As one of the four Asian Tigers, Singapore has a developed economy and high-quality education, making it a popular destination for studying abroad in Asia.Etiquette tips for studying in SingaporeStudying in Singapore during the pandemic, ,Activities for International Students in Singapore, ,What is life like for international students in Singapore?The problem.
Etiquette tips for studying in Singapore
1. Clothing etiquette
People of different ethnic groups in Singapore have their own characteristics in clothing. Malay men wear a brimless hat called "Songkok" on their heads, a collarless, wide-sleeved garment on their upper body, and a sarong that reaches their ankles on their lower body; women wear a wide robe-like top and a sarong on their lower body. Chinese women love to wear cheongsam. Government departments have strict requirements on the clothing of their employees, and they are not allowed to wear strange clothes during working hours.
2. Posture and etiquette
Singaporeans behave in a civilized manner and show respect for others. When they sit, they are well-behaved and do not spread their legs apart. If they cross their legs, they just put one knee directly on top of the other knee. When they stand, they are well-behaved and do not put their hands on their hips, as this is a sign of anger.
3. Meeting etiquette
In social situations, Singaporeans usually shake hands with guests. Men and women can shake hands, but for men, the more appropriate way is to wait for the woman to extend her hand first before shaking hands. Malays touch each other with both hands first, then put their hands back to their chests.
4. Dining etiquette
The staple food of Singaporeans is mostly rice, and sometimes they also eat steamed buns, but they don't like steamed bread. Malays usually grab food with their hands when eating. They have the habit of washing their hands before eating, and they must use their right hands when eating. Drinking tea is a common hobby of the locals. When guests come, they often entertain them with tea. Chinese people like to drink Yuanbao tea, which means good fortune.
5. Wedding and funeral etiquette
In the eyes of Singaporeans, marriage is a big deal, and both Chinese and Malays take it very seriously. Malay marriages have to go through the procedures of courtship, engagement gifts, and marriage contracts. Singaporean Chinese people value filial piety, and if an elderly person is about to die, his or her children and grandchildren must return home to stay by his or her bedside. Funerals are generally very grand.
6. Travel etiquette
Singapore has a well-developed public transportation system. It is very convenient to take the bus during your trip. Each bus stop is clearly marked. Singapore is a multi-ethnic country, and the distribution of shops also has ethnic characteristics. For example, there is a "Malay Market" in the eastern region, which mainly sells Malay clothing and food. The Singapore government strongly discourages tipping. Even if you tip the waiter for extra service, the other party may refuse to accept it.
7. Business etiquette
The best time to go to Singapore for business is from March to October to avoid Christmas and Chinese New Year. Most business people in Singapore speak English. Business cards should be exchanged when meeting. Business cards can be printed in English. Try not to smoke during the meeting. Singaporeans do not like to waste money. Don't be too ostentatious when entertaining others, especially in business activities. The thank-you banquet should not exceed the level of the host's banquet, so as to avoid the other party having other ideas.
8. Main taboos
The beliefs of the various ethnic groups in Singapore are as follows: Most Chinese believe in Buddhism or Taoism; Most Malays believe in Islam; Indians believe in Hinduism; Most Pakistanis also believe in Islam; Westerners generally believe in Christianity. Singaporeans are afraid of the number 7 and do not like turtles. Setting off fireworks is strictly prohibited.
Further reading: What should I bring to study in Singapore?
1. Daily necessities
Singapore does not have four seasons, only summer. You don't need to bring thick clothes when you go to study in Singapore. You can bring summer short-sleeved shirts, long pants, thin coats, sports shoes, sneakers and sandals. You don't need to bring shorts. Bring some casual pants and jeans. You don't need to bring a lot. I believe you will buy them there. Of course, you must bring formal clothes, shirts and suits. You will use them in some school activities. There are also necessary daily necessities, such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, cups, towels, etc. Try to bring all of these. They are used every day. It is not convenient to buy them in Singapore temporarily. You can also bring two sets of bed sheets and quilt covers for replacement.
2. Documents
You must bring all these documents with you when studying in Singapore, including transcripts, degree certificates, passports, proof of financial resources, graduation certificates, physical examination forms, physical examination appointment forms, school admission letters, visas, etc., as well as copies of these documents. Be sure to check whether you have brought all these things before leaving.
3. Medicines
There are more mosquitoes in the summer, so you should prepare some anti-mosquito bite medicine and allergy medicine. The air conditioner may be turned on more often, so you should also bring some cold medicine. Other common medicines include anti-inflammatory medicine, diarrhea medicine, and trauma medicine. You can bring some nutritional supplements, vitamins, etc. according to your needs. It is recommended not to bring too much, as they will expire over time.
4. Books
You can bring some study books, professional books, both in Chinese and English. Books are heavy, so it is not recommended to bring too many. You can carry a pen and a small notebook with you to take notes.
V. Costs
Before you go abroad to study, you should consult online about how much it will cost to study abroad for a year, make arrangements, and see how much money you need to bring. Bring some pocket money and change RMB into Singaporean currency. You can exchange it at the airport exchange counter. Money will definitely be useful when you go to Singapore for the first time.
V. Others
Electronic products, such as mobile phones, computers, headphones, cameras, etc., need power plugs. The plugs in Singapore are all three-pin, which is different from those in China. Skin care products can be used for daily use. Remember to pay attention to sun protection when you arrive in Singapore. You can also bring gifts with Chinese characteristics to give to your classmates so that they can understand Chinese culture.
Further reading: Introduction to food, clothing, housing and transportation for studying in Singapore
1. Diet
The diverse culture has also brought about a convergence of delicious cuisines. There are not only local specialties but also delicacies from neighboring countries. Chinese food is a very important part of it, which can meet the students' dining needs, and the prices are generally relatively cheap.
Western food is also very common here, as well as Japanese and Korean specialties. Malay and Indian cuisine are also very popular here. Everyone can eat and drink something different every day. It is enough to prepare a maximum of 1,500 yuan a month, and you can also have a big meal occasionally.
2. Shopping
It has one of the world's best shopping malls, and the customs duties are relatively low, so the more expensive items you buy here, the more cost-effective they are, and you can also get a tax refund. It can be said that this is a very suitable country for purchasing, but don't spend money indiscriminately.
When shopping normally, only buy what you need. After making a list, choose to go to the mall when there are big discounts recently. This way you can save more money. If you want to buy clothes, you can wait until the season changes. The average monthly expenditure is around 1,500 yuan.
3. Transportation
Buses and subways are convenient and fast, especially when there is no traffic jam underground, which is suitable for travel during peak hours. Ground transportation can take everyone to visit Singapore. As a garden country, such natural and cultural scenery, including urban construction, are worth seeing.
To make phone calls, you need to apply for a suitable package to meet your international and domestic communication needs. You also need to confirm the cost of wireless internet. Almost the entire island here comes with wireless internet, so generally speaking, 150 yuan per month is enough.
4. Accommodation
Public schools and some private schools provide dormitories, and you need to submit an application to have a chance to move in. The dormitories are not large but have complete facilities, public areas, and shared kitchens. The fees are not expensive, costing 1,000-2,000 yuan per month.
Apartments are usually provided by cooperation between schools and institutions, and are also occupied by students, but the overall atmosphere and environment are better. They also provide a full set of living hardware and software services, as well as different room types. A single room costs around RMB 4,000, and a double room costs RMB 3,000-3,500.
Summary of etiquette common sense that you should pay attention to when studying in Singapore
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