Important rules, habits, and surprises first time visitors often miss

Singapore is clean, modern, efficient, and incredibly easy to travel around.
But it also has very strict rules, and many tourists get caught out simply because they did not know.

Here is what you should know before visiting Singapore.

Laws are strict and enforced

Singapore does not mess around with rules.

Fines are common, and enforcement is real, not just for show.

You can be fined for
Littering
Smoking in non-smoking areas
Jaywalking
Eating or drinking on public transport

Ignorance is not accepted as an excuse.

Chewing gum is restricted

This surprises a lot of visitors.

Chewing gum is not freely sold in Singapore.
Bringing small amounts for personal use is generally fine, but selling or importing in bulk is illegal.

Do not stick gum anywhere.
That will definitely get you fined.

Restricted and prohibited items, including chewing gum
https://www.customs.gov.sg/businesses/importing-goods/controlled-and-prohibited-goods-for-import

Public transport is extremely clean

The MRT and buses are spotless.

https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/getting_around/public_transport/rail_network.html

You are not allowed to
Eat
Drink
Bring open food or drinks

Even water can cause issues if caught.

Fines apply, and staff do enforce this.

Tipping is not expected

Tipping is not part of the culture.

Most restaurants include a service charge.
Taxi drivers do not expect tips.
Hotel staff are paid properly.

You can tip if you want, but it is not required and not expected.

Cash is still useful, but not a must

Singapore is very cashless, but not everywhere.

Some hawker stalls still prefer cash.
Small neighbourhood shops may not accept cards.

Always carry a little cash just in case.

Hawker centres are a must

This is where locals actually eat.

Hawker centres offer
Incredible food
Low prices
Huge variety

Do not expect table service.
You order, collect, and return trays yourself.

Also, if you see tissue packets on tables, that means the seat is taken.

Dress codes still matter

Singapore is hot and humid, but modesty still applies in certain places.

Cover up when visiting
Mosques
Temples
Religious sites

Shorts and sleeveless tops are fine for daily life, just be respectful.

Alcohol is regulated

Alcohol sales are restricted after certain hours in shops.

Drinking in public is regulated, especially late at night.
Bars and restaurants are fine, but street drinking can get you fined.

Laws, offences and fines
https://www.police.gov.sg/Advisories

Drugs are taken extremely seriously

This is critical.

Singapore has zero tolerance for drugs.
Even trace amounts can result in severe penalties.

Do not bring anything illegal into the country.
Not even accidentally.

Drug laws and zero tolerance policy
https://www.cnb.gov.sg/drug-information

Internet and SIM cards are easy

Free WiFi is widely available.
SIM cards and eSIMs are easy to buy at the airport.

You will be connected within minutes of landing.

English is widely spoken

Communication is easy.

English is one of the official languages, and almost everyone speaks it fluently.

You will have no trouble getting around.

Final thoughts

Singapore is one of the safest and easiest countries to visit in the world.
But it runs on rules, respect, and structure.

If you follow the rules and respect local customs, you will have an amazing experience.

Save this before your trip.

Official tourism information
https://www.visitsingapore.com