We unveil the fascinating quirks that form the distinct identification of Singaporeans – from kiasu tradition to hawker love.
“That is house, really” – Singapore will not be excellent, however hey, we rock our quirks like badges of honour. Identical to a spicy chilli crab, our Singaporean tradition is bursting with flavour, embracing variety and bringing everybody to the identical desk. So in case you’re moving into our vibrant metropolis, buckle up for a wild experience of uniquely Singaporean traits. No tradition shock right here – only a crash course within the awesomeness that makes us tick!
Quirky and proud: Peculiar traits that outline Singaporeans
1. Our queuing tradition is elite
Singaporeans are serial queuers resulting from our kiasu nature – yup, we have now main FOMO. We love queuing up for nearly all the things, particularly if restricted version merchandise or freebies are up for grabs. Keep in mind the Good day Kitty plushie craze at McDonald’s? I sheepishly had the entire assortment however bought it on Carousell (one other typical Singaporean factor to do). We might love complaining however we have now no qualms about queuing for probably the most ridiculous issues.
2. We’re kinda used to room temperature meals
As an area, it by no means occurred to me that a few of our hawker meals is served at room temperature or barely heat till a non-local pointed it out. A standard instance is Hainanese hen rice, the place the hen is normally poached or roasted and cooled. Different native delights embody nasi lemak, rojak and popiah.
3. Our type of marriage proposal is making use of for a BTO
“3 phrases. 8 letters. Say it and I’m yours.” No, we’re not speaking concerning the iconic scene from Gossip Woman. Asking your boo, “Need to BTO?” is probably the most Singaporean method of proposing. Constructed-to-Order flats are a part of a public housing program by the Housing and Growth Board (HDB). These new residential models are in-built response to demand and have a ready time of a minimum of 4 to 5 years. So until you’re choosing different housing choices, that is the primary huge step for many Singaporean {couples}.
4. We like to complain
Name it being passionate or having excessive expectations however one among our many types of expression is complaining. Was the practice delayed? The climate’s too sizzling or chilly? Mad site visitors throughout rush hour? You’ll see a slew of offended feedback popping up all over the place. Possibly it’s not correct to say this as a result of folks’s attitudes and behaviours differ, however you’ll be able to’t inform me you’ve by no means bonded or damaged the ice with somebody who shares comparable grievances.
5. Air-con will get us on a dopamine excessive
Ever puzzled why malls are at all times crowded? I’ll allow you to in on a secret. It’s as a result of the cool air-conditioning offers us consolation on additional sizzling days. Fortunately, we have now loads of procuring malls scattered throughout town. You realize the place to chill off (free of charge) now.
6. We’re tremendous particular about our meals orders
“Mee kia with extra chilli and vinegar and no tau homosexual (bean sprouts)” – my bak chor mee order isn’t the identical until it’s precisely how I prefer it. Identical to myself, Singaporeans have various preferences. And we’re huge on condiments. Stroll by way of an eatery and also you’ll discover that almost all tables have little saucers stuffed with chopped inexperienced chilli, sambal, soya sauce or chilli padi. De-lish!
7. We use our tissue packets in another way
Go to a hawker centre or meals courtroom and also you’ll discover tissue packets on tables. No, it’s not a part of the service. It’s our method of chopping (reserving) the seat. Gadgets can vary from title playing cards to umbrellas to even telephones – although I’ve by no means seen that.
8. We don’t like small discuss
This will depend upon their character however you received’t discover many cashiers or waiters asking about your day. Some label it as ‘impolite’ or ‘poor service’ however we like to have a look at it as being environment friendly. They take your order, you obtain it, and also you go about your day. In fact, that shouldn’t cease you from making small discuss if that’s the way you roll. Simply be cautious of the hawker stall aunties throughout peak hour – they are often fierce.
9. The bubble tea craze is actual
Boba has taken off globally – particularly in America – however Singaporeans have at all times gone gaga for bubble tea. Keep in mind the times of Every A Cup when a cup value under $2? Right this moment, we have now myriad bubble tea retailers scattered across the metropolis from widespread chains and humble drink stalls.
So, did you be taught a factor or two about our peculiar (however lovable) Singaporean traits?
kayu 
