Although it is relatively easy to travel in Singapore, it’s always good to know some useful travel information before you start your journey. Here are some useful travel tips for Singapore.
The city is a blend of the cultures and religions of Malay, China, India, and Europe. Four major religions are celebrated by different ethnic and auspicious day as Muslims celebrate end of Ramadan, the day for the Buddhist Vesak, the festival of lights celebrated by Hindus, Christmas and Easter for Christians, New Year’s Day and Lunar New Year celebrated by Chinese official holiday common to all. Food is a passion for many and very much talked about topic among the locals because of the choice range of multi-ethnic food and European cuisine.
Singapore is a small country in size but a giant economy, especially in Southeast Asia. Singapore is located at the southern tip of Malaysia, only one degree north of the equator.
Visa for Singapore All travelers to Singapore are required to go through immigration clearance upon arrival into the country. Granting of social visit pass to visitors is determined by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the entry point. Visitors should meet the following basic entry requirements before they are allowed to enter Singapore:
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Valid Singapore visa, if applicable
- Sufficient funds to last for the period of intended stay in Singapore
- Confirmed onward / return ticket (if applicable)
- Entry facilities to their onward destination, such as visas.
- Completed disembarkation / embarkation card
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable
Electrical Connection
Visitors to Singapore should check whether their electrical equipment can handle the voltage 220-240 volts AC, 50Hz. Power plugs used in Singapore is a type of three-pin, square-shaped. If your electrical devices do not receive the voltage and plug shape different tools, you will need a voltage converter and plug adapter. However, most hotels in Singapore will provide transformers to visitors with electrical appliances of different voltage when prompted.
Refund of sales tax in Singapore Goods and services tax in Singapore is 5%. To qualify for sales tax refund, you need to have a minimum purchase amount ranging between USD $ 300 to SGD $ 500. To claim your GST refund, pack items in a handbag, and presents the item (s) and acceptance at Global Refund Service after immigration and security when leaving Singapore. Also allow an additional 15 minutes before departure. Payment of the refund can be made by cash, credit card or check payments. A small handling fee will be deducted from the refund amount.
