With its futuristic image, vibrant innovation ecosystem, and uniquely syncretic culture, Singapore attracts millions of tourists and business travelers each year. If you\u2019re planning your first trip to Singapore, you\u2019ll want to throw out all your assumptions about the country. As small as it is, Singapore\u2019s culture is truly unique, with few real comparisons to be made with its neighbors or other highly developed nations. To ensure that your stay is pleasant and memorable for all the right reasons, be sure to follow these useful pieces of advice:<\/p>\n
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What it Takes for Foreigners to Start a Business<\/strong><\/h3>\nStarting a business in Singapore<\/a>, often hailed as one of the world\u2019s most business-friendly destinations, requires a strategic approach. To understand how to start a business in this city-state<\/strong><\/a>, you\u2019ll first need to choose a business structure, such as a private limited company, sole proprietorship, or partnership. Singapore\u2019s straightforward process involves registering your business name and incorporating it through the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). You\u2019ll also need to ensure compliance with tax regulations, such as registering for Goods and Services Tax (GST)<\/a> if applicable and obtaining any necessary business licenses. With its robust infrastructure, favorable tax policies, and access to global markets, Singapore provides an ideal environment for entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow their ventures.<\/p>\nBring an Unlocked Phone<\/strong><\/h3>\nEnsure you have an unlocked phone so that you can easily purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Having a local number will give you access to affordable data plans and make it convenient to stay connected during your trip. Check out local metasearch engines to find the best\u00a0SIM-only plan Singapore\u2019s stores have for international travelers.<\/p>\n
Familiarise Yourself with Local Laws and Customs<\/strong><\/h3>\nRespect the locals and take the time to learn about everyday Singaporean customs, such as removing your shoes before entering someone\u2019s home, covering your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites, and not staring directly at people. Importantly, be sure to also look up\u00a0local laws governing public conduct, as Singapore is often called a \u201cfine\u201d city for good reason.<\/p>\n
Dress for the Climate<\/strong><\/h3>\nSingapore technically has two seasons: a \u2018dry\u2019 season that lasts from March to August and a \u2018wet\u2019 season that lasts from September to February. However, despite the names of these seasons, it can rain at any time and can likewise be hot and humid throughout the whole year. Leave your winter boots and leather jacket at home and opt for breathable clothing and practical shoes to stay comfortable while exploring the city. Don\u2019t forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen as well.<\/p>\n
Purchase an EZ-Link Card<\/strong><\/h3>\nInvest in an EZ-Link card, a reloadable contactless smart card that can be used to pay for rides throughout Singapore\u2019s excellent public transportation system. Interestingly, you can even use the card to pay for items at some retail outlets. If you\u2019re moving around the city by yourself, the EZ-Link card will save you time and money compared to purchasing single-trip tickets.<\/p>\n
Explore Singapore\u2019s Hawker Centres\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\nDon\u2019t forget to visit a few of the country\u2019s world-famous hawker centers. These food centers house multiple food stalls, most of which serve signature dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. Be sure to keep an eye out for stalls serving Peranakan dishes to partake in less-touristy and truly authentic Straits cuisine.<\/p>\n
Embrace the Diverse Food Scene<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore\u2019s culinary soul lies in its homes and hawker centres, it is also a haven for international and fusion cuisine. The country lives for culinary thrills, so be sure to do some research and hit up restaurants, cafes, and hole-in-the-wall eateries that appeal to you.<\/p>\n
Stay Hydrated<\/strong><\/h3>\nBetween Singapore\u2019s tropical climate and all the walking that you\u2019re bound to do when exploring the country, it\u2019s important to stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle and make use of the many water coolers available throughout the city to refill it. Fortunately, most tap water in Singapore is also safe to drink, so you can refill your bottles at most taps unless there\u2019s a sign that says otherwise.<\/p>\n
