Key Considerations for Your Singapore Journey

This article brings together essential tips for your Singapore trip, covering: Entry permits, necessary equipment, MRT, street navigation, and GST refund.

Important Things to Note When Traveling in Singapore

Note: All $ symbols in this article are denoted in the Singaporean Dollar (SGD).

1. Immigration Form (Embarkation Form)

You can fill in personal information on the Embarkation Form on the plane (provided by the flight attendant) for time efficiency or complete it at the Embarkation Form counter at the airport.

Arriving at Singapore customs, they will inquire about specific information to confirm what you've filled in the Embarkation Form. Subsequently, they will hand back a part of the Embarkation Form to you. Remember to keep this section, as Singapore customs will request it upon your departure.

2. Essential Gear for Traveling in Singapore

A hat is an indispensable accessory. When you have to walk all day, a jacket may shield you from the sun but can also raise the heat. Therefore, don't forget to bring a hat for a comfortable outing.

Athletic shoes are also a crucial item. Since you'll be walking a lot, it's advisable not to wear sandals. Stiff shoes worn for a day will cause foot pain.

It's a good idea to have flip-flops handy if you don't have a comfortable pair of athletic shoes. When walking for an extended period and experiencing foot pain, you can find flip-flops to be your savior.

A water bottle is indispensable. In Singapore, there are numerous public water stations, especially in entertainment hubs. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and save on expenses. Each bottle of mineral water costs $1. On a sunny day, one sip and the bottle is empty.

If it's the rainy season, it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat to avoid sudden downpours.

Keep small bills ($1 – $2 – $5 – $10) and loose change in your wallet. These denominations are commonly used for public facilities like MRT top-up machines, public phones, and vending machines.

3. Singapore MRT

Rest assured, Changi Airport is well-equipped to familiarize you with the MRT system's operation. This article adds a few points to keep you informed.

It's recommended to have a pocket-sized MRT map for easy reference when moving around.

At the airport, consider purchasing an MRT card as the card fare is cheaper than buying individual tickets. If opting for the card, visit the Ticket Office; if buying single tickets, use the ticket machines, select your station, make the purchase, and pay in cash.

There are 2 types of MRT cards: one is regular, top-up as you go. The other is a service package, allowing unlimited travel within 3 days. When I purchased, the package option was sold out, so I opted for the regular card, spending $12 ($5 for the card, $7 preloaded).

The minimum balance in the MRT card must be $3.

You can get a refund for this MRT card when you leave the country. However, you'll only be reimbursed for the amount in the card; the $5 card fee is non-refundable.

At MRT stations, electronic boards display train arrival times and the last station, providing additional information. Rest assured, MRT trains run approximately every 5-6 minutes. Some trains are even closer, with intervals of 3-4 minutes, so you won't have to wait long.

Eating, chewing gum, and smoking are not allowed in the station and on the train.

There are priority seats for the elderly, children, pregnant women, those with small children, disabled individuals; you should refrain from occupying these seats.

4. Walking the Streets of Singapore

When traveling in Singapore, it's advisable to use the pedestrian walkway.

At marked pedestrian crossings, wait for the green signal to cross and stay within the designated pedestrian lane.

Along the streets, you'll find multiple waste sorting bins; make sure to dispose of litter in the designated areas.

5. GST at the Airport

GST at the airport is where you can receive tax refunds on purchases. However, GST applies only to tangible items like clothing, cosmetics, and accessories. It does not cover hotel charges, meals, service fees, etc. Staff at the GST station need to inspect your purchased items and receipts for confirmation before processing the refund.

When making purchases in Singapore, before obtaining the invoice, remember to inform the cashier that you want a GST refund. They will provide an additional GST refund form for you to claim the money at the airport.

Rest assured, even after check-in, you can still visit the GST counter. Many people go through the GST process before check-in, but it's not advisable due to long queues. It's better to complete check-in first and then proceed to the GST counter inside.

Off-topic:

In Singapore, there are a total of 7 Merlion statues (according to government statistics). If you're an adventurer, you'll likely want to conquer all 7. So, I've compiled the locations of these 7 statues for you.

The two most famous statues are at Merlion Park, next to One Fullerton.

The next statue is located outside the STB office at Tourism Court.

The fourth statue is situated atop Farber Hill.

The fifth statue is located in Sentosa, also being the largest one.

The last two statues are on either side of the entrance to the parking lot at Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1.

Suggested: Visit the main 5 statues: two at Merlion Park, one at the STB office, one on Farber Hill, and the final one in Sentosa.

According to wegotoday

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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour