Whether you’re relocating to Singapore for work, study, family life or simply a fresh adventure, the city-state promises an exciting blend of modernity and tradition. Known for its impressive infrastructure, multicultural environment and vibrant lifestyle, Singapore offers endless opportunities. However, adapting to life in Singapore means more than just booking flights and finding somewhere to live. It involves understanding the cultural differences that shape daily life.
In this blog, we have looked into the dynamic culture of Singapore, highlighting its unique traditions and exploring the key differences between life in Singapore and the UK. Whether you’re moving for business or pleasure, understanding these cultural distinctions will help make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.
Cultural Differences Between Singapore the UK
Moving to Singapore from the UK is an exciting adventure; it’s a city boasting a whole host of cultures, innovation and unique traditions. But, it’s also a region that’s somewhat different to the UK, and the cultural differences can come as a surprise if you’re unprepared.
Multicultural Melting Pot
There’s a huge melting pot of cultures in Singapore, with a blend of Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures. Unlike the UK, which has a more Western-focus, Singapore leans the opposite way. Festivals like Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Hari Raya Puasa are national celebrations in Singapore, and you can expect diverse cuisine, languages and traditions. Though cities in the UK are hugely diverse, especially London, Singapore’s blend of Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures is unique.
Social Food Culture
In the UK, dining out can be a social or occasional affair, but Singapore takes things to the next level. Singapore’s food culture largely revolves around hawker centres, which are cultural hubs where locals bond over affordable, flavorful dishes. You can say goodbye to pub grub in Singapore, and hello to late night meals and social breakfasts.
Respect for Rules
Singapore is known for its strict laws and societal rules, and Singaporeans’ respect for these rules can be a cultural shock when you move from the UK. Chewing gum sales, littering and crossing the road without using a designated crossing can result in hefty fines. This emphasis on discipline has resulted in a clean, efficient and safe environment, but one that might feel more regulated compared to the UK.
Tropical Climate
The climate in Singapore is very different to the climate in the UK, and you’re unlikely to experience cold winters and unpredictable weather. In fact, Singapore’s tropical climate means high temperatures and humidity are consistent throughout the year. You’ll need to adjust to the heat and sudden downpours, but air conditioning is widely available and does bring a welcomed relief from the heat.
Etiquette and Manners
British etiquette tends to emphasise politeness and the importance of saying “please” and “thank you,” but Singaporean culture values actions over words. Respecting elderly people, removing shoes before entering homes and offering seats to the elderly on public transport are key social courtesies, and they’ll be expected of you once you’ve moved.
Language and Communication
English is the official language of Singapore, but Singlish – which is a unique local dialect in Singapore – is widely spoken. Combining English with Malay, Chinese and Tamil influences, Singlish phrases may take some getting used to, as they often crop up in day-to-day conversations.
Lifestyle and Work-Life Balance
The lifestyle in Singapore is fast-paced, and it can feel more intense to what you’re used to in the UK. There’s less of a work-life balance in Singapore, with many locals focusing on business and productivity. For most, the city’s impressive public transport, healthcare and leisure options – including nature parks and weekend getaways close by – make up for it.
Family and Social Structure
In Singapore, family comes first and extended family gatherings are common. There’s a strong respect for elders in Singapore and a lot of major life decisions often involve family input. This is different to the UK, where there’s a greater emphasis on individualism and personal independence, especially in adulthood.
Religion and Spiritualism
Singapore is a multicultural society, which means that various religious practices coexist peacefully. There are temples, mosques and churches located throughout Singapore, and they’re part of everyday life. Public holidays in Singapore reflect this religious diversity. While the UK is generally more secular, with fewer public religious events influencing daily life.
Health and Wellness
Wellness is a lifestyle in Singapore, and many locals embrace holistic health through activities like tai chi, yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Outdoor fitness stations are common, which isn’t the case in the UK. While fitness is popular in the UK, it’s often pursued individually through gym memberships or sports clubs, with less integration into daily routines.
Celebrations and Public Holidays
Public holidays reflect a multicultural calendar in Singapore, including Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Hari Raya Puasa. You can expect festive decorations and special foods during these times, a lot of which you might not have experienced in the UK. Whereas Christmas and Easter dominate in the UK, other cultural celebrations like Diwali or Eid are gaining recognition in larger cities, but public celebrations don’t tend to be as diverse as they are in Singapore.
Education and Learning
Academic success is highly valued in Singapore, with a strong emphasis on exams and extracurricular achievements. Private tuition is widespread, reflecting a competitive education system. In the UK, there’s a broader curriculum, one that emphasises creativity and critical thinking, with less academic pressure at the primary and secondary levels.
Corporate Culture and Networking
Networking events tend to be formal and focused on business in Singapore, more so than in the UK. Business cards are exchanged with both hands as a sign of respect and hierarchy matters in meetings. Business networking tends to be more casual in the UK, often taking place over drinks at the pub or during social events.
Organising Your Move to Singapore
Relocating from the UK to Singapore is an exciting adventure, but managing an international move can be challenging without the right support. From navigating customs regulations to ensuring your belongings arrive safely and on time, the process involves many logistics.
This is why it’s important to partner with a reputable international removals company, like United International Removals. With expert help, you can focus on settling into Singapore’s dynamic lifestyle while leaving the complexities of the move to professionals.
Get in touch to find out more.