Be Mindful of the Chewing Gum Ban<\/strong><\/h3>\nYou might have thought that it was a joke but it\u2019s true. The sale of chewing gum is mostly prohibited in Singapore except for therapeutic or dental purposes. While you can\u00a0bring small amounts\u00a0into the country for personal use, it\u2019s hardly worth the trouble. As Lee Kwan Yew, the country\u2019s first prime minister and the originator of the ban quipped, \u201cIf you can\u2019t think because you can\u2019t chew, try a banana.\u201d<\/p>\n
Carry Cash with You<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile cashless payment methods are becoming more popular in Singapore, it\u2019s still a good idea to carry some local currency for small vendors and the many establishments that are still strictly cash-only. In particular, many food stalls at hawker centres will only accept cash payments.<\/p>\n
Visit Only the Attractions That Interest You<\/strong><\/h3>\nEven though it\u2019s as small as it is, Singapore offers hundreds of unique attractions, catering to all tastes and interests. There\u2019s so much to do that many locals have not fully explored their own country themselves. If you\u2019re only going to be in the country for a week or so, avoid visiting popular places for the sake of visiting them; instead, choose places that are more likely to be more meaningful to you.<\/p>\n
Take Advantage of Free Attractions<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore is admittedly quite an expensive country to visit, it also offers several free attractions that are worth exploring. Places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Merlion Park, Fort Canning Park, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, and the various ethnic enclaves are an excellent way to experience the city without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Forget to Flush<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Bring an Unlocked Phone<\/strong><\/h3>\nEnsure you have an unlocked phone so that you can easily purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Having a local number will give you access to affordable data plans and make it convenient to stay connected during your trip. Check out local metasearch engines to find the best\u00a0SIM-only plan Singapore\u2019s stores have for international travelers.<\/p>\n
Familiarise Yourself with Local Laws and Customs<\/strong><\/h3>\nRespect the locals and take the time to learn about everyday Singaporean customs, such as removing your shoes before entering someone\u2019s home, covering your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites, and not staring directly at people. Importantly, be sure to also look up\u00a0local laws governing public conduct, as Singapore is often called a \u201cfine\u201d city for good reason.<\/p>\n
Dress for the Climate<\/strong><\/h3>\nSingapore technically has two seasons: a \u2018dry\u2019 season that lasts from March to August and a \u2018wet\u2019 season that lasts from September to February. However, despite the names of these seasons, it can rain at any time and can likewise be hot and humid throughout the whole year. Leave your winter boots and leather jacket at home and opt for breathable clothing and practical shoes to stay comfortable while exploring the city. Don\u2019t forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen as well.<\/p>\n
Purchase an EZ-Link Card<\/strong><\/h3>\nInvest in an EZ-Link card, a reloadable contactless smart card that can be used to pay for rides throughout Singapore\u2019s excellent public transportation system. Interestingly, you can even use the card to pay for items at some retail outlets. If you\u2019re moving around the city by yourself, the EZ-Link card will save you time and money compared to purchasing single-trip tickets.<\/p>\n
Explore Singapore\u2019s Hawker Centres\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\nDon\u2019t forget to visit a few of the country\u2019s world-famous hawker centers. These food centers house multiple food stalls, most of which serve signature dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. Be sure to keep an eye out for stalls serving Peranakan dishes to partake in less-touristy and truly authentic Straits cuisine.<\/p>\n
Embrace the Diverse Food Scene<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore\u2019s culinary soul lies in its homes and hawker centres, it is also a haven for international and fusion cuisine. The country lives for culinary thrills, so be sure to do some research and hit up restaurants, cafes, and hole-in-the-wall eateries that appeal to you.<\/p>\n
Stay Hydrated<\/strong><\/h3>\nBetween Singapore\u2019s tropical climate and all the walking that you\u2019re bound to do when exploring the country, it\u2019s important to stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle and make use of the many water coolers available throughout the city to refill it. Fortunately, most tap water in Singapore is also safe to drink, so you can refill your bottles at most taps unless there\u2019s a sign that says otherwise.<\/p>\n
