life. Others are retirees who want to do something to occupy their time.
Politics is one of their favourite topics to get started with. As a guest in a country I love living in, I am quite sure this is not a subject to be drawn on – and I never am. However, I find it fascinating to hear someone else’s, often passionate, opinion. I may have many local friends but no one I know discusses politics – at least not with me. Full story...
Related posts:
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