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Do's and don'ts while in Singapore

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Singapore is among the most popular and dynamic destinations in Asia. There are many places to visit in
Singapore that will leave you truly impressed. The beautiful green gardens and clean streets, as well as
the interesting diversity in the culture, have attracted tourists from all over the world. Singapore tourism
is constantly growing.

Singapore is known for being a very safe and efficient city, thanks to the strictly enforced laws. While
some actions may not be considered a problem in your home country, they can be illegal in Singapore.
To avoid any hassle and enjoy your visit to the lovely Singapore without any unwanted fines or even jail
time, check out the following list before you travel.

DO be respectful and conservative

Try to be as conservative as you can to respect the locals. Avoid talking about religion or politics in order
not to offend anyone, as Singaporeans are a mix of Christians, Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Taos. In
Singapore, it is considered common courtesy to ask for permission before taking pictures of people,
mosques, or temples, as well as removing your shoes when entering a residence. Tipping is considered
disrespectful in Singapore so try to avoid it.

DON'T smoke in public

In most public places in Singapore, smoking is illegal. Don’t try to smoke or drop a cigarette in public
buses, lifts, taxis, cinemas, theatres, or any air-conditioned government offices, restaurants, and
shopping centres. The police enforce this law very strictly and hand out immediate fines up to S$1000.

DO use public transportation

Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is the fastest and most efficient way to move around
during your stay. So, take the time to learn the network’s routes and you can download related Apps on
your device to help you out. Most of Singapore’s key attractions are within walking distance from an
MRT station. The bus network is also quite convenient, as well as very scenic, and covers a wide variety
of destinations. On the other hand, Taxis can be expensive and you don’t really need them with the
state-of-the-art MRT system available.

DON’T chew gum

Chewing gum is banned in Singapore so it is recommended to leave it at home when packing your bags.
Chewing it or even carrying it in Singapore will cost you a fine up to S$1000 for first offenders. Police
take cleanliness seriously in Singapore. While something as insignificant as gum may seem trivial to most
of us, this law came to be after the government suffered many maintenance problems in high-rise
housing flats and in public places (e.g., gum stuck under seats, in elevators, and on pavements), which
led to time-consuming and costly measures to clean them.

DO address people with their titles

When addressing someone in Singapore, it is recommended to use the titles of Mr., Mrs., or Miss. We
recommend that you only use first names when you’re invited to.

DON’T jaywalk

Jaywalking refers to reckless or illegal crossing of pedestrians on roads and is a term that is widely used
in a lot of countries. In Singapore, make sure you look for pedestrian lanes and specified areas to cross
the streets to avoid any accidents or fines.

DO carry cash

Singapore is filled with vending machines to get snacks, food, beverages, self-laundry, and tickets. Coins
and cash in general will be handy during your travels and try not to rely on ATMs too much.

DON’T litter

Singapore is known for being impeccably clean. Littering the street with small items can cost you a fine
of S$300 for first offenders, but throwing anything large like cans or bottles can land you in court. The
punishment involves a Corrective Work Order (CWO), in which offenders clean up a specified area
wearing a bright green vest. Why the hassle? Just don’t litter, it’s a good thing to get used to.
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Do dress for the weather

This is an absolute no-brainer. Remember to pack all your summer outfits suitable for Singapore's
tropical climate and warm temperatures that range from 24 (rarely) to 35 degrees at most. The high
humidity is expected to make you sweat too. Slap on some sunscreen, put on a hat and a pair of
sunglasses, and you're ready to go. An umbrella comes in handy too, just in case it rains.

Don't litter

Avoid tossing your rubbish anywhere and everywhere. There are bins in every nook and cranny of the
city for you to throw them in. Also, littering can get you in trouble and fined up to from $300 up to
$1,000. Done with a cigarette? Do us a solid, stub out that cig and put it in the bin. There’s a reason
Singapore’s so clean and green, and for one, it's definitely not your personal ashtray.

Do stand on the correct side

Let's avoid any human traffic where possible. That means standing on the left side of the escalator and
walking up the steps on the right side. Strolling on walking paths and not ones with the yellow bicycle
signs. This unwritten rule saves you from being tutted at, or worse, in a people stampede.

Do join the queue

If there's one thing Singaporeans love, it's a queue. Whether you're waiting for the train, ordering your
food or claiming a freebie, nothing gets the locals wide-eyed than seeing a queue. Join the line and not
cut it, or you'll receive some unwanted attention and disgruntle.

Do mind your manners

We’re not your mums and we shouldn’t constantly be reminding you of this: look everyone – servers
and locals alike – in the eye and say 'please', 'thank you', 'sorry' and 'excuse me'. When it comes to
volume, try not to shout when talking, and for crying out loud, don't spit in public.

Don't even think about tipping

Here’s a tip on tipping: don’t bother. You'll notice that this isn't big here, anyway. Ask for the bill and
you'll find a fine print that says 'GST' (goods and services tax), as well as 'service charge' which is
basically synonymous with tipping.

Do carry cash

We're not telling you to bring stacks of cash. But it's super helpful to carry some in the wallet. We get
that it’s 2018 and every business is expected to accept cash, but hawker centres and street markets are
pretty much old school, so cash is king. On a slightly different note, tissue packs on tables and chairs at
hawker centres mean the seats are taken.

Don't use public transport during peak times

If you're travelling in groups, taking the trains or busses during peak times (around 8am-9am and 6pm-
7pm) might run the risk of being separated. And if you don't the city at the back of your hand, you might
just find yourself lost. You wouldn't want that, would you?

