SINGAPORE
Singapore stands out as one of Asia’s most modern, clean, and well-organized countries. It’s a regional education hub, offering globally competitive universities and degrees taught in English, making it accessible for international students.
The city-state has a strong economy, tax advantages, and is popular among expats for its safety and high-quality healthcare. Tourists can enjoy world-class attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Universal Studios, and diverse neighborhoods reflecting Chinese, Indian, and Malay influences—all in one compact destination.
What’s taking YOU there?
General Etiquette & Culture you should know
Politeness
Singaporeans are generally polite, reserved and respectful in public spaces. Courtesy and calmness are valued. Loud or confrontational behavior is frowned upon.
First names
In professional settings, it is best to address people formally using Mr./Ms. + last name until invited to use their first name. However, among friends and in casual environments, first names are common.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected, especially since many restaurants and hotels include a 10% service charge. Tipping is optional and rarely practiced.
Legal and Safety Rules
Drinking age
The legal drinking age is 18.
Drugs
Singapore has zero tolerance for drug use.
Smoking
Smoking is banned in most public areas, including bus stops, hawker centers, and parks. Violations result in heavy fines.
Practical Tips
Emergency Phone numbers
999 is the emergency phone number for police, and 995 is the emergency for ambulance and fire
What type of chargers do they use for phones/laptops?
Singapore use type G plugs and sockets.
What is the currency?
They use SGD, this converts from USD $0.77 or EUR €0.68
There is no chewing gum
Singapore enforces a ban on chewing gum. You will not find regular chewing gym in stores.
How to pay for parking?
In Singapore you can pay for parking with the use of the Parking.sg app, parking coupons or CEPAS cards like EZ-link or NETS flash pay (CEPAS cards is a smart card that enables contactless payments for various transactions, this card is also multipurpose)