Singapore Flights and Travel Guide

Language

Singapore's official languages are English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil. A patois called Singlish, or Singaporean English is widely spoken. It is the by-product of mixing English, Chinese and Malay syntax and idiom.

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Money

Singapore's currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD), which is divided into 100 cents. The U.S. and Australian Dollars, Yen and British Pound are also accepted in the larger shopping centers. Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, shops and restaurants. ATMs are widely distributed and banks advance cash against the major credit cards. Travelers checks can be cashed at banks or licensed moneychangers and at selected hotels. Banks are open daily, but some do not do foreign exchange on Saturdays.

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Communications

The international access code for Singapore is +65. The outgoing code is 001 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 11 for the U.S.). City/area codes are not necessary. Public phones are good for local and international calls; they take credit cards or phonecards, which can be bought at newspaper kiosks and Telecom shops. Calls made from hotels are free of any surcharges. Several local mobile phone operators use GSM 900/1800 networks. Email and Internet access is available at Internet cafes throughout the city.

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Tipping

Tipping is not encouraged as most hotels and restaurants in Singapore already levy a 10 percent service charge on customers' bills. Tipping is not a way of life in Singapore, but is appreciated for excellent service.

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Safety

Singapore is a very safe travel destination with crime limited to the odd theft. The Singapore Government has stepped up security measures following the terrorist attacks in Bali and is committed to maintaining Singapore's reputation as a safe destination.

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Health

Travelers from countries where there is an incidence of yellow fever need to have immunization records on arrival in Singapore. There are excellent medical facilities in Singapore. There is a high risk of dengue fever. Visitors should avoid poorly cooked food, particularly seafood, and untreated drinking water. Healthcare is excellent but also very expensive and medical insurance is advised.

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Electricity

230 volts, 50Hz. Three-pin, square-shaped plugs are in use.

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