Do treat the elders like family

Everyone here is your uncle and auntie, and you can simply call them that. It's a form of respect and
courtesy, and instead of being offended, you'll be greeted with a smile instead – give it a go!

Don't jaywalk on roads

Stick to the traffic lights and only walk when the green man lights up. Crossing the road during a red light
is not only risky, but it may cause you a fine from $20 to $1,000.

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Singapore

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Do's and Don'ts

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Do's and Don'ts

Singapore is a tolerant country for the most part – at least in terms of cultural diversity. One thing is for
sure: you won’t see a mob crowding around if you unwittingly break one of the local taboos. That is not
to say that anything goes here, though. Before you start navigating your way around Singapore, it is best
that you take a look at our list of Do’s and Don’ts.

Singapore's Do's

1) DO ask for the price before you order any food. This is especially important in smaller places, and for
items listed at seasonal price – prices can often be surprisingly high, despite the establishment’s humble
appearance. This is particularly relevant when ordering seafood. Some fish or crab dishes can easily be
priced in the hundreds, even at small coffee shops. It’s better to ask before you order, lest you fall off
your chair when the bill arrives. You might save yourself some embarrassment, particularly since some
smaller eateries do not accept payment other than in cash.

2) DO get a copy of the local MRT (Mass Rapid Transit, aka Metro, aka Subway) guide. You can
download the guide at www.smrt.com.sg or pick it up at any MRT station. MRT is the most popular and
probably the most convenient mode of transportation in Singapore – especially during peak hours, when
traffic jams are the order of the day. By studying the MRT guide, you will discover that many of the local
tourist attractions are accessible by train, saving you quite a bit in the way of transportation expenses.

3) DO look out for packets of tissue paper or umbrellas on tables. Before you sit down at a table in a
hawker centre or coffee shop, check for packets of tissue paper or umbrellas. Singaporeans have a
peculiar habit of reserving their seats with these items, while they queue up for food. If you don’t want
to get into an ugly confrontation, best you steer clear. Especially true in crowded hawker centres during
lunch time, when tables are prime real estate!

4) DO bargain. Always bargain a little, especially when you’re not in a fixed-price outlet such as one of
the larger chain stores. Don’t expect the sort of monumental savings you’d find in Bangkok or Taiwan,
though. At best, sellers will reduce their prices by 10% or so; if you push your luck too far, you might end
up offending. When shopping in places like Lucky Plaza or Sim Lim Tower, all bets are off – bargain away!
Feel free to shop around, since many vendors sell the same items, and price disparities between shops
will surprise you. Be forewarned, some shops have a reputation for overcharging – so be sure you ask
around and get a feel of the market rate before zooming in for the kill.
5) DO dress appropriately. It is hot and humid in Singapore, so we suggest you pack light cotton
clothing. Don’t go to the other extreme, though. A large proportion of the Singaporean population is
somewhat prudish; if you step into any religious building, a show of too much skin is not going to endear
you to the inhabitants.

Here’s a list of DON’Ts in Singapore. Some of the list’s items may seem like simple common sense; we’ve
highlighted them because of the potential for stiffer punitive actions here, compared to many other
areas.

1) DON’T litter. At any given time, there could be a National Environment Agency (NEA) officer nearby,
dressed in plain clothes and mingling in the crowd. If you are a first offender, you will be slapped with a
$120 fine (or thereabouts – even fines are subject to inflation). You will also be required to watch an
educational video on the evils of littering. Repeat offenders can be forced to participate in a Corrective
Work Order. As the name suggests, this is work done to clean up a mess, usually in a public area such as
a park, all to teach you to appreciate the hard work that goes into keeping the environment clean and
beautiful. So unless you want to ruin your vacation, just don’t litter.

2) DON’T vandalize. This includes graffiti of any sort, no matter how artistic you might consider it.
Singapore’s attitude toward vandalism is considerably stricter than in many other countries. Offenders
may be jailed and even caned, as some recent incidents involving young foreigners have demonstrated.

3) DON’T feel obligated to tip. It is not considered bad manners to tip, but doing so is simply not part
of the culture here. It is definitely not like the West, where you’re often expected to tip, even if you
aren’t impressed with the service received. In restaurants here, a service charge of 10% is levied on top
of your purchases – it is simply included in your bill. It is not the norm to tip taxi drivers, and they do not
expect it. Of course, you are still welcome to tip if you so desire.

4) DON’T stuff your wallet with cash.

This isn’t meant to say you need to be concerned about pickpocket-infested streets. It’s just that there is
no real need to carry much cash. Most restaurants and larger stores accept Visa and MasterCard. If you
wish to use American Express, Diners Club, JCB or UnionPay, it’s a good idea to ask in advance about
whether your card will be accepted. (Most food and beverage outlets do honour American Express and
Diners Club.) Even if you find your card won’t be accepted, in Singapore you are never far from a Cirrus
or Plus ATM.
5) DON’T throw away your receipts. This is a matter of potential savings. At the airport, before you
depart, you may be able to reclaim Goods and Services Tax (GST) you’ve paid for certain items during
your visit. The current GST rate is 7%, so the amount you’re entitled to reclaim can be substantial –
especially if you’ve spent hours at Orchard Road.

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Singapore, city-state located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, about 85 miles (137 kilometres)
north of the Equator.

