Before Arrival
Ensure your arrival into Singapore is hassle free. Here are some key things you need to be aware of before you make your way to Singapore.
Weather
Singapore is known for its hot and humid weather, with little variation throughout the year. The average March daytime temperature is 32°C (90°F) dropping to 25°C (77°F) in the evenings.
Getting Around
Be it the bus, Mass Rapid Transport (MRT) or taxi, getting around Singapore is a breeze. Note... the MRT is your friend!
Money matters
Singapore's currency is the Singapore dollar (S$). Currency exchange services can be found not only at the Singapore Changi Airport but also most shopping centres and hotels around the island. You can also access the automated teller machines (ATMs) located everywhere (even in the most obscure bits) in Singapore, that accept most of the main credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express.
Mobile Phone Usage
Singapore’s international dialling code is +(65). While in Singapore and if you have international roaming service on your cell phone, you don’t have to press +(65) as it will automatically connect you to the local numbers here.
Electricity
Singapore voltage is 220-240 volts AC, 50 cycles per second. On request, most hotels will provide transformers to visitors with electrical appliances of a different voltage, such as 110-120 volts, 60 cycles per second. When shopping for electrical appliances, do remember to check the voltage of the item against the acceptable voltage in your home country. The power plugs used in Singapore are of the three-pin, square-shaped type.
Tax Refund Schemes
To enjoy tax-free shopping in Singapore, simply look out for retailers that display the “Tax Refund” logo on their shop front and spend S$100 in a single receipt to qualify.