Basic Guide For First Time Visitors To Singapore
Singapore as a city has lots to offer for all age groups – adventure and rides for kids, shopping and spas for mothers, museums and sporting activities for fathers. However, it is impossible to do everything in a few days and thus it is imperative that daily plans be chalked out so that the favourite activities are not missed. Some of the following vital tips will help the first-time traveller to Singapore.
Currency
Singapore’s currency is the Singapore Dollar (and Cents) and all establishments accept the local currency. Some larger establishments like departmental stores may accept US Dollars and return the change in Singaporean currency. International credit cards are acceptable at nearly all large shopping establishments, restaurants and hotels. However, money changers abound in every mall and will change currency without a problem.
Maps and Brochures
On arrival at Changi Airport, there are numerous brochures and pamphlets available free of cost, all of which help the visitor decide on the activities to be done. The maps for the bus service and MRT (Mass Rapid Transport) system must be carried at all times to help travel to different parts of the city as it may be difficult to get taxis during peak hours. The taxis tend to be expensive durimg peak traffic hours and are avoidable at this time, though otherwise it may be cheaper to take a taxi if there are more than two persons travelling together.
Internet
All information about Singapore is available on the internet and this mode should be used effectively to check out routes and rates for different attractions and activities. In most cases, entry tickets to tourist sites can also be booked via the internet.
Deals
Singapore is a place for deals. It is advisable to check out clubbed rates for tourist attractions as buying a combined ticket will be more reasonable. Similarly, discounts are offered to students, senior citizens and foreigners in certain places and it is worth while to check this out. All goods purchased by foreigners are entitled to a tax refund which can be obtained at the airport at the time of departure. However, the terms and conditions regarding the refund should be clarified while making the purchases as all purchases do not fall under this category.
