ICOCE2025 | Singapore

Travel in Singapore

Time

Standard UTC/GMT: +8 hours.

Currency

The currency code for Singapore Dollar is SGD. Money can be changed in banks and authorized moneychangers everywhere in the city-state. Licensed money changers can be found at Singapore Changi Airport, Orchard Road shopping centers, the Central Business District near City Hall, and other major areas of commerce.

Weather

Singapore weather is hot and humid year-round, with this tiny city-state situated just 137 km above the Equator. The average temperature is 31°C at daytime and 24°C at night. Walking around at midday can be a real challenge, particularly between April and May when relative humidity is higher than 80%. Like the rest of Southeast Asia, Singapore’s climate is largely influenced by 2 monsoon winds.

The northeast monsoon (Nov-Mar) brings bursts of heavy rain and thunderstorms that sometimes last overnight. May and June are the hottest months, after which the southwest monsoon arrives, bringing with it a relatively dry climate. The best time to visit Singapore is between June and August when the average temperatures are around 24-31°C.

Despite the hot weather in Singapore, this is a country with air-conditioning pretty much everywhere, from the taxis to the museums and offices – which sometimes can even feel cold as they crank down the temperature on the thermostat!.

Electricity

In Singapore the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Transporation

The best way to get around Singapore is via its Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) subway system. This underground network has lines that stretch across the entire city. However, once you're in the desired neighborhood, walking is your best option. MRT also operates bus routes that can get you just about anywhere on the island. We recommend avoiding car rental, as parking is expensive and traffic can be painful. If you wish to be in a car, take a taxi. Most travelers arrive through Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), which is connected to the city by the MRT system.

The MRT subway system is extensive, clean, efficient, inexpensive, and easy to understand – everything you want from public transit. Maps are available at every station. Fares are based on the distance you travel and usually range from SG$1 to SG$2.50 (about $0.74 to $1.85). Instead of purchasing single fare tickets, consider purchasing an EZ-Link rechargeable card for SG$12 (about $9) to save some extra coin and avoid ticket lines if you're in Singapore for an extended period.

If you want to get somewhere in a hurry, flag a cab. Taxis are reasonably priced: The meter starts between SG$3 to SG$5 (about $2.24 to $3.75) and around SG$0.22 (about $0.16) per kilometer thereafter. Most drivers will speak English, so be sure to chat with them for local tips.