The People

Ethnolinguistic composition

The population of Singapore is diverse, the result of considerable past immigration. Chinese
predominate, making up some three-fourths of the total. Malays are the next largest ethnic group, and
Indians the third. None of those three major communities is homogeneous. Among the Chinese, more
than two-fifths originate from Fujian province and speak the Amoy (Xiamen) dialect, about one-fourth
are Teochew from the city of Shantou in Guangdong province, and a smaller number are from other
parts of Guangdong. The Chinese community as a whole, therefore, speaks mutually incomprehensible
dialects. Linguistic differences are less pronounced among the Malays, but the group includes
Indonesians speaking Javanese, Boyanese, and other dialects. The Indian group is most diverse,
consisting of Tamils (more than half), Malayalis, and Sikhs; it also includes Pakistani and Sinhalese
communities.

Because of this ethnic diversity, no fewer than four official languages are recognized—English, Mandarin
Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. English remains the main medium for administration, commerce, and
industry, and it is the primary language of instruction in schools. Mandarin, the official language of
China, transcends dialect barriers, and its use is strongly promoted; one-third of the school population is
taught in that language. Malay is designated as the country’s national language, and, like English, it is
widely used for communication among ethnic groups and plays a particularly useful role in view of the
close ties between Singapore and Malaysia.

Trade

Singapore continues to perform its traditional function as a financial intermediary, shipping raw
materials such as rubber, timber, and spices from the Southeast Asian region in exchange for finished
goods from both within and, especially, outside the region. Major imports are machinery and transport
equipment and crude petroleum, while machinery and refined petroleum products are the major
exports. China, the United States, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan are Singapore’s principal trading
partners. Entrepôt activities, where goods are transhipped and sometimes processed or manufactured
in the immediate area, account for about one-third of Singapore’s export trade. Notable in this capacity
has been the oil-refining industry. In an attempt to foster additional trade, Singapore has become a
joint-venture partner in numerous projects with Malaysia and Indonesia. Investments in the nearby
Indonesian island of Batam have been important in this respect.

Transportation

Singapore has one of the world’s busiest ports in terms of shipping tonnage. The Port of Singapore
Authority oversees all shipping activity and operates a number of terminals on the island. Containerized
cargo accounts for more than half of the general-cargo tonnage. The island has a well-developed
network of roads and highways, but traffic congestion frequently is a serious problem. In the late 1980s
and early 1990s the government opened a light-rail mass-transit system that links the major population
centres in the housing estates with employment centres and the central business district. Singapore is
linked by rail to Peninsular Malaysia via the connecting causeway at Johor. Singapore’s international
airport, Changi, at the eastern end of the main island, is a major regional and overseas air hub.

Administration And Social Conditions

Government

Singapore is a unitary parliamentary democracy based on the Westminster model. The president is head
of state; until 1991 the largely ceremonial post of president was filled by parliamentary election, but in
that year the constitution was amended to allow for the direct popular election of the president and for
presidential powers to be expanded. The unicameral Parliament consists of 94 members, of whom 84
are elected and 10 are appointed to terms of up to five years. The parliamentary majority selects the
prime minister, who is head of government, and the cabinet from its own ranks, and they in turn form
the government. In each constituency there is a Citizens’ Consultative Committee, designed to link local
communities to the ruling party.

Close liaison is maintained between the political and administrative arms of government. The
administrative structure consists of the various ministries and statutory boards. These are staffed by civil
servants who are monitored by an independent Public Service Commission.

The political process

Singapore’s electorate includes every adult citizen who is a registered voter, and voting is compulsory. A
number of parties contest elections, but since 1959 Singaporean politics have been dominated by the
People’s Action Party (PAP). The PAP’s ability to maintain its control largely has been attributable to
Singapore’s rapid economic growth and improved social welfare. In addition, the PAP often has
suppressed and co-opted domestic opposition—notably through internal-security laws that allow
political dissidents to be held indefinitely without trial—and it has promoted a national paternalistic
ideology through a variety of laws and corporate institutions. The emphasis of this ideology has been a
rigid public morality focused on personal appearance and cleanliness, political loyalty, and family
planning.

Justice

Justice is administered by the Supreme Court and by courts of lesser jurisdiction, such as district and
magistrates’ courts. Appeals can be made from the lower to the higher courts, with final appeal to the
Court of Appeals. A Sharīʿah court has jurisdiction in matters of Islamic law.

Armed forces and security

The armed forces of Singapore are divided into army, air force, and navy branches. The army is by far
the largest of the services and consists primarily of infantry battalions with supporting artillery, armour,
engineer, and logistics units. The main duties of the air force are air defense, support of ground forces,
and long-range surveillance and tracking. The navy patrols the country’s coastal waters and protects
shipping lanes. Compulsory military conscription for 18-year-old males was introduced in 1967. There
are two paramilitary forces: the Peoples’ Defence Force, composed mainly of reservists, and the
National Cadet Corps, consisting of high-school and college students.

The police force is responsible for internal security, traffic management, and crime prevention. It is
assisted by a Civil Defence Force consisting of reservists and volunteers.

Education

Education is highly valued in Singapore, and its education system is elaborately structured. Primary
education is free and lasts from six to eight years; the language of instruction is English, and students are
required to learn any one of the other three official languages as a second language. Students at the
secondary level are placed into academic or vocational and commercial tracks. Those on academic tracks
are further channeled into four- or five-year courses of instruction. Opportunities for higher education
are determined by academic performance and usually involve two or three years of preuniversity
instruction followed by enrollment at a university or technical college. The National University of
Singapore, founded in 1980 by a merger of the University of Singapore and Nanyang University, is the
largest and best-known institute of higher education.

