Why Singaporeans love taking Grab?

Do we hate SMRT that much?

Singapore is known for its (mostly) efficient public transport system compared to other countries except the occasional MRT breakdowns that everyone makes a huge fuss about, just because we all love complaining about every minor inconvenience. Despite this, many locals still prefer taking Grab and taxis instead here. Singaplex explores Singaporeans’ love (and almost obsession) with taking Grab everywhere instead of public transport.

1. Convenience

One of the main reasons why Singaporeans prefer Grab and taxis is because of their convenience. With Grab and taxis, you can get a ride from your doorstep to your destination without having to walk to a bus stop or MRT station. This is especially convenient when you are in a rush, need to carry heavy items or if it is raining.

2. Comfort

Another reason why Singaporeans love taking Grab and taxis is the comfort they provide. Unlike public transport, where you have to share the space with other commuters, Grab and taxis provide a private and comfortable ride. You can also choose the type of car you want, or even a luxury car, which is not available on public transport.

Meanwhile, on public transport, the crowded conditions during peak hours can be simply unbearable. This can make commuting uncomfortable and may result in longer travel times. However, the government has made efforts to alleviate this issue by increasing the number of trains and buses during peak hours and encouraging commuters to stagger their travel times.

3. Time-saving

Singapore is a fast-paced city, and time is of the essence. Taking public transport can sometimes be time-consuming, especially during peak hours when the trains and buses are packed. With Grab and taxis, you can avoid the crowds and get to your destination faster, making it a more efficient mode of transport.

4. Affordability

While Grab and taxis may be perceived as more expensive than public transport, they can actually be more affordable in certain situations. For example, if you are travelling in a group, taking a Grab or taxi can be cheaper than buying separate tickets for public transport. Additionally, if you are travelling a long distance, the cost of taking Grab or taxi may be comparable to public transport. Of course the best case scenario is: can claim from company then just take Grab luh, it’s a no brainer.

5. Safety

Finally, safety is a key factor why Singaporeans prefer taking Grab and taxis. In recent years, there have been cases of harassment and assault on public transport. With Grab and taxis, you can ensure your safety by choosing the driver, the car and the route you take. You can also track your ride in real-time, which gives you peace of mind.

In conclusion, while Singapore's public transport system is efficient and reliable, Grab and taxis offer a level of convenience, comfort, time-saving, affordability and safety that public transport may not be able to provide. Or maybe we are all just spoilt or want to treat ourselves a little sometimes on a really shitty day instead of squeezing on the MRT.

VICTORIA NG | Contributing Writer

Victoria, a.k.a Vicky is a creative freelancer who hails from Singapore, she loves to ‘vibe’ on the internet and pretty much prefers cats over humans. She has a fondness for things that carry an air of nostalgia and enjoys cafe hopping on weekends. Her current struggle is trying to spend less time on Tiktok, she can hear the “ting ting ting dang ting” song in her ears. She hopes to own a corgi someday.