Singapore Travel Guide: Local Tips & Culture from My 2 Year Life There
This Singapore Travel Guide is based on my two years living in the city-state, filled with practical tips and family-friendly recommendations.
Having lived in Singapore for two years, I discovered a side of the city that short-term visitors often miss. Known as the “fine city” (both for its beauty and its fines!), Singapore impressed me with its efficiency, safety, and vibrant cultural mix.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a short stopover, here’s my guide to exploring Singapore like a local—with cultural insights, travel tips, and a few fun stories from my time there.
🏙 Life in the “Fine City”
Singapore is famous for its strict rules and the cleanliness that comes with them. Locals follow regulations carefully—whether it’s no jaywalking or keeping public spaces spotless.
One of the biggest surprises for newcomers? Chewing gum is banned. You might not believe it, but it’s illegal in Singapore, and you won’t find it sold anywhere. This strict rule is just one example of the city’s unique approach to cleanliness.
This rule-keeping extends to driving. Car ownership is expensive and tightly controlled, which is why public transport is excellent. The MRT (subway) is fast, reliable, and connects almost every part of the city. Even the escalators feel faster than in Canada, and during rush hour, people walk with serious speed.
🚶 Fun Fact : City-Walking Speed: Singapore vs Other Cities
Researchers found that Singaporeans walk faster than those in most cities—and New York ranks only 8th fastest globally Planetizen. While average walking speed worldwide is about 1.31 m/s (3.1 mph), in Singapore it’s noticeably brisk—reflecting the overall fast pace of life.
🌴 Culture Tip: Tissue Packs at Hawker Centres
One of my favourite parts of Singapore life was the food—especially at hawker centres. These open-air food courts are full of delicious, affordable dishes from all over Asia.
Here’s a cultural tip: If you see a tissue pack on a table, it means the seat is taken. This is called “chope-ing” your spot. As a newcomer, it’s a rule that’s easy to miss, and I can tell you from experience, you don’t want to accidentally sit at someone’s reserved table!
🏖 Beach Expectations: Sentosa & the “Malaysia” Joke
Many tourists head to Sentosa Island for its beaches, attractions, and family-friendly activities. But here’s something to keep in mind: when you look out at the ocean, you’ll see dozens of cargo ships lined up along the horizon.
I once asked a Singaporean colleague, “Which beach do you recommend for the best view?” He laughed and said, “Go to Malaysia!” It was his cheeky way of saying Singapore’s beaches aren’t exactly untouched nature spots. Still, Sentosa is worth visiting for fun and relaxation, just go with the right expectations.
🦁 Top Recommended Attractions with Kids
- Singapore Zoo & Night Safari Singapore Zoo is one of the best in the world, with large, natural enclosures and well-cared-for animals. However, while the zoo is fantastic to explore during the day, the tropical heat can sometimes be a bit much, especially when you’re walking around with kids. To truly experience the magic and see the animals at their most active (and when the temperature is much cooler!), the real highlight is the Night Safari. 🌙 The cooler evening air makes it easier to explore, and you’ll see nocturnal animals at their most active.
- Universal Studios Singapore Located on Sentosa, Universal Studios is perfect for families. It’s smaller than its US counterparts, which makes it easier to explore in a single day.
- Marina Bay Sands (MBS) & Esplanade The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark offers incredible views of the city, and the Esplanade Theatres on the Bay is a great spot to enjoy performances or simply admire the architecture.
- Gardens by the Bay Don’t miss the Supertree Grove Light Show in the evening. It’s free, magical, and one of my favourite memories of Singapore nights.
- Cultural Districts Explore Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam. Each neighbourhood offers unique food, markets, and cultural experiences.
🏢 Beyond the Tourist Spots: Local Life in Singapore
During my time in Singapore, I learned about daily life beyond tourism:
- Housing: Most Singaporeans live in high-rise apartments like HDB flats. Ownership is different from Canada—it’s usually long-term leasehold (like 99 years).
- Cost of Living: High, especially for housing. But taxes are lower compared to Canada.
- Domestic Helpers: Many dual-income families hire live-in helpers, often from neighbouring countries. Now that I’m raising kids in Canada without help, I realize how valuable that support system was for many families in Singapore.
- Healthcare: Medical care is fast and efficient, but it’s not free—residents and expats pay for services.
💬 Final Thoughts & Quick Tips
Singapore is more than a stopover city—it’s a fascinating mix of cultures, flavours, and experiences. Living there taught me to slow down (except when walking in MRT stations!) and appreciate how well-organized a city can be.
If you visit, embrace the local way of life, try hawker food, explore beyond the tourist spots, and enjoy the unique balance of order and vibrancy this city offers.
- Expect rules: From littering fines to strict smoking areas, knowing the rules helps avoid surprises.
- Stay hydrated: Singapore is hot and humid year-round.
- Use public transport: The MRT and buses are cheap, fast, and reliable. On the MRT, there’s a strict no-eating-or-drinking rule—you’ll even see signs warning of fines!
- Pack light clothing: You’ll be in air-conditioned malls one moment and humid streets the next.
