Culture & Traditions

Singapore can be defined by its unique location at the bottom of the Malay Peninsula and the only city island nation in the world. It is small but mighty, with a size of only 47 square kilometres (18 square miles). Their culture draws from Malay, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Eurasia. This results in a big melting pot of cultures with many traditions. For Singaporeans, cultural heritage is important since it's how they express their thoughts, beliefs, and way of life.

What is the visiting etiquette in Singapore?

Punctuality is important in Singapore; plan ahead to ensure you can arrive on time, as lateness is seen as disrespectful. Plan to wear slightly more formal clothes when meeting someone for the first time, as it is considered respectful to dress up. When greeting a Singaporean, shake their hand and take a slight bow. It is important to show respect to anyone older; be sure to address them by uncle or auntie. Someone may introduce themselves by providing a shortened or English version of their name, which is appropriate to use once they've given you permission. If visiting someone's home, take your shoes off at the door. This is also applicable at religious sites such as temples and mosques. Keep your feet on the floor, as feet are considered unsanitary, and it is considered rude for anyone to see the bottoms of your feet. If you are out and about needing help with directions, be sure not to use a pointed finger; raise your full hand and keep your fingers all connected, as a single finger is seen as 

What is Singapore best known for?

Singapore strives to be a country focused on sustainability and innovation. As a modern metropolis, it aims to exclusively build a sustainable urban environment. The Gardens by the Bay is a stunning example, comprising three lush waterfront gardens filled with over 1.5 million diverse plants and flowers. The centrepiece is massive, brightly lit up 'Supertrees' that are aesthetically beautiful and harvest rainwater and sunlight.

The public train and bus system is known as one of the best in the world, making getting around a breeze. Even the bike lane network is extensive and easy to navigate. You should have no reason to hire a taxi, especially because they can become pricey due to taxes. It is easy to get around and visit one of Singapore's vibrant, walkable heritage district neighbourhoods. The narrow streets of Chinatown are filled with traditional tea houses, medicine shops, and heritage homes. Visit a harmonized and modern example of Tang dynasty architecture at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Next, check out the cultural precinct of Little India, with shops selling colourful fabrics and spices and traditional Indian cuisine restaurants. Kampong Glam is where Arab settlers first arrived, with antique shops and street vendors selling linens and baskets. Peek down Haji Lane with cute shops, murals, and tiny intimate bars. 

For years, Singapore's Chiang Mai Airport has been known as one of the best, with amenities and attractions beyond what you'll see anywhere else in the world. You won't bemoan an extended stopover, given the chance to check out the dozens of features such as a pay-per-access pool, butterfly garden, indoor slide, movie theatre, and even an indoor waterfall!

What are some Singaporean traditions?

Given their multiculturalism, Singaporeans are known to willingly participate in one other's cultural celebrations and festivals. In the fall, the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Lantern Festival, celebrates the ascension of the moon goddess, along with families coming together to light a thousand lanterns after dark. Chinese New Year sees celebrations take place over fifteen days with night markets and parades. Families travel to get together for feasts and prayers to ancestors. Celebrated by Muslims, Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Eid, is a joyous festival symbolizing positivity and goodness at the end of their fasting period. Even Christmas is celebrated with buildings covered with bright festive lights and holiday markets.

Singapore's traditional art and design celebrates its cultural heritage. For example, Peranakan's beadwork and embroidery need practice, patience, and passion. Tiny, colourful beads are hand-sewn onto footwear, making special slippers called kasut manek. The production of the gorgeous textile art known as batik continues to be sought after and worn at celebrations and ceremonies. The batik method is a meticulous process of artists creating intricate wax drawings alternating with wax-resistant dyes to produce patterned textiles and clothing.

What are Singaporean people like socially?

If you are first meeting a Singaporean, you'll likely experience them being socially polite and reserved. Space between bodies while talking is typical, as personal space is preferred. There are non-verbal cues to watch for, as well as intonation of the voice indicating emotional feelings. Eye contact plus gentle head nods help to indicate you are paying attention in conversation. It is rare to encounter loud voices or yelling.  

Friendships among Singaporeans take time to develop but are cherished once established. Even once people are friends, conversations tend to lean impersonal, as topics including politics and religion are avoided. Harmony and respect are highly valued in interactions. Singapore has an active nightlife, especially for younger generations. You might get invited out with locals to dance to DJ beats, savour bespoke cocktails, catch a live band or enjoy a good laugh at a comedy club!

What language is spoken in Singapore?

Singapore has four official languages, including English, Singaporean Mandarin, Tamil and Malay. Travellers will find that many locals speak English, which is the language most used in business and schools. Road signage is also in English, along with the other official languages. Otherwise, 40% of the population speaks Mandarin, with some variation in dialects. If you'd like to connect with the locals, learn a few basic Mandarin words like nǐ hǎo (hello), xièxiè (thank you) and zài jiàn (goodbye).