Discovering the unique customs and habits that leave foreigners amazed.
In the inaugural episode of Culture Shock Moments Foreigners Had When They Moved to Singapore, featured on The Smart Global’s YouTube channel, expatriates candidly shared their most surprising and shocking experiences since arriving in Singapore. Their stories ranged from the local practice of “chope-ing” tables to the widespread use of chilli oil on meals, as well as the appropriate times for dim sum and the casualness of wearing slippers in Orchard Road.
Debuting on November 23, the episode showcases hosts Brenda and Shin, both Singaporeans, conversing with various expats: Arthur from France, who has been in Singapore for seven months; Chris from England, a “half-local” after five years; Nicole from Hong Kong, who has lived here for nearly a decade; Victoria from Canada, who’s been here for six years; and Millie from the UK, a resident for almost three years along with her husband and children.
When asked about their culture shock moments, Chris quickly mentioned “chope-ing”—the practice of reserving tables at eateries. He expressed mixed feelings about this uniquely Singaporean habit, admitting he engages in it despite finding it somewhat selfish. “Some people leave their entire wardrobe on the table,” he remarked, eliciting laughter from the group.
Victoria shared an interesting tidbit, revealing that in Singapore, the term “chop” refers to stamping a document, echoing the sound of the stamp itself—a delightful discovery for everyone.
The expats praised Singapore’s safety, noting how people casually leave laptops or other valuables unattended at tables or in cars without fear of theft. Millie emphasized how safe she feels allowing her son to walk to school alone, a stark contrast to her experiences in the UK.
Nicole, on the other hand, compared living conditions between Hong Kong and Singapore, pointing out that despite rising prices, Singaporean flats offer more space and value. She was taken aback by the local custom of adding chilli oil to all kinds of dim sum and the flexibility of when to enjoy it. “In Singapore, dim sum can be eaten at any meal,” she noted, in contrast to the breakfast or brunch-only tradition in other cultures.
Nicole also observed how casual Singaporeans dress, remarking that her mother would scold her for wearing slippers in public. Host Shin chimed in, joking that in his circle, they assumed anyone wearing slippers on Orchard Road must be wealthy, as they likely live nearby.
