Singapore tours
Singapore, a vibrant and thriving city-state in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its rich cultural tapestry, modern architecture, and unique dining scene. As a hub for both leisure and business travelers, Singapore offers a myriad of experiences for all visitors. From towering skyscrapers to multicultural streets, this city has something for everyone. Not only is it a popular stopover in Southeast Asia, but it’s also a destination in and of itself. With its breathtaking man-made wonders and commitment to eco-friendliness, a trip to Singapore is a must for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.
Passport & Visa
Currency
Currency & Money in Singapore
The official currency of Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD), symbolized as S$, and divided into 100 cents. Banknotes are issued in denominations of S$2, S$5, S$10, S$20, S$25, S$50, S$100, S$1,000, and S$10,000. Coins in circulation include 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as S$1 and S$5 coins.
While the Singapore Dollar is the standard currency for all transactions, some major hotels and shopping centers may accept foreign currencies such as US Dollars (USD), Australian Dollars (AUD), Japanese Yen (JPY), and British Pounds (GBP); however, exchange rates may be less favorable.
As one of Asia’s leading financial hubs, Singapore offers a highly developed banking and foreign exchange system. Currency exchange services are widely available at banks and licensed money changers throughout the city, making it convenient for travelers to exchange cash.
Reference exchange rates:
• 1 USD ≈ 1.34 SGD
• 1 EUR ≈ 1.43 SGD
(Rates are indicative and subject to change.)
Weather
True to its Southeast Asian location, Singapore features a hot and humid tropical climate year-round. Situated just 1 degree north of the equator, the island experiences an equatorial climate with no distinct seasons such as spring, summer, autumn, or winter.
Temperatures remain consistently warm throughout the year, typically ranging between 25°C and 31°C, accompanied by high humidity levels of around 70%–80%. Rainfall is frequent and can occur at any time of the year, even outside the monsoon season. These showers are usually short and refreshing, offering welcome relief from the heat.
Thanks to its maritime influence, Singapore’s climate is marked by stable temperatures and atmospheric pressure, along with abundant rainfall. Thunderstorms occur on approximately 40% of days, most commonly in the afternoon.
• April is generally the warmest month
• January is the coolest month
Vaccinations & Medicines
Travelers are advised to consult a doctor or travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure to ensure vaccinations and medications have time to take effect. Always check the latest health recommendations and carry any prescribed medicines with you.
Routine Vaccines
Make sure you are fully up to date with routine vaccinations, including:
• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis (Tdap)
• Influenza (Flu)
• Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR)
• Polio
• Shingles
COVID-19
All eligible travelers should be up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations before travel.
Hepatitis A
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers aged 1 year and older.
Infants aged 6–11 months should also receive a dose (this does not count toward the routine series).
Special medical guidance applies for travelers with allergies, chronic conditions, or last-minute travel plans.
Hepatitis B
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers under 60 years old.
Travelers aged 60 and above may also consider vaccination.
Measles (MMR)
Infants aged 6–11 months traveling internationally should receive one MMR dose prior to travel.
Rabies
Singapore is free of dog rabies. Pre-travel rabies vaccination is only recommended for travelers working closely with wildlife (e.g. veterinarians, researchers).
Typhoid
Recommended for most travelers, particularly those visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with local families.
Yellow Fever
Required only if arriving from or transiting (over 12 hours) through a country with yellow fever risk, for travelers aged 1 year and above.
Phone & Internet Service
Phone & Mobile Services
Singapore has a highly developed telecommunications network covering the entire city-state, with excellent mobile reception and near-universal coverage. The country’s three main telecom operators are Singtel, StarHub, and M1 (MobileOne). Their mobile and phone services are generally comparable, with differences mainly in pricing, data packages, and bundled plans. Travelers can choose between prepaid plans (most popular for short stays) or postpaid plans for longer-term use.
Internet Services
Singapore enjoys an internet penetration rate of over 99%, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity throughout the island. The major internet service providers include Singtel, StarHub, and M1, alongside newer providers such as MyRepublic. Broadband access is widely available in hotels, cafés, shopping malls, and public areas. While high-speed fiber internet is common, it may not be available in every residential building, so travelers staying long-term should confirm availability with their accommodation provider.
