Different cultures might have different values and practices. When studying, it is also about living, interacting, and experiencing the new culture. Therefore, for students who desire to study in Singapore, it is a great idea to understand some cultural differences and to avoid unnecessary confusion or misunderstanding.  

To help students with these concerns, here are a few helpful tips of 10 things you should do and should not do while studying and living in Singapore.  

1. Do carry some cash and coins 

Though e-payment and cards are quite common in Singapore, cash and coin are still essential especially when Singapore is filled with various vending machines for snacks, food, beverages, self-laundry, and tickets. Coins and cash in general are still in handy in some cases.  

2. Do use public transportation  

You might not be familiar at first; however, it is worth taking time to learn to use public transportation there. Singapore’s MRT and the Bus system are the most efficient way to move around. If you are going to stay for quite long, it is recommended for you to purchase the EZ-link cards which will make use so much comfortable using public transportation.  

3. Do hang out with the local 

One of the great things about studying abroad is the chance to experience their culture and lifestyle. Making friends with the locals would make you less lonely and also the best way to experience their culture and way of living. Do not misunderstand Singaporean students as ignorant. As long as you approach them, they are usually more than happy to help. When you become part of their circle. You will explore and get invited to the various hidden gem of Singapore.  

4. Do stand on the correct side 

There a culture when standing on the escalator. You should always stand on the left side of the escalator if you are not in a hurry, so there is space on the right side for people who are in a hurry to go through. Remember this so that you are not blocking someone else and don’t get unnecessary weird attention.  

5. Do have a bucket list of thing you want to do during your time in Singapore 

If you choose to pursue your degree in Singapore, it will be a long and exciting journey. It is always a great idea to have a bucket list of what you want to do there so that you are surely maximizing your time there. There are many more things besides studying. It can be visiting someplace or just eating some local food. Customize your own one! 

1. Don’t chew gum 

It is quite common for tourists or students to bring along chewing gum on their trip. If you are going to Singapore, you should not do so. Chewing gum is banned in Singapore. Singapore takes their city cleanliness very seriously and chewing gum can cost you a fine up to $1000 for first offenders. You will notice there is no gum selling in Singapore.  

2. Don’t eat or drink in public transportation  

When taking public transportation, keep in mind the law and regulation here. Singapore’s MRT is legally and officially been a “no eating or drinking”. Fines can be up to $500 for any eating or drinking. You might get away with carrying food or drink onboard as long as you hide it well in your bag. Any reminder, durian is specifically not allowed onboard even if you are not planning to eat.  

3. Don’t litter 

Singapore is known for being extremely clean in almost every public place. Avoid tossing any garbage anywhere because you can get into trouble by doing so. You can be fined from around $300 to $1000 for small littering and first offender or even to the court for the serious offender. Even without the fine, littering is just not right.  

4. Don’t smoke 

Smoking in undesignated places in public places is illegal in Singapore. Any smoking can be fined up to $1000. It is also worth noticing that all educational areas are smoke-free areas in Singapore. You also should not question the level of enforcement of the law in Singapore.  

5. Don’t bring in any drug 

Everyone should be aware of how serious the Singaporean government deals with a drug-related crime if you plan to visit or study there. Drug-related crimes are considered serious and major crimes and can be subjected to capital punishment.   

What Should You Get from the Article?  

Cambodian students can learn about the 10 things that you should do and should not do when studying and living in Singapore. Keeping in mind this information, it will be much easier to adapt to the Singaporean culture without unintentionally offending people.    

For information about overseas education in Singapore and abroad, Cambodian students and parents who have further inquiry can always visit us WEduAbroad, the local consultancy for study abroad for free consultations in Singapore at the 9th Floor, B-Ray Tower, Preah Norodom Blvd, Tonle Bassak Commune, Chamkamorn District, Phnom Penh (map here) or contact us via phone call (855) 17 548 354 or (855) 81 63 63 60. You can also visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/WEduAbroad/.  

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