Singapore was founded in 1819 by Sir Stamford Raffles. It is a
cosmopolitan with major ethnics of Chinese, Malay, and Indian; there is
also large population from other countries in Asia, Americas, and
Europe, contributing to its diverse life styles.
Where to go in Singapore
The best way to explore Singapore city is by foot; its public transport
is also very convenient to move around within the city and outskirt.
Ferry and boat services are available for island trips.
The multiracial Singapore is a gastronome’s heaven, with various cuisine
styles of the East and the West.
Major ethnic cuisines:
Chinese - Chinese foods are available from simple omnipresent food
stalls to sophisticated dining outlets. While rice or noodles being the
staple, the taste and presentation of accompanying Chinese dishes differ
widely by its origin; Cantonese cuisine is subtle, where as Szechuan
food is famous for its fiery sensation. Teochew cooking with its crystal
clear soup offers a clean, light taste.
Malay - Malay cuisine is very popular, thanks to the use of spices and
coconut milk in most of its food preparation.
Indian - Indian cooking offers a wide variety of choices, ranging from
tasty vegetarian meals to elegant and exotic dishes characterized by its
complex use of spices. North Indians use lots of dairy products in their
cooking; their Eastern country folks make famous desserts while rice
being the staple of the Southern natives.
Nyonya - Nyonya foods are by the settler Nyonyas who are Malay-Chinese
mixed. The use of ginger and turmeric is the cause of the creative and
elaborative Nyonya dishes being hot and spicy.
Dining location - It is a pleasant experience to indulge yourself with
reasonable price at the hawker stalls along the streets, food courts, or
shopping malls which may either be of cozy atmosphere or those full of
exciting activities. Elegant and sophisticated dining is also widely
available at established F&B outlets or hotels.
Services - While some dining locations practice self-service; there are
many that offer waiter service. Table and counter service are available
at cocktail lounges, bars, and most entertainment outlets.
Business hours - The absence of licensing hours is easily understood in
this multiracial isle nation full of various exciting cultures. While
majority of the eateries operate between 12 and 18 hours during the day,
some practice split shifts i.e. operation only during meal time hours
(lunch and dinner); 24 hours outlets are also quite a common sight.
Where ‘Happy hours’ apply, they are normally from 4pm to 7pm.
Tipping - Officially, tipping is not recommended at the airport, in
hotels and restaurants in Singapore. 7% GST (Goods and Services Tax) is
applicable and indicated in the bills, with an additional 10% service
charge in most restaurants, while hotels levy a 1% government tax.