Singapore is a very diverse and young country, with many languages, cultures and religions for a country its size. While this makes for a vibrant and unique travel opportunity, it also means there is no single set of culturally accepted behaviors.
Rules and restrictions have changed much over the years, mostly loosening up a bit. But there are still some things you should consider during a trip. Gone are the days when a shave and haircut were required conditions for entry. Yet for as multicultural and dynamic as this city is, there are still certain (bizarre) rules and laws that are unfamiliar and not intuitive to foreigners. Make sure you are aware of local customs and pay them respect to avoid any problems on your trip.
Singapore has very strict drug laws and drug trafficking carries a mandatory death penalty, a sentence that is extended to foreigners. Customs has been known to occasionally do spot urine tests at the airport so watch what’s in your system before you travel.
Having explosives or firearms without a permit is also a capital offense in Singapore.
There is no duty free allowance for cigarettes - they all must be purchased legally within the country, meaning they will be stamped with SDPC. Smokers caught with unmarked cigs may be fined up to $500/pack. Cigarettes are heavily taxed and you are very restricted as to where you are permitted to smoke. Follow the signs or face the fines!
No pornography, pirated goods, or publications by the Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Unification Church. Pirated CDs or DVDs can run you fines of up to $1000 per disc.
No jaywalking! No littering! No illegal parking!
Also illegal: Handcuffs, even if pink and fuzzy; Feeding pigeons or monkeys; Malaysian newspapers; and Homosexual activity (there is a relatively vibrant gay community in Singapore, however gays should expect legalized discrimination and plan/act accordingly)
While some of these rules border on being absolutely ridiculous, it’s important to keep in mind that Singapore is known as one of the safest major cities in the world, by pretty much any measure. Even young, female single travelers will not have any problems walking the streets alone at night.
For more information about traveling to Singapore, or to start your next trip, contact the experts at Northstar Travel.
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