Travel
Travel
Climate:
As Singapore is located a mere 1.5 degrees north of the Equator, its weather is usually sunny with no distinct seasons. Rain falls almost daily throughout the year, usually in sudden, heavy showers that rarely last longer than an hour.
The temperature averages around:
32°C (86°F) daytime, 25°C (76°F) at night in December and January.
33°C (92°F) daytime, 26°C (81°F) at night for the rest of the year.
People and Language:
Singapore prides itself on being a multi-racial country – The Chinese comprises 75% of the population while the rest is composed by the Malays, Indians, Eurasians, Filipinos, Japanese and a mix of many other cultures.
There are more than 20 languages identified as being spoken in Singapore but the four official languages of Singapore are Mandarin, Malay, Tamil and English. English is the most common language used and is the language which unites the different ethnic groups.
Visa:
Almost 80% of world countries may travel to Singapore for a period ranging from 30 days to 90 days without having to apply for a visa. A temporary visa will be issued directly at the immigration as soon as you arrive in Singapore. However, it is best to consult your local consular office for the latest information regarding Visa regulations for Singapore.
Public Transportation :
With an extensive public transportation network, getting around in Singapore is convenient, inexpensive and comfortable. More info: http://www.smrt.com.sg/
Daily necessities:
Money matters: The unit of currency is the Singapore dollar. Money changers and banks can be found all over the city. Money changers do not charge fees, so you will often get a better overall exchange rate for cash and travellers cheques with them than at the banks. Most ATMs will accept Visa, MasterCard and cards with Plus or Cirrus. ATMs can be found in most large shopping centres and MRT stations. Phone: Buying a SIM card in Singapore is as easy as walking into a gas station, grocery store, post office, or phone shop. All you have to do is select the SIM card you want, present your passport, and pick a phone number, which is then registered with your passport details. The easiest way for short time visitors would be buying a prepaid SIM card which you can top up at any 7 Eleven store. Singapore has three major telecommunications companies that provide prepaid SIM cards: M1, SingTel and StarHub.
Drugstores and pharmacies: Both can be found in any of the plenty shopping malls and MRT stations in Singapore. Chains like Watsons or Guardian sell beauty and wellness products, as well as health supplements or general sales medicine and usually have a dedicated pharmacy counter, where other kinds of medication are available.
