ABOUT SINGAPORE
Unique is the word that best captures Singapore, a dynamic city rich in contrast and colour where you’ll find a harmonious blend of culture, arts and architecture. A bridge between the East and the West for centuries, Singapore, located in the heart of fascinating Southeast Asia, continues to embrace the tradition and modernity today. Brimming with unbridled energy and bursting with exciting events, the city offers countless unique, memorable experiences waiting to be discovered.
Airport Tax
A passenger service charge of SGD 21 should be incorporated in the air ticket (including tickets issued outside of Singapore). If this has not been done, you may be required to pay the SGD 21 during check-in. In some cases, the airline may absorb the service charge. In some cases, the airline may absorb the service charge.
Currency
Other than the Singapore Dollar, the US and Australian Dollars, Yen and British Pound are also accepted in most major shopping centers and big
departmental stores.
Electricity
Singapore voltage is 220-240 volts AC, 50 cycles per second. The power plugs used in Singapore are of the three-pin, square-shaped type.
Language
There are four official languages in Singapore: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil and English. English is the language of business and administration, and is widely spoken and understood. Malay is the national language.
Mobile Phones
There are two mobile phone networks - GSM900 and GSM1800 - and three mobile telephone service providers - SingTel, M1 and StarHub. To make international calls, the access codes are 001, 013, 0r 019 for SingTel, 002 0r 021 for M1 and 008 or 018 for StarHub.
Money Changers
Apart from banks and hotels, money can be changed wherever the sign “Licensed Money Changer” is displayed. Most shopping complexes have a licensed money changer. Visitors are discouraged from changing money with unlicensed money changers.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in public service vehicles, museums, libraries, lifts, theatres, cinemas, air-conditioned restaurants, hair salons, supermarkets, department stores and government offices. Offenders can be fined up to SGD1, 000.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
A 7% GST is levied in Singapore. As a foreign visitor, you are entitled to claim back the GST that you pay on your purchases when you take them home. GST refund is not applicable for land and cruise departures. Under the Global Refund GST Scheme, visit any store that displays the "TAX FREE SHOPPING" logo and follow these simple steps:
Airport Tax
A passenger service charge of SGD 21 should be incorporated in the air ticket (including tickets issued outside of Singapore). If this has not been done, you may be required to pay the SGD 21 during check-in. In some cases, the airline may absorb the service charge. In some cases, the airline may absorb the service charge.
Currency
Other than the Singapore Dollar, the US and Australian Dollars, Yen and British Pound are also accepted in most major shopping centers and big
departmental stores.
Electricity
Singapore voltage is 220-240 volts AC, 50 cycles per second. The power plugs used in Singapore are of the three-pin, square-shaped type.
Language
There are four official languages in Singapore: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil and English. English is the language of business and administration, and is widely spoken and understood. Malay is the national language.
Mobile Phones
There are two mobile phone networks - GSM900 and GSM1800 - and three mobile telephone service providers - SingTel, M1 and StarHub. To make international calls, the access codes are 001, 013, 0r 019 for SingTel, 002 0r 021 for M1 and 008 or 018 for StarHub.
Money Changers
Apart from banks and hotels, money can be changed wherever the sign “Licensed Money Changer” is displayed. Most shopping complexes have a licensed money changer. Visitors are discouraged from changing money with unlicensed money changers.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in public service vehicles, museums, libraries, lifts, theatres, cinemas, air-conditioned restaurants, hair salons, supermarkets, department stores and government offices. Offenders can be fined up to SGD1, 000.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
A 7% GST is levied in Singapore. As a foreign visitor, you are entitled to claim back the GST that you pay on your purchases when you take them home. GST refund is not applicable for land and cruise departures. Under the Global Refund GST Scheme, visit any store that displays the "TAX FREE SHOPPING" logo and follow these simple steps:
1.
2. 3. 4. |
Spend a minimum of SGD 100 at any Global Refund affiliated retailer.
Present your passport to the retailer to obtain a completed Global Refund Cheque. Get the Cheques validated at the Singapore Customs counter at Changi Airport Terminal 1 or 2 as proof of export. The goods purchased, along with the receipts and Global Refund Cheques must be presented for verification. Claim your GST refund in the form of cash, credit card, bank cheques or Airport Shopping Vouchers at Global Refund counters in the airport. A small handling fee will be deducted from the GST amount due to you. |
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory although it is often appreciated. Most hotel and restaurant bills come with a 10% service charge.
Transportation
Getting from point A to point B in Singapore is not just easy, it is also economical. An efficient public transportation network offers taxis buses and the modern Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) rail system.
Visa and Entry Facilities
Generally, foreigners who do not require visas for entry and are visiting Singapore as tourists, may be given up to 30-day social passes upon their arrival in Singapore.
What to Wear
Singapore has a warm and humid climate throughout the year with a daily average temperature range of 24 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius. Light and summer clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton is best for everyday wear. Casual dress is acceptable for most situations and occasions but some establishments may require a more formal dress code. It is always advisable to check beforehand on dress regulations, if any. For more information, you may like to visit http://www.yoursingapore.com
Tipping is not mandatory although it is often appreciated. Most hotel and restaurant bills come with a 10% service charge.
Transportation
Getting from point A to point B in Singapore is not just easy, it is also economical. An efficient public transportation network offers taxis buses and the modern Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) rail system.
Visa and Entry Facilities
Generally, foreigners who do not require visas for entry and are visiting Singapore as tourists, may be given up to 30-day social passes upon their arrival in Singapore.
What to Wear
Singapore has a warm and humid climate throughout the year with a daily average temperature range of 24 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius. Light and summer clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton is best for everyday wear. Casual dress is acceptable for most situations and occasions but some establishments may require a more formal dress code. It is always advisable to check beforehand on dress regulations, if any. For more information, you may like to visit http://www.yoursingapore.com