PIXEL VISA

Singapore is renowned for its dynamic blend of modernity, efficiency, and cultural diversity. As a global financial hub, it attracts businesses and investors from around the world, bolstered by its strategic location and robust infrastructure. Singapore is celebrated for its cleanliness, safety, and efficient public transport system, exemplified by Changi Airport, consistently ranked among the best in the world. The city-state is also known for its culinary scene, offering a rich tapestry of flavors influenced by its multicultural population. Beyond its economic prowess, Singapore is recognized for its green spaces, iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, and a commitment to sustainability and urban planning. With a strong emphasis on education and innovation, Singapore continues to position itself as a leader in technology, research, and development in Asia and globally.

January 1

New Year's Day Marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year with celebrations and festivities worldwide.

January 31 to February 1

Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) Celebrated by the Chinese community with traditional customs and lion dances.

April 15

Good Friday Commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, observed by Christians worldwide.

May 1

Labour Day Honors the contributions of workers and their rights.

May 3

Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al Fitr) Marks the end of Ramadan with prayers and feasting among Muslims.

May 14

Vesak Day Commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha with ceremonies and temple visits.

July 18

Hari Raya Haji (Eid al Adha) Celebrates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God among Muslims.

August 9

National Day Commemorates Singapore's independence from Malaysia with parades and fireworks.

October 24

Deepavali (Diwali) Celebrated by Hindus with the Festival of Lights symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

December 25

Christmas Day Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with religious services and festive gatherings.

The currency of Singapore is the Singapore Dollar, abbreviated as SGD and commonly denoted by the symbol "$" or "S$". As the official currency of Singapore, the Singapore Dollar is managed and issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). It operates on a decimal system with 1 dollar being equivalent to 100 cents. Commonly used coins include 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, and 1 dollar, while banknotes are issued in denominations of 2 dollars, 5 dollars, 10 dollars, 50 dollars, 100 dollars, and higher values up to 10,000 dollars. The Singapore Dollar is widely accepted across the country for transactions ranging from everyday purchases to large-scale investments, reflecting Singapore's position as a global financial center with a stable and well-managed currency system.

100 SGD notes (~75 USD)

A 100 SGD note is suitable for expenses such as dining out at casual restaurants, buying groceries for a few days, or paying for local transportation. These notes are commonly used for everyday transactions and provide convenience for smaller purchases.

50 SGD notes (~37 USD)

Each 50 SGD note could cover expenses like a meal at a decent restaurant, a taxi ride across town, or purchasing gifts and souvenirs. These notes are practical for day-to-day spending and are widely circulated for various transactions.

20 SGD notes (~15 USD)

A 20 SGD note is sufficient for expenses such as lunch for two at a local eatery, buying snacks and drinks for a day, or paying for admission fees to attractions. These notes are commonly used for smaller purchases and provide flexibility in daily spending.

10 SGD notes (~7.50 USD)

Each 10 SGD note can cover expenses like breakfast at a café, buying a small gift or souvenir, or paying for public transportation for a day. These notes are convenient for minor transactions and are frequently used in everyday spending. 5 SGD notes (~3.70 USD): A 5 SGD note is suitable for buying a coffee at a café, purchasing a quick snack, or covering small transportation expenses for a day. These notes provide convenience for minor transactions and are commonly used in daily spending.

2 SGD notes (~1.50 USD)

Each 2 SGD note can cover expenses like buying a local newspaper, paying for a bus ride to nearby locations, or purchasing small household items. These notes are practical for everyday transactions and provide flexibility for moderate spending.

1 SGD coin (~0.75 USD)

The 1 SGD coin is ideal for buying a can of soft drink, paying for parking fees, or making small donations. With several coins, you can manage multiple minor transactions throughout the day.

50 cents coin (~0.37 USD)

A 50 cents coin can cover expenses like buying a pack of gum, paying for photocopying services, or using public telephone booths. These coins are handy for various small purchases and transactions.

20 cents coin (~0.15 USD)

Each 20 cents coin is suitable for buying a small snack, paying for postage stamps, or using vending machines for snacks and beverages. With several coins, you can manage multiple small transactions throughout the day.

10 cents coin (~0.07 USD)

A 10 cents coin can cover expenses like buying a lollipop, paying for local bus fares, or using public restrooms. These coins provide exact change for minor purchases and are commonly used in everyday transactions.

5 cents coin (~0.04 USD)

The 5 cents coin is ideal for buying small items like a piece of candy, paying for parking meters, or making minimal contributions to charity boxes. With several coins, you can participate in multiple small transactions throughout the day.

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Poached chicken served with fragrant rice, accompanied by chili sauce and ginger paste.

Laksa

Spicy noodle soup with coconut milk, shrimp or chicken, bean sprouts, and laksa leaves.

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, Chinese sausage, egg, and bean sprouts in a dark soy sauce.

Chili Crab

Crab cooked in a savory and spicy tomato-based sauce, best eaten with mantou (steamed buns).

Hokkien Mee

Stir-fried noodles with prawns, squid, and a mix of yellow noodles and rice vermicelli, flavored with a rich prawn broth.

Roti Prata

Indian flatbread served with curry sauce, usually eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

Nasi Lemak

Fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with fried chicken, crispy anchovies, peanuts, boiled egg, and sambal (spicy chili paste).

Satay

Grilled skewers of marinated meat (often chicken, beef, or lamb) served with peanut sauce, cucumber, and onions.

Bak Kut Teh

Pork rib soup cooked with a variety of herbs and spices, typically served with rice or youtiao (fried dough sticks).

Fish Head Curry

Curry dish with a whole fish head (usually red snapper) cooked in a spicy and tangy sauce with vegetables like okra and eggplant.

Teh Tarik

"Pulled" milk tea with a frothy top, made by pouring the tea mixture between two containers to create a rich, creamy texture.

Kopi

Traditional Singaporean coffee served with condensed milk and sugar, available in different variations like Kopi-O (black coffee) and Kopi-C (with evaporated milk).

Bandung

Rose syrup mixed with evaporated milk and water, creating a sweet, pink-colored drink.

Sugar Cane Juice

Freshly pressed sugarcane juice served cold, often with a squeeze of calamansi lime.

Barley Water

Refreshing drink made from boiled barley grains sweetened with rock sugar.

Kaya Toast

Toasted bread filled with kaya (coconut jam) and butter, often paired with soft-boiled eggs and a cup of Kopi.

Ice Kachang

Shaved ice dessert topped with various sweet toppings like red beans, grass jelly, and colorful syrup.

Chendol

Iced dessert with green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and red beans.

Tau Huay (Douhua)

Silken tofu pudding served hot or cold with syrup, often enjoyed as a light dessert.

Durian

Known as the "King of Fruits," durian is a divisive but popular dessert in Singapore, eaten fresh or in desserts like durian pengat (durian cooked with coconut milk and palm sugar).

Hipster Culture

Singapore's hipster culture thrives in areas like Tiong Bahru and Haji Lane, known for their indie cafes, vintage shops, and street art. It embraces alternative fashion, artisanal coffee, craft beer, and a preference for niche and retro experiences over mainstream trends.

Ecological Preservation

Singapore places a strong emphasis on ecological preservation despite its urbanization. Initiatives like Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens highlight efforts to conserve green spaces and biodiversity. The city-state also promotes sustainability through water management, waste reduction, and green building practices.

Vegetarian/Vegan Diets

Vegetarian and vegan diets are increasingly popular in Singapore, supported by a growing number of restaurants and food options that cater to these preferences. Hawker centers and restaurants offer a wide variety of plant-based dishes, reflecting a cultural shift towards healthier and more environmentally conscious eating habits.

Cannabis Culture

Cannabis is illegal in Singapore, and possession, consumption, trafficking, or import/export of cannabis can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Singapore maintains strict drug laws to deter drug use and trafficking, with a zero-tolerance policy towards illicit substances.

Conservative Values

Singaporean society holds conservative attitudes towards sexuality, influenced by traditional Asian values and societal norms. Public displays of affection are generally kept to a minimum, and there is a strong emphasis on privacy when it comes to personal relationships.

Laws and Regulations

Singapore has strict laws and regulations governing sexual activities. Pornography, including possession and distribution, is heavily regulated, and there are laws against the production and distribution of obscene materials. Prostitution is illegal, although there are certain tolerated red-light districts where it operates under strict supervision.

LGBTQ+ Community

Singapore's LGBTQ+ community faces legal challenges and societal stigma. Section 377A of the Penal Code criminalizes sexual acts between men, although it is not actively enforced. LGBTQ+ rights advocacy is gradually gaining traction, with events like the Pink Dot movement advocating for greater visibility and acceptance. However, societal attitudes remain conservative, and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity persists in various aspects of life.

Education

Sex education is part of the school curriculum in Singapore, aimed at promoting responsible sexual behavior, understanding sexual health, and preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies. The education system emphasizes abstinence as well as safe sex practices, and discussions include topics like contraception and consent.

Public Discourse

Discussions about sex and sexuality in Singapore are generally considered private matters. While there is increasing openness among younger generations, these conversations often take place in private settings or online platforms rather than openly in public spaces.

Changing Attitudes

Over recent years, there has been a gradual shift in attitudes towards sex and sexuality among younger Singaporeans. Exposure to global media, access to the internet, and international influences have contributed to greater openness and awareness regarding sexual diversity, rights, and gender issues.