Traveller Essentials
Find out which power adapter to bring, what clothes to pack to suit the weather, whether you need to apply for a visa and other useful information before you visit Singapore.
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Visa requirements*
Check up on visa requirements and the Visa Free Transit Facility with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority or the Singapore Overseas Mission closest to you.
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Money
The official currency of Singapore is the Singapore dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, bars, shops, hotels and taxis in Singapore.
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No Smoking Areas
Smoking is prohibited in public transportation, air-conditioned and common places, including areas within 5 metres of building entrances and bus shelters.
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Weather
Singapore is hot and humid all year round, with temperatures reaching highs of over 30°C. Rain storms are unpredictable, and often torrential but brief.
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Language
Singapore has four official languages - Malay, English, Mandarin and Tamil, but English is the default common language.
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Power Plug
The standard electrical current in Singapore is 220-240 volts AC (50 cycles). Power plugs are large with three square prongs, similar to the UK.
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Safe Drinking Water
Water from the tap is safe to drink in Singapore. Bottled water is also widely available.
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Seasonality
Singapore's social calendar is marked by annual festivals and major events such as the Great Singapore Sale (May-Jun), Formula 1 Grand Prix (Sept) and Christmas (Dec).
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Closure Information
Hotels, attractions, shops and restaurants are open seven days a week. Small businesses such as hawker stalls often close one day of the week and during festive holidays.
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GST Refund
Apply for a refund on the 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) when you make purchases worth more than 100SGD from participating outlets. Please visit www.customs.gov.sg for more information.
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Alcohol Consumption
From 10.30pm to 7am, liquor consumption in public areas is prohibited. At this time, alcohol can only be purchased and consumed at licensed premises and at home.
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Tipping
Tipping is not a Singaporean culture but it is a growing practice for good service in restaurants, hotels and taxis.
*As you prepare for your trip to Singapore, do remember to complete the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) e-Service before you leave your departure point. This is available electronically on the Singapore Immigrations & Checkpoints Authority website or through the ICA app or the Visit Singapore Travel Guide app, allowing you to submit your arrival information up to three days before your visit.
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Common expenses
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Accomodation
Mid-range hotels in good locations start from 120SGD/85USD a night. Luxury hotels start from 340SGD/240USD a night.
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Fast food
A McDonald's regular McValue Meal cost 7.50SGD/5.50USD
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Movies
A movie ticket costs around 8.50SGD/6USD. Prices can vary according to screening times.
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Taxis
A 2km taxi ride during non-peak hours can cost 7SGD/5USD
