Dos and Don’ts for Tourists Visiting Singapore – a multicultural city
General Etiquette
Do:
· Be polite and respectful when interacting with locals.
· Dress modestly when visiting religious or cultural sites.
· Queue up patiently; Singaporeans value orderliness.
· Use cashless payments where possible (widely accepted).
Don’t:
· Litter or smoke in prohibited areas – heavy fines apply.
· Eat or drink in MRT trains and stations.
· Engage in disruptive or overly loud behaviour in public spaces.
· Vape (prohibited in Singapore)
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Visiting Cultural & Heritage Sites
Do:
· Visit Singapore’s heritage districts (e.g., Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam) to appreciate history and culture.
· Respect religious spaces: remove shoes before entering temples or mosques, and cover shoulders and knees.
· Seek permission before photographing people, especially during prayers or ceremonies.
· Support local crafts, food, and cultural performances to help preserve traditions.
Don’t:
· Touch / remove artefacts, altars, or religious items unless allowed.
· Wear revealing attire in sacred places.
· Speak loudly or disrupt prayers, rituals, or guided tours.
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Visiting Wildlife & Nature Parks
Do:
· Stay on marked trails when exploring nature reserves and parks.
· Observe wildlife from a safe distance; take only photographs, leave only footprints.
· Dispose of waste responsibly in designated bins.
· Join guided tours or heritage trails to learn about biodiversity and cultural significance.
· Use plant-based mosquito repellents (avoid synthetic chemicals like DEET)
· Use reef-safe or biodegradable formulas Sunscreen when visiting Beaches, swimming pools
Don’t:
· Feed animals – it disrupts their natural diet and behaviour.
· Collect, remove, touch plants, shells, or rocks from protected areas.
· Play loud music or make excessive noise, which can disturb wildlife.
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Observing Local Traditions & Customs
Do:
· Use both hands when giving or receiving items from elders.
· Address people politely, using titles when appropriate.
· Try local food respectfully and return used trays at hawker centres.
· Participate in cultural festivals (e.g., Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya, Vesak) respectfully.
Don’t:
· Point with your finger at people or religious objects (use an open hand instead).
· Show disrespect towards cultural symbols or heritage buildings.
· Ignore cultural dress codes when entering sacred grounds.
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Good Practice for Sustainable Tourism
Do:
· Follow the “Leave No Trace” principle at natural and heritage sites.
· Choose eco-friendly transport (MRT, buses, cycling, walking).
· Support heritage trails and local eco-tours for authentic, sustainable experiences.
· Respect both international good practices (UNESCO, IUCN guidelines) and Singapore’s national regulations on heritage and conservation.
Don’t:
· Damage, vandalise, or deface cultural monuments or nature sites or artefacts.
· Ignore safety instructions at heritage and natural attractions.
· Purchase souvenirs made from endangered wildlife or protected materials.
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Singapore welcomes you with its rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and natural wonders. Respecting local customs and practicing sustainable tourism ensures a safe, memorable, and responsible visit.