Health and welfare

Health conditions in Singapore compare favourably with those in other economically developed nations.
The range and quality of medical services is notably high, with a large number of doctors and dentists.
There are both government and private hospitals, while nonhospital care is dispensed from numerous
outpatient clinics and mobile centres. The government and voluntary associations, the latter
coordinated by the Council of Social Service, provide welfare services for the aged, sick, and
unemployed.

Cultural Life

Cultural activities in Singapore are largely derivative, springing from one or another of the major
civilizations of China, India, Indonesia, or the West. Traditional Chinese and Indian music, painting, and
drama are practiced by numerous cultural societies and professional groups. Popular culture, based on
modern mass media, is far more widespread. Malay music, which has adopted the rhythms of Western
orchestras, has general appeal. Musical films that popularize Hindi and Tamil songs have a considerable
following, as do films from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the United States.

Several Chinese, English, Indian, and Malay newspapers serve a largely literate population. Magazines
published in the West, Hong Kong, and Japan also have wide appeal. The government monitors the
press to a certain extent and on occasion places circulation restrictions on periodicals and newspapers
that are critical of its policies. The government-owned Singapore Broadcasting Corporation controls all
local radio and television broadcasting.

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Singapore has been described as a playground for the rich, and it's true that the small city-state does
have a certain sheen of wealth. But Singapore offers more than just high-end shopping malls, luxury
hotels, and fine dining (though it's worth indulging in those a bit if you can). There is also a vibrant
history and diverse ethnic quarters to discover, along with many family-friendly attractions and lovely
public spaces that make visiting this slightly futuristic city worthwhile.
Singapore has an excellent public transportation system that makes getting around convenient and easy.
Once you've gotten a sense of the metro map, you'll have no problem zipping from one part of town to
the next. English is spoken everywhere, and signs are in English as well. In fact, Singapore is one of the
easiest and most comfortable countries to navigate in Southeast Asia. And as long as you're not
comparing prices to nearby Thailand or Vietnam, you're in for a lovely stay.

1. Marina Bay Sands

The opulent Marina Bay Sands resort complex includes a high-end luxury hotel, a mall with a canal
running through it, the ArtScience Museum, and the Marina Bay Sands Skypark - a vantage point for
taking in the entire city. The Skypark's viewing deck and infinity pool are found in the ship (yes, ship)
that tops the hotel. Only hotel guests are allowed to use the infinity pool, but anyone can visit the
observation deck. From the Skypark, you can see the innovative double helix bridge, the port, the
Gardens by the Bay, and the impressive skyline. While up there on top of the city, guests can grab a
snack or a coffee at the rooftop restaurant or pick up some keepsakes from the souvenir stand. You can
purchase a photo of yourself green-screened in front of the massive hotel as it's all lit up at night, but
the cost is steep: 50 Singapore dollars. Better to ask a fellow tourist to snap a photo of you. The elegant
opulence of the Marina Bay Sands exemplifies Singapore's style and status as a major international city
in Southeast Asia.

2 Gardens by the Bay

Once you've glimpsed this beautifully designed green space (from the top of the Marina Bay Sands,
perhaps) you won't be able to stay away. Wander through the Bay East Garden, perfect for enjoying the
vibrant plant life and escaping the city bustle for a moment. You won't want to miss Supertree Grove,
where you'll find a cluster of the iconic, futuristic structures designed to perform environmentally
sustainable functions. Then, head to the Cloud Forest Dome to see the world's tallest indoor waterfall
and learn a bit about biodiversity. Check the website for final ticket sale and tour times.

3 Botanic Gardens

Not to be confused with the Gardens on the Bay, the Botanic Gardens are also worth a visit. Singapore
received its first UNESCO World Heritage nomination for the botanic gardens, and with good reason. The
city can sometimes feel like a concrete jungle, albeit a clean and comfortable one, but the botanic
gardens preserve pieces of Singapore's wilder heritage. Indeed, a walking trail leads to the gardens'
heritage trees, which are conserved as part of an effort to protect the city's mature tree species. Make
sure to see the impressive National Orchid Garden. Other popular things to do include visiting the eco-
garden, eco-lake, bonsai garden, sculptures, and several other gardens and unique sites.

4 Singapore Zoo

Billing itself as the world's best rainforest zoo, the Singapore Zoo is a pretty impressive place. The facility
is clean and inviting, and the animals appear well treated, with plenty of lush vegetation and habitat
space. The orangutans are particularly impressive, and visitors can watch as babies and adults alike
swing high above their platforms and snack on bananas. There is also a large chimpanzee family, zebras,
meerkats, a komodo dragon, mole rats, white tigers, kangaroos, and many other creatures.

Guests can observe feedings for some of the animals. Allow at least three hours to make your way
around the zoo. If the zoo doesn't satisfy your need for getting close to wildlife, there's also the Night
Safari, River Safari (including a giant panda forest), and the Jurong Bird Park. Park hopper passes are
available if you plan to visit more than one of the wildlife parks.

For a unique and personal wildlife experience, try the Singapore Zoo Breakfast with the Orangutans. This
hassle free tour includes transportation from and to your hotel, allows you a half day to explore the zoo,
and has an optional upgrade to enjoy breakfast in the company of the zoo's much-loved orangutans.

