Dreaming of your next overseas adventure? Hold up, Singaporeans! While we love exploring the world, are we truly ready for what lies beyond our comfortable shores? Recent Reddit discussions reveal a recurring theme: some Singaporeans might be a little… sheltered. From surprising lack of general knowledge to baffling travel mishaps, these stories hit close to home for many. It’s time for a reality check!
The Sheltered Singaporean Traveller
Many Singaporeans, especially those who grew up in our relatively safe and structured environment, often display a unique blend of innocence and perhaps, a touch of naiveté when faced with the unpredictability of the outside world. This often manifests as a lack of spatial awareness or an assumption of universal safety. It’s not uncommon to see unattended belongings in public spaces here, a habit that becomes a major risk overseas.
“I’ve recently heard of someone telling me that Singaporeans lack spatial awareness and are generally more susceptible to getting their stuff stolen when travelling abroad.”
This extends beyond travel. Reddit users recount instances of parents accompanying university students to career fairs, answering questions on their behalf – a stark contrast to international students who navigate such events independently. This over-reliance can hinder the development of essential life skills. We are a small island, and our bubble can sometimes be thicker than we think.
“Going to IKEA on a weekday afternoon, you’ll see a few laptops and bags completely unattended, I sat down to eat next to one and an hour later the owner still not back.”
Reality Check: Overseas Challenges
The sheltered bubble often bursts when Singaporeans encounter the complexities of global travel and diverse cultures. Common frustrations include a low tolerance for discomfort, an expectation of convenience, and a surprising lack of general world knowledge. Stories range from not knowing about basic religious practices like Ramadan to assuming foreign weather is like an air-conditioned mall. This can lead to awkward or even dangerous situations, highlighting a gap in essential life skills.
“a friend from uni who attended branded sap schools all her life never heard of ramadan or even the concept of fasting month before.”
Another major obstacle is the difficulty in adapting to less-than-perfect conditions or unexpected events. A classic example is the reaction to a minor earthquake overseas, where students assumed hotel staff were just “going off to do something” instead of evacuating. This highlights a gap in critical thinking and situational awareness that can put individuals at risk. Expecting the world to operate like Singapore, with its pristine cleanliness and efficiency, can be a rude awakening.
“When she asked them if they felt the shaking, someone said that they thought they’d imagined the shaking. When she questioned further why didn’t they notice all the staff leaving the hotel, the students said that they thought all the staff were just going off to do something, they didn’t know that everybody was evacuating.”
Level Up Your Global Savvy
So, how do we level up our global savvy? First, embrace discomfort. Not every trip will be a five-star stay, and that’s okay. Learn to navigate public transport, carry your own luggage, and be prepared for less-than-ideal conditions. This builds resilience and self-reliance, skills that are invaluable both at home and abroad. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow. International students often display this self-reliance, a trait we can all cultivate.
“Compare this to the international students, some of whom come from much less developed countries where English might not be their first language being able to hold a conversation on their own and generally be more outgoing and personable”
Second, research is your best friend. Before you fly, check visa requirements, local customs, and even the weather. Don’t assume 18 degrees Celsius feels like an office. Understanding cultural nuances and local safety protocols can prevent misunderstandings and keep you safe. Practice being observant and aware of your surroundings, whether you’re at Changi Airport or a bustling foreign market. This proactive approach turns potential blunders into smooth experiences.
“The most Sheltered thing that I did was assuming that the weather in other countries with temperatures at 18-22 degrees the same as our regular shopping mall/ office temperature that I just wore a thin cardigan for the outing and got nearly freeze to death cause of the cold wind.”
Finally, foster independence. Parents, allow your kids to problem-solve and make decisions. For young adults, step out of your comfort zone – volunteer, join diverse groups, or travel independently. The world is a vast, amazing classroom, and the best way to learn is by experiencing it firsthand. Let’s make every Singaporean a truly global citizen, ready for any adventure.
