Singapore’s rich cultural diversity means there’s a diversity of etiquettes to consider when travelling there. There’s aren’t any specific regulations when it comes to dress, other than to show respect in temples by removing shoes and covering your head, shoulders etc, dependant on the occasion, though you’ll find that public nudity is a huge no no (even within the confines of a hotel). Saving face, the concept of keeping harmony in social settings and not losing respect by acting in certain ways is very similar to other South East Asian destinations, and this should be considered when speaking to locals about anything from food to politics.

Of course there are other issues, for example one of dining with different cultures and in different cultural settings. For example, Malays are mostly practicing Muslims, so meat will be strictly halal, there will be no pork or alcohol imbibed, and utensils will always be held
with the right hand (for placing food in the mouth). On the other hand, ethnic Indians tend to practice Hinduism or Sikhism, therefore beef won’t be served. vegetarianism is quite popular and food can be eaten with the fingers, but again only with the right hand, while in contrast, Chinese Singaporeans will use chopsticks to eat, and alcohol is not prohibited. However it’s generally polite to only order alcohol if the host or other guests begin to drink (if you’re dining with locals). That aside – don’t chew chewing gum or spit in public – both of which carry heavy fines.

Learning the ways of another culture can be a fascinating insight into that culture, but in Singapore, it’s an insight into a plethora of cultures and a fascinating way to uncover more about the city and its diverse inhabitants.