Climate

Singapore has a relatively uniform temperature ranging from 25°C - 32°C (77°F - 89.6°F) throughout the whole year. Humidity ranges from an average of 66%. More showers are expected from November to January and are usually sudden but brief.

Clothing

Dressing is informal and casual at most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and nightspots. Include a waterproof jacket if rain is expected.

Currency

Singapore dollar is the currency for Singapore. Most shops and entertainment outlets accepted major credit cards and travellers' cheques.

Customs

Travellers enjoy Duty-Free concessions if they:

• are at least 18 years old;
• have arrived from countries other than Malaysia; and
• have been away from Singapore for at least 48 hours.

The Singapore Customs and Excise Department collects a 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on all goods imported into Singapore. GST relief is given for all new purchases as a tourist or returning Citizen/Permanent Resident of Singapore.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied throughout Singapore at 220 - 240 volts, 50 cycles AC system.

Emergency Call Numbers

Health

Singapore's private and public medical facilities are within easy reach to the people and of a high standard. Tap water is safe to drink.

Local Area Information

The Republic of Singapore is made up of the main island of Singapore and 60 other smaller islands. With a total area of 253 square miles (655 square kilometres), the main island resides a population of 3.87 million. Singapore measures a maximum 26 miles (42 kilometres) from East to West and 14 miles (23 kilometres) from North to South. Lying close to the southern part of Malaysia, the two countries are linked by 2 causeways.

Mobile Phones

Mobile phone network in Singapore is GSM 900/1800 and CDMA. Check with your mobile phone company before leaving home about international auto roam services available in Singapore.

Public Phones

Most public phones accept coins or phonecards purchased from bookstalls and newsagents, with a minimum value of S$2.00.

Shopping & Business Hours

Generally, the opening hours of most stores are from 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Mondays to Sundays. However, most shops in shopping malls close before 10:00 p.m. Popular shopping places includes the main shopping district Orchard Road, City Hall, Chinatown, Little India and Arab Street.

• Banks: Open from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday and 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays.
• Offices: Majority of the offices are open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. from Mondays to Fridays and 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Saturdays.

Taxes

There is a 7% Goods and Services Tax imposed in major shops and departments, with an additional 10% service charge in restaurants, 1% government tax is also added in hotels.

Time Zone

GMT +8.

Tipping

There is no need to tip if a 10% service charge is already added to the bill. If not, tipping is up to one's preferences.

Visa

Foreigners holding travel documents issued by certain countries require either a Business or Social visa.