Sustainability at The Traveller DMC
Welcome to Singapore! This quickstart guide is designed to help tourists and tour guides alike navigate the unique customs, cultural norms, and vibrant traditions of this dynamic city-state.
Known for its rich cultural diversity, world-class cuisine, and iconic skyline, Singapore offers an experience that is both modern and deeply rooted in heritage. Within these pages, you’ll find practical advice including an introduction to the city, cultural etiquette, useful apps, and essential guidelines for visiting religious and historical sites. By understanding and embracing these local practices, you'll gain deeper insight into the values that shape life in Singapore—ensuring a respectful, enriching, and memorable journey through its most treasured precincts.
General Rules, Health & Safety when Navigating Singapore
Information to help you understand our general rules and how to protect yourself during your visit
Surviving The Heat
Singapore’s climate is hot and humid all-year round, even at
night. Locals typically wear light and breathable clothing - Think T-shirts, shorts, sandals, flip-flops, and hats. We recommend you do the same whenever stepping outdoors.
To survive the heat, drink plenty of water. You’d be glad to know that our tap water is drinkable, though most locals boil it before drinking - You can do the same too.
Tip: Bring an umbrella - It’s handy for hiding from the heat and from sudden storms
Dressing For The Occassion
Some places may require you to dress more apporpriately. These will include
spots such as religious sites and fine-dining restaurants. The minimum in this
case will be a Smart Casual dress code.
Some religious sites and fine-dining establishments may offer
appropriate coverings or attire to help meet their dress code
requirements. However, as this service is not guaranteed at all venues,
it's best to come prepared with suitable clothing.
Tip: Before visiting, check online for any dress code the establishment
wants you to follow
You & Your belongings
Singapore is known for its low crime rate, but as the saying goes - “Low crime
doesn’t mean no crime!”
- Always check your belongings before leaving a place, or before exiting the public transport
- For extra security, sling your bag in front of you when travelling around
- Keep large amounts of cash hidden and in a safe space on your person
- Do not openly flaunt or brag about having massive amounts of cash in public
Tip: If you’re driving in Singapore, park in an area that is brightly lit
and is monitored by CCTV cameras
Laws & Penalties
Singapore is clean and orderly because of the stirct laws and regulations set
by our government. Common offences include:
- E-vaporizers (vapes) are strictly prohibited in Singapore
- Littering
- Smoking outside of designated zones
- Eating / Drinking on public transport
- Loitering in restricted areas
- Chewing Gum (Yes we’re serious about this one)
Tip: It may seem silly, but please bin your trash properly in their
designated bins. Do not litter
Cultural Etiquette & Norms of Singapore
Understanding the local customs is key to having a smooth and respectful experience in Singapore. Here’s what you need to know:
Greeting Customs
Handshakes are generally accepted, but be mindful of certain cultural and religious preferences:
- For Muslim women, a nod or placing a hand over the chest is an
appropriate greeting
- In Chinese etiquette, especially for the elderly, it’s common to give a gentle
two-handed handshake
Tip: Though not widely practiced, a simple “Hello” or “Good Morning /
Afternoon” is appreciated
Dining Etiquette
Our local cuisine is the highlight for every first-timer’s visit to Singapore, but
be mindful of some of the local practices:
- When buying your food, do queue up properly and never hop the queue
- Do clean up after your meals, and return your trays to a designated return station
- When eating with chopsticks, do not stick them upright in your food
- When eating with hands, especially for Malay and Indian cuisine, use only the right hand
A common practice you’ll see is people “Chope-ing” tables - A method of
reserving tables at a hawker centre, typically done with a tissue packet.
