Not English. Singlish!
You haven’t gone insane. You’re not hearing English. It’s called Singlish. If you happen to overhear a conversation and wonder why it sounds like English at first and then doesn’t, it’s because it isn’t. The Singapour nation is made up of various cultures, and Singlish has become the most widely used street language. It’s a hybrid of English and Chinese, Malay, and other Eastern languages. If you pay attention, you might pick up on a few words, but it will make as much sense to you as gibberish.
Not English. Singlish!
Interesting Pringle Flavors
If you like Pringles, you should plan your next trip to Singapore. We’ve all had enough of ranch-flavored potato chips or sour cream and onion, and in Singapore, Pringles come in flavors you’d never expect. Exotic options include seaweed, soft-shell crab, and grilled squid, to name a few. Can you come up with another unusual flavor to go with your chips? How about some PB&J?
Interesting Pringle Flavors
Public In Apologies
What happened to apologizing and moving on? When it comes to apologizing, Singapore goes a little too far, and the entire world is required to participate. It appears that it is common practice to publish a newspaper apology, even if it is addressed to a single person. You might think it’s cool and flattering at first, but it’s a little too personal to be shared in this way.
Public In Apologies
Censorship Has Never Harmed Anyone
It’s one thing to delete inappropriate information or images that violate someone’s policy, but should you delete it everywhere if you’re going to delete it on one source? When a magazine or newspaper publishes something that violates censorship rules, it is usually removed. It is common in Singapore to include information about where the deleted information can be found. We’re not sure what the point is.
Censorship Has Never Harmed Anyone
Leave Coolness For Day Time
In Singapore, being cool is only possible during the day. It’s not a suggestion, it’s not a recommendation, it’s the law. In Singapore, wearing sunglasses during the day is prohibited. Why? We don’t know. We initially assumed it was for security reasons, wanting people’s faces to be clear and visible, which we understand. But as we dug deeper, we discovered that the regulation has nothing to do with security. It’s because you’re not supposed to act cool, late at night. Singapore is a city-state. Why? We don’t know.
Leave Coolness For Day Time
The Inner Part Of The Pig
Some countries eat sushi, others eat fish and chips, and still, others eat…pig intestines. Pig intestines are a popular dish in Singapore and can be found almost anywhere. Some food blogs have called this the “ugliest dish on the planet,” and they wouldn’t dare to try it. Nothing is wasted in Singapore, and if the intestines have to be eaten, they will be. Although it is less popular on the streets than it once was, this bizarre dish is still considered traditional.
The Inner Part Of The Pig
You Can’t See Properly Due To The Smoke
Wearing a surgical mask will not help you in this situation. Singapore is one of the world’s most polluted cities. The air quality is so poor that you can barely see the horizon at times. Winter days can be brutal, so postpone your trip. Summer days are also not recommended due to high humidity levels of over 90%. So, winter is hazy, and summer is rainy. That leaves you with the seasons of spring and fall for your next visit.
You Can’t See Properly Due To The Smoke
Working 9 To 5
If you are considering changing jobs and becoming a Singaporean taxi driver, keep in mind that it does not pay well and that you will need to work a second job to make ends meet. This taxi driver (in addition to being a taxi driver) is inspecting the stocks. This appears to be very common in Singapore and is not unusual. We have to say that we admire this driver for being able to focus on the graphs and avoid colliding with the car in front of him.
Working 9 To 5
Go Fly A Kite
If you’re going to Singapore, learn a few phrases in the local language before you go. Consider the following sign. At first glance, it appears that the government genuinely cares about its citizens and offers excellent suggestions for outdoor activities. Go out and fly a kite. When you think about it, this is a clever way of emphasizing the fact that kite flying is illegal in Singapore. Yes, you are not permitted to fly a kite in certain areas of Singapore. Ballons as well.
Go Fly A Kite
Gum Control
Chewing gum is not illegal in Singapore, contrary to popular belief. That is correct. It has been completely illegal since 1992, with the exception of a few exceptions in 2004, which allow chewing the rubber for therapeutic and dental purposes only. The gum regulation arose in Singapore because the government believed that it was the only way to control and keep the country clean, and what a clean place it is.
