Common misconceptions and clichés about life in Singapore

Singapore is a fine country.
Or so the tourist T-shirts say.
In fact, the ubiquitous posters warning of tough penalties for minor misdeeds (S$1000 for a cigarette bud, anyone?) are a case in point. But in fact, I know nobody who has actually been fined. Deterrence seems to be enough to keep the populace well-behaved (and well-behaved it is indeed!).

Singapore is boring.
Well, this one is up to you. While it probably lacks the vibrancy of Hing Kong or Las Vegas, Singapore has enough to offer for anyone who takes it up. I was never bored in 12 years living there!

Singaporeans are kiasu.
(If you don't know the word, look it up in one of the online Singlish dictionaries.)
Many are, but others are not. You have really arrived when you become kiasu, too!