5 Orchard Road

One could be forgiven for coming to Singapore and doing nothing but shopping, as this is a world-class
city for style and designer chic. The Orchard Road area is a great place to start a shopping spree, as there
are high-end stores at every turn. You'd expect nothing less from a neighborhood that boasts 22 malls
and six department stores. There are also four movie theaters, including an IMAX, and a KTV karaoke. If
you get hungry while burning through all that cash, there are plenty of eateries in the neighborhood
serving international cuisines.

6 Singapore Flyer

If the observation deck at the Marina Bay Sands doesn't quite do it for you, try taking in high tea while
looking out over the city from the Singapore Flyer, the world's largest giant observation wheel. Choose
from several different packages that allow you to be served and pampered while enjoying a view that
encompasses not only the Singapore skyline, but reaches to the Spice Islands of Indonesia and
Malaysia's Straits of Johor. There are several different ticket packages to choose from, and each includes
access to the multimedia Journey of Dreams exhibit, which delves into Singapore's history and the
creation of the Singapore Flyer. Flights last 30 minutes each and run from early morning until late at
night, so you can choose which view of the city you want to enjoy: the beginning of another bustling day
or when Singapore is aglow after dark.

7 Raffles Hotel Singapore

This colonial building is one of the world's last grand 19th-century hotels, once visited by literary
luminaries such as Rudyard Kipling and Joseph Conrad, as well as movie star Charlie Chaplin. Built in
1887, the property has served as a city landmark for well over a century and continues to live up to its
tony reputation with excellent food and service. The classical architecture and tropical gardens provide a
refined setting and represent another facet of Singapore's varied and rich history.
The Raffles Hotel Singapore is located in the city's Colonial District, which is also home to several other
historic sites, and a good place to base yourself in the city. Here, you'll find the Raffles Landing Site,
where Sir Stamford Raffles is said to have stepped ashore in 1819. The story has it that he saw the small
fishing village but recognized its potential as a port, so he purchased the land from the Sultan of Johor
and invited Chinese and Indian immigrants to move here. And so the seeds of Singapore's multi-ethnic
identity were sown.

8 Chinatown

If you've ever visited China, Singapore's Chinatown neighborhood will bring you right back there. From
the small mom-and-pop stores and authentic Chinese food to the bright red lanterns, there's an
excitement and hustle in this district. You can visit the Chinese Heritage Centre and see the impressive
and beautiful Sri Mariamman Hindu temple. Another temple worth seeing is the Buddha Tooth Relic
temple. If you're up early enough (think 4am), you can hear the morning drum ceremony. Or you can
just check out the closing ceremony in the evening after viewing the relic.

Heritage markers have been installed throughout the neighborhood in English, Japanese, and simplified
Chinese, so visitors can better understand the significance of the area. But this neighborhood is not just
a testament to the influence of the Chinese throughout Singapore's past. This is a progressive
neighborhood (with free Wi-Fi for all), and it's home to the trendy Ann Siang Hill area, where the quaint
bistros and upscale boutiques could be at home in any Western city.

9 Sentosa Island

Singapore isn't exactly known as a beach destination, but if you're really craving some fun in the sun,
Sentosa Island is the place to find it. Siloso Beach is a good spot for getting in beach time, and visitors
can play volleyball on free courts or go kayaking and skimboarding. There are several other beach
attractions as well, plus an Underwater World aquarium, where you can swim with dolphins. A must-see
on Sentosa Island is the Merlion, Singapore's famous statue that has the head of a lion and the body of a
fish. You can take an escalator to the top of the statue and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding
area. Fort Siloso, the country's only preserved fort, is also located on Sentosa Island. Adventurous types
will want to check out The Flying Trapeze and the SeaBreeze Water-Sports @ Wave House, where you
can try your hand at flying strapped to a water-propelled jet pack.

10 Clarke Quay

The "center of commerce during the 19th century," Clarke Quay lives up to its legacy as a busy hub.
Today, it has a more polished sheen, so after a long day of shopping on Orchard Road, visitors can
happily head to Clarke Quay for an evening of waterfront dining and entertainment. River taxis and
cruises also depart from here, giving tourists the chance to admire some of the city's historic bridges and
view landmarks like the Merlion from the water. The Quay's biggest hit with younger tourists is a giant
bungy-jumping attraction, an adrenaline-packed thrill ride. Nearby attractions include the Asian
Civilisation Museum; the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery located in Singapore's oldest fire station; and the
Hong San See Temple, a picturesque century-old Buddhist place of worship.

11 Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore occupies 49 acres of Resorts World Sentosa. The park is arranged
thematically, with each area paying tribute to a location, film, or television show. Destinations include
New York City, Hollywood, Madagascar, and a trip back to Ancient Egypt. Fiction-themed areas include
Shrek's Far Far Away, the Lost World, and Sci-Fi City where a pair of Battlestar Galactica-themed roller
coasters dominate. In addition to the many rides that range from kiddie-friendly to daredevil, the park
has diverse dining options, shopping, and live shows throughout the day and night.

12 Night Safari Singapore

Night Safari Singapore puts a new twist on the traditional zoo experience by introducing visitors to the
nocturnal lives of the residents. The park's habitats are divided into four sections, each with its own trail
that lets you observe these elusive creatures as they go about their "day." The Leopard Trail has, as
expected, leopards, as well as lions, flying foxes, civets, and porcupines among other animals. The
Fishing Cat Trail tours the habitat of animals native to Singapore, including the fish-loving felines,
pangolin, binturong, and other species both common and endangered. East Lodge Trail features
Malayan tigers and spotted hyenas, and the Wallaby Trail introduces visitors to the marsupials of
Australia. Private tours, buggy rides, and educational sessions are available, as well as once in a lifetime
experiences, like an Asian elephant feeding session.