So remember, when you see an item on the table, that table is “Chope-d”
Tip: Before visiting, check online for any dress code the establishment
wants you to follow
Behaviour in Public Spaces
The locals want to enjoy their day as much as you do. Here’s how to be
respectful in public:
- Avoid talking too loudly to friends or on your phone in public transport
- Refrain from blasting your music in public spaces
- Avoid pushing past people to get to your destination faster
- Public Displays of Affection (PDA) should be kept to a minimum
- Avoid hogging multiple seats on public transport
Tip: Like our road systems, we stand on the left side of escalators in
Singapore, and the right side is typically the “Fast Lane
Follow Local Signages & Local Cues
Singapore is a city that values order, clarity, and respect — and this is
reflected in its well-designed signage system. Whether you're navigating a
train station, temple, gallery, or hawker centre, being attentive to signs is not
only helpful but essential for respectful conduct
Signs here aren’t just suggestions - they often reflect legal rules or deep
cultural norms. Ignoring them may lead to:
- Unintentionally disrespecting sacred spaces
- Public reprimand
- Fines or penalties, particularly in regulated areas like transport systems or government buildings
Tip: It may seem silly, but please bin your trash properly in their
designated bins. Do not litter
Visiting Singapore’s Religious Sites
SIngapore is a multicultural hotpot of various ethnicities and cultures - Here’s how to have a respectful and immersive experience when visiting
Modest & Appropriate Dressing
Modest attire is expected and greatly appreciated when planning to visit all
cultural and religious sites. Here’s what we recommend you to wear:
- Tops that cover your chest and shoulders
- Bottoms that cover the knees (3/4 Pants or long dresses are fine)
- Covered shoes or sandals with straps
Avoid the following:
- Sleeveless tops or crop tops, short shorts
- Clothing that is transparent or revealing
- Clothing pieces that have explicit or inappropriate art or language
Tip: Some places may provide shawls or robes at the entrance for you,
however it’s still best to come prepared
Keep Noise to A Minimum
Many of these sacred places are meant for prayer, worship, and reflection, so
it’s best to keep the noise to a minimum:
- Please refrain from any loud conversations or laughter
- Avoid taking phone calls inside the main halls of sacred places
- Do not disrupt any ongoing rituals or Religious activities
- Observe ceromonies from a respectful distance
- Do not walk in front of or in-between people who are praying
As a guest, your presence should not disrupt the sanctity of the moment.
Quiet observation is not only polite - it's often the best way to connect
with the spiritual rhythm of the place.
Tip: If you’re intending to visit with your children, please educate them
beforehand on the importance of behaving when visiting religious sites
Ask Before Taking Photos
Whilst many of our cultural sites are visually stunning, photography may be
restricted or prohibited in some areas. It’s best to ask before snapping photos
- especially photos of prayer halls or altars
Always do the following before taking photos:
- Check for signages that indicate photography rules
- Ask permission if unsure
- Avoid using flash or tripods in quiet settings
Tip: Never photograph people in prayer without their explicit consent,
it’s considred intrusive and disrespectful
Don’t Touch Sacred Objects
Altars, idols, prayer items, incense burners, or religious books often hold deep
spiritual significance. Please refrain from touching any prayer item or leaning
against any statue or structure
Sometimes you may see food offerings, joss sticks, and incense out in public,
such as on the roadside. Please do not remove or step over these offering
Tip: Avoid pointing at deities or altars — it’s considered rude in many
Asian cultures
Singapore’s Popular Cultural / Religious Sites
We’ve curated a list of our cultural and religious places that you can explore. Do be mindful of the rules of each religious site!
