Vicky

Hey everyone, I just moved to Singapore from the US a week ago and I'm already hitting a wall with the language. I was at Ion Orchard today trying to buy a simple SIM card, and the guy at the counter kept saying something that sounded like 'lah' and 'can' but I totally didn't get it. Is that Singlish? I smiled and nodded but felt so dumb. Also at the food court in Wisma Atria, I asked for 'chicken rice' and they asked if I want 'white or roasted' – I panicked and just said 'yes' and got a weird look. How do you even know which one to pick? Any tips for a clueless newbie who's afraid to speak? I don't want to seem rude but I'm so confused. Thanks!