Be Mindful of the Chewing Gum Ban<\/strong><\/h3>\nYou might have thought that it was a joke but it\u2019s true. The sale of chewing gum is mostly prohibited in Singapore except for therapeutic or dental purposes. While you can\u00a0bring small amounts\u00a0into the country for personal use, it\u2019s hardly worth the trouble. As Lee Kwan Yew, the country\u2019s first prime minister and the originator of the ban quipped, \u201cIf you can\u2019t think because you can\u2019t chew, try a banana.\u201d<\/p>\n
Carry Cash with You<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile cashless payment methods are becoming more popular in Singapore, it\u2019s still a good idea to carry some local currency for small vendors and the many establishments that are still strictly cash-only. In particular, many food stalls at hawker centres will only accept cash payments.<\/p>\n
Visit Only the Attractions That Interest You<\/strong><\/h3>\nEven though it\u2019s as small as it is, Singapore offers hundreds of unique attractions, catering to all tastes and interests. There\u2019s so much to do that many locals have not fully explored their own country themselves. If you\u2019re only going to be in the country for a week or so, avoid visiting popular places for the sake of visiting them; instead, choose places that are more likely to be more meaningful to you.<\/p>\n
Take Advantage of Free Attractions<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore is admittedly quite an expensive country to visit, it also offers several free attractions that are worth exploring. Places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Merlion Park, Fort Canning Park, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, and the various ethnic enclaves are an excellent way to experience the city without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Forget to Flush<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Respect the locals and take the time to learn about everyday Singaporean customs, such as removing your shoes before entering someone\u2019s home, covering your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites, and not staring directly at people. Importantly, be sure to also look up\u00a0local laws governing public conduct, as Singapore is often called a \u201cfine\u201d city for good reason.<\/p>\n
Dress for the Climate<\/strong><\/h3>\nSingapore technically has two seasons: a \u2018dry\u2019 season that lasts from March to August and a \u2018wet\u2019 season that lasts from September to February. However, despite the names of these seasons, it can rain at any time and can likewise be hot and humid throughout the whole year. Leave your winter boots and leather jacket at home and opt for breathable clothing and practical shoes to stay comfortable while exploring the city. Don\u2019t forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen as well.<\/p>\n
Purchase an EZ-Link Card<\/strong><\/h3>\nInvest in an EZ-Link card, a reloadable contactless smart card that can be used to pay for rides throughout Singapore\u2019s excellent public transportation system. Interestingly, you can even use the card to pay for items at some retail outlets. If you\u2019re moving around the city by yourself, the EZ-Link card will save you time and money compared to purchasing single-trip tickets.<\/p>\n
Explore Singapore\u2019s Hawker Centres\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\nDon\u2019t forget to visit a few of the country\u2019s world-famous hawker centers. These food centers house multiple food stalls, most of which serve signature dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. Be sure to keep an eye out for stalls serving Peranakan dishes to partake in less-touristy and truly authentic Straits cuisine.<\/p>\n
Embrace the Diverse Food Scene<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore\u2019s culinary soul lies in its homes and hawker centres, it is also a haven for international and fusion cuisine. The country lives for culinary thrills, so be sure to do some research and hit up restaurants, cafes, and hole-in-the-wall eateries that appeal to you.<\/p>\n
Stay Hydrated<\/strong><\/h3>\nBetween Singapore\u2019s tropical climate and all the walking that you\u2019re bound to do when exploring the country, it\u2019s important to stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle and make use of the many water coolers available throughout the city to refill it. Fortunately, most tap water in Singapore is also safe to drink, so you can refill your bottles at most taps unless there\u2019s a sign that says otherwise.<\/p>\n
Be Mindful of the Chewing Gum Ban<\/strong><\/h3>\nYou might have thought that it was a joke but it\u2019s true. The sale of chewing gum is mostly prohibited in Singapore except for therapeutic or dental purposes. While you can\u00a0bring small amounts\u00a0into the country for personal use, it\u2019s hardly worth the trouble. As Lee Kwan Yew, the country\u2019s first prime minister and the originator of the ban quipped, \u201cIf you can\u2019t think because you can\u2019t chew, try a banana.\u201d<\/p>\n