Chinatown / Telok Ayer District
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum
This iconic temple in Singapore is named after what is believed to be a
tooth relic from the god Buddha, which is housed in a golden stupa on
the temple’s fourth floor. Inspired by Tang Dynasty architecture, this
temple also houses a museum, rooftop garden, and grand prayer hall
Visitor Tips:
- Modest dressing (covered shoulders and knees)
- No photography inside the main prayer hall
- Take shoes off when entering certain sections
Location: 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840
Sri Mariamman Temple
Built in 1827, this is Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, dedicated to the
goddess Mariamman, the deity of disease protection and health. The
temple is known for its ornate Gopuram (entrance tower), vibrant
sculptures depicting different Hindu religious figures, and their rich
festival celebrations
Visitor Tips:
- Modest dressing (no short skirts or sleeveless tops)
- No photography without permission
- Take shoes off outside before entering the premises
Location: 244 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058793
Thian Hock Keng Temple
Built in 1839 by early Chinese immigrants, this temple is dedicated to
Mazu, the goddess of the sea, who protects sailors and travellers. It is
one of the oldest and most architecturally significant Hokkien temples in
Singapore, with the structure constructed entirely without nails
Visitor Tips:
- Modest dressing (no shorts or sleeveless shirts)
- Quiet observation is encouraged
- Take shoes off when entering certain sections
Location: 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840
Masjid jamae (Jamae Mosque)
Established in 1826, it is one of the earliest mosques in Singapore and a
key spiritual site for Tamil Muslims. The mosque is famous for its unique
green facade, which combines South Indian and neoclassical
architectural elements
Visitor Tips:
- Covered attire required (robes available for visitors)
- Shoes must be removed before entering prayer halls
- Visitors are encouraged to visit outside prayer times
Location: 218 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058767
Nagore Dargah Indian Muslim Heritage Centre
Originally built as a shrine in the early 1800s by Indian Muslim
merchants from South India, it now functions as a heritage centre. The
architecture blends Indo-Islamic and European styles, and it
commemorates Sufi Saint Shahul Hamid
Visitor Tips:
- Modest dressing encouraged
- Respect the space as a heritage and interfaith site
- No loud conservations or photography near exhibits
Location: 140 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068604
Civic District
St Andrews Cathedral
Singapore’s largest and oldest Anglican cathedral, originally
consecrated in 1862. Currently it remains an active place of worship
with regular services and choir performances. The cathedral is designed
in a neo-gothic style, and it’s a national monument with stunning
stained-glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and historical chapels
Visitor Tips:
- Dress respectfully (no beachwear or sleeveless tops)
- Quiet observation is encouraged during services
- Limited photography inside - seek permission if unsure
Location: 11 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178959
Armenian Church of St Gregory The Illuminator
Built in 1835, it is Singapore’s oldest Christian church and one of its
most serene landmarks. It was designed by Geirge Coleman, reflecting a
classical Palladian style, and was gazetted as a national monument in
1973. Though no longer an active parish, it now serves as a quiet heritage
space and is open to visitors
Visitor Tips:
- Respect the silence of the grounds
- No flash photography
Location: 60 Hill Street, Singapore 179366
Kampong Gelam District
Masjid Sultan (Sultan Mosque)
Built in 1824 and reconstructed in 1932, Sultan Mosque is the largest and
most important mosque in Singapore. Recognizable by its golden domes
and black-and-gold exterior, it was originally commissioned by Sultan
Hussein Shah, the first Sultan of Singapore. It has been gazetted as a
national monument and remains an active mosque, welcoming
thousands of worshippers daily
Visitor Tips:
- Dress modestly (robes provided if available)
- Remove shoes before entering prayer areas
- Maintain silence and avoid photography inside the premises
Location: 3 Muscat Street, Singapore 198833
Malay heritage Center
Housed in the former royal palace (Istana Kampong Glam) of Sultan
Hussein’s family, this museum tells the story of Malay culture and
history in Singapore. The museum often hosts cultural festivals and
outdoor markets, with exhibits spanning from traditional crafts, fashion,
music, and political milestones of the local Malay community.