13 Merlion Park

Singapore's Merlion is just what it sounds like - the figure of a mythical creature that has the head of a
lion and the body and tail of a fish. The Merlion represents the city's humble start as a fishing village
combined with its traditional Malay name Singapura - "lion city." The structure, which was relocated to
Merlion Park in 2002, where it can overlook Marina Bay, weighs 70 tonnes and stands at 8.6 meters tall,
spouting water from its mouth in a fountain. The "Merlion Cub" sits nearby, only two meters tall but a
hefty three tonnes, and there are five additional official Merlion statues throughout the city. Merlion
Park is an ideal spot for photo-ops, whether you are taking a selfie in front of the iconic creature or
capturing the magnificent views from the park as it looks out over the bay.

14 Asian Civilisations Museum

If the Raffles Hotel and Fort Canning Park haven't satisfied your taste for colonial architecture, pay a visit
to the Empress Place Building. It was constructed in 1865 and built in the Neoclassical style, and was
named in honor of Queen Victoria. It now houses the Asian Civilisations Museum, which delves into the
many Asian cultures that helped form Singapore. The museum's collections focus on the themes of trade
and spirituality, both of which heavily influenced Asian cultures and served as vehicles for the cultures to
spread. Exhibits include topics like Indian Ocean trade, stories of faith and belief, and a look at the
important role that scholars played in Chinese culture for centuries.
15 Pulau Ubin (Granite Island)

For a look at what life in Singapore was like before it was all glamor and skyscrapers, visit the small
island of Pulau Ubin, where fewer than 100 people still live in the same simple way as they did in the
1960s. The island's name is Malay for "Granite Island," a moniker given due to its past prominence as a
quarry town. Today, it is a peaceful, rustic place where tourists can enjoy unspoiled forests and diverse
wildlife. The island is also home to the Chek Jawa Wetlands, which contain a coral reef teeming with sea
life. The island is easily reached by boat, a ten-minute ride that departs from Changi Point Ferry
Terminal.

16 Fort Canning Park

As military strongholds go, Fort Canning has had a long and varied life. Built in 1859, the fort was an
essential site for Singapore's defense. Now in peacetime, the original building is home to modern
performing arts troupes, and the park regularly sees picnics, concerts, theater performances, and
festivals. Other attractions at the park include relics from Singapore's early history, from as far back as
the 14th century, and Sir Stamford Raffles' personal bungalow. Guests can also see a replica of the spice
market Raffles established in 1822, as well as the ASEAN sculptures that were erected in the 1980s.

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The Language

Singapore has attempted to promote a national identity in its land of immigrants since its independence
in 1965. As part of this effort, Singapore has four national languages: Mandarin, Malay, Tamil and
English. For business and politics, English is the language of choice.

Face & Respect

Having face indicates personal dignity.

Singaporeans are very sensitive to retaining face in all aspects of their lives.

Face is a prized commodity that can be given, lost, taken away or earned.

It is a mark of personal qualities such as a good name, good character, and being held in esteem by one's
peers.

It can also be greater than the person and extend to family, school, company, and even the nation itself.

Face is what makes Singaporeans strive for harmonious relationships.

Ethnic Diversity

Singapore is a multi-ethnic society where Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions coexist beneath the
veneer of a western cosmopolitan metropolis.
The three main ethnic groups are religiously and culturally diverse.

Non-Verbal Communication

Singaporeans are group dependent and rely on facial expression, tone of voice and posture to tell them
what someone feels.

They often trust non-verbal messages more than the spoken word.

They tend to be subtle, indirect and implicit in their communications.

They hint at a point rather than making a direct statement, since that might cause the other person to
lose face.

Rather than say 'no', they might say, 'I will try', or 'I'll see what I can do'. This allows the person making
the request and the person turning it down to save face and maintain harmony in their relationship.

Silence is an important element of Singaporean communication.

Pausing before responding to a question indicates that they have given the question appropriate
thought and considered their response carefully.

They do not understand western cultures ability to respond to a question hastily and think this indicates
thoughtlessness and rude behaviour.

........

Meeting and Greeting

Greetings will follow a strict protocol often based on both the ethnic origin and age of the person.

Younger people or those who work in multi-national companies may have adopted the western concept
of shaking hands with everyonebut this is not the case with older or more reserved Singaporeans.

Ethnic Chinese shake hands. Their grasp is rather light although the handshake itself can be rather
prolonged.

Men and women may shake hands, although the woman must extend her hand first. Introductions are
always done in order of age or status.

Between men, ethnic Malays shake hands.

Men and women do not traditionally shake hands, since Muslim men do not touch women in public.

Younger Malays may shake hands with foreign women, but it is more appropriate to use the 'salaam'
(bowing the head) greeting.

This is also the greeting to be used when two women meet.

Ethnic Indians shake hands with members of the same sex.

When being introduced to someone of the opposite sex, nodding the head and smiling is usually
sufficient.

As with the other groups, the elderly or the person with the most status is introduced first.

............

Titles/Names

Chinese

Chinese traditionally have 3 names. The surname or family name is first and is followed by two personal
names.

Address the person by an honorific title and their surname. If they want to move to a first name basis,
they will advise you which of their two personal names to use.

Some Chinese adopt more western names in business and may ask you to call them that.

