Singapore is often one of the most travel-friendly countries in Asia and provides a diverse cultural mixture of entertainment, cuisine and shopping. The weather is warm year-round, offering good conditions for outdoor activities. Getting around the island is easy, with an extensive train system that is easy to use.
Customs and etiquette
With Singapore host to a lot of foreign tourists there is a high tolerance of Western behavior although there are certain local customs and laws that must be followed. Spitting is against the law at the island and chewing gum is strictly prohibited available for sale, import and probing use. Littering is not tolerated, with harsh on-the-spot fines issued to offenders.
Tipping is not mandatory but commonly accepted by the service industry. If restaurants do not already include a service charge then a 15 to 20 percent tip is acceptable.
Accommodation
As a popular tourist destination in Asia, Hotel Singapore meet the needs of different types of travellers. Find a vast array of hotels in Singapore from luxury hotels like the historical Raffles Hotel and the five-star Shangri-la Hotel Singapore to cheap hotel accommodations like the Fragrance Hotels and Value Hotels.
Money
The Singapore dollar (S$) is the local currency. There are an abundance of money exchanges throughout the city, particularly in the CBD and other tourist hotspots. Most major hotels and local banks will also change foreign currency although the exchange rate will not be a favorable.
Cash is needed for all small purchases, markets and street vendors. All shops in major shopping centers accept credit cards for payment. Foreign ATM cards are accepted at most machines through state.
Weather
Because of its global positioning, Singapore experiences a tropical climate that is hot and humid all year. There often are three seasons although little distinction between them. June to October typically sees more rainfall and from December to February the climate is slightly cooler compared to rest of the year.
If getting ready to travel to Singapore from March to June be prepared for particularly hot weather and make sure to keep well hydrated as the scorching temperature and high humidity levels drain the body.
Transportation
Getting around Singapore is effortless with a fantastic, well-planned shuttle system that can take visitors to anywhere at the island within a short time frame. There are standard trains and also light rail services running through the city. Buses connect most destinations on the island and a plethora of metered taxis can be found at any time.
Changi International Airport (SIN) is conveniently located approximately 20 minutes' drive from the CBD of Singapore. There is a rail service connecting to the city as well as express bus shuttles and metered taxis.
Fast facts
Population: 4,839,400 Spoken languages: English, Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese, Malay, Tamil Electrical: 230 Volts, 50 Hertz Phone/calling code: 65