Tipped to be one of Asia’s premier holiday hubs, Singapore welcomes visitors from around the world. Here are some etiquette guidelines to help you navigate your tour of Lion City.
Don’t Jump Queues
Although this may go without saying, skipping ahead on queues or refusing to queue altogether is a faux pas in most countries but especially on a law-abiding island such as Singapore. Singaporeans are experts at forming nice, orderly queues and waiting their turn so you should do the same whether waiting for your order at a restaurant, boarding a subway train or waiting to check-in at lyf Funan Singapore or any similar space for co-living in Singapore.
Filial Piety
While Singapore may be a highly cosmopolitan city with regards to nearly every aspect, the cultural heritage of the island nation is very much rooted in Asia. This means respecting elders and following the social pecking order is a must when travelling around the country. Courtesy and polite behaviour towards elders will not only be appreciated but those who do not show respect to older members of the community will be harshly judged for their callousness.
Do Not Litter
Singapore is perhaps the cleanliest nation in all of Asia and it is through discipline and years of social conditioning that locals have been quite literally trained out of littering public places. Throwing garbage, used paper cups or any unwanted item onto the street or sidewalk is an offence that carries hefty fines and social condemnation in Singapore.
Be Flexible about Payment Methods
Although most vendors in the country offer tourists the chance to pay for goods and services with credit and debit cards, there are certain areas of Singapore where carrying cash is a wiser option. This includes precincts such as Chinatown and Little India.
