The ultimate business traveller’s guide to Singapore
Singapore has evolved as one of the top destinations for business travel. It’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure and transportation, iconic cityscapes, hotels, unmatched hospitality, and business etiquette has made Singapore the go-to destination to conduct business, and host meetings and events.
The proof lies in a report conducted by BCD which ranked Singapore as the leading destination for business travellers in the APAC region. In yet another report by Trip.Biz, the Lion City was the second most popular outbound business travel destination for business travellers from China.
When in Singapore, you’ll find major companies from diverse sectors including banking and finance, technology, manufacturing, logistics and transportation. The country is easy to navigate and explore. If you are travelling to Singapore on a business trip, here’s the ultimate guide for business travellers to nail their business trips in Singapore:
1. Currency: The Singapore Dollar, or SGD, is the official currency of the country. Once you arrive in the country, you should get some local currency, especially when you are exploring local delights at hawker centres or travelling by public transport. Though business travellers usually carry credit cards or virtual cards to manage business travel expenses, it is always a good idea to carry local currency.
2. Getting around in Singapore: Talking about transportation, Singapore has an extensive and robust public transport system. You can use subways, buses, or the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) to reach your destination on time and in a cost-effective manner. But, if you plan to opt for cabs, you can download apps such as Grab or Tada for best ride-hailing experience.
3. Language: Singapore is a multi-cultural country which is thronged by business travellers from around the world. That said, you’ll find majority of the population speaking Mandarin as it is the widely spoken language in Singapore. To make an impact during your meetings and events, you can learn a few words in Mandarin and break the ice. For instance, you can say “zao an” to greet good morning, or “Xie xie” to say thank you.
4. Business etiquette: Punctuality is a given in any country, but it is a virtue in Singapore. If you are getting late, be sure to inform in advance. Also, frequent business travellers to Singapore will tell you to give and receive business cards with both the hands, the importance of a firm handshake, dressing in smart casuals, and the power/joy of gifting, if meeting any government official. Since Singapore has a tropical climate, you can wear formal short-sleeved shirts to business meetings.
5. Hotels: Whether you are on a tight business travel budget or a VIP business traveller, Singapore has a diverse scene when it comes to hotels. Singapore has a wide range of hotels for all types of budgets with historic buildings, state-of-the-art amenities, unique experiences, and ultimate comfort. To elevate your stay in Singapore, business travellers can look at Raffles Singapore or can stay at Marina Bay for a dash of modernity and style.
6. Bleisure: Travelling for business doesn’t have to be all work. Your business trips can extend into leisure travel as well, after all happy travellers are productive travellers and their trips tend to produce better outcomes. If you’re extending your stay in Singapore, you can visit Sentosa, explore the Orchard Road, or even spend a day at the Changi airport. Alternatively, you can unwind after a busy day by exploring local food and gorging on satay, laksa, and many other items, or enjoy a sunset cruise along the Singapore River.
In a nutshell
The business-friendly culture is attracting people towards Singapore and if you are travelling to the country for the first time, these tips and tricks can make your business trip successful, seamless, and productive.
Additionally, since business travellers are always in and out of meetings, it can be overwhelming to check travel disruptions, or even flight status. In this scenario, it is beneficial to download your TMC app and receive instant notifications and updates on the go!