Tips and Good to Know
Singapore Information
Singapore is not exactly idiosyncratic but it is different and knowing your way around, culturally and information wise is definitely a way to enhance your stay in the city-state. It's good to get savvy and know the ropes.
Around the Island with One Card
Save yourself from the hassle of carrying too many coins around and buy an EZ Link Card upon arrival in Singapore. This stored-value card works on the MRT trains, public buses and taxis (TransCab and Premier taxis only). It costs SGD 15, which comes with SGD 7 stored value and SGD 3 refundable value (the SGD 5 left is non-refundable). You can buy the card and top up the value at most MRT stations.
Drinking Water
Tap water in Singapore is safe for consumption. But if you prefer bottled water, you will find ample stocks at local supermarkets, convenience stores and grocers all over the island.
No Smoking (please)
The smoking ban in Singapore basically says that smoking is not allowed anywhere except in allocated smoking areas that are clearly marked with bright yellow paint (and, perhaps, your friend’s home). Specifically, smoking is not allowed in air-conditioned areas, such as shopping centres, restaurants, entertainment outlets, MRT trains, public buses, taxis, lifts, public eateries and within a five-metre radius from most building entrances. So, butt out.
Tax-free Shopping
When out on a shopping spree, look for shops with the ‘Tax Refund’ logo and take advantage of the 7% tax refunds on goods and services. The tax levy is imposed on local Singaporeans, so as visitors you can claim your money back upon departure. To qualify, though, you must spend SGD 100 or more at that particular shop and leave Singapore by air.
Taxi Surcharges
In Singapore, where and when you take a taxi can affect your fare rate. Surcharges are added on top of the fare when you take a taxi during the rush hours (07:30-09:30 and 17:00-20:00, except Sundays, SGD 1 surcharge), from the airport (add SGD 3), and again after midnight (50% surcharge). Better alternatives are the MRT trains, buses and, ahem, your two feet.
Tipping
Eating out is much less complicated when you don’t have to worry about how much to tip. In fact, tipping is discouraged at hotels and restaurants, where a 10% service charge is already included in the bill (but if it doesn’t come included, feel free to leave a tip). Tipping is prohibited at the airport.
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