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.What etiquette should you pay attention to when studying in Singapore?Transportation tips for studying in Singapore, ,Safety tips for studying in Singapore, ,English for International Students in SingaporeThe problem.
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.
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 people of different 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: Guide to currency exchange for studying in Singapore
First, let’s take a look at some common sense about currency.
1. Introduction to Singapore’s currency
Types and denominations of Singapore dollars: 10,000, 1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 1 Singapore dollar, 9 denominations of banknotes, subsidiary currency unit is cents, there are 50, 20, 10, 5, 1 cent and 1 dollar coins. The currency symbol is S$.
Exchange: You can exchange it into Singapore dollars or US dollars in China, or exchange it after arriving in Singapore. US dollars can be used directly for consumption in Singapore and can be exchanged at the airport, Chinatown, etc.
Exchange rate: roughly 1 Singapore dollar to 4.9 RMB.
Several major credit card services, including American Express, Diners Card, JCB, Mastercard and Visa, are generally accepted. Another popular payment method is the NETS system, which allows convenient payment via ATM cards. Some merchants accept UnionPay cards. If any merchant insists on charging additional fees, please notify the issuing bank or credit card company immediately.
2. Currency Conversion
Money can be exchanged in banks, hotels and any other places marked as "licensed money changers" in Singapore. Most shopping malls have licensed money changers. Travellers should not exchange money with illegal money changers.
Banking hours: Monday to Friday 10:00am to 3:00pm; Saturday 9:30am to 1:00pm (a few banks are open until 3:00pm on Saturday). Some banks in Orchard Road are open on Sundays from 9:30am to 3:00pm. If necessary, check the opening hours of various banks. Most banks handle travellers cheques and foreign currency exchange. However, some banks do not handle foreign currency exchange on Saturdays.
Note:
When exchanging checks for cash, you must present your passport and pay a small processing fee.
Tipping is not a popular practice in Singapore, as most hotel and restaurant bills already include a service charge of 10%.
Summary of etiquette common sense that you should pay attention to when studying in Singapore
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