Currency
Singapore Dollars is used. However, many restaurants, hotels and shopping
facilities accepts US Dollars. Money Changers are available around the country,
you can also find them at the airport.
Clothings
As Singapore generally has warm weather throughout the year, it is recommended
that you prepare light clothings for your trip to Singapore.
Weather
The general weather condition in Singapore is warm, with rain in the
months of October - December. Typical temperature varies from
25º celcius - 33º celcius.
Tap Water
Tap water in Singapore is safe for consumption without boiling/cooking.
For those who prefers bottled mineral waters can find them easily
available at supermarkets, hotels and restaurants.
Electricity
Voltage are 220 - 240 volts AC, 50 cycles per second. If you are using
appliances of a different voltage, you can purchase transformers/adaptors
from electrical shops available at the airport and major shopping centers.
You may also obtain one from the hotel you are staying.
Taxes
There is a 3% Goods and Services Tax (or GST as commonly known) for purchase
of most goods and services in Singapore. If you are purchasing goods to
bring out of the country, you can apply for a refund if your purchases
amounts to S$300 and above. Minimum purchase may be required, please check
with the shops you are buying the goods from to make sure the correct figure.
Make sure you keep the receipts for all your purchases to claim this at
your point of departure.
Certain restaurants, pubs and hotels also levy a 10% Entertainment Tax.
Tipping
Tipping is not compulsory in Singapore. However if you are happy with the
services rendered, please feel free to tip.
Medical Facilities
Singapore has some of the finest medical facilities in the world, with
well qualified medical doctors and dental surgeons. Most pharmacies
has qualified pharmacists working in them.
Telephone Calls
To dial IDD to your country, use "001" followed by the country code,
followed by the areacode (if applicable) and the telephone number you
wish to call. For calls made inside the hotel, you may need to
dial an extra number, please check with the hotel you are staying in.
Public pay phones are available almost everywhere, with most accepting
coins, pre-pay cards. Some pay phones accepts credit cards.
VISA Requirements
Most visitors to Singapore do not require a VISA to enter. However,
please check with the nearest Singapore Trade Commissions or Embassies
to verify whether you require one for your visit.
Useful Telephone Numbers
Police - 995
Ambulance - 995
Fire Bridge - 995
Flight Information - 6542-4422
Local Time - 1711
Local Weather - 6542-7788
Taxi Service
Comfort Cabs - 6552-1111
CitiCab - 6552-2222
Credit Cards
American Express - 6299-8133
Diners Card - 6294-4222
JCB - 6734-0096
MasterCard/VISA - 6345-1345
