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Don’ t be a scofflaw in Singapore
intrinsic, multi-cultural allure, Singapore is modern, clean, has free Wifi nearly everywhere, and has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, so you’ ll feel perfectly safe. But do remember to mind your Ps and Qs.... Singaporeans expect you to be as law-abiding as they are, and things like littering, chewing gum, eating on public transport, or jaywalking do carry fines.
Singapore is a terrific city for women to travel solo. Aside from its
Traveler tip
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Crafts in Kyoto
The Kyoto Handicraft Center( 17 Shogoin Entomi-cho, Sanyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8323) has EVERYTHING you could possibly need. I bought beautiful yakutas, t-shirts, and jewelry. Plus, there is excellent pottery, crazy expensive secret boxes, silk kimonos, swords, wood block painting and many other items that will dazzle you. It was a wonderful experience. They even offer chairs for the non-shopper / one who waits.
— Judi Nordman, 16-time traveler, Towaco, NJ
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In Thailand, do not touch the monks
You will see many monks in Thailand because the branch of Buddhism that is practiced there( Theravada) requires all men to spend a period of time as a monk before the age of 20. People view monks with great respect, and there are certain protocols. For one, physical contact with women is forbidden for monks, so be sure not to touch or give anything directly to them. Instead, set it on the ground in front of them or give it to a man to hand over. Similarly, women should not sit next to monks on public transportation, nor should you enter the monkonly areas that are sometimes set aside in waiting rooms. If you pass a monk on the street, it is considered polite to stop and let him pass by you first.
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Do not disparage the Thai royal family
The Thai people revere their monarchs and you will see images of them displayed in many shops and all public buildings. Engaging in negative talk about them is not only considered bad form, it’ s illegal and can land you in jail. So as the saying goes,“ if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing.”
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