Singapore

Beguiling Singapore is a modern city-state embracing economic progress against the backdrop of age-old tradition. The customs that underpin community life are created out of a cultural mix that includes predominantly Chinese, Indian and Malay ethnic groups.

Singapore is an island off the southern tip of Malaysia, linked to it by a causeway. It evolved from a sleepy fishing village in the early 1900s to become one of Asia's economic leaders. Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles landed on Singapore's northern bank in 1819 and felt that its location made it ideal as a trading station. From here Singapore's landscape was transformed by British colonial rule, Japanese occupation, communist insurrection and finally, independence. Since becoming a republic in 1965 the island has experienced increased prosperity and exponential economic growth. Shimmering skyscrapers tower above the slick financial districts and elegant colonial buildings preserve a lingering old-world charm.

Singapore's full calendar of events showcases a spectrum of cultural celebrations and shopping activities. The early summer months bustle in anticipation of the Singapore Sale - a time when tourists can cash in on the competitive prices of electronic equipment, jewellery and other merchandise. The business activity thrives amidst the celebration of Chinese, Hindu and Muslim festivals that punctuate the year with their colourful representations. These include Chinese New Year, Ramadan, Hari Raya Puasa, Vesak Day, the Dragon Boat Festival, Festival of the Hungry Ghosts and Thaipusam.

The core of downtown Singapore is formed by the Colonial District, embellished by cathedrals and cricket lawns. The notable sites of the area include the Empress Place Building and the luxurious Raffles Hotel. Although most of old Singapore has been demolished to make way for the modern city, many major landmarks within the Colonial district have been preserved. The surrounding ethnic enclaves of Little India, Chinatown and the Arab Quarter also provide glimpses into the traditions that have sustained their respective communities through the centuries.

Climate

Singapore's climate is mostly hot and humid with average temperatures ranging between 79°F (26°C) and 86°F (30°C) during the day with cooler temperatures at night. The wettest months are between November and January (the monsoon period); however rainfall occurs throughout the year. Rainstorms are usually short but heavy, so remember to take an umbrella.

Money

Singapore's currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD), which is divided into 100 cents. The US and Australian Dollars, Yen and British Pound are also accepted in the larger shopping centres. Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, shops and restaurants. ATMs are widely distributed and banks advance cash against the major credit cards. Travellers cheques can be cashed at banks or licensed moneychangers and at selected hotels. Banks are open daily, but some do not do foreign exchange on Saturdays.

Passport Visa

Travellers should hold confirmed documents and tickets for onward or return travel and enough funds to cover their stay. Male travellers with long hair are advised to tie their hair back on arrival. Women who are six months pregnant or more may be refused entry. All nationals, regardless of visa requirements, may be issued with a Social Visitor's Pass on arrival allowing for a stay of 14 or 30 days provided their visit is for touristic or business purposes. Extensions are possible for S$40, but the initial Pass is free. Passports must be valid for at least six months from date of arrival. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• United States passport holders do not require a visa for travel to Singapore for a stay of up to 90 days. A passport valid for six months after intended travel is required. Extensions are possible for a fee of S$40. Visitors to Singapore are required to show proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay as well as valid documentation for any onward travel.
• British passport holders endorsed British Citizen, British Overseas Territories Citizen with Right to Abode, or British Subject with Right to Abode do not require a visa for travel to Singapore for a stay of up to 90 days. British passport holders endorsed British Overseas Territories Citizen, or British Subject without Right to Abode do not require a visa for travel to Singapore for a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible for a fee of S$40. Visitors to Singapore are required to show proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay as well as valid documentation for any onward travel.
• Canadian passport holders do not require a visa for travel to Singapore for a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible for a fee of S$40. Visitors to Singapore are required to show proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay as well as valid documentation for any onward travel.
• Australian passport holders do not require a visa for travel to Singapore for a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible for a fee of S$40. A passport valid for six months after intended travel is required. Passport holders with an APEC business travel card endorsed for travel in Singapore may stay up to 90 days. Visitors to Singapore are required to show proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay as well as valid documentation for any onward travel.
• South African passport holders do not require a visa for travel to Singapore for a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible for a fee of S$40. Visitors to Singapore are required to show proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay as well as valid documentation for any onward travel.
• Irish passport holders do not require a visa for travel to Singapore for a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible for a fee of S$40. A passport valid for six months after intended travel is required. Visitors to Singapore are required to show proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay as well as valid documentation for any onward travel.
• New Zealand passport holders do not require a visa for travel to Singapore for a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible for a fee of S$40. A passport valid for six months after intended travel is required. Passport holders with an APEC business travel card endorsed for travel in Singapore may stay up to 90 days. Visitors to Singapore are required to show proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay as well as valid documentation for any onward travel.

Health

Travellers from countries where there is an incidence of yellow fever need to have immunization records on arrival in Singapore. There are excellent medical facilities in Singapore. There is a high risk of dengue fever. Visitors should avoid poorly cooked food, particularly seafood, and be cautious of certain types of fish that contain biotoxins even if cooked. Health care is excellent but also very expensive and medical insurance is advised.

Embassy Consulates

• Singapore Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 537 3100.
• Singapore High Commission, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 7235 8315.
• Consulate of Singapore, New York City, USA (also responsible for Canada): (212) 223-3331
• Singapore High Commission, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6271 2000.
• Singapore High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 430 6035.
• Singapore High Commission, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 470 0850.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Singapore: +65 6476 9100.
• British High Commission, Singapore: +65 6424 4200.
• Canadian High Commission, Singapore: +65 6854 5900.
• Australian High Commission, Singapore: +65 6836 4100.
• South African High Commission, Singapore: +65 6339 3319.
• Irish Embassy, Singapore: +65 6238 7616.
• New Zealand High Commission, Singapore: +65 6235 9966.