Currency. Singapore Dollar (S$, SGD). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and contactless payment is the norm. ATMs are plentiful. Money changers in shopping centres and tourist areas (Mustafa Centre in Little India, the malls along Orchard Road) often give better exchange rates than banks.
Language. English is the main working language and is spoken by virtually everyone. Signs, menus, and announcements are always in English. You will also hear Mandarin, Malay, Tamil, and a variety of Chinese dialects. Singlish — a fast, clipped creole of English, Malay, and Hokkien — is the informal vernacular; it can be hard to follow at first but you will get used to it.
Visas. Most Western nationalities enter visa-free for 30 or 90 days. Check ICA (Immigration and Checkpoints Authority) for the current list. The SG Arrival Card (SGAC) must be submitted online before arrival; it is free. Your passport needs at least six months validity.
Laws and customs. Singapore's laws are enforced and the fines are real. Do not litter, do not eat or drink on the MRT, do not bring durian on public transport. Chewing gum cannot be sold or imported (a small exception exists for therapeutic gum from pharmacies). Drug trafficking carries the death penalty. None of this is a joke.
Health. No vaccinations are required, but hepatitis A and typhoid are sensible precautions if you plan to eat widely at hawker centres. Tap water is safe to drink — Singapore's water quality is among the best in Asia. The main health concern for most visitors is heat: drink water constantly, wear sunscreen, and rest during the hottest part of the day.
Safety. Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world. Street crime is very rare. Petty theft in crowded areas is possible but uncommon. You can walk alone at night without concern in virtually every neighbourhood.
Climate. Hot and humid year-round, around 26–32°C. Two monsoon seasons bring heavier rain: the Northeast Monsoon (December to March) and the Southwest Monsoon (June to September). Rain usually comes in short, intense afternoon thunderstorms and clears quickly. Carry a small umbrella.
Internet. Singapore has fast, widespread mobile data. SIM cards are available from Changi Airport on arrival. Free Wi-Fi is available at all MRT stations, public libraries, and many hawker centres and shopping malls.
Electricity. 230V, 50Hz. The standard plug is the British three-pin square type (BS 1363).
Emergency numbers. Police: 999. Ambulance/Fire: 995. Non-emergency police: 1800-255-0000.