Be a smart traveler! That's tatak Pinoy! Here are some of the things you should know about Singapore before you go.

ABOUT SINGAPORE

If there is one word that best captures Singapore, it is "unique". A dynamic city rich in contrast and colour, you'll find a harmonious blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture here. Brimming with unbridled energy, this little dynamo in Southeast Asia embodies the finest of both East and West.

A single day's trail will take you from the past to the future, from exotic ethnic enclave to efficient business centre, from serene gardens to sleek skyscrapers. It is this landscape of diversity that makes the city captivating, creating experiences that are simply beyond words.

CULTURE

You will find many kababayan in Singapore so it's hard to feel like a stranger. In fact, what you will experience is a true global melting pot of many races and ethnicities. The main races in Singapore are the Chinese, Malays, Indians, and Eurasians.

LANGUAGE

When it comes to communication, you don't have to worry about not being understood because English is widely spoken in Singapore.

If you want to bond with the locals and bargain better, try speaking in Malay or Mandarin. In fact, Malay might sound a little familiar to you since Malay and Tagalog share similar words like payong (umbrella).

When referring to older people, call them Aunty (females) or Uncle (males). It's a sign of respect, in the same way we refer to our elders as ate and kuya.

RELIGION

Whether you are a Roman Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Taoist, Buddhist, Hindu, Sikh or Jew; finding churches, temples or mosques around Singapore is easy.

For Muslim visitors, there are many 'halal' restaurants in Singapore.

For more info, please visit www.goodfood.sg

WEATHER

No need to worry about typhoons in Singapore. Just bring plenty of sun block because Singapore's weather is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 31°C. Though Singapore is mostly sunny all year round, you can bring a small umbrella with you in case of a sudden tropical downpour, especially during the annual monsoon season from November to January.