Carry Cash with You<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile cashless payment methods are becoming more popular in Singapore, it\u2019s still a good idea to carry some local currency for small vendors and the many establishments that are still strictly cash-only. In particular, many food stalls at hawker centres will only accept cash payments.<\/p>\n
Visit Only the Attractions That Interest You<\/strong><\/h3>\nEven though it\u2019s as small as it is, Singapore offers hundreds of unique attractions, catering to all tastes and interests. There\u2019s so much to do that many locals have not fully explored their own country themselves. If you\u2019re only going to be in the country for a week or so, avoid visiting popular places for the sake of visiting them; instead, choose places that are more likely to be more meaningful to you.<\/p>\n
Take Advantage of Free Attractions<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore is admittedly quite an expensive country to visit, it also offers several free attractions that are worth exploring. Places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Merlion Park, Fort Canning Park, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, and the various ethnic enclaves are an excellent way to experience the city without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Forget to Flush<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Invest in an EZ-Link card, a reloadable contactless smart card that can be used to pay for rides throughout Singapore\u2019s excellent public transportation system. Interestingly, you can even use the card to pay for items at some retail outlets. If you\u2019re moving around the city by yourself, the EZ-Link card will save you time and money compared to purchasing single-trip tickets.<\/p>\n
Explore Singapore\u2019s Hawker Centres\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\nDon\u2019t forget to visit a few of the country\u2019s world-famous hawker centers. These food centers house multiple food stalls, most of which serve signature dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. Be sure to keep an eye out for stalls serving Peranakan dishes to partake in less-touristy and truly authentic Straits cuisine.<\/p>\n
Embrace the Diverse Food Scene<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore\u2019s culinary soul lies in its homes and hawker centres, it is also a haven for international and fusion cuisine. The country lives for culinary thrills, so be sure to do some research and hit up restaurants, cafes, and hole-in-the-wall eateries that appeal to you.<\/p>\n
Stay Hydrated<\/strong><\/h3>\nBetween Singapore\u2019s tropical climate and all the walking that you\u2019re bound to do when exploring the country, it\u2019s important to stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle and make use of the many water coolers available throughout the city to refill it. Fortunately, most tap water in Singapore is also safe to drink, so you can refill your bottles at most taps unless there\u2019s a sign that says otherwise.<\/p>\n
Be Mindful of the Chewing Gum Ban<\/strong><\/h3>\nYou might have thought that it was a joke but it\u2019s true. The sale of chewing gum is mostly prohibited in Singapore except for therapeutic or dental purposes. While you can\u00a0bring small amounts\u00a0into the country for personal use, it\u2019s hardly worth the trouble. As Lee Kwan Yew, the country\u2019s first prime minister and the originator of the ban quipped, \u201cIf you can\u2019t think because you can\u2019t chew, try a banana.\u201d<\/p>\n
Carry Cash with You<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile cashless payment methods are becoming more popular in Singapore, it\u2019s still a good idea to carry some local currency for small vendors and the many establishments that are still strictly cash-only. In particular, many food stalls at hawker centres will only accept cash payments.<\/p>\n
Visit Only the Attractions That Interest You<\/strong><\/h3>\nEven though it\u2019s as small as it is, Singapore offers hundreds of unique attractions, catering to all tastes and interests. There\u2019s so much to do that many locals have not fully explored their own country themselves. If you\u2019re only going to be in the country for a week or so, avoid visiting popular places for the sake of visiting them; instead, choose places that are more likely to be more meaningful to you.<\/p>\n
Take Advantage of Free Attractions<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore is admittedly quite an expensive country to visit, it also offers several free attractions that are worth exploring. Places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Merlion Park, Fort Canning Park, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, and the various ethnic enclaves are an excellent way to experience the city without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Forget to Flush<\/strong><\/h3>\n
