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Top Tips For Business Travelers in Singapore

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Singapore is a top destination for business travelers, for many reasons; the destination’s business-savvy economy and increasing popularity over the last few years has made it attractive to many industries. So, if you have to head to Singapore on business, what do you need to know as a traveler?

Don’t Stress the Airport

One of the first (and the last) stressors during a business trip comes at the airport. After all, so much is out of your control, and so much can go wrong! What are you supposed to do if your flight arrives late, and you’re already jammed for time as you try to rush through the airport, grab your luggage and make it to your hotel in time to change before your big business meeting or dinner? Likewise, how do you end a business trip the right way and get home on time, according to schedule and without having to make a mad dash through the airport in order to catch your flight? Thankfully, Changi Airport is one of the top airports in the world, and it’s designed so efficiently that you’ll find your entire airport experience to be a quick breeze. Seriously! It makes a great first impression.

 

Zip Around the City

You may be tempted to walk to your meeting — after all, if it’s just a 30-minute stroll from your hotel, why not? Just skip the walking — Singapore’s oft-high heat and humidity will leave you looking more than a little worse for wear. Luckily, both taxis and Ubers are extremely popular on these streets, making it easy for you to get from one place to another without breaking a sweat. Boss has you watching your expense account? Try the local public transportation.

 

Enjoy Yourself

If you’re going to travel on business, you probably already know that one of the perks to being an employee abroad is taking a few minutes out for yourself, to enjoy the local scene. While some destinations, like, say, Columbus, Ohio, may not even be worth leaving the board room or hotel, others offer a wealth of amazing experiences. Singapore is one of these, and you’ll regret it if you leave without getting a full taste of all it has to offer. Try the Singapore street food, see the Gardens by the Bay or even pay a visit to one of the casinos.

 

Know the Local Expectations

Of course, you can’t truly enjoy yourself if you’re constantly worried about breaking a business rule while meeting with your Singaporean colleagues. There are a few things to keep in mind — be punctual (a good rule in any country), and show proper respect to more advanced or experienced business people (which means avoid correcting them or debating with them in public). Always have your business cards handy, to exchange with every business person you meet; offer them held between both hands. When accepting a business card, look over it, acknowledge the giver and then place it in a card case. When asked an important question, don’t give an overly hasty answer. Also, while standing with arms akimbo can be seen as confident in Western countries, Eastern societies may view it as a sign of anger. Put simply, always act with respect for those around you.



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