What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Singapore?
We asked people in Singapore if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Singapore. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use your thumb or an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to dress modestly, as Singapore is a conservative society. Avoid public displays of affection, as this is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, as Singapore is a multi-religious society. Finally, it is important to be mindful of the local language, as English is not the primary language in Singapore," wrote a member who made the move to Singapore.
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"I tried to say words in Chinese at times which came out as different words due to the tonal aspects of the language," explained one expat living in Singapore, Singapore.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Singapore?
- How do I meet people in Singapore?
- What is life like in Singapore?
- Is there a lot of crime in Singapore?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Singapore accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Singapore like?
- Is the cost of living in Singapore high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Singapore?
- What are healthcare services like in Singapore?
- Is the cost of living in Singapore high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Singapore?
- What is the weather like in Singapore?
- Are there good restaurants in Singapore?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Singapore?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Singapore?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Singapore?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Singapore?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Singapore?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Singapore?
If you live in Singapore, newcomers to Singapore would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.