Gum Control
The Unflush Regulation
Singapore is one of the cleanest countries on the planet, and it wishes to remain so. Remember rule number one if you can’t keep your pants up and are looking for a public toilet (when you’ve got to go, you’ve got to go). Never, ever forget to flush after you’ve finished. In Singapore, there is a $150 fine for not flushing after using a public toilet, and failure to pay the fine results in imprisonment.
The Unflush Regulation
It’s Selfie Coffee Time!
You may be familiar with the hot trend of printing your selfie on your cup of chino, but in Singapore, it is more than just a trend — there is an entire coffee shop that does just that. Customers’ selfies are printed on their hot beverages. All customers, both locals and tourists. So, how exactly does it work? You order your coffee, take a selfie with the equipment provided at the counter, and you’re done. Your own coffee, accompanied by your own selfie. It doesn’t get any more personal than that.
It’s Selfie Coffee Time!
Hopping Frogs
Frog legs were introduced to the Eastern world by the French, and Singaporeans improved on this delicacy. They made frog-leg porridge out of it. Why? We have no idea, but they did. It appears to be very healthy and high in minerals and vitamins, but the name of the dish is a definite turnoff for us. You might think that porridge (being a porridge) is eaten for breakfast, but it isn’t. It’s usually served with dim sam and other meat dishes.
Hopping Frogs
World Toilet Day
So, Singaporeans, like most of us, prefer clean surroundings and toilets. They do, however, value toilets. And turned the significance of them into an entire day. Every November 19th, they observe World Toilet Day. It is now supposed to be celebrated worldwide, but the majority of participants are Singaporeans. We (very easily) found the humorous side of this day, but the true meaning is to raise awareness about the global sanitation crisis. They only needed to come up with a new name. That’s it.
World Toilet Day
Beware
Before getting undressed, we usually make sure the blinds are closed, and no one can see in. However, in Singapore, ensuring that no one can see through is insufficient. Apparently, exposing yourself in public is against the law (which we agree with), but if it’s done without your knowledge, you could face a fine. So, before you take a shower (in Singapore), make sure your neighbors aren’t watching, because the last thing you need is a $2,000 wash.
Beware
Join The Queue At Hawker Center
You must visit a Hawker center if you ever visit Singapore. It’s essentially the world’s largest shopping mall, but only for food. Yes, an entire mall dedicated to food. These kinds of places can be intimidating, but they’re all over the place and have become an icon in Singaporean cuisine. The rule is straightforward. The better the food, the longer the line. So put on some comfortable shoes, get ready for a long wait, and embrace Singaporean food culture, which you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Join The Queue At Hawker Center
Go To The Turtles
Do you know how each country has its own unique set of symbols? For some strange reason, the turtle has become one of Singapore’s most recognizable animals. In Singapore, there is a turtle and tortoise museum, and they are served on some restaurant menus (!!!) and treated as pets, just like dogs and cats. The locals are obsessed with them, and there are turtle viewing parks all over the place. We assume Singaporeans are doing something right because some of these parks have turtles that are over 800 years old.
Go To The Turtles
Prawn Indoor Fishing
Have you ever wanted to go prawn fishing indoors? Well, it appears that you can. Although it may appear strange to us, indoor prawn fishing is a national sport in Singapore. Singaporeans gather around an artificial prawn habitat instead of going down the lake or picnicking by the sea. They gather their friends, grab some liquid refreshments, and set out on their own version of a relaxing day in nature. Or as close to nature as possible.
Prawn Indoor Fishing
Dining Nemo
Everyone knows (and you now know) that the head is the best part of the fish because it has the most flavor. So, in Singapore, they went a step further and created one of its most famous dishes: fish head curry. Singapore, come on… Consider the image of a fish head swimming in a bowl of curry. Isn’t it more civilized to break the meat off the bones rather than have Nemo staring at you throughout dinner?
Dining Nemo
Get Your Fortune Told
Walking down the streets of Singapore transports you to the 1990s. Who wants their future predicted these days? Fortune telling has been and continues to be a popular pastime on the streets, and it does not appear to be going away. So, if you want to go back in time (or forward in time), sit back and listen to what the fortune teller has to say. They may force you to alter your future travel plans.