Flights & Airports
Singapore has two commercial airports handling hundreds of domestic and international flights every day: Singapore Changi Airport and Seletar Airport. Both airports provide modern facilities and convenient services for passenger arrivals and departures.
In addition to these, Singapore also has several non-commercial airports and air bases that are not accessible to civilian travelers, including Changi Air Base, Paya Lebar Air Base, Sembawang Air Base, Tengah Air Base, and Pulau Sudong Airport.
Security
Singapore is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in the world, thanks to the government’s strict laws and strong enforcement against crime, including minor offenses.
Incidents of street crime, such as theft, pickpocketing, or purse snatching, are rare and occur at very low rates. When they do happen, they are usually associated with unattended belongings in crowded public areas.
The Singapore Police Force is highly professional and known for its fast and effective response to emergencies and crime reports. In case of an emergency, travelers can contact the police by dialing 999.
Language
The national language of Singapore is Malay, while the country officially recognizes four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil.
English is the most widely spoken language and serves as the primary language of education, business, and government, following British English standards.
A distinctive feature of local culture is Singlish, a widely used colloquial form of English with its own accent and expressions. While Singlish is common in everyday conversations, standard English is used in formal settings and is easily understood by international visitors.
Time difference
Singapore time is 8 hours ahead of UTC (UTC+08:00).
Electricity
Electricity in Singapore
Singapore uses Type G power plug sockets. The standard voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. Travelers from countries using different plug types or voltages should bring a plug adaptor and, if necessary, a voltage converter to ensure device compatibility.
On-site traffic
Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)
Singapore boasts an extensive and efficient MRT network. Most major attractions are located just a short walk from an MRT station, making the train one of the most convenient ways to get around the city.
Taxis
Taxis are clean, comfortable, and widely available. They are especially convenient for destinations not easily accessible by MRT or bus, or when you prefer a more direct journey.
Bus
Singapore’s bus system covers most parts of the island with a wide network of routes. It is the most cost-effective way to travel and a great option for exploring the city like a local.
CityBuzz (Hop-on Hop-off Bus)
CityBuzz is a double-decker sightseeing bus designed for tourists, operating along three main routes:
-
C1: Orchard Road
-
C2: Chinatown
-
C3: Little India
It offers a relaxed and convenient way to explore Singapore’s key districts and attractions.
Useful addresses
Embassy of France in Singapore
-
Address: 101–103 Cluny Park Road, Singapore 259595
-
Tel: (+65) 6880 7800
-
Fax: (+65) 6880 7801
-
Website: sg.ambafrance.org/English
Embassy of Switzerland in Singapore
-
Address: 911 Bukit Timah Road, Level 2, Singapore 589622
-
Tel: +65 6468 5788 (Headquarters)
-
Fax: +65 6466 8245 (Headquarters)
-
Email:
-
Headquarters: singapore@eda.admin.ch
-
Consular Affairs: singapore.consular@eda.admin.ch
-
Canadian High Commission in Singapore
-
Address: One George Street, #11-01, Singapore 049145
-
Tel: +65 6854 5900
-
Fax: +65 6854 5913
-
Website: www.canada.ca/canada-and-singapore
Embassy of Belgium in Singapore
-
Address: 79 Robinson Road, #25-01, Singapore 068897
-
Tel: +65 6220 7677
-
Fax: +65 6222 6976
-
Email: singapore@diplobel.fed.be
-
Website: diplomatie.belgium.be/singapore
Embassy of Singapore in Belgium
-
Address: 85 Avenue Franklin Roosevelt, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
-
Tel: +32 2 660 2979
-
Fax: +32 2 660 8685
-
Email: singemb_bru@mfa.sg
-
Website: www.mfa.gov.sg/brussels
Permanent Mission of Singapore to Switzerland
-
Address: Avenue du Pailly 10, Geneva, Switzerland
-
Tel: +41 22 795 0101
-
Fax: +41 22 796 8381
-
Email: singpm_gva@sgmfa.gov.sg
-
Website: www.mfa.gov.sg/geneva
Consulate General of Singapore in Canada
-
-
Address: Suite 5300, Toronto-Dominion Bank Tower 66 Wellington Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5K 1E6
-
Tel: +1 416 601 7979
-
Fax: +1 416 868 0673
-
Email: torsgmfa@gmail.com
-
Website: www.mfa.gov.sg/Toronto
-
