If you’re heading to Singapore, lucky you.
But there are a few rules you should know before you arrive – and ones to follow very carefully.
1. Reserved seats
When on public transport, it’s common for locals to reserve seats by placing a packet of tissues or an umbrella. If that’s the case, best not to move it.
2. Get in line
Singaporeans love a queue. Whether you’re ordering food or waiting for public transport, follow the pack and join the line.
3. More food?
It’s considered rude to refuse initial offers of food or drink. If you don’t want to eat, place your hand above your plate and say, “No, thank you.”
4. Stand on the correct side
When in Singapore, do as the locals do and stand on the left side of the escalator and walk up the steps on the right side.
5. Avoid public transport at peak hour
Peak hour in Singapore is chaotic. Steer clear of public transport between 8am-9am and 6pm-7pm, especially if you’re travelling with young children.
6. BYO fork
Chopsticks are used by pretty much everyone in Singapore. So if you’re not familiar with these utensils, it’s advisable to have your own fork and spoon handy on the off-chance a restaurant doesn’t have any.
7. What to order
Want what they’re having? If you like the look of someone’s dish at a hawker market but don’t know what it is, check out the colour of the chopsticks and plate and track it back to the stall using those colours.
8. Don’t litter
It may seem obvious, but avoid tossing your rubbish just anywhere. Littering can score you a fine anywhere from $300 up to $1000. Fortunately, there are bins around every corner of the city for you to use.
9. Don’t rely on credit cards
Be it a hawker stall, a street market, or even a public toilet, having some spare cash on hand is a necessity.
10. Don’t tip
Don’t bother tipping. In most situations it isn’t expected and most restaurants automatically add a 10 per cent service charge to the bill so there is no need to tip there.
11. Don’t chew gum
Since 1992, chewing and purchasing gum in Singapore has been prohibited. If you’re caught popping bubbles, expect a hefty fine.
12. Don’t jaywalk
In Singapore a fine of $50 is payable if you’re caught jaywalking. Repeat offenders can be charged $1000 and receive a jail term of three months.
13. Shake hands
Whether it’s a business meeting or social occasion, a firm handshake is one of the most popular ways to greet someone. Singaporeans may also bow slightly as they shake your hand. If that’s the case, reciprocate the bow.
14. After a meal
When finished eating, place your chopsticks in the centre of your plate. If they are not placed together, you will likely be offered more food.
15. Be considerate
A hawker centre is not a place to spend the day. Once you have finished eating, kindly clear your table for the next person.
16. Hawker 101
When you’re visiting a hawker and can’t decide where to eat, look for the stalls with the longest queues – it will be worth the wait.
17. No smoking in public
In Singapore, smoking is illegal in enclosed places, including restaurants. Lighting one up or dropping a cigarette butt in the street can lead to an immediate fine.
18. Bring a gift
If you’re invited to someone’s home, it’s polite to bring the hosts a small gift.