Get Your Fortune Told
Global Festivals
Singapore is an eclectic land, a crisscross of nations, and so are the numerous holidays, which are all celebrated at the same time. Have you considered only celebrating Christmas in December? Consider again. If you live in Singapore, you will never be bored. The Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali, and Christmas are all celebrated equally, with no one being more important than the others. Singaporeans know how to have a good time.
Global Festivals
Don’t Miss The Mama Shops
“Mama Shop” does not refer to a store that sells baby items, it does not refer to a store owned by an elderly lady, and it does not refer to a store designed for extra-large women. A mama shop in Singapore is a store that basically sells any item you can think of, from any department, in any price range, for less than the cost of life itself. They’re all over the place, usually under apartment buildings, and it’s a must-see if you’re in the area.
Don’t Miss The Mama Shops
Haw Par Villa
Don’t get too excited about your Singapore itinerary’s big theme park day. ‘Haw par villa’ is a theme park, but it’s not exactly Universal Studios. ‘Haw par villa,’ one of Singapore’s most famous parks, takes you through bizarrely designed walkways and statues. On the one hand, it’s fascinating, but some of the exhibits can be quite disturbing.
Haw Par Villa
The Other Life
Don’t ask us why, but visiting graveyards appears to be a thing in Singapore. The locals claim that exploring the ones who have passed can teach you a lot about life. We’re not going to argue about that, but we do have a suggestion (cemetery). Bukit Brown Cemetery is the most visited and has tour guides to guide you through the grounds safely. Spooky.
The Other Life
Do You Like It Or Dislike It?
Durian has a bad rep, and it is said that you either love it or despise it. The outside of this exotic fruit is spiky and unappealing, while the inside is soft and mushy. But it’s still unappealing. A trip to Singapore would be incomplete without sampling this unique fruit. It has the most overpowering odor of any food and is even prohibited from being displayed in some public places in Singapore. To summarize, we’ve had it, and we despise it.
Do You Like It Or Dislike It?
Grab aA Book
You wouldn’t think a library would be on a list of things to do when visiting a new country. However, just as Singapore is outrageous in many ways, so are its libraries. There are a few libraries worth visiting that are considered ‘crazy’ by our standards, but one, in particular, stands out. Library@Orchard. This location has the most diverse selection of contemporary art, design, health, and fitness items. It’s well worth a visit. Even if it’s just for the Instagram story.
Grab A Book
Darkness Dinner
One thing you won’t need to bring to this dinner is your camera to upload a story about your latest meal. In Singapore, you can eat dinner without knowing what you’re about to put in your mouth (in one sense). Why would someone want to do something like this? NOX is the place to go, and you can have a truly opulent experience there. Consider the bright side. There’s no problem with messy eaters, and if you get a green piece stuck between your teeth, no one will ever know.
Darkness Dinner
Say Cheese
This is a museum that is unmistakably Singaporean. Over 1,000 cameras are scattered throughout the structure, which resembles a massive Rollei camera. Singaporeans, like everything else, are going big. Everything camera-related can be found here, from pistol cameras and vintage photographs to new and used camera equipment. This is a must-see for photography enthusiasts and anyone who wants to see what things look like when they are taken all the way.
Say Cheese
Seat Taken. Bless you!
After waiting in a long lunch line and finally getting your food, the most difficult problem in life is figuring out where to sit. If this happens to you while in Singapore, bring a packet of tissue of some kind, as this will be your seat saver as you go to buy your lunch. Taking ownership of an empty seat by placing tissues on the table is common in Singapore (it even has a name, Chop-ing). Some think it’s impolite, while others think it’s reasonable, given that you only have 30 minutes for lunch.
Seat Taken. Bless You!
Bring On The Uncle
In Singapore, all adults (or anyone perceived as an adult by a child) are referred to as aunts or uncles. You don’t have to be related to anyone, or even have siblings. You are automatically referred to as a relative if you exist. It is slightly losing touch with the modern generation, but in most communities across the country, drop the Mr. and Mrs. and grab on to aunt and uncle.
