(Snapshots, Elsewhere is a feature of recessionFRESH, where users are asked to submit photos and prices of everyday items to explore the cost of living around the world. If you’d like to submit, please visit this link.)

Jiny, 29: Queenstown, Singapore (2011)

Jiny is  an independent animator based in Southeast Asia.

Coffee: [$0.60 USD] Coffee (Kopi) –  I bought this bag of coffee at my hawker downstairs.  Kopi ranges from SGD $0.80 to $1.20 (roughly USD $0.60)

Price of commute: [SGD $1.17] MRT fare. Purchased at Queenstown MRT station. Fare is based on distance. SGD $1.17 (based on distance from Queenstown to City Hall MRT) with my SMRT card, SGD $1.50 (flat fee) for standard ticket (those without SMRT cards)

Water: [$0.00] Singapore utilizes the four tap system and uses reclaimed water, seawater, rainfall (from water catchment areas) and water from Malaysia to sustain the population’s drinking supply. It is clean and safe and I have been drinking straight from the faucet without a filter for almost a year now.  Free if you find a faucet and have an empty bottle handy.

What do you like most about this neighborhood or city? Affordable food

How has the recession affected you?  I’ve taken on more freelance and side projects this year. I don’t go out as much and usually stay at home drawing, designing, animating or looking for more freelance projects.

What would you spend your last $5 on?  2 sketchbooks

Why did you choose these 3 items?  These are some basic things I have at least 2-3 times a week.

Thank you for the great entry, Jiny! I think this is actually our first report from Southeast Asia! This woman is also my creative partner at everydayarmada.org.  Check out our work there, too. – h!