Singapore Country Information

If you are a first time visitor to Singapore, a very warm Welcome! Below are some information which introduces to you Singapore.

Climate:
Tropical, mainly warm(hot to some), humid and sometimes rainy with thunderstorms.

Ethnic Groups:
Chinese, Malays, Indians and others.

Religions Afflications:
Buddhists, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Hindus, Taoists, Confucianists

Languages:
Malay, Chinese, English, Tamil

Leaders:
President - Mr S R Nathan
Prime Minister - Mr Lee Hsien Loong
Senior Minister - Mr Goh Chok Tong
Minister Mentor - Mr Lee Kuan Yew

Public Transport System:
Mass Rapit Transit (MRT) - Trains Costs: $0.60 and up -ez-link ticket $0.64 & up (Adult/Senior), $0.40 & up (Child); or Standard ticket $0.80 & up
Buses Costs: $0.50 and up - ez-link ticket $0.63 & up (Adult/Senior), $0.45 & up (Child); or Standard ticket $0.80 & up (Adult/Senior), $0.45 & up (Child/Student)

Currency:
Singapore Dollars - exchangeable at banks/money changers located at Changi Airport

Major Banks:
Overseas Chinese Banking Corporation
Development Bank of Singapore
United Overseas Bank

Major International Banks:
Citibank
American Express Bank
Bank of America

Others:
Tipping - Tipping is generally not a way of life in Singapore. As most entertaining related establishments like hotels, pubs, restaurants levy a 10% service charge, it is common not to tip when at such establishments.

Smoking - It is against the law to smoke under air-conditioning areas like shopping centers, cinemas, public transport systems (like taxis, MRT, bus), restaurants etc. It is however, not prohibited (after hours applies in certain establishments) in places like pubs, discos, karaoke bars, and some nightspots. It would be wise to check with the establishments whether smoking is allowed just to be sure.

Littering - You may want to note that littering is strictly prohibited (which is why Singapore has the reputation of being one of the cleanest city in the world!) and you may face fines of up to S$1,000.00. Litter bins are conveniently located almost at every corner you go, so do use them.