Bring On The Uncle
ABC
Singapore can get quite hot. And we mean extremely hot, so save room for the local desserts. Ice Kachang is essentially shaved ice topped with beans, corn, and flavored syrup. Sounds tasty, doesn’t it? We didn’t think so either. The literal translation of Ice Kachang is ‘bean ice,’ which is obvious from the image. This dessert is also known as ABC, which makes sense, given that this is where it all begins.
ABC
Terminal Fun Day
Do you want to go somewhere? Proceed to the airport. Changi Airport in Singapore is ranked as one of the best in the world and has become a popular tourist destination for those without a passport. Locals travel to the airport to study, and families visit the many gardens and restaurants. But the best attraction of all (and we’re not talking about plane watching) is that full-length movies are shown in the terminal for departures, arrivals, and passers-by to enjoy. We’re not kidding. Simply go to the airport if you want to spend the evening at the movies.
Terminal Fun Day
Marina Bay Sands
If you want to use the pool facilities on the Marina Bay Sands’ rooftop, you must be a hotel guest. This is the most spectacular hotel swimming pool. The views from the top are breathtaking, and some say they are worth the hotel’s room rate. If these hotel rates are out of your price range, consider purchasing a ticket to the Skypark Observation Deck. There are restaurants, bars, and the same spectacular city views; definitely worth your money.
Marina Bay Sands
Go Figure It Out
We’re not sure if this is due to laziness or efficiency, but if you want to get by in Singapore, you’ll need to memorize their local codes. Locals have an extensive vocabulary of acronyms and verbal shortcuts. Here are some examples to help you understand what we’re talking about and to get you started on learning what street signs mean. SGH stands for Singapore General Hospital (if you need a hospital while visiting, look for SGH), ERP stands for Electronic Road Pricing, and GSS stands for Great Singapore Sale. That makes sense.
Go Figure It Out
Midnight Mustafa
It doesn’t get any worse than landing in a new country at midnight, completely jetlagged and with nothing to do. In Singapore, this will never happen. Mustafa shopping mall is open 24 hours a day and will keep you entertained until your internal clock is set. It has almost everything you need and doesn’t get too crowded, making it a pleasant place to wander around in. A 24-hour shopping center. Things that can only be found in Singapore.
Midnight Mustafa
Night Time Animal Spotting
There are many activities that are far more fascinating in the dark, and we’re guessing that visiting the zoo wasn’t one of them. Singapore was the first in the world to offer the ‘visit the zoo in the dark experience in 1994. We agree that spotting animals in the dark can be difficult, but it adds elements and excitement that no sunlight can. We’re not talking about caged animals here; we’re talking about animals with natural habitat barriers which are more active after hours, making this an unforgettable experience.
Night Time Animal Spotting
Breakfast Cocktails
Cocktails in Singapore are unlike anything you’ve ever had before. In Singapore, the flavors should be reminiscent of local and traditional dishes. So, instead of a double mac and cheese cocktail or an apple pie beverage (though those could work), we’re talking about a ‘Gula Melaka’ (palm sugar) cocktail or a kaya toast (traditional Singapore toast with jam) cocktail. We’re not sure if the cocktails are made with flavored extracts or if the actual food is diced up and added to the drink, but we think the Singapore cocktail work has gone too far.
Breakfast Cocktails
Slip Sliding Away
Singapore is scorching. Singapore is scorching. Remove your three-piece suit, as well as your coats and sweaters, as you will be best friends with your flip flops and shorts. Please don’t get us wrong. Singaporeans are not careless or sloppy. This is their way of life. In the West, most people dress up in suits, jeans, sweaters, and boots, but in Singapore, it’s a pool party all day. Remember that flip flops are not permitted at certain special occasions (such as weddings or funerals), but they (and you) are welcome everywhere else.
Slip Sliding Away
The Sidecar City Tour
Discover Singapore’s hidden paths on a unique ‘only found in Singapore’ Vespa sidecar rather than a standard ‘all countries have them’ tour bus. These Vespas will take you to places no other tourist has been and will reveal the little secrets of this magnificent place. The Vespa sidecar tour guides are unique to Singapore, and they guarantee an outrageous, crazy time and a trip to remember.
