Location: Singapore
Capital: Singapore
Official Language: English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil
Population: 4,492,150 (July 2006 est.)

Singapore is located in Southeastern Asia and its islands are situated between Malaysia and Indonesia. Singapore is made up of not just one island, but a main island with 63 surrounding islets. The main island has a total land area of 682 square km. A dynamic city rich in contrast and color, Singapore offers the perfect blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture, as well as East and West.

Visa/Entry Information
Holders of a United States passport, US Refugee Travel Document (Form I-571), US Re-Entry Permit (Form I-327), or a Canadian passport do not require visas to visit Singapore for business or for social visit purposes. However, all visitors are required to have a passport validity of at least 6 months beyond the last day of intended stay in Singapore, confirmed onward/return tickets, onward facilities (e.g. visa, entry permit, etc.) to their next destination (if required) and sufficient funds for their stay in Singapore.

Currency
The official currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Notes come in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000 and 10,000. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and SGD 1. Visit www.xe.com for current exchange rates. ATM machines offer the best exchange rate and accept PLUS, STAR or CIRRUS cards. All major credit cards are accepted. It is best to contact your credit card company in advance of your trip and alert them to your travels.

Time
The time in Singapore is 13 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time, 14 hours ahead of Central Time and 16 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time.

Electricity
The electric current is 220-240 volts AC (50 cycles). Some hotels are equipped with 110-120 volt outlets. Plugs in Singapore are not like the typical two and three-prong plugs in the U.S. Plugs there have three rectangular prongs that form a triangle. Adapters/converters are necessary if you are bringing along appliances, computers, etc.

Water
There is plenty of water of an excellent drinking standard. However, if you do prefer bottled water, there is plenty available.

Climate
Singapore has a tropical climate and the weather is warm and humid year-round. Temperatures range from 73f to 87f. Rain falls throughout the year, with more consistent rain coming during the monsoon season from November to January. Showers are usually sudden and heavy, but can also be brief and refreshing.

Communication
The region is very well developed in terms of Internet and telephone communications. The international calling code is 65.

Transportation
Traveling around Singapore is easy, efficient and affordable. Singapore’s public transportation network of taxis, buses and the modern Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) rail system ensures that getting from point A to point B is hassle-free.

Restaurants
To say dining in Singapore is a foodies’ dream come true would be an understatement. The country offers the finest in cuisine in all selections and price ranges. Click here or more information.

Tipping
Tipping is not common, as most hotels and restaurants in Singapore already levy a 10 percent service charge on bills. Tipping is prohibited at the airport.

What to Wear
Casual dress is acceptable for most situations and occasions, but some establishments may require a more formal dress code. It is always advisable to check the dress code beforehand.

Spitting
Spitting in public places is a crime.

Related Links

Singapore Tourism

Ironman 70.3 Singapore