Singapore Travel Information
Singapore, with a population of 3.87 million is located at one of the major crossroads of the world. Singapore's strategic position has lead to growth into a major centre for trade, communications and tourism. It is linked to Malaysia by two causeway bridges and the key islands of the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia are just a quick ferry trip away. Accessibility to other nearby countries is viable via a short flight.
Weather
Singapore has a warm and humid climate throughout the year with daily average temperature range of 24 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius.
Language
Singapore has four official languages; English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil. English is widely spoken.
Time Difference
GMT +8
Visa
Foreigners holding travel documents issued by certain countries require either a Business or Social Visit visa. (For more information, please visit the Singapore Immigration website: http://www.ica.gov.sg)
Currency
The unit of currency is the Singapore dollar. Credit cards and travellers' checks are widely accepted.
Shopping
In general, Singapore is a shopping paradise and most stores open from 10 am to 9 pm daily, even on public holidays.
VAT / GST
There is a 5% goods and service tax plus a 1% Government Tax in hotels.
Gratuity
Tipping is not commonly practised in Singapore. Most restaurants automatically add a 10% service charge to the total bill
Business Hours
- Banks and Government offices:
In general, banking hours are from 9.00 am to 3.00 pm Monday to Friday and 9.30 am to 11.30 am on Saturday. - Offices:
Most offices open from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm Monday to Friday and 9.00 am to 1.00 pm on Saturday. - Shops (Hours vary):
Shops generally open from 10.00 am to 9.00 pm from Monday to Sunday.
Eating Out
Singapore is a food paradise with a galore of food outlets. Select from traditional local fare at hawker centres to international cuisine served at the finest restaurants. Do enquire at the Reception Desk for some good recommendations.
Moving Around
Singapore operates one of the best public transportation systems in the world. You can easily access the public transport of Mass Rapid Transits (MRT), public buses and taxis. Most rides are affordable.
Telephone Network
There are 3 mobile telephone service providers - SingTel, M1 and Starhub. For SingTel, the access code is 001, for M1, the access code is 002 and for Starhub, the access code is 008.
Health
Medical facilities in Singapore are of the highest standards. Tap water in the hotel is potable and if desired, may be boiled prior to consumption using the facilities provided.
Electricity
Singapore voltage is 220-240 volts AC, 50 cycles per second. Upon request, most hotels will provide transformers to visitors with electrical appliances of a different voltage, such as 110-120 volts, 60 cycles per second. When shopping for electrical appliances, do remember to check the voltage of the item against the acceptable voltage in your home country.
Public holidays:
New Year's Day; Chinese New Year; Good Friday; Labour Day; Vesak Day; National Day; Hari Raya Puasa; Deepavali; Hari Raya Haji and Christmas Day.
