Welcome to Singapore 😊

Quick Facts About Singapore

Money and Finances

The currency of Singapore is the Singapore dollar (SGD). Coins come in denominations of $0.05, $0.10, $0.20, $0.50, and $1, while notes come in denominations of $2, $5, $10, $50, $100, $1,000, and $10,000.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available throughout Singapore and can be found in shopping centres, MRT stations, and on the streets. Most ATMs accept international debit and credit cards.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Singapore and can be used almost everywhere. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than AMEX.

Internet and Phones

Singapore has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world, with an average download speed of 180 mbps and an upload speed of 180 mbps. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are three major telco companies in Singapore, namely Singtel, Starhub, and M1. The average cost of a mobile phone plan ranges from SGD 20 to SGD 80 per month. Sim compatibility is not an issue in Singapore.

Dialling to Singapore

To call Singapore from another country, dial +65 followed by the desired phone number. The area code for Singapore is 65.

Transport Around Singapore

Air Travel

Singapore has one major airport, Singapore Changi Airport. It is located on the eastern side of Singapore and is easily accessible by public transport.

Train Travel

Singapore has an efficient and reliable inter-city train network known as the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit). Fares start at SGD 0.77 and journey times vary depending on the distance. For example, a trip from one end of the island to the other takes around an hour.

Metro / Local Trains

Within major cities in Singapore, there is a local train system called the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), which is fast and efficient. Fares start at SGD 0.77 and journey times are relatively short.

Buses

Singapore also has an extensive bus network, with fares starting at SGD 0.77. Journey times vary depending on the distance and traffic, but typically take around an hour to travel from one end of the island to the other.

Rideshare

There are several rideshare companies in Singapore, including Grab and Gojek. The prices vary depending on the distance and time of day, but typically start at around SGD 5.00 for a short trip.

Driving by Car

Driving in Singapore is generally easy, with well-maintained roads and comprehensive signage. Speed limits range from 50 km/h in residential areas to 90 km/h on expressways. Singapore drives on the left-hand side of the road.

Local Customs

In Singapore, tipping is not expected, as a 10% service charge is usually included in bills. As a multi-cultural society, locals greet each other with handshakes, although some may also bow or nod their head slightly. It is recommended to use formal titles and surnames when addressing someone until a closer relationship is established. Additionally, men and women usually address each other by their first names or titles and surnames, while it is polite to wait for an invitation before using someone's first name.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The health care system in Singapore is ranked as one of the best in the world. All citizens and permanent residents are required to contribute to a national health insurance scheme known as Medisave. The average cost for a visit to a general practitioner is around SGD 25-50 (approximately USD 18-36).

COVID Situation

Singapore acted quickly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing early travel restrictions, widespread testing and contact tracing, and strict quarantine measures for infected individuals. As of July 2021, Singapore has reported a total of 63,382 cases and 36 deaths from the coronavirus.

Common Health Risks

Common health risks in Singapore include dengue fever, which is spread by mosquitoes, and food-borne illnesses such as salmonella and hepatitis A. Malaria is not present in Singapore, but travellers should take precautions if travelling to other parts of Southeast Asia. Air pollution from neighbouring countries can also pose a risk to individuals with respiratory conditions.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Singapore, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. The sale of alcohol is prohibited from 10:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. in all retail outlets. Public consumption of alcohol is also not allowed from 10:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. and can result in a fine of up to $1,000. Additionally, it is illegal to drink or carry alcohol in public areas during the annual Thaipusam festival.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use and possession are strictly prohibited in Singapore. The country has some of the toughest drug laws in the world, and those found guilty of drug trafficking can face the death penalty. The possession of small amounts of drugs can also lead to imprisonment and fines.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no specific laws in Singapore that prohibit pre-marital relationships. However, the country has strict laws regarding public displays of affection, and couples should be careful about engaging in any behavior that could be considered lewd or indecent in public.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Although homosexuality is not technically illegal in Singapore, same-sex relationships are not recognized by the government, and LGBTQ individuals face discrimination and harassment. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are also illegal and can result in fines or imprisonment.

Firearms / Guns

Singapore has strict gun laws, and firearms ownership is highly regulated. The possession of a firearm without a license can result in imprisonment and caning. The use of a firearm in the commission of a crime can result in the death penalty.