Travel tips for tourists

If you are travelling to Singapore, be sure to carry the following:

•  Sun Glasses - Singapore is usually bright and sunny. 
• Umbrella - Be sure to carry an umbrella in your luggage,as there is some precipitation throughout the year. However, the rain does not last long (usually).
•  Sun block - If you plan to go out during the day time, it is advisable to apply sun block as it is mostly sunny throughout the year. 
• Shorts/Half Pants - Singapore can get real warm. Although air-conditioning is available in all public transports (except a few public buses) and almost all internal areas, it is advisable to carry some light clothing. Do note that some places of worship may require visitors to dress conservatively. 
• Flip-flops - Singaporeans love to wear flip-flops. Be sure to carry a pair, just to blend in. Try sandals if you're not used to flip flops, but beware - in some formal establishments (e.g. catching a show at Esplanade) no flip flops, sandals, or shorts are allowed.

 

Tax Refund Scheme

While you are in Singapore, you can get a refund on the seven percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on your purchases. Look out for retailers displaying the “Tax Refund” logo and spend SGD100 or more to qualify. GST is refunded directly to you at selected retailers, Changi International Airport or Seletar Airport on goods that are brought out of Singapore. A handling fee for the refund service may be deducted from the GST amount. Please note that tax refund is available for departure by air only.

Money Matters

The currency used in Singapore is the Singapore dollar (S$). Money changing services can be found not only at the Singapore Changi Airport but also most shopping centres and hotels around the island. You can also access the automated teller machines (ATMs) located everywhere (even in the most obscure bits) in Singapore, that accept most of the main credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express.

Cell Phone Usage

Singapore’s international dialing code is +(65). While in Singapore and if you have international roaming service on your cell phone, you don’t have to press +(65) as it will automatically connect you to the local numbers here. However it is suggested to buy a matrix sim card as the call charges are 50% less than your roaming bill and incoming is free.

Consumer Advisory

Most Singapore retailers have fair business practices, but there are a small number of shops and restaurants that might make your shopping experience less than ideal. Here are some smart shopping tips to ensure that your retail experience is a pleasant one.

Always do price comparisons to get the best deals

Prices can vary widely between shops because distributors are not obliged to abide by each product’s Recommended Retail Price (RRP). Ask the retailer also if the 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) applies. Also note that purchases above SGD100 in a single receipt entitle you to GST refunds if you leave Singapore by air. Please read the section on the GST Refund Scheme for more information.

Note that purchases made are usually final

In Singapore, retailers generally enforce strict return, exchange or refund policies the moment payment is made. Always ask your retailer about their policies before making payment for your purchase.

Check receipts or invoices for accuracy

Do remember to ask for a receipt of invoice whenever you make a purchase, and keep it for reference. Also check that prices and item descriptions are correct to ensure that you do not pay more than what is required. Remember to check that gifts, when applicable, should be indicated as such.

Verify what your ‘international warranty’ covers

International warranties are not standardized, and you should always ask and verify that your warranty is valid in your home country. Ensure that both your invoice and warranty card bear your retailer’s stamp and signature. In the case of electronic goods, note down the product’s serial number as well. - Also note that there are no international warranties on the purchase of mobile phones. - A “worldwide local warranty” means that the warranty is available only in the country of purchase – “worldwide” here refers to the availability of the product, not the warranty. - Parallel imported items have no warranty, and retailers usually do not entertain returns, refunds or exchanges.

Check before leaving the store

Before making payment, make sure that you test the item you wish to purchase, and take time to check that the promised accessories and peripherals are included in the package, and work as they should.