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!...
"I tried to say words in Chinese at times which came out as different words due to the tonal aspects of the language," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Singapore, Singapore.
"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," commented one expat who made the move to Singapore.
GeoBlueGet Quote
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlueGeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Singapore?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Singapore?
- Will I be able to find a job in Singapore?
- What is life like in Singapore?
- What do expats in Singapore appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- 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?
- What are healthcare services like in Singapore?
- What are medical services in Singapore like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Singapore?
- What are emergency services like in Singapore?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Singapore?
- How are local medical facilities in Singapore?
- As a foreigner living in Singapore, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
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 one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.