Malay

Many Malays do not have surnames. Instead, men add the father's name to their own name with the
connector bin. So Noor bin Isa, would be Noor, the son of Isa. Women use the connector binti, so Zarina
binti Isa would be Zarina the daughter of Isa.

The title Haji (male) or Hajjah (female) before the name indicates the person has made their pilgrimage
to Mecca.

The name Sayyed (male) or Sharifah (female) indicates that the person is considered to be a descendent
of the prophet Mohammed.

Indian
Many Indians in Singapore do not use surnames. Instead, they place the initial of their father's name in
front of their own nameThe man's formal name is their name 's/o' (son of) and the father's name.
Women use 'd/o' to refer to themselves as the daughter of their father.

Since many Indian names are extremely long, they commonly use a shortened version of their name as a
sort of nickname.

At marriage, women drop their father's name and use their first name with their husband's first name as
a sort of surname.

Sikh Indians all use the name Singh to denote themselves as Sikhs.

Gift Giving Etiquette

Since there are cultural differences in how the three main ethnic groups treat gifts, they are listed
separately.

Gift giving to ethnic Chinese:

A gift may be refused three times before it is accepted. This demonstrates that the recipient is not
greedy.

Do not give scissors, knives or other cutting utensils as they indicate that you want to sever the
relationship.

Do not give clocks, handkerchiefs or straw sandals as they are associated with funerals and death.

Do not wrap gifts in white, blue or black paper as these are mourning colours.

Wrap gifts in red, pink, or yellow since these are happy colours

Elaborate gift wrapping is imperative.

Never wrap a gift for a baby or decorate the gift in any way with a stork as birds are the harbinger of
death.

Do not give odd numbers as they are unlucky.

Do not bring food if invited to a formal dinner party as it insinuates you do not think the host will
provide sufficient hospitality.

Bring a small gift of fruit, sweets, or cakes, saying that it is for the children.
Gifts are not opened when received.

Flowers do not make good gifts as they are given to the sick and are used at funerals.

Gift giving to ethnic Malays:

Never give alcohol.

Do not give toy dogs to children.

Do not give anything made of pigskin as Malays are Muslim.

Give the gift when you are departing, rather than when you arrive.

Avoid white wrapping paper as it symbolizes death and mourning.

Wrap gifts in red or green paper.

If you give food, make sure it is halal.

Offer gifts with the right hand only or both hands if the item is large.

Gifts are not opened when received.

Gift giving to ethnic Indians:

If you give flowers, avoid frangipani as they are used in funeral wreaths.

Money should be given in odd numbers, so give S$11 rather than S$10.

Offer gifts with the right hand only or both hands if the item is large.

Do not wrap gifts in white or black.

Wrap gifts in red, yellow or green paper or other bright colours as these bring good fortune.

Do not give leather products to a Hindu.

Do not give alcohol unless you are certain the recipient imbibes.

Gifts are not opened when received.

Etiquette in Singapore

Business Etiquette and Protocol

Business in Singapore is more formal than in many western countries.

There are strict rules of protocol that must be observed.

The group (company or department) is viewed as more important than the individual.

People observe a strict chain of command, which comes with expectations on both sides.

In order to keep others from losing face, much communication will be non-verbal and you must closely
watch the facial expressions and body language of people you work with.

Building Relationships & Communication

Personal relationships are the cornerstone of all business relationships.

Business is a matter of being tied into the proper network, which is the result of long- standing personal
relationships or the proper introductions.

This is a group-oriented culture, so links are often based on ethnicity, education or working for the same
company.

Once you are recognized as part of the group, you will be accepted and expected to obey the unwritten
rules of the group.

Relationships take time to develop.

You must be patient as this indicates that your organization is here for the long-term and is not looking
only for short- term gains.
Always be respectful and courteous when dealing with others as this leads to the harmonious
relationships necessary within business.

Most Singaporeans are soft-spoken and believe a calm demeanour is superior to a more aggressive
style.

Watch your body language and facial expressions.

Business Meeting Etiquette

Appointments are necessary and should be made at least 2 weeks in advance, whenever possible.

The most formal way to schedule a meeting is to write to the person concerned, although most
Singaporeans will schedule an appointment by telephone, fax, or e-mail.

Do not try to schedule meetings during Chinese New Year (late January/early February), since many
businesses close for the entire week.

You should arrive at meetings on time. Punctuality is a virtue.

There will be period of small talk before getting down to business discussions.

Since questioning authority is a taboo, it is important to encourage questions when after making a
presentation and then smile when a question is eventually asked.

Presentations should be accompanied by backup material, including charts and figures.

Never disagree or criticize someone who is senior to you in rank as it will cause both of you to lose face
and may destroy the business relationship.

Pay attention to non-verbal communication.

Negotiating

Always send a list of people who will be attending the negotiations and their title well in advance.

Always wait to be told where to sit. There is a strict hierarchy that must be followed.

Business negotiations happen at a slow pace.

Singaporeans are non-confrontational. They will not overtly say 'no'; likewise, their 'yes' does not always
signify agreement.

Singaporeans give a respectful pause of up to 15 seconds before answering a question. Do not start
speaking too quickly or you will miss the answer.

Be prepared with a mental list of concessions you would be willing to make that would not injure your
own business.

Singaporeans are tough negotiators on price and deadlines.

Decisions are consensus driven

Avoid losing your temper or you will lose face and damage your relationship.

If you are signing a contract with ethnic Chinese, the signing date may be determined by an astrologer or
a geomancer (feng shui man).

