Getting Around in Singapore

Currency

The currency used in Singapore is the Singapore dollar (S$). Money changing services can be found not only at the Singapore Changi Airport but also most shopping centres and hotels around the island. You can also access the automated teller machines (ATMs) that accept most of the main credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express.

Weather

Singapore has hot and humid weather, with little variation throughout the year. The average daytime temperature is 31ºC (88ºF), dropping to around 24ºC (75ºF) in the evenings. Due to the monsoon season, Singapore will experience plenty of rain, almost on a daily basis, from November onwards.

Cell Phone Usage

Singapore’s international dialing code is +(65). While in Singapore and if you have international roaming service on your cell phone, you don’t have to press +(65) as it will automatically connect you to the local numbers here.

(No) Smoking

Besides air-conditioned areas such as shopping centres, restaurants, entertainment outlets and cinemas, smoking is also an offence on the SMRT (Singapore Mass Rapid Transit system), public buses, taxis and in lifts. The smoking ban is also applicable to public eateries and within a five-metre radius from most building entrances, except for allocated smoking areas that are clearly marked with bright yellow paint. A maximum fine of S$1,000 may be imposed on first-time offenders.

GST Refund Scheme

Enjoy tax-free shopping in Singapore at locations with the “Tax Refund” logo. As a visitor, the 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) paid on your purchases can be claimed when you leave Singapore. Spend S$100.00 or more at participating retailers to qualify for refunds.

Refunds may be claimed either directly from retailers or at Changi and Seletar Airport. This Scheme is not applicable if you leave by land or by sea. Ask for GST Refund Forms from the retailers, as they are not available at the airport. GST Refund Forms must be completed with the dealer’s signature and stamps, and then validated by Customs at Singapore Changi Airport before your departure.

The refund amount is valid after an administration fee is deducted from the GST. Always check with retailers to find out if you can claim the tax before confirming your purchase. There are two GST refund schemes, and you are advised to check on the minimum purchase amount to qualify for the GST refund as it varies between retailers.

For more information on the two Central Refund Agencies, please contact:

Travel Insurance

All visitors are encouraged to purchase personal travel insurance to ensure personal coverage in medical, hospitalisation and other unforeseen circumstances during their trip to Singapore. The Conference organisers do not take responsibility for any delegate/visitor failing to insure.

Visa Information

Please note that all visitors to Singapore must meet the following entry requirements:

• Valid travel document (minimum validity = 6 months)
• Onward / return ticket
• Entry facilities to next destination
• Sufficient funds to stay in Singapore, and
• Visa for Singapore (if applicable)

Foreigners holding travel documents issued by the following countries will require a visa to enter Singapore. Click here for more information.

If you require a visa to enter Singapore, please approach the Singapore Embassy / Consulate Office nearest to you for information on visa application and submission procedures. Alternatively, you can find all services relating to entry and visa requirements online at www.ica.gov.sg.

Request for Invitation Letter

If for visa purposes you require an invitation letter to allow you to travel to Singapore to attend the 20^th WOC, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or fax +65 62962670 with the following details:

Alternatively, you may write to 20^th WOC Secretariat, c/o MP Asia Pte Ltd, 20 Kallang Avenue, Pico Creative Centre, Level 2, Singapore 339411 with the above information enclosed. Upon receiving the above details in full, the letter of invitation will be emailed or faxed to you.