taxi

It is not uncommon to see old workers in singapore. In fact most of the workers i see in the service industries are old people.  People that are at least 55 years old.  This taxi driver is probably 60 years old..nearing retirement.  But of course my approximation is conservative to his benefit.  
Taxis are a rip off for the price but it's normal in Singapore to pay for everything with a rate much more than what I would pay for in my third world residence. However, with further analysis, I say that it's actually more expensive here in the Philippines.  why?  first of all, if you ride the taxi and you don't know the place, the taxi driver will take you to your destination using the longer, more complicated route.  second, the taxi driver will impose an "additional" fee for you because he anticipates that he won't have any passenger on his way back. third, the taxi driver won't give you your change, sort of like a withholding tax thing..he is withholding his tip for you.  if you are gutsy enough to argue with this, he will give you an evil look and make you feel like a selfish person who is too cheap to tip.  yes i've experienced this.  i don't tip those who assume that they deserve one, as if it's their right to have one and you are obligated to give one.  i'd give tips when i want and if you don't ask for it.  In Singapore, the taxis are metered and you get your receipt and your change when you arrive at your destination.  Here, the taxis are metered but when you get in the taxi the driver will negotiate with you whether to use the meter or agree with his proposed fare.  this is especially true when you take one from the airport or towards the airport.  Of course, not all taxi drivers are like that here.  Some are really good people and honest.  The few who are misbehaving though get more attention and exposure (like this) than those who are just trying to make an honest living.