The Sidecar City Tour
Kitty Cat Cafe
Discover Singapore’s hidden paths on a unique ‘only found in Singapore’ Vespa sidecar, rather than a standard ‘all countries have them’ tour bus. These Vespas will take you to places no other tourist has been and will reveal the little secrets of this magnificent place. The Vespa sidecar tour guides are unique to Singapore, and they guarantee an outrageous, crazy time and a trip to remember.
Kitty Cat Cafe
Dunk-in Donut
This donut has it all: it’s a floating donut that can be eaten for dinner or brunch. Second, you can take in the Singapore skyline while unwinding and relaxing. Back to reality now. There is no better shape to carry you down the river of tranquility. The slogans are pretty self-explanatory — Dunk In Dinner? Brunch everywhere?
Dunk In Donut
Small Changes, Big Difference
This one will leave you speechless. If not speechless, at least stronger and less agitated. It’s known as the ‘Axe Factor.’ The Axe factor, not the X factor. Small changes can have a big impact. Are you having a bad day? Are you stressed? Say goodbye to your worries if you’re in Singapore. This location will allow you to throw an axe onto a 14-foot-away board. It’s considered…fun in Singapore. People go there alone or in groups. Everyone is catered to, and reservations are required. Definitely one-of-a-kind.
Small Changes, Big Difference
Crazy Snacks
Singapore is one of those places where almost everything is out of the ordinary. The snacks follow suit. Singaporeans have their own definition of snacks, which does not include dried fruit or popcorn. Dried seaweed and dried fish fillets are just two examples of the colorful and unusual snack world available here. Anyone interested in a dried anchovy?
Crazy Snacks
Work It, Work It, Work It
When it comes to ways to work up a sweat, Singapore has a lot to offer. Forget about going to the gym or going on a hike in nature; Singaporeans do it professionally and thoroughly. Pole dancing, Star Wars-style combat saber sessions, and aerial yoga are just a few of the sports that may seem unusual to us, but are a way of life for the locals.
Work It, Work It, Work It
Get A Kick Out Of It
Singaporeans have undoubtedly figured it out. You will not hear parents yelling at their children, you will not see frustrated children at home because they are not getting their way, and you will never see a couple argue. And why, you might ask? The Fragment Room is the solution. Consider this: you’re having a bad day, and you feel like the end of the world has arrived, so you go to the fragment room, select a playlist, put on your safety gear, and begin destroying whatever comes your way. The best part is that you don’t even have to clean up after yourself. On Earth, heaven.
Get A Kick Out Of It
Exotic Birds Making Noise
The Kebun Baru Bird Singing Club in Singapore is a display of hundreds of singing birds all singing at once, creating a harmony of sounds, a festival for visitors’ eyes and ears. It’s the largest bird show in the area. The bird cages are handcrafted and placed on poles only visible from below. A hidden treasure.
Exotic Birds Making Noise
Let The Fish Dig In
If you forgot to schedule a pedicure before going on vacation, Singapore has a solution for you (and a pampering one it is). Singaporean fish spas have grown in popularity around the world. For some, this may appear to be the modern way of scraping dry and cracked skin, while for others, it may simply appear to be…something they would rather avoid. So take your shoes off, roll up your pants, and let the fish eat. It’s a natural exfoliator, and it doesn’t get any more natural than this.
Let The Fish Dig In
Could I Please Have A Bag Of Coffee?
Two bags of coffee are shown in the image. Yes, you read that correctly. Coffee is inexpensive and widely available in Singapore (over 3,000 coffee shops in total). Singaporeans, on the other hand, have a peculiar way of drinking it. We tried to figure out where this tradition came from and why on earth they are still holding on to it. Singaporean coffee is served in a plastic bag, similar to the kind used to hold fluids on a fluid infusion. So, the next time you’re walking down the street in Singapore, put the cup down and ask for a bagful instead.
Could I Please Have A Bag Of Coffee?
Michelin’s Other Side
Dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant can set you back an arm and a leg. We rarely have the opportunity to spend our money in the world’s highest-rated restaurant. Except if you’re in Singapore. Because Singapore has shopping malls dedicated solely to food, there are counters in these malls that serve Michlin Star food at McDonald’s prices. There are no luxury seats or designer interiors, but it’s worth the long wait in line for the price you’re paying.