While Singapore\u2019s culinary soul lies in its homes and hawker centres, it is also a haven for international and fusion cuisine. The country lives for culinary thrills, so be sure to do some research and hit up restaurants, cafes, and hole-in-the-wall eateries that appeal to you.<\/p>\n
Stay Hydrated<\/strong><\/h3>\nBetween Singapore\u2019s tropical climate and all the walking that you\u2019re bound to do when exploring the country, it\u2019s important to stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle and make use of the many water coolers available throughout the city to refill it. Fortunately, most tap water in Singapore is also safe to drink, so you can refill your bottles at most taps unless there\u2019s a sign that says otherwise.<\/p>\n
Be Mindful of the Chewing Gum Ban<\/strong><\/h3>\nYou might have thought that it was a joke but it\u2019s true. The sale of chewing gum is mostly prohibited in Singapore except for therapeutic or dental purposes. While you can\u00a0bring small amounts\u00a0into the country for personal use, it\u2019s hardly worth the trouble. As Lee Kwan Yew, the country\u2019s first prime minister and the originator of the ban quipped, \u201cIf you can\u2019t think because you can\u2019t chew, try a banana.\u201d<\/p>\n
Carry Cash with You<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile cashless payment methods are becoming more popular in Singapore, it\u2019s still a good idea to carry some local currency for small vendors and the many establishments that are still strictly cash-only. In particular, many food stalls at hawker centres will only accept cash payments.<\/p>\n
Visit Only the Attractions That Interest You<\/strong><\/h3>\nEven though it\u2019s as small as it is, Singapore offers hundreds of unique attractions, catering to all tastes and interests. There\u2019s so much to do that many locals have not fully explored their own country themselves. If you\u2019re only going to be in the country for a week or so, avoid visiting popular places for the sake of visiting them; instead, choose places that are more likely to be more meaningful to you.<\/p>\n
Take Advantage of Free Attractions<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore is admittedly quite an expensive country to visit, it also offers several free attractions that are worth exploring. Places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Merlion Park, Fort Canning Park, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, and the various ethnic enclaves are an excellent way to experience the city without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Forget to Flush<\/strong><\/h3>\n
You might have thought that it was a joke but it\u2019s true. The sale of chewing gum is mostly prohibited in Singapore except for therapeutic or dental purposes. While you can\u00a0bring small amounts\u00a0into the country for personal use, it\u2019s hardly worth the trouble. As Lee Kwan Yew, the country\u2019s first prime minister and the originator of the ban quipped, \u201cIf you can\u2019t think because you can\u2019t chew, try a banana.\u201d<\/p>\n
Carry Cash with You<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile cashless payment methods are becoming more popular in Singapore, it\u2019s still a good idea to carry some local currency for small vendors and the many establishments that are still strictly cash-only. In particular, many food stalls at hawker centres will only accept cash payments.<\/p>\n
Visit Only the Attractions That Interest You<\/strong><\/h3>\nEven though it\u2019s as small as it is, Singapore offers hundreds of unique attractions, catering to all tastes and interests. There\u2019s so much to do that many locals have not fully explored their own country themselves. If you\u2019re only going to be in the country for a week or so, avoid visiting popular places for the sake of visiting them; instead, choose places that are more likely to be more meaningful to you.<\/p>\n
Take Advantage of Free Attractions<\/strong><\/h3>\nWhile Singapore is admittedly quite an expensive country to visit, it also offers several free attractions that are worth exploring. Places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Merlion Park, Fort Canning Park, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, and the various ethnic enclaves are an excellent way to experience the city without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Forget to Flush<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Even though it\u2019s as small as it is, Singapore offers hundreds of unique attractions, catering to all tastes and interests. There\u2019s so much to do that many locals have not fully explored their own country themselves. If you\u2019re only going to be in the country for a week or so, avoid visiting popular places for the sake of visiting them; instead, choose places that are more likely to be more meaningful to you.<\/p>\n