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 (beta) before you leave your departure point. This is now available electronically, which allows you to submit your arrival information up to 14 days before your visit. You can do this easily by downloading the Visit Singapore Travel Guide app, on iOS and Android or at the Singapapore Immigrations & Checkpoints Authority website. This will help deliver a hassle-free experience through our airport, so you can spend more time exploring our city of limitless opportunities. |
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