Visitor Tips:
- No flash photography in gallery areas
- Entrance fees apply (there are discount available for seniors and
children)
Location: 85 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198501
Little India District
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
One of the oldest and most prominent Hindu temples in Singapore,
dedicated to the goddess Kali, the fierce form of Parvati. It was built in
the early 1880s by Tamil immigrants, and features striking South Indian
Dravidian architecture, intricate sculptures, and colourful Gopurams
(entrance towers)
Visitor Tips:
- Dress modestly (no shorts or sleeveless shirts)
- Remove shoes before entering the premises
- Photography only allowed in designated areas (no flash)
Location: 141 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218042
Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple (Temple of 1,000 Lights)
Built in 1927 by a Thai monk, this temple is famed for its 15-metre-tall
seated Buddha statue, surrounded by a halo of electric lights - hence
the nickname “Temple of 1,000 Lights”. Inside, you’ll find mural
paintings, smaller Buddha statues, and Thai-influenced decorative
elements
Visitor Tips:
- Remove shoes before entering the premises
- Dress respectfully (no loud or inappropriate clothing)
- Quiet observation encouraged
Location: 366 Race Course Road, Singapore 218638
Masjid Angullia (Anguilla Mosque)
Established in 1890, this is a prominent Tamil-Muslim mosque named
after its donor, Mohamed Salleh Eusoof Angullia. Located right along the
stretch of Serangoon Road, this mosque serves the Muslim community
of Little India and beyond
Visitor Tips:
- Dress modestly (scarves may be offered if needed)
- Remove shoes before entering the premises
- Non-Muslims are welcome outside of prayer times
Location: 265 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218099
Useful Tips
Some additional tips & tricks to help you navigate Singapore easier
Card Payments
Many places in Singapore accept bank cards or mobile pay as a payment
method. This would include malls, restaurants, attractions, public transport,
as well as some parking gantries in malls and hotels.
However, many of our heartland shops and hawker centres do not readily
accept card payment. So, it’s still a good idea to carry some cash on hand for
these situations.
Tip: The Singapore Dollar (SGD) is the only legal tender accepted in all
shops and outlets
Taking Public Transport
Singapore’s public transport system is seamless, fast, and efficient. We
recommend you try out taking the public transport instead of relying on taxis
or private-hire vehicles.
All MRT stations in Singapore have a MRT map system in convenient spots for
you to track your route. Many bus stops and terminus stations also have
digital signboards showing bus timings and their destinations.
Tip: Priority seats are available on MRTs and buses for those who need it.
Always offer your seat whenever required
Internet Connectivity
Free WiFi is available at many shopping malls, MRT Stations, hotels, and
attractions. These are useful for when you need internet on-the-go.
For those intending to purchase a SIM Card, many of our convenience stores,
like 7-Eleven or Cheers, offer prepaid SIM cards or portable WiFi devices. You
can also purchase these at Changi Airport.
Tip: Wireless@SG is Singapore’s official public Wi-Fi network. Just
connect using your mobile number and start using!
Renting A Car
Car rental is readily available in Singapore. All you need is your International
Drivers Permit (IDP), a valid cashcard or bank card for parking, and you’re all set!
When on our roads, drive carefully and defensively, look out for road and traffic signs, and be aware of your surroundings. Plan your routes early so that you can have a safe and smooth journey.
Tip: In Singapore, we drive on the left-hand side of the roads. Do take note and don’t end up on the wrong side.
Helpful Apps
We recommend these apps for you to download to make your journey in Singapore more seamless and hassle-free
Grab - Food & Transport
Singapore’s go-to for all ride-hailing purposes. Also
used for ordering food, delivering packages, and more.
IOS
Google Play
MyTransport.SG - MRT & Bus Navigation
A handy tool for navigating Singapore’s public
transport systen. It shows you MRT and bus routes,
as well as real-time traffic conditions
IOS
Google Play
Chope - Restaurant Reservations
Used commonly to search for new restaurant
recommendations, and to make reservations at
restaurants
IOS
Google Play
Klook - Attractions & More!
A popular app for tourists and locals to book hotel
stays, tours, attraction tickets, and also SIM cards
for travel
IOS
Google Play
YouTrip - Easy & Flexible Card Payments
YouTrip is a multi-currency payment app that allows
you to make purchases in foreign currencies,
without having to worry about proecessing fees
IOS
Google Play
Parking.SG - Street & Coupon Parking
If you’re driving in Singapore, you wil need the
parking.SG app to pay for any roadside parking or at
any coupon parking lots
IOS
Google Play