Michelin’s Other Side
Luxurious Singapore Airlines
We must award it to Singapore Airlines. If there is one good thing about Singapore (and there are many), it has to be their national airline. Singapore Airlines has been named the “best airline in Asia” and the “best first class in the world” (not that we’ll ever know). The middle class is not left behind. It has more legroom than other airlines, larger storage areas, first-class entertainment, gourmet food, and excellent service to make your flight as pleasant as possible.
Luxurious Singapore Airlines
A Floating Stadium
Ladies and gentlemen, the floating stadium is unique to Singapore. It took over a year to build and was only meant to serve as a temporary replacement while the main sports courts were being renovated. Instead of serving a temporary purpose, the floating stadium continues to host concerts and events to this day.
A Floating Stadium
A Cup Of Potatoes
Singaporeans clearly enjoy their mashed potatoes. How else could the phenomenon of mashed potato dispensers be explained? If the potatoes can pass through these machines, they must be over-mashed. The question is, do these mashed potatoes come with a spoon? What’s in a cup? Using a straw? Can you eat it? Will it leak? What do you think? Maybe we don’t want to know.
A Cup Of Potatoes
64 Island Of Sun
Singapore is distinctive in many ways, particularly in its geographical layout. The main island is surrounded by 64 smaller islands, making this destination exotic and tropical. So, what does all of this mean? This translates to more beaches, harbors, boats, waves, and fun in the sun.
64 Island Of Sun
Go Chasing Waterfalls
Waterfalls are nature’s gift to humanity for the majority of us. Water splashes downhill in magnificent displays, creating a spectacular display of God’s wonders. Man-made wonders in Singapore. In Singapore, artificial waterfalls are almost a religion, and you can find them in many indoor shopping malls. The most magnificent of them stands 40 meters tall and is surrounded by lush green gardens.
Go Chasing Waterfalls
23 Corners In The Dark
If you like F1 (or any other motorsport), you’ll enjoy this one. Singapore opened its doors to the Formula One world and built its own race tracks. Not only that, but they were the first to introduce the night race, which took place — you guessed it — at night. The Marina Bay track, according to Formula One pros, is one of a kind, with 23 corners (whatever that means) and spectacular views of Singapore.
23 Corners In The Dark
Singaporean Chilli Crab
Chilli Crab is Singapore’s national dish, and it’s quite spicy. We felt obligated to include this on our list of crazy Singapore things because, unless you’ve tried it before, you won’t be able to internalize how hot this dish truly is. It’s as hot as it is addictive, and it has adorned Singaporean culinary culture with glitz. So, whenever you visit, keep an eye out for the famous Chili Crab. There are lists of the best places to visit and those you should avoid.
Singaporean Chilli Crab
Butterflies And Insects
If you want to get away from Singapore while you’re there, visit the wild insect jungle and butterfly park. You will see flying objects you never knew existed, butterflies in colors you never imagined, and an overwhelming experience that you will not find anywhere else on the planet. It’s a natural jungle of flying mysteries surrounded by all shades of green and over 50 insect species. A place for learning and relaxation.
Butterflies And Insects
It’s Trivia Night
They enjoy it, perform it, and own it. Singaporeans enjoy cultural trivia night. As part of their regular entertainment package, many pubs and bars host trivia nights. It’s ingrained in their culture. It’s considered a great way to spend time with family and friends, get some brain exercise, and win prizes in Singapore. Some may think they’re stuck in the 1980s, but it’s the best way to spend an evening for them.
It’s Trivia Night
Long Queues. Very Long Queues
We assume that this rule applies to most of the world. However, it means much more in Singapore. There are not only long lines where there is good food, but it is impossible to find a place with good food that does not have a line. Are you still with me? What we mean is that there are so many food stalls in Singapore, as well as so many tourist traps and medium-rated restaurants, that we recommend you follow the queues. If there is a line, the food is good; if there isn’t, it isn’t.
Long Queues. Very Long Queues
Otter City Life
In recent years, Singapore’s otter population has grown, and they have become quite popular. They make the local news from time to time as they adjust to their new environment, Singapore’s urban jungle. They can be seen climbing ladders, eating waist, and gradually assimilating into the city scene. They’ve been spotted all over the place and don’t appear to be a threat to anyone for the time being.
Otter City Life