Certain destinations across the world are slowly becoming more popular than ever, and Singapore is on this list for a wide range of reasons. It’s an urban metropolis brimming with charm, still rooted in authentic Asian culture as well as love for nature. Such a colorful mix of appeal makes it all the more alluring for the contemporary traveler, although its true identity hides many curiosities that are yet to be unraveled.
Before you go, which you absolutely should, take a closer look at a few truths about this exquisite city, and brace yourself for an adventure of a lifetime!
1. Learn some Singlish
Since it’s located in Southeast Asia, you can expect the locals to use one of their dialects, whether it’s Malay, Mandarin or Tamil. However, don’t underestimate the ability of natives to converse fluently in excellent English, as it is taught alongside their native tongues, and considering their booming tourism, it’s only natural they’re becoming even more proficient. However, one particular phenomenon is very unique to this city, and that’s the emergence of Singlish – a hybrid blend of their local languages with English.
You’ll come across a variety of English words used in a different context than the ones you’re used to, while certain word mixes deliver a unique vocabulary of innovative phrases known and used by locals only. The verb “can” is a wonderful example, as it’s used instead of “yes”, while “gostan” is a derivative of “go astern”, meaning go backwards or reverse. If you find yourself in a hawker center (which you definitely should), you can use the term “tabao” to emphasize you’re asking for takeaway food.
2. Prep for the climate
“Friends” fans out there, do you recall Monica from the episode when they go to Barbados? You’ll be greeted by a similarly adamant mix of heat and humidity as well as rain when you go to Singapore, so it’s vital that you pack accordingly. Simply put, plenty of light layers are your best option, and a sturdy umbrella to keep you dry when it starts pouring. This should also help you book your journey outside of monsoon seasons (December to March, and May to September), or at least make sure to check the forecast for your upcoming travels.
As for those among you who are dealing with longer locks, it can be quite difficult to tame your mane once you enter the tropical zone. The best you can do is keep your hair collected into a ponytail or a bun, or at least in a braid. Humidity can indeed cause some trouble if you want to maintain a particular hairstyle.
3. Learn about the other locals
When you tell people you’re going to Australia, you’re flooded by comments regarding the native wildlife, especially the wide range of dangerous species, from snakes to tarantulas, roaming around. Remember the tropical mood of Singapore? The territory was once covered by a jungle, and not all of its inhabitants have decided to flee from urbanization, but adapted instead. To that end, the citizens also adapted, by doing their absolute best to stay safe, alert, and invest in long-term protection.
Simply, investing in life insurance in Singapore has become a norm, thus protecting their families from any potential mishap with Mother Nature as well as other, more civilized dangers. If you lived in an area known for being loved by pythons and crocodiles, you’d most likely do the same. However, while you do want to be careful when you head to less urbanized corners of Singapore, also beware of falling coconuts during your coast explorations – they can be quite aggressive.
4. Prepare for high prices
While tipping is not customary in Singapore, with an included 10% gratuity on most of restaurant bills, the city does come with a high-priced lifestyle, and tourists will come across many pricy services during their stay. On another positive note, taxis are regulated in Singapore unlike many other Asian spots, so the price you pay is perfectly legal, albeit high. Cheaper alternatives include Uber and Grab, and you can also use the well-connected public transportation system.
If you’d like to enjoy a beer, think twice – alcohol comes with a “sin” tax of $60 per liter, making it an extremely unaffordable option especially for guests in the city. From malls, boutique stores, all the way to restaurants and hotels, the city is truly expensive, and perhaps it’s best to find a tour that will enable you certain discounts.
5. Rethink your accommodation
We’ve all got used to the idea of living in locals’ apartments and homes when we travel abroad, not just for the sake of greater affordability, but also for a more personal experience. However, Singapore doesn’t allow the usage of Airbnb and renting their property, as the vast majority of them live in leased housing.
Depending on your budget, you can look for the most affordable accommodation in Chinatown or Little India, while the entire city is brimming with hostels and hotels to meet your needs. Luxury travel is also a growing trend in the city, for those with a love for all things lush.
6. Release your inner gourmet
Singapore is truly the dream city for those who wish to enjoy a sip of the finest, most unique cup of joe, while you can also treat yourself to some authentic meals only local chefs can make. For starters, get to know the coffee lingo before you order, and give their coffee with condensed milk a try – it won’t disappoint.
Even though you’ll come across many international restaurants, you should give their local delicacies a go, especially if you’re already familiar with certain Asian tastes. For example, head straight to their hawker centers to get a portion of their oyster omelet, fried carrot cake, as well as the famous pork rib soup. Spare yourself the pricy restaurant visits and go to these food stalls for the most genuine Singaporean experience without the hefty price tag!