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Contents

Cite

Singaporean Culture

Core Concepts

Greetings

Religion

Family

Naming

Dates of Significance

Etiquette
Do's and Don'ts

Do’s

Present yourself in a clean and well-dressed manner and make sure to tidy up after yourself. Be mindful
of the mess or disorganisation you may have left in a room.

Make an effort to keep discussion harmonious and balanced. Avoid dominating conversation and allow
space for others to speak up.

Express flattery when it is due as this will give face, however always do so with sincerity or the person
may lose face instead.

It is important to ask questions in several ways in order to have a sure understanding of a vague
response.

Always demonstrate patience, calmness and politeness.

Do not’s

Avoid asking Eurasians about their racial make up as they may find this insensitive.

Avoid directly criticising someone, pointing out their mistakes or giving insincere compliments as these
are all actions that cause a Singaporean to lose face.

Avoid publicly displaying signs of anger, raising your voice or shouting as this will cause you to lose face
in a Singaporean's eyes.

Try to abstain from interrupting or ‘filling in’ the silence during conversation.

........................

Contents

Cite

Singaporean Culture

Core Concepts
Greetings

Religion

Family

Naming

Dates of Significance

Etiquette

Do's and Don'ts

Communication

Other Considerations

Singaporeans can be fiercely competitive. It is not unusual to see people endeavouring to get to the
front of a crowd or determinedly queuing for great lengths to buy or see something. They attribute this
to ‘kiasu’, the fear of losing. Kiasu motivates Singaporeans in other ways too, such as economically or
academically. As a result, Singaporeans generally strive diligently to achieve what they want.
Nevertheless, this does not see them be boisterous necessarily. They generally maintain poise and
courtesy as to be aggressive in one’s approach would be inharmonious, deplorable behaviour.

Singapore has many unique civil laws enforced to regulate behaviour. While Australia with its many
regulations of social behaviour is seen as 'the nanny state', Singapore is 'the fine country'. The culture
can seem obsessive about cleanliness. Gum and spitting is banned and there are fines for forgetting to
flush public toilets. Other laws are more restrictive of personal behaviour and choices. Pornography and
illicit drugs are strictly banned and the death penalty is used to punish those who have drug or criminal
offences.

.............

Contents

Cite

Singaporean Culture
Core Concepts

Greetings

Religion

Family

Naming

Dates of Significance

Etiquette

Basic Etiquette

It is expected that the elderly are treated with respect. However, people may ignore the age hierarchy
when someone particularly powerful is present.

Etiquette is sharply distinguished between formal and informal settings. Thus, business etiquette is
distinct from general etiquette.

Spitting or littering in public is both frowned upon and illegal.

It is common for Singaporeans to reserve their seats in a public setting by placing a packet of tissues or
their umbrella on the seat.

Punctuality is common and expected.

Public displays of affection between couples is generally considered inappropriate.

Punctuality is essential in Singapore. Being late shows a lack of respect for the person who is kept
waiting.

Visiting

It is expected that a guest will bring a small gift to the host. The type of gift expected may differ
depending on the host’s ethnicity.

It is common for people to remove their shoes when entering someone’s home.

Punctuality is important to Singaporeans, and it is considered polite to call a host in advance if one is
running late.

An invitation should be acknowledged whether or not one is able to attend.

Eating

Food is usually placed on a table with all dishes served at once and shared among everyone.

It is polite to allow the host to select all the dishes.

It is the proper practice to begin eating only once the host has invited the guests to do so.

Common utensils are chopsticks and soup spoons. Western cutlery is also used but not as often.

Chopstick etiquette is widely practiced. For example, chopsticks should never be rested vertically.

A gentle burp is considered to be a sign of appreciation of good food.

In light of the ethnic diversity, some ethnic groups do not eat particular meats. For example, Malays
typically do not eat pork and Indians often do not eat beef.

To leave a small amount of food on your plate indicates that you are full and were satisfied by the meal.
To empty your plate entirely suggest the host did not provide enough food.

Gifts

Given the ethnic diversity of Singapore, there are various gift giving traditions. It is important to become
familiar with the type of gifts that are common to each ethnic identity.

Expect elaborate wrapping as the wrapping of gifts is important—particularly to Chinese Singaporeans).

Both hands are used to give and receive a gift.

The recipient should not open a gift immediately upon receiving it or in front of the giver.

Avoid using the colours black or white to wrap gifts. These colours are often associated with mourning.

The appropriate gift may vary depending on a Singaporean’s ethnicity and religion.

Gift giving etiquette of ethnic Malays typically relate to Islam; gifts that include alcohol or pork should
not be given and presents of food must meet halal standards.

For Chinese Singaporeans, a person may decline receiving a gift two or three times out of politeness
before accepting. Gifts or wrapping of red and gold is admired and appreciated. Taboo items are sharp
objects (e.g. knives, scissors), clocks, handkerchiefs, umbrellas, green hats, mirrors and yellow or white
flowers.

For Indian or Hindu Singaporeans, wrapping should be in bright colours such as red, yellow and green.
Leather products and alcohol should not be given.

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According to the Constitution of Singapore, the single national language of Singapore is Malay, which
plays a symbolic role, as Malays are constitutionally recognized as the indigenous peoples of Singapore,
and it is the government's duty to protect their language and heritage. “The national language shall be
the Malay language and shall be in the Roman script […]” (Constitution of the Republic of Singapore,
PART XIII) Also according to the constitution, the four commonly used languages of Singapore are
English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil.

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