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People
Singapore's population of almost four million comprises 77% Chinese,
14% Malays, 8% Indians and 1% Eurasians and people of other descent.
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.
Religion
With this mixture of people, Singapore is also a mixture of religions.
Singapore's skyline boasts the distinctive minarets of mosques,
spires of gothic cathedrals, intricate figurines of Hindu temple
gods and distinctive roof architecture of Chinese temples. The main
religions are Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism,
Judaism and Zoroastrainism.
Climate
Singapore's climate is warm and humid, with only slight variations
between the average maximum of 31 degrees Celcius and minimum of
23 degrees Celcius. For those who do not enjoy the tropical climate,
Singapore is sheltered from the worst effects of the sun with air-conditioning
in almost all of its shops, hotels, office buildings and restaurants. 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 also brief and refreshing.
Airport
The Singapore International (Changi) Airport has two terminals,
Terminal 1 and 2. Each airline operates at only one of the two terminals.
Transport to the city is available by MRT (Mass Rapid Transit),
Airbus (airport bus), local bus services or taxis. Travelling time
into the city is approximately 20 minutes.
Time
Singapore is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Currency / Currency Exchange
The local currency is the Singapore dollar. Foreign currencies can
be changed either in banks or with a moneychanger conveniently located
around the island.
Credit Cards
Major credit and charge cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American
Express, and Diners, are accepted at most establishments.
Water & Electricity
Water from the tap is safe for drinking in Singapore.
Electricity used in Singapore is 220 to 240 volts AC, 50 Hz. Most
hotels can provide visitors with a transformer, which can convert
the voltage to 110-120 volts.
Shopping
Most shops are open from 10 am to 9 pm every day. One of the safest
cities in the world, late shopping in Singapore should pose no security
risks if normal precautions are taken.
Tipping
Tipping is not a way of life in Singapore. It is prohibited at the
airport and discouraged at hotels and restaurants where there is
a 10% service charge.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in all air-conditioned restaurants, shopping
centres, and office. It is also prohibited in the meeting rooms
and halls at the conference venue.
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