Culture Shock in Singapore
It's not surprising that Singapore is sometimes referred to as "Asia lite." Its efficient infrastructure, coupled with its easy-to-acclimate-to eastern/western cultural blend makes adjusting to life in the Lion City pretty simple, for most expats.
English is the official language of Singapore, but it's not uncommon to hear several languages spoken in one day. Singapore's population is comprised mostly of its three largest ethnic groups: Chinese, Malay, and Indian. This cultural diversity has resulted in a colourful collection of traditions, holidays, and customs that you're sure to experience at some point during your stay.
Although culture shock in Singapore is minimal, there may be some situations that you'll find yourself unfamiliar with. If this is the case, don't hesitate to ask someone for advice, as most Singaporeans will be eager to help.
Once you get past your initial culture shock, do start discovering all that Singapore has to offer; there is a lot to experience on the Little Red Dot.
Take a walk through any mall or shopping centre, and you'll notice that flip flops and shorts are the unofficial uniform of Singaporeans. With an average national temperature of 80°F (27°C), comfort is king, when it comes to fashion. Light cotton shirts and blouses, shorts, or summer dresses seem to be the way to go. In general, this casual style is widely acceptable, even in most eating establishments. Exceptions to the rule are nicer restaurants and bars, the workplace and places of worship.
Although Singapore is pretty conservative, it's also really hot. You'll quickly learn what is considered acceptable attire for different situations just by looking at what those around you are wearing.
As the cuisine capital of Asia, there is something for everyone when it comes to food in Singapore. Chilli crab and fish head curry are traditional Singaporean dishes worth trying. If you want something a little more familiar, there are plenty of western restaurants on the island: think Italian, Mexican, and American style cuisine, as well as western fast food chains.
Alternatively, hawker centres are outdoor food courts with vendors selling various local, specialty dishes. Food at hawker centres is cheap, quick and often really good. Malls usually have food and beverage establishments, too.
►Cultural Food Tip: if you ever see a packet of tissues on a table, that means the table has been "choped," or reserved. Look for an empty table somewhere else.
The word kiasu is Hokkien for "fear of losing," and is used to describe the behaviour of some Singaporeans. Kiasuism manifests itself in many ways, such as queuing up in long lines to receive a door prize or giveaway, joining the longest queue at a hawker centre because everyone else is eating there, or grabbing excess amounts of something (such as in a buffet or a sale item at a store) for fear of not getting it later. Kiasuism is also used to describe ambitious and successful folks. To Westerners, this attitude can come off as aggressive and opportunistic, but to Singaporeans, it's sometimes seen as a way to succeed within a competitive society.
Singapore is a conservative country with strict laws. No matter where your passport says you're from, if you commit a crime in Singapore, you'll be subject to their laws and punishments. All drugs are illegal in Singapore; and drug traffickers are given the death penalty. Some crimes are punishable by caning, like vandalism. Freedom of speech and expression is restricted in Singapore. Certain publications and movies are banned in Singapore, and others are censored before being released to the public. The policies might sound harsh, but Singapore is one of the safest places to live as a result, and expats should take solace in this final fact.
English is the official language of Singapore, but it's not uncommon to hear several languages spoken in one day. Singapore's population is comprised mostly of its three largest ethnic groups: Chinese, Malay, and Indian. This cultural diversity has resulted in a colourful collection of traditions, holidays, and customs that you're sure to experience at some point during your stay. Although culture shock in Singapore is minimal, there may be some situations that you'll find yourself unfamiliar with. If this is the case, don't hesitate to ask someone for advice, as most Singaporeans will be eager to help.
Once you get past your initial culture shock, do start discovering all that Singapore has to offer; there is a lot to experience on the Little Red Dot.
How to dress in Singapore
Take a walk through any mall or shopping centre, and you'll notice that flip flops and shorts are the unofficial uniform of Singaporeans. With an average national temperature of 80°F (27°C), comfort is king, when it comes to fashion. Light cotton shirts and blouses, shorts, or summer dresses seem to be the way to go. In general, this casual style is widely acceptable, even in most eating establishments. Exceptions to the rule are nicer restaurants and bars, the workplace and places of worship.
Although Singapore is pretty conservative, it's also really hot. You'll quickly learn what is considered acceptable attire for different situations just by looking at what those around you are wearing.
Food in Singapore
As the cuisine capital of Asia, there is something for everyone when it comes to food in Singapore. Chilli crab and fish head curry are traditional Singaporean dishes worth trying. If you want something a little more familiar, there are plenty of western restaurants on the island: think Italian, Mexican, and American style cuisine, as well as western fast food chains.
Alternatively, hawker centres are outdoor food courts with vendors selling various local, specialty dishes. Food at hawker centres is cheap, quick and often really good. Malls usually have food and beverage establishments, too.
►Cultural Food Tip: if you ever see a packet of tissues on a table, that means the table has been "choped," or reserved. Look for an empty table somewhere else.
Kiasuism
The word kiasu is Hokkien for "fear of losing," and is used to describe the behaviour of some Singaporeans. Kiasuism manifests itself in many ways, such as queuing up in long lines to receive a door prize or giveaway, joining the longest queue at a hawker centre because everyone else is eating there, or grabbing excess amounts of something (such as in a buffet or a sale item at a store) for fear of not getting it later. Kiasuism is also used to describe ambitious and successful folks. To Westerners, this attitude can come off as aggressive and opportunistic, but to Singaporeans, it's sometimes seen as a way to succeed within a competitive society.
Strict laws in Singapore
Singapore is a conservative country with strict laws. No matter where your passport says you're from, if you commit a crime in Singapore, you'll be subject to their laws and punishments. All drugs are illegal in Singapore; and drug traffickers are given the death penalty. Some crimes are punishable by caning, like vandalism. Freedom of speech and expression is restricted in Singapore. Certain publications and movies are banned in Singapore, and others are censored before being released to the public. The policies might sound harsh, but Singapore is one of the safest places to live as a result, and expats should take solace in this final fact.
Tips to cultural etiquette in Singapore
- Elders are referred to as "uncles" or "aunties." This doesn't necessarily mean they are relatives, but rather it is a common way to address people older than you with respect.
- When paying for something, hand your money or credit card over with two hands. They will likely be received with two hands as well.
- If someone hands you a business card, receive it with both hands. Read it over intently and never put it away carelessly, like in your back pocket. Treat it with respect and put it somewhere safe, like your wallet. When giving a business card, also present it with both hands.
- Westerners are sometimes referred to as "ang moh." Some people consider this term derogatory, while other expats have reappropriated the word and even use it themselves.
- Not everyone will shake hands with you, so if you're in doubt, just smile and nod when being introduced. If someone reaches their hand out to you, then it's definitely OK to shake theirs.
