Singapore Travel Tips - Helpful hints and advice on local destination information

Customs and etiquette

With Singapore host to an abundance of foreign tourists there is a high tolerance of Western behavior although there are certain local customs and laws that must be followed. Spitting is against the law on the island and chewing gum is strictly prohibited for sale, import and personal use. Littering is not tolerated, with harsh on-the-spot fines issued to offenders.

Tipping is not mandatory but commonly accepted by the service industry. If restaurants do not already include a service charge then a 15 to 20 percent tip is acceptable.

Accommodation

As a popular tourist destination in Asia, Singapore offers a variety of accommodations to meet the needs of different types of travellers. Find a vast array of hotels in Singapore from luxury hotels like the historical Raffles Hotel and the five-star Shangri-La Hotel Singapore to cheap hotel accommodations like the Fragrance Hotels and Value Hotels.

Money

The Singapore dollar (S$) is the local currency. There are an abundance of money exchanges throughout the city, particularly in the CBD and other tourist hotspots. Most major hotels and local banks will also change foreign currency although the exchange rate will not be a favorable.

Cash is needed for all small purchases, markets and street vendors. All shops in major shopping centers accept credit cards for payment. Foreign ATM cards are accepted at most machines throughout the state.

Weather

With its global positioning, Singapore experiences a tropical climate that is hot and humid year round. There are three seasons although little distinction between them. June to October typically sees more rainfall and from December to February the weather is slightly cooler than the rest of the year.

If planning to travel to Singapore from March to June be prepared for particularly hot weather and make sure to keep well hydrated as the scorching temperature and high humidity levels drain the body.

Transportation

Getting around Singapore is effortless with a fantastic, well-planned public transport system that can take visitors to anywhere on the island within a short time frame. There are standard trains and also light rail services running through the city. Buses connect most destinations on the island and a plethora of metered taxis can be found at any time.

Changi International Airport (SIN) is conveniently located approximately 20 minutes' drive from the CBD of Singapore. There is a rail service connecting to the city as well as express bus shuttles and metered taxis.

Fast facts

Population: 4,839,400
Spoken languages: English, Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese, Malay, Tamil
Electrical: 230 Volts, 50 Hertz
Phone/calling code: +65

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