Location
Located at one of the crossroads of the world, Singapore's strategic
position has helped it grow into a major centre for trade, communications and
tourism.
Its geographic location is 136.8km north of the equator, between
latitudes 103 degrees 38' E and 104 degrees 06' E. It is linked to Malaysia by
two causeway bridges and the key islands of the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia
are just a quick ferry trip away. Thailand and the Philippines are a short plane
journey away and Singapore, with an airport served by more than 69 airlines, is
very much the gateway to South-East Asia.
Singapore enjoys warm tropical weather throughout the year. Temperatures
reach a maximum of 33?C during the day, falling to a pleasant 25?C during the
evening hours.
Click here for the weather forecast of Singapore.
Back To Top |
Airport Transfers
Delegates are expected to arrive at and depart from the Changi
International Airport which is about 15km from the central business district
(the journey takes about 25 minutes and costs about S$25.00 by taxi).
The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) System is also available at Airport
Terminal 2.
Back To Top |
Currency
The unit currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Foreign currency and
traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at the airport and at most hotels and
shopping centers.
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted.
Banks throughout Singapore generally open from 9.30am to 3.30pm Mondays to
Fridays and from 9.30am to 11.30am on Saturdays. Automated Teller Machines (ATM)
are open around-the-clock.
Check the Exchange
Rate now
Back To Top |
Demographics
Singapore is the second most densely populated independent country in
the world. 84% of Singaporeans live in public housing provided by the Housing
and Development Board (HDB).
The largest group in the population of 4.608,167 million (of July 2008)
is the Singaporean Chinese who account for 76.8% of Singaporeans, making it one
of the largest Chinese cities outside of China. Singapore is also diverse, with
the Singaporean Malays, who are the indigenous native group of the country,
constituting 13.9%. Indian Singaporeans are the third largest ethnic group at
7.9%.
Back To Top |
Electricity Supply
 British-style plugs, with two flat blades & one
flat grounding blade, are used in Singapore. The voltage is 220-240 volts AC, 50
Hertz.
Back To Top |
Emergency Numbers
For emergencies please dial the toll free numbers: 999 (Police), 995
(Ambulance).
Back To Top |
Food
Food is a national passion among Singaporeans. The city is home to a
delicious array of Chinese, Indian and Malay cuisines as well as culinary
favourites from all over the world. There are restaurants that suit every
budget.
Back To Top |
Language
There are four official languages in Singapore: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil
and English. English is the language of business and administration, and is
widely spoken and understood. Most Singaporeans are bilingual, and speak their
mother tongue as well as English. Malay is the national language.
Back To Top |
Littering
Be gently reminded that Singapore has a strict anti-littering policy.
Back To Top |
Passport, Visa and Vaccination
All international delegates entering Singapore must possess a passport
with minimum six months validity. Visas are not required for most countries.
To check if you require a visa to enter Singapore,
click here.
For visa application,
click here.
Back To Top |
Smoking
We have a strictly non-smoking policy at all our events. In addition,
smoking in Singapore is banned in public buses, taxis, lifts, theatres,
government offices, cinemas, shopping centres, restaurants, covered areas and
food centres.
Back To Top |
Time Zone
The standard time zone of Singapore is UTC/GMT +8 hours, 13 hours ahead
of Eastern Standard Time (EST); 14 hours ahead of Central and 16 hours ahead of
Pacific Standard Time (PST).
Back To Top |
Tipping
It is prohibited to tip at the airport and tipping is discouraged in
hotels and restaurants where a service charge of 10% is usually included. A tip
should only be given in instances where the bill does not include a service
charge.
Back To Top |
Transport
Inexpensive public transport is readily available in Singapore. Beside
taxis, the bus network and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system offers quick access
to all parts of the island.
Back To Top |
For more information on Singapore, please visit the following website
Uniquely Singapore
Back To Top |
