Sounds like you had a brilliant trip. I remember when I was backpacking (on the cheap) through SE Asia 30 years ago. When we reached Singapore it felt like luxury as there were sit-down toilets and hot water from the shower. We had gotten used to more basic facilities.
Hi Vasant, I really enjoyed this one. Perhaps, it has something to do with the fact that I lived for four years in Indonesia (and spent many many days visiting Bali!) and Singapore is my home. I'm not sure about the grumpy part of it. I think they take their efficiency seriously—Indonesians, whom I love as a people, barely try for efficiency and rarely achieve it—and may be the burden of that weighs heavily (grumpily!) on Singaporeans. They're also hopelessly honest and duty-bound and all of this adds to the burden—making them Un-fun? I love Bali/Indonesia for a few days. But if you want a home that serves you (your words), then I'll settle for a bit of grumpiness with a whole lot of consistency (boring, I know). Consistency to do better. Be better. Not quite the island mentality expected by visitors, right?
Hi Sonia. Was actually awaiting your response knowing I’ll get a deeper perspective from you. Yes indeed I’m pretty sure If I relocated to Indonesia it would take all kinds of getting used to. Whereas if I relocated to SG the transition would be pretty smooth. Still actively thinking about the indigenous populations and their disposition as opposed to those of us who come from elsewhere. I’m also aware that there are so many sociological layers at play that I’m missing, but I’m very happy for YU to be a provocation that leads to conversations like this one. Lots of love and let’s chat soon.
Sounds like you had a brilliant trip. I remember when I was backpacking (on the cheap) through SE Asia 30 years ago. When we reached Singapore it felt like luxury as there were sit-down toilets and hot water from the shower. We had gotten used to more basic facilities.
Interesting perspective!
Hi Vasant, I really enjoyed this one. Perhaps, it has something to do with the fact that I lived for four years in Indonesia (and spent many many days visiting Bali!) and Singapore is my home. I'm not sure about the grumpy part of it. I think they take their efficiency seriously—Indonesians, whom I love as a people, barely try for efficiency and rarely achieve it—and may be the burden of that weighs heavily (grumpily!) on Singaporeans. They're also hopelessly honest and duty-bound and all of this adds to the burden—making them Un-fun? I love Bali/Indonesia for a few days. But if you want a home that serves you (your words), then I'll settle for a bit of grumpiness with a whole lot of consistency (boring, I know). Consistency to do better. Be better. Not quite the island mentality expected by visitors, right?
Hi Sonia. Was actually awaiting your response knowing I’ll get a deeper perspective from you. Yes indeed I’m pretty sure If I relocated to Indonesia it would take all kinds of getting used to. Whereas if I relocated to SG the transition would be pretty smooth. Still actively thinking about the indigenous populations and their disposition as opposed to those of us who come from elsewhere. I’m also aware that there are so many sociological layers at play that I’m missing, but I’m very happy for YU to be a provocation that leads to conversations like this one. Lots of love and let’s chat soon.
Meanwhile, as you can see, I've been inducted into the cult of the Untitlers :)