Singapore is a modern city-state that presents a captivating blend of cultures, traditions and cuisines. A cultural bridge between the East and West, this small but dynamic country is an exciting destination for sightseeing, shopping and dining.Plug TypeLanguageEnglish, Mandarin, Malay and TamilPopulation5.18 millionTime ZoneGMT + 8 hoursMeasuresMetricVoltage220/440 voltsMobile PhonesGSM 900/1800A visa is not required by most travellers from Commonwealth countries, the European Union and North America for a stay of up to 90 days. Travellers holding travel documents issued by certain other countries may require a visa to enter Singapore.Immigration & Checkpoints AuthorityThe Singapore Dollar is the local unit of currency. One Singapore Dollar comprises 100 cents. By default, prices displayed with the dollar sign are quoted in Singapore Dollars.
Cash is the most common form of payment. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and shopping malls.
Here are the most recent exchange rates for some common currencies.SGD 1.00 equals:
.79
US Dollar (USD)
.75
Australian Dollar (AUD)
.61
Euro (EUR)
.51
British Pound (GBP)
6.16
Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
39.80
Indian Rupee (INR)
61.77
Japanese Yen (JPY)
.97
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
890.87
South Korean Won (KRW)
Hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge and 7% government tax to the bill, unless otherwise stated.A 10% service charge is usually added to the bill. If a service charge has not been included, tipping is left to the guest’s discretion.Bank HoursVaries from bank to bank, but generally normal business hours on weekdays and half-day operation on Saturdays.Office HoursGenerally 8.30am to 6pm from Mondays to Fridays.
Government agencies operate till 5 pm from Mondays to Fridays.
Most companies operate a five-day or 5 and half days workweek.
Shop HoursMost shopping malls and shops operate from 10am to 9pm daily.Medical facilities in Singapore are of a high standard. Tap water in Singapore is drinkable and may be boiled prior to consumption if desired. A kettle is provided for guests’ convenience in the guest room. Complimentary bottles of water are also provided by the Resort.Lightweight clothing is best for Singapore's tropical climate. Discreet dressing is encouraged when visiting places of worship. Some restaurants may enforce their own dress codes.
Business attire for men is generally a shirt and trousers with a tie where appropriate. A blouse and skirt ensemble or a dress is the usual business attire for ladies.
Located just north of the Equator, Singapore has a typical tropical climate with sunny weather all year round. Rain is most frequent from November to January, but can be expected any time of the